Breakdown of Para evitarmos problemas, podemos verificar o trânsito online.
poder
to be able to
para
to
evitar
to avoid
o trânsito
the traffic
verificar
to check
o problema
the problem
online
online
Questions & Answers about Para evitarmos problemas, podemos verificar o trânsito online.
Why is the personal infinitive form “evitarmos” used instead of the simple infinitive “evitar” in this sentence?
In Portuguese, when the subject of the subordinate (purpose) clause is the same as that of the main clause, the personal infinitive is used to explicitly include that subject. “Evitarmos” shows that “we” (nos) will avoid the problems, making it clear that the action is a joint effort. Using “evitar” would leave out this personal nuance.
What does “podemos” indicate in this context?
“Podemos” is the first-person plural present form of the verb “poder,” meaning “we can.” It indicates that we have the ability or possibility to check the traffic online. This inclusion of the speaker and others reinforces the collective nature of the action.
What is the function of the comma after “Para evitarmos problemas”?
The comma separates the introductory purpose clause (“Para evitarmos problemas”) from the main clause (“podemos verificar o trânsito online”). It clarifies that checking the traffic online is proposed as a measure to avoid problems.
How does the structure of this purpose clause in Portuguese compare to English?
Both languages use an introductory purpose clause to explain why an action is taken. In English, you might say “To avoid problems, we can check the traffic online.” In Portuguese, the structure is similar; however, the personal infinitive “evitarmos” is used to include the subject (“we”) explicitly, emphasizing that it’s our responsibility to avoid problems.
What does “o trânsito online” mean in this sentence?
“O trânsito online” translates literally as “the traffic online.” In this context, it refers to checking the current traffic conditions via the internet. The phrase implies looking up information about road traffic to help avoid potential problems on the road.
Are there alternative ways to express this idea in Portuguese, and how might they differ?
Yes, one alternative is: “Podemos verificar o trânsito online para evitar problemas.” In this version, the purpose clause is positioned after the main clause, but the overall meaning remains the same. Also, using the simple infinitive “evitar” instead of “evitarmos” is grammatically acceptable when the subject isn’t emphasized, though it loses the nuance of a shared commitment by “we.”
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