Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Eu recomendo o peixe, porque é saudável. - I recommend the fish because it is healthy.

Recomendo is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb recomendar, which means “to recommend.” In this sentence, it translates as “I recommend”, with the -o ending clearly indicating the subject eu (I).

Why is the definite article o used before peixe? Could it be omitted like in English sometimes?

In Portuguese, nouns are typically accompanied by definite articles to specify or generalize the noun. Here, o peixe translates as “the fish.” Unlike English—where articles can sometimes be omitted in general statements—in Portuguese the inclusion of the article is standard, even when speaking generally about a category.

What is the function of the word porque in this sentence?

Porque is a causal conjunction meaning “because.” It introduces the reason behind the recommendation by linking the main clause “Eu recomendo o peixe” with the explanatory clause “é saudável.” This structure helps answer the implicit question, “Why do you recommend the fish?”

Why is there a comma before porque? Is the comma necessary?

The comma before porque serves to separate the main clause from the subordinate clause that provides the reason. While punctuation styles can vary among writers, this comma adds a natural pause and clarity by marking the transition between the statement and its explanation.

Does the adjective saudável agree with its noun, and how does adjective agreement work in Portuguese?

Saudável means “healthy” and, in this context, is in its neutral form. Some adjectives in Portuguese change with gender and number, but saudável is largely invariable. It correctly follows peixe (a masculine singular noun) without needing any modification, which makes it fit seamlessly in the sentence.

Is it common to include the subject pronoun Eu even when the verb form already indicates the subject?

Yes, although Portuguese often allows for the omission of subject pronouns because verb conjugations clearly indicate the subject, including Eu can be used for emphasis or clarity—especially in a learning context. In this sentence, stating Eu ensures that learners clearly understand the subject-verb relationship.

How would the sentence change if I wanted to add another reason for recommending the fish, such as it being tasty as well as healthy?

You can extend the sentence by adding another adjective with a coordinating conjunction. For example, you might say: “Eu recomendo o peixe, porque é saudável e saboroso.” Here, saboroso means “tasty,” and the e (meaning “and”) links the two qualities, maintaining the causal structure while providing an additional reason for the recommendation.