You’ve already learned how to use a, em, and para to talk about movement.
Now it’s time to learn another very common use of de.
Let’s keep it simple.
The Core Idea
👉 DE = where someone or something is from, also to whom someone is related, or to whom something belongs
Use de to talk about a person’s origin or where something comes from.
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Simple Examples
- O João é de Tavira.
- O Miguel é de Tavira.
- A Cátia é de Tavira.
- A Maria é de Faro.
- O Ricardo é de Faro.
- Todos são de Portugal.
Common Beginner Mistakes
👉 Remember that de tells us where someone is from, not where they are going.
- ❌ O João é a Tavira.
- ✅ O João é de Tavira.
- ❌ A Maria é em Faro.
- ✅ A Maria é de Faro.
Think of it like this:
👉 DE = origin
👉 A / PARA = destination
👉 EM = location
Think About It
👉 Answer these questions:
- De onde és?
- De onde é a tua família?
- De que cidade és?
Write one or two sentences using de in the comments below!
Want to take your learning even further? 📚 Get access to the exclusive PDF with written exercises, vocabulary lists, and extra practice by purchasing it on Patreon. Or, join the Bacalhau com Natas tier to unlock interactive materials and boost your learning!
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👉 PDF file (one-time purchase through Patreon)
👉 Interactive Exercises (Monthly Bacalhau com Natas membership on Patreon)
Lesson 19 | Lesson 21