Learn Portuguese (Portugal): Eles dividem sempre a conta.

Eles dividem sempre a conta.

They always split the bill.

Breakdown of Eles dividem sempre a conta.

Questions & Answers about Eles dividem sempre a conta.

How do we form dividem from the verb dividir?

dividir (to divide or split) is a regular -ir verb. To match eles (they), we remove the -ir ending and add -em, giving us dividem.

Why does sempre (always) come after the verb instead of before it?

In Portuguese, adverbs of frequency like sempre usually go right after the verb. So while in English we say 'they always split', in Portuguese it naturally becomes eles dividem sempre.

How is the -em at the end of dividem pronounced?

The -em ending is a nasal sound. You do not close your lips to make an English 'm' sound. Instead, it sounds a bit like 'ayng' and is made in the back of your mouth and nose.

Does conta just mean a restaurant bill?

In this context, yes, it means the bill you pay at a restaurant or cafe. However, conta can also mean a math calculation or a general account, like a bank account (conta bancária).