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September 14, 2012 | Portuguese

Personal Infinitives!

An unusual feature of Portuguese grammar.

Yesterday I decided I would visit a few consulates of different Portuguese-speaking countries and see what I could learn. The problem is, now that I no longer drink coffee, I tend to go to sleep and wake up earlier. Where…

September 16, 2012 | Portuguese

Future Subjunctive?!

In which I come face-to-face with another grammatical phenomenon I didn't know existed.

Last month I encountered for the first time in my life—as far as I know and can remember—something called the future subjunctive. Sources of Grammatical Drama Seeing it for the first time prompted in me a highly intellectual…

October 21, 2012 | Portuguese

A Field Trip: Brazil in Astoria

In which I am somewhat foiled in my efforts to take pictures of Brazilian food.

I have been silent but studying. I confess that I set aside Portuguese for two weeks in late September to work daily on the perpetually-in-progress language-resources directory for this website—but I did then return to the Portuguese, although on…

October 22, 2012 | Portuguese

More Fun with Portuguese Grammar

And maybe a little bemusement.

I am still making my way through my Modern Brazilian Portuguese Grammar books (both the practical guide and the accompanying workbook) by John Whitlam.  John Whitlam’s Portuguese Grammar Books I find them responsible. They are…

October 25, 2012 | Portuguese

Study a Language, Reduce Blood Pressure

Learning a language minimizes life irritation.

This morning I walked across Central Park to a doctor’s appointment. Fall is clearly here. The park was crowded with tourists speaking languages other than English and leaves were dropping to the ground. Strawberry Fields, Central Park I listened…