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How to Say ‘Why’ in Portuguese

Porque

por-KE

[por-KE]

💬 Usage Tip: Porque usually means because, not why. For a direct question like Why is the fare so high?, you normally want porquê or por que, not plain porque.

Phrase Breakdown

Porque

[por-KE]

Because

Used to give a reason or explanation for something.

Example

Ele explicou o preço alto porque o trânsito estava lento.

He explained the high price because the traffic was slow.

Guides for Portuguese learners

The Portuguese You Actually Need in Your First Month in PortugalThe European Portuguese phrases for your first weeks in Portugal: paperwork, renting a flat, the bank, the health centre, cafés, trains and your new neighbours.

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