Question 1

Why does the sentence use tem instead of a word for "is"?

Accepted Answer

In Portuguese, you don't say that someone "is" a certain age. Instead, you use the verb ter (to have) to express that they "have" a certain number of years. So, A rapariga tem dezassete anos literally translates to "The girl has seventeen years."

Question 2

Which form of the verb ter is tem?

Accepted Answer

The word tem is the "he/she/it" form of ter (to have). Because the subject of the sentence is A rapariga (The girl), which counts as a "she", we use this third-person singular form.

Question 3

I've seen the word "menina" for girl. Why does this sentence use rapariga?

Accepted Answer

In Portugal, rapariga is the everyday, standard word for a girl or a young woman. The word menina is also used, but it usually refers to little girls. Note: If you ever speak to Brazilians, be aware that rapariga is an insult there, but in Portugal it is completely normal and safe to use!

Question 4

How is the number dezassete (seventeen) put together?

Accepted Answer

It is made by combining the words dez (ten) and sete (seven) with an "a" in the middle. Notice that the "s" is doubled to make ss. This is done so the letter keeps its soft "s" sound instead of sounding like a "z".

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