Question 1

Why does seja quem for use two different forms of the verb ser?

Accepted Answer

The phrase literally translates to "may it be who it will be." It combines the present subjunctive (seja) and the future subjunctive (for) of the verb ser (to be). Together, this fixed double-subjunctive expression acts as an indefinite pronoun meaning "whoever it is" or "no matter who."

Question 2

Could we use qualquer um instead of seja quem for in this sentence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, saying Temos de barrar qualquer um (We have to block anyone) works and is grammatically correct. However, seja quem for is more emphatic. It specifically stresses "regardless of their identity" or "no matter who they happen to be."

Question 3

Wait, doesn't barrar mean "to spread" like butter on toast?

Accepted Answer

It does! At earlier levels, you likely learned barrar in the context of breakfast. However, it also translates directly to "to bar," "to block," or "to deny entry." In this context, it means security or staff is stopping someone from coming in.

Question 4

Just as a refresher, is there a difference between Temos de barrar and Temos que barrar?

Accepted Answer

In European Portuguese, ter de is the traditional, strictly correct way to express obligation ("have to"). You will often hear native speakers use ter que in casual spoken Portuguese, but ter de is the standard rule taught in schools and is preferred in writing.

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