Eu levanto o braço para responder.

I raise my arm to answer.

Breakdown of Eu levanto o braço para responder.

• eu: I
• para: to
• responder: to answer
• o braço: the arm
• levantar: to raise

Questions & Answers about Eu levanto o braço para responder.

What is the literal meaning of "Eu levanto o braço para responder"?

It means "I raise my arm to answer." In many contexts—such as in a classroom—this implies that you are signaling to speak by raising your arm.

Why is the subject "Eu" included, even though the verb already reflects the first person?

Portuguese verbs are conjugated to indicate the subject, which makes it possible to omit the pronoun. However, including "Eu" can add clarity or emphasis. Thus, saying "Eu levanto o braço para responder" explicitly shows that I am performing the action.

Why does the sentence use "o braço" (arm) instead of "a mão" (hand), which is more common when raising your hand in class?

While many might expect "a mão" since we often say “raise your hand” in English, using "o braço" is perfectly acceptable. This can emphasize that the whole arm is being raised or simply be a stylistic choice. In everyday conversation, you might also encounter "levanto a mão para responder."

How does the phrase "para responder" function in this sentence?

"Para responder" indicates purpose. The preposition "para" followed by the infinitive verb "responder" translates to "in order to answer," explaining why the subject raises their arm.

What tense and conjugation is used in "levanto", and how does it relate to the subject?

"Levanto" is in the present indicative tense and is the first person singular form of "levantar." It directly relates to the subject "Eu," meaning that I am performing the action.

Is it grammatically correct to use the definite article "o" before "braço" when referring to one's own arm?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. In Portuguese, body parts are often preceded by a definite article rather than a possessive pronoun when it is clear from context whose body part is being mentioned. Thus, "levanto o braço" naturally means "I raise my arm."