Learn Portuguese (Portugal): A sede é um problema.

A sede é um problema.

Thirst is a problem.

Breakdown of A sede é um problema.

ser

to be

a / an / some (all forms)

Questions & Answers about A sede é um problema.

Why is there an A before sede? In English, we just say 'Thirst is a problem.'

In Portuguese, when you talk about general concepts, abstract ideas, or things in a universal sense, you usually need to include a definite article (o or a). Because sede is a feminine noun, we put A before it.

Why do we use é instead of está here? Isn't thirst temporary?

While feeling thirsty is a temporary state, this specific sentence states a general fact: the concept of thirst itself equals a problem. For definitions, universal facts, and permanent traits, you always use the verb ser, which is why we use é here.

Why does problema use the masculine word um when it ends in an 'a'?

Most Portuguese words ending in 'a' are feminine, but problema is a very common exception! Many words that end in '-ma' (like o problema, o sistema, and o programa) are actually masculine. That is why it takes the masculine article um.

How does the word sede work if I just want to say 'I am thirsty'?

In Portuguese, you do not say that you 'are' thirsty. Instead, you say that you 'have' thirst. You would use the verb ter (to have) and say tenho sede.