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De Que Ou Que: Entenda a Diferença

Eric Jul 09, 2026 2026-07-09 04:40:47

In the Portuguese language, "de que" and "que" are two essential words that often cause confusion among learners. Both are used to introduce a clause, but they serve different purposes and have distinct grammatical functions. Let's delve into the intricacies of "de que" and "que" to help you understand and use them correctly in your Portuguese communication.

Oque, o que ou o quê: grafia correta, diferenças
Oque, o que ou o quê: grafia correta, diferenças

Before we dive into the details, it's crucial to understand that "de que" and "que" are both conjunctions, but they belong to different categories. "De que" is a subordinating conjunction, while "que" is a coordinating conjunction. This fundamental difference affects how they connect clauses and phrases in a sentence.

USO DOS PORQUÊS
USO DOS PORQUÊS

Understanding "De Que"

"De que" is used to introduce a subordinate clause that provides additional information about the main clause. It is typically translated into English as "of which," "about which," or "that."

SILÁBICO
SILÁBICO

In Portuguese, "de que" can introduce a relative clause, a content clause, or a complement clause. For example:

Relative Clause

the spanish language poster shows different types of words and numbers, including one for each letter
the spanish language poster shows different types of words and numbers, including one for each letter

The book de que falei ontem é muito interessante. (The book about which I spoke yesterday is very interesting.)

In this sentence, "de que falei ontem" is a relative clause that modifies "o livro" (the book).

Content Clause

an image of different types of objects in spanish
an image of different types of objects in spanish

Não sei de que eles estão falando. (I don't know what they are talking about.)

In this case, "de que eles estão falando" is a content clause that functions as the object of the verb "saber" (to know).

Understanding "Que"

two different types of words that appear to be in the same language as each other
two different types of words that appear to be in the same language as each other

"Que" is a coordinating conjunction used to connect two clauses or phrases that have the same grammatical function. It is typically translated into English as "that," "which," or "who."

In Portuguese, "que" can introduce a relative clause, a content clause, or a complement clause, just like "de que." However, the main difference lies in the type of clause it introduces and its function in the sentence.

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Relative Clause

O carro que comprei ontem está com um problema. (The car that I bought yesterday has a problem.)

Here, "que comprei ontem" is a relative clause that modifies "o carro" (the car). Notice that "que" is used to introduce the relative clause, not "de que."

Content Clause

Diga que você vai chegar tarde. (Tell that you will arrive late.)

In this sentence, "que você vai chegar tarde" is a content clause that functions as the object of the verb "dizer" (to tell).

Mastering the use of "de que" and "que" requires practice and exposure to various sentence structures. By understanding their distinct grammatical functions and the types of clauses they introduce, you'll be well on your way to using them correctly in your Portuguese communication. So, keep practicing, and soon you'll be able to navigate the intricacies of these essential conjunctions with confidence.