Portuguese Verbs Explained: An Essential Guide

In my view, Portuguese Verbs Explained is a groundbreaker in three ways.

First, This book explains systematically how each tense is formed and how to get from one tense to another. Each new tense you learn requires just a small effort because you can use as a basis a previous one you already know; you build up on it.

Secondly, you are given insight into how the Portuguese verb system works, how the different tenses interact for meaning. Once you get into the system it all makes sense and effort becomes minimal, also because you realise that only a handful of tenses are actually used in everyday communication.

Thirdly, the teaching of the verb forms for 'you' (second person) is brilliant in this book. The two sets are dealt with separately, the original tu-vos and the more recent voce-voces, and you are shown what is actually used in modern Portuguese.

This book truthfully explains the Portuguese verbs inside out. It is a major advance in the teaching of Portuguese grammar, specifically verbs. I am very happy with the book and would like to recommend it to anyone who wants to learn Portuguese.


Very good   August 10, 2004
 106 out of 106 found this review helpful

I am learning Portuguese and by chance have come across this book. Verbs were my 'gremlins' but I think this book is going to do the trick.

What I like the most about this verbs book is that it guides the reader gently through the different verb forms and how they work in a sentence. Everything is translated into English, which helps a lot. I am moving happily step by step. I am actualy enjoying verbs! I am quite impressed with the book and want to share my 'discovery' with all of you out there who like me shy away from verbs. If you find verbs a daunting matter then you may find out this book is right for you. It is for me.