Breakdown of Precisamos de erguer uma barreira contra o vento, para proteger as flores.
nós
we
precisar de
to need
para
to
uma
a
a flor
the flower
as
the
o vento
the wind
erguer
to raise
a barreira
the barrier
contra
against
proteger
to protect
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Questions & Answers about Precisamos de erguer uma barreira contra o vento, para proteger as flores.
Why do we use "precisamos de" instead of simply "precisamos" before "erguer"?
In European Portuguese, the expression "precisar de" is a fixed construction used to indicate necessity. When followed by an infinitive like "erguer," the preposition "de" is needed to link the verb to its action. This structure is similar to saying “we need to do something” in English.
What is the specific meaning of "erguer" in this sentence, and could another verb be used?
The verb "erguer" means “to erect” or “to raise.” It is chosen here to emphasize the action of establishing or setting up a structure—in this case, a barrier. Although alternatives like "levantar" (to lift) or "construir" (to build) exist, "erguer" specifically conveys the idea of putting something firmly in place.
How does the phrase "contra o vento" function within the sentence?
The phrase "contra o vento" serves as a prepositional phrase that specifies what the barrier is intended to oppose. It translates to “against the wind” and informs us that the barrier is being erected to block or mitigate the effects of the wind.
What is the role of the comma before "para proteger as flores", and how does this part of the sentence contribute to its overall meaning?
The comma before "para proteger as flores" marks off a purpose clause. This clause explains the reason for erecting the barrier—it indicates that the barrier is built "to protect the flowers." The separation helps clarify that protecting the flowers is the goal of the action described in the main clause.
Why does the sentence use the indefinite article "uma" before "barreira" but the definite article "as" before "flores"?
The use of "uma barreira" introduces an unspecified barrier that needs to be erected—it’s something new. In contrast, "as flores" uses the definite article because it refers to specific flowers that are already known or contextually clear to the speaker and listener. This distinction in articles helps signal which elements are being introduced versus which are already familiar.