Getting Inked
Getting a tattoo is a big decision. Before the needle touches your skin, the artist will usually start with the outline.
| The tattoo artist started to tattoo the outline. | O tatuador começou a tatuar o contorno. |
Even Though: Se bem que
To contrast two ideas, use the conjunction se bem que ("even though" or "although"). Like many conjunctions that introduce a concession—a contrasting idea or a minor obstacle that doesn't prevent the main action—se bem que triggers the subjunctive mood for the verb that follows it.
| The tattoo artist is going to tattoo your arm, even though it hurts a little. | O tatuador vai tatuar-te o braço, se bem que doa um pouco. |
Notice how the verb doer (to hurt) changes to its present subjunctive form, doa.
Here are more examples using se bem que to weigh the pros and cons of getting a tattoo. Pay attention to the subjunctive verbs possas (from poder) and seja (from ser):
| The tattoo is permanent, even though you can cover the design. | A tatuagem é permanente, se bem que possas tapar o desenho. |
| I am going to cover the old design, even though the meaning is important to me. | Vou tapar o desenho velho, se bem que o significado seja importante para mim. |
| The outline is perfect, even though it isn't permanent yet. | O contorno está perfeito, se bem que ainda não seja permanente. |
The Healing Process
Enduring the needle is only the first step. Proper aftercare is required to ensure that your new art heals beautifully.
| You must use the ointment so that the skin heals quickly. | Deves usar a pomada para que a pele cicatrize rapidamente. |