por que — meaning in English: why

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escola

metanoia

epifania

quatro

por que

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Portuguese speakers commonly use 'por que' when asking for reasons or explanations in everyday conversations, such as inquiring about someone's choices or decisions. For instance, if a friend decides to move to another city, you might ask, 'Por que você vai se mudar?' (Why are you moving?). This phrase is used in both casual settings and more serious discussions, making it versatile.

Synonyms & nuances

'Por que' specifically means 'why,' focusing on the reason behind actions or events. In contrast, 'para que' translates to 'for what purpose,' implying a goal rather than a reason. Choosing 'por que' signals a quest for understanding rather than intention.

Culture

'Por que' has its origins in the Latin phrase 'por quod,' meaning 'for what.' It reflects a natural curiosity inherent in the Portuguese language and culture, encouraging people to seek understanding. Interestingly, the word has variations—'porque' (because) and 'porquê' (the reason)—which often confuse learners but showcase the language's rich grammatical structure.

FAQ

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

'Por que' translates to 'why' in English and is used to ask for reasons or explanations.

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

You can use 'por que' at the beginning of a question, such as 'Por que você está triste?' which means 'Why are you sad?'

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

Yes, a common mistake is to confuse 'por que' with 'porque' (because). Remember that 'por que' is a question form, while 'porque' provides an explanation.

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Portuguese Vocabulary