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O som é suave.

O som é suave.
The sound is soft.
FromLesson 17inHardcore Portuguese (Portugal)

Breakdown of O som é suave.

ser
to be
suave
soft
o som
the sound

Questions & Answers about O som é suave.

What does the article O in the sentence signify?
In Portuguese, O is the definite article used for masculine singular nouns. Here, it indicates that som (“sound”) is specific and masculine.
What is the function of the verb é in this sentence?
É is the third person singular present form of the verb ser, which is used to state an inherent or defining quality. In this sentence, it links the subject (O som) with its attribute (suave).
How does the adjective suave agree with the noun som?
Suave functions as a predicative adjective describing som. Since som is masculine singular, the adjective appears in its base form. Notably, many adjectives like suave remain unchanged in the singular regardless of gender.
Is the word order in O som é suave fixed, or can it be rearranged for emphasis?
The standard and most natural word order in Portuguese for such a statement is O som é suave. Although variations like É suave o som are possible for emphasis, they are less common in everyday usage.
How should English speakers pronounce suave in European Portuguese?
In European Portuguese, suave is generally pronounced roughly as SWAH-veh. English learners should pay attention to the soft, almost blended transition between syllables, with the initial syllable stressed and a gentle v sound in the second syllable.
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