o que — meaning in English: what

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interdependência

mão

futuro

o que

feliz

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'o que' in a variety of everyday situations, such as asking for clarification in conversations or expressing curiosity about something they don't understand. For example, if someone explains a complex topic, you might say 'O que você quis dizer?' (What did you mean?) to seek further explanation.

Synonyms & nuances

'O que' can be compared to 'qual' and 'que,' but it is specifically used to ask for information or clarification. While 'qual' may imply a choice among options, 'o que' is more general, making it the go-to phrase when you simply want to know about something.

Culture

'O que' literally means 'what' in Portuguese, but its usage reflects a deep-seated aspect of Brazilian culture—curiosity. In a country known for its rich conversational style, using 'o que' effectively can open doors to engaging discussions. Interestingly, this phrase also serves as a gateway to understanding various dialects and colloquial expressions throughout the Portuguese-speaking world.

FAQ

Q.What does 'o que' mean in English?

'O que' translates to 'what' in English and is used to ask questions or seek clarification about something.

Q.How do you use 'o que' in a sentence?

You can use 'o que' in various contexts, for example, 'O que você está fazendo?' (What are you doing?) or 'O que é isso?' (What is this?). It’s a versatile phrase for inquiries.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'o que'?

A common mistake is using 'o que' instead of 'qual' when asking for a specific option or choice. For example, instead of saying 'O que você prefere?' (What do you prefer?), it’s more appropriate to ask 'Qual você prefere?' (Which one do you prefer?).

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Portuguese Vocabulary