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Questions & Answers about Temperatura está baixa.
Why is the definite article omitted before temperatura instead of saying A temperatura?
In Portuguese—especially in informal contexts or headline-like statements—it's common to drop the definite article. Although the full sentence would typically include A (resulting in A temperatura está baixa), omitting it can make the expression more concise or stylistically appropriate in casual conversation.
Why is the adjective baixa used instead of baixo in this sentence?
The adjective must agree with the noun in gender. Since temperatura is a feminine noun, the adjective takes the feminine form baixa (instead of the masculine baixo) to properly match it.
Why is the verb estar used instead of ser in this sentence?
In Portuguese, estar is used to describe conditions or states that are temporary or changeable—for instance, the current weather condition. Using ser would imply a permanent characteristic, which doesn’t suit this context where the temperature is merely low at the moment.
What is the difference between using baixa and an adjective like fria for describing temperature?
Baixa refers to a lower-than-normal numeric reading or level, such as when the temperature is below the expected range. In contrast, fria describes the actual sensation or feel of the temperature (i.e., it is cold). So, Temperatura está baixa emphasizes that the recorded or usual value is low rather than commenting directly on the feeling of coldness.
Is it acceptable to use this structure in formal writing, or should one always include the article?
While dropping the article is acceptable in informal speech and stylistic contexts (like headlines), formal writing in Portuguese generally favors including the article. Therefore, in a more formal context, you would write A temperatura está baixa for clarity and adherence to standard grammatical norms.