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Questions & Answers about O pátio é acolhedor.
What does the word pátio mean, and what does it refer to in the context of this sentence?
Pátio translates to patio or courtyard in English. In this context, it refers to an outdoor area—typically an open, enclosed space adjacent to a building—that is described as having a welcoming atmosphere.
Why is there an accent on the á in pátio, and how does it affect pronunciation?
The accent on the á in pátio indicates that this syllable is stressed. In Portuguese, accent marks help clarify pronunciation and ensure the word is read correctly by signaling which vowel to emphasize. Without the accent, the stress might be misinterpreted according to the language’s rules.
How does the adjective acolhedor agree with the noun pátio in this sentence?
In Portuguese, adjectives must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify. Since pátio is a masculine singular noun, the adjective takes its masculine singular form (acolhedor). If the noun were feminine, the adjective would change to acolhedora.
What role does the verb é play in this sentence?
The verb é is the third-person singular form of ser (to be) in the present indicative. It serves as a linking verb connecting the subject (o pátio) to its attribute (acolhedor), emphasizing an inherent or defining quality of the patio.
When should one use ser (as in é) rather than estar in descriptions like this?
In Portuguese, ser is used to describe inherent characteristics or permanent qualities, while estar is used for temporary states or conditions. In the sentence O pátio é acolhedor, ser is appropriate because it conveys that the welcoming nature of the patio is an inherent, consistent quality rather than a temporary condition.