Learning a new language can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. One of the most intricate aspects of mastering a language is understanding how to make comparisons. In Portuguese, the phrase “do que” is a crucial component when forming comparative expressions. This article will delve into the various ways “do que” is used in Portuguese and provide examples to help English speakers grasp its nuances.
Understanding “Do Que” in Comparisons
In Portuguese, “do que” is often used to compare two entities. It functions similarly to “than” in English. When you want to say that one thing is more or less of a certain quality than another, “do que” is your go-to phrase. Here, we will explore how to use “do que” in different contexts, including comparisons of superiority, inferiority, and equality.
Comparisons of Superiority
When making comparisons of superiority, you’re stating that one thing is more of a certain quality than another. In English, we often use the structure “more [adjective] than.” In Portuguese, this translates to “mais [adjective] do que.”
**Examples:**
1. Este livro é mais interessante do que aquele.
– This book is more interesting than that one.
2. Ela é mais alta do que o irmão.
– She is taller than her brother.
3. O filme foi mais emocionante do que o esperado.
– The movie was more exciting than expected.
In these examples, “mais” (more) precedes the adjective, and “do que” follows it to complete the comparison.
Comparisons of Inferiority
Conversely, when making comparisons of inferiority, you’re stating that one thing is less of a certain quality than another. In English, we use the structure “less [adjective] than.” In Portuguese, this becomes “menos [adjective] do que.”
**Examples:**
1. Este carro é menos caro do que aquele.
– This car is less expensive than that one.
2. O filme foi menos interessante do que o livro.
– The movie was less interesting than the book.
3. Ela é menos tímida do que costumava ser.
– She is less shy than she used to be.
Here, “menos” (less) precedes the adjective, and “do que” follows it to complete the comparison.
Comparisons of Equality
For comparisons of equality, where you want to say that two things are equally of a certain quality, Portuguese uses the structure “tão [adjective] quanto” or “tão [adjective] como.” While “do que” is not used in these comparisons, understanding how to form them is still essential for comprehensive language learning.
**Examples:**
1. Este livro é tão interessante quanto aquele.
– This book is as interesting as that one.
2. Ela é tão alta como o irmão.
– She is as tall as her brother.
3. O filme foi tão emocionante quanto o esperado.
– The movie was as exciting as expected.
In these examples, “tão” (as) precedes the adjective, and “quanto” or “como” follows it to complete the comparison.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning to use “do que” in comparative expressions, English speakers often make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
Omitting “Do Que”
One frequent mistake is omitting “do que” altogether. In English, we might say “This book is more interesting,” and the context implies what it is being compared to. However, in Portuguese, the “do que” is essential for the comparison to be complete.
**Incorrect:** Este livro é mais interessante.
**Correct:** Este livro é mais interessante do que aquele.
Using “De Que” Instead of “Do Que”
Another common error is using “de que” instead of “do que.” While “de que” might seem correct because “de” means “of” and “que” means “that,” it is not the standard way to form comparisons in Portuguese.
**Incorrect:** Este carro é menos caro de que aquele.
**Correct:** Este carro é menos caro do que aquele.
Confusing Comparisons of Superiority and Inferiority
Sometimes learners mix up “mais” and “menos,” leading to incorrect comparisons. It’s essential to remember that “mais” is used for superiority and “menos” for inferiority.
**Incorrect:** Ela é mais tímida do que costumava ser. (if the intent is to say she is less shy)
**Correct:** Ela é menos tímida do que costumava ser.
Advanced Uses of “Do Que”
Once you have a grasp of basic comparisons, you can explore more advanced uses of “do que.” These include comparisons with verbs, nouns, and more complex structures.
Comparing Actions
When comparing actions, “do que” can be used similarly. The structure often involves the verb in the infinitive form.
**Examples:**
1. Prefiro estudar do que trabalhar.
– I prefer studying to working.
2. Ele gosta mais de correr do que de nadar.
– He likes running more than swimming.
In these cases, “do que” is used to compare the preference for one action over another.
Comparing Quantities
You can also use “do que” when comparing quantities. This is particularly useful in mathematical contexts or when discussing amounts.
**Examples:**
1. Eles têm mais dinheiro do que precisamos.
– They have more money than we need.
2. Há menos pessoas do que esperávamos.
– There are fewer people than we expected.
Here, “mais” or “menos” is used to compare quantities, and “do que” follows to complete the expression.
Complex Comparisons
In more complex sentences, “do que” can be part of a larger comparative structure. This often involves clauses and more intricate sentence construction.
**Examples:**
1. O projeto foi mais bem-sucedido do que esperávamos que fosse.
– The project was more successful than we expected it to be.
2. Ela é menos propensa a cometer erros do que pensávamos.
– She is less likely to make mistakes than we thought.
In these examples, “do que” is part of a more complex comparative structure, linking different clauses together.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of “do que” in comparative expressions, here are some practice exercises. Try to translate the following sentences from English to Portuguese, making sure to use “do que” correctly.
1. This cake is sweeter than that one.
2. He is less patient than his sister.
3. I prefer reading to watching TV.
4. They have more time than we do.
5. The weather today is better than yesterday.
**Answers:**
1. Este bolo é mais doce do que aquele.
2. Ele é menos paciente do que a irmã.
3. Prefiro ler do que assistir TV.
4. Eles têm mais tempo do que nós.
5. O tempo hoje está melhor do que ontem.
Conclusion
Understanding and using “do que” in comparative expressions is an essential skill for mastering Portuguese. Whether you’re making comparisons of superiority, inferiority, or more complex structures, “do que” plays a crucial role. By practicing and being mindful of common mistakes, you can become proficient in making comparisons in Portuguese. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll find that these expressions come naturally to you. Happy learning!
