Question 1

Why is the subjunctive seja used here instead of the indicative é?

Accepted Answer

The phrase mesmo que (even if) introduces a hypothetical concession. Whenever mesmo que expresses a hypothetical scenario rather than an established fact, it forces the following verb into the subjunctive mood. Here, seja is the present subjunctive of ser.

Question 2

I thought Portuguese required double negatives. Why is there no não before aceita?

Accepted Answer

You only need a double negative when the negative word comes after the verb. Because the negative pronoun Ninguém (nobody) comes before the verb aceita, it already makes the entire clause negative on its own, so adding não is incorrect.

Question 3

Why do we use ser (seja) instead of estar (esteja) for "it is the law"?

Accepted Answer

In Portuguese, ser is used for defining characteristics, identities, and permanent facts. Being a law is an inherent definition of a rule, so it requires ser. The verb estar is reserved for temporary states or locations.

Question 4

Could a injustiça also translate to just "injustice" in general, without the word "the"?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. In English, we usually drop the article when talking about general concepts like "injustice" or "love". In Portuguese, however, you generally must use the definite article (a or o) when talking about abstract nouns, even in a broad, general sense.

Ninguém aceita a injustiça, mesmo que seja a lei.

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