Question 1

Why do we use "é" instead of "está" in this sentence?

Accepted Answer

We use é (from the verb ser) because being tall (alto) is a permanent physical trait, and we are asking for someone's core identity ("Who is he?"). If we were asking about a temporary state or where he is located, we would use a form of estar.

Question 2

Why does "alto" come after "o senhor"?

Accepted Answer

In Portuguese, descriptive adjectives like alto (tall) usually come right after the noun they describe. So instead of "the tall gentleman", the word order is the equivalent of "the gentleman tall" (o senhor alto).

Question 3

Does "o senhor" mean "the gentleman" or "Mr."?

Accepted Answer

It can mean both, depending on how you use it! By itself, as it is here, o senhor is a polite way to say "the gentleman" or "the man". When placed directly before someone's name, it translates to "Mr.".

Question 4

How could I change this sentence to ask for the tall gentleman's name?

Accepted Answer

To ask for his name, you would use the reflexive verb chamar-se (to call oneself) that you are practicing in this lesson. You would swap out Quem é for Como se chama, making the sentence: Como se chama o senhor alto aqui? (Literally: "How does the tall gentleman here call himself?").

Quem é o senhor alto aqui?

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