Breakdown of A manutenção deste computador é tão simples como a de um telemóvel.
ser
to be
um
a
de
of
tão
so
o computador
the computer
como
as
simples
simple
a manutenção
the maintenance
o telemóvel
the mobile phone
Questions & Answers about A manutenção deste computador é tão simples como a de um telemóvel.
What does tão simples como mean in this sentence?
It functions as a comparative structure, equivalent to the English as simple as. The word tão intensifies the adjective simples, and como introduces the item being compared—in this case, the maintenance of a mobile phone.
How is the comparison structured in this sentence?
The sentence uses the tão ... como construction, which mirrors the English as ... as format. The full comparison implies that the maintenance of this computer is as simple as the maintenance of a mobile phone, with the noun manutenção understood in the second part.
What does deste indicate in the phrase A manutenção deste computador?
Deste is a contraction of de (of) and este (this). It specifies that the maintenance being discussed belongs to this computer.
Why does the second part say como a de um telemóvel instead of repeating the full noun?
Portuguese often omits repeated information when context makes it clear. In como a de um telemóvel, the word manutenção is left out because it is already mentioned at the beginning of the sentence. The phrase stands for como a manutenção de um telemóvel.
What is the meaning of telemóvel and how does it differ from telefone in Portuguese (Portugal)?
In Portuguese from Portugal, telemóvel refers specifically to a mobile phone or cell phone. The word telefone usually describes a traditional, landline phone, so telemóvel sets it apart as a portable device.
Is the tão ... como construction used in Portuguese similar to any construction in English?
Yes, it is directly analogous to the English as ... as construction. Both structures are used to draw comparisons by equating qualities between two items.
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