Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Pedro abre o frigorífico e vê a comida. - Pedro opens the refrigerator and sees the food.

Both “abre” (from “abrir”, meaning “to open”) and “vê” (from “ver”, meaning “to see”) are conjugated in the third person singular to agree with the subject “Pedro.” This is similar to English where “Pedro opens…” and “Pedro sees…” are used, ensuring subject–verb agreement.

What does “frigorífico” mean, and is this term used universally in Portuguese?

“Frigorífico” means “refrigerator” in Portuguese. It is the common term in Portugal, while in Brazilian Portuguese the more usual word is “geladeira.” This difference is one of several regional variations in vocabulary between the two.

Why are the definite articles “o” and “a” used before “frigorífico” and “comida”?

In Portuguese, definite articles indicate specificity. “O frigorífico” translates as “the refrigerator” and “a comida” as “the food,” implying that both items are specific and known to the listener or are defined by context. This usage parallels English where we use “the” before specified nouns.

Why is there no comma before “e” joining the two clauses in the sentence?

In Portuguese, when two verbs describing actions by the same subject are connected by the conjunction “e” (which means “and”), it is standard not to include a comma between them. The sentence “Pedro abre o frigorífico e vê a comida” flows naturally without a pause, as the subject “Pedro” remains unchanged for both actions.

Could the subject “Pedro” be repeated in the second clause, and why is it omitted here?

Yes, it could be repeated, but it is not necessary. In Portuguese, if the same subject performs multiple actions within a compound sentence, the subject is often omitted in the subsequent clause for brevity and clarity. The context makes it clear that Pedro is performing both actions, so repeating his name would be redundant.