Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Para que o chocolate não se derreta, convém guardá-lo a uma temperatura fresca. - In order for the chocolate not to melt, it’s advisable to keep it at a cool temperature.

The clause “para que o chocolate não se derreta” expresses a purpose or desired outcome. In Portuguese, when you use “para que” to indicate purpose, it triggers the subjunctive mood. Here, “derreta” is the third person singular present subjunctive of the verb “derreter,” showing that the melting is a possible outcome that should be avoided.

What does “convém” mean in this context?

“Convém” is an impersonal verb meaning “it is advisable” or “it is recommended.” In this sentence, it suggests that storing the chocolate at a cool temperature is the proper or recommended action to prevent it from melting.

How should “guardá-lo” be interpreted, and why is the pronoun attached with a hyphen?

“Guardá-lo” translates to “store it,” with “lo” referring back to “o chocolate.” In Portuguese, when an object pronoun (in this case, “lo”) is attached to an infinitive verb (here, “guardar”), it is connected by a hyphen. This is a standard rule for clitic pronoun placement in Portuguese.

What is the function of the reflexive pronoun “se” in “não se derreta”?

The reflexive pronoun “se” is used to indicate that the chocolate is undergoing the action of melting by itself, without an external agent. It gives the sentence a sort of impersonal or automatic tone, suggesting that the melting is a natural process rather than an intentional action.

Why is the phrase “a uma temperatura fresca” used, and what does it indicate?

The phrase “a uma temperatura fresca” means “at a cool temperature.” The preposition “a” is used with “guardar” to specify the state or condition in which the chocolate should be kept. “Fresca” (cool) describes the ideal temperature that will help prevent the chocolate from melting.

Why is the purpose clause “Para que o chocolate não se derreta” placed at the beginning of the sentence?

Starting with the purpose clause immediately sets the context and explains the reason behind the recommendation. It emphasizes that the action described in the main clause (storing the chocolate at a cool temperature) is intended specifically to prevent the chocolate from melting. This structure clearly links the purpose to the action to be taken.