How do I use the word quer to mean either/or?

Understanding the Structure: How Does “Quer… Quer…” Work?

In Portuguese, when you want to present two alternatives or possibilities, much like the English “either… or…”, you can use the construction “quer… quer…”. This structure is often followed by two verbs, nouns, or phrases, indicating that either one option or the other applies.

Basic Structure

The basic format is:

Quer [option 1], quer [option 2]

It is important to note that “quer” in this context is not being used as the verb “to want”, but rather as a conjunction linking two possibilities.

Examples of “Quer… Quer…” in Action

To make this concept clearer, here are some practical examples showing how “quer… quer…” is used to mean “either… or…”:

• Quer chova, quer faça sol, iremos à praia.
  Either it rains or it’s sunny, we will go to the beach.
• Quer você goste, quer não, precisamos terminar o trabalho.
  Either you like it or not, we need to finish the work.
• Quer seja fácil, quer seja difícil, vou tentar.
  Either it’s easy or difficult, I will try.

When Should You Use “Quer… Quer…”?

This construction is most common in formal or written Portuguese, but it can also appear in spoken language, particularly when emphasizing that the outcome will be the same regardless of the alternatives. It is often used in more emphatic or dramatic statements, making it a useful structure for adding emphasis or determination to your speech.

Alternatives to “Quer… Quer…”

While “quer… quer…” is a valuable construction, native speakers also commonly use “ou… ou…” to express “either… or…”. Here’s a comparison:

• Quer você venha, quer não, a reunião acontecerá.
  Either you come or not, the meeting will happen.
• Ou você vem, ou não, a reunião acontecerá.
  Either you come, or you don’t, the meeting will happen.

Both forms are correct, but “quer… quer…” tends to sound a bit more formal or literary.

Tips for Using “Quer… Quer…” Like a Native Speaker

• Practice with set phrases: Try inserting your own verbs or situations into example sentences to get comfortable with the structure.
• Listen for it in authentic Portuguese: Movies, TV shows, and podcasts are great places to hear “quer… quer…” in action.
• Don’t confuse with “querer”: Remember that in this construction, “quer” is not expressing desire, but possibility or alternative.
• Use it for emphasis: Reserve “quer… quer…” for situations where you want to stress that an outcome is unavoidable, no matter the circumstances.

Practice Makes Perfect

The best way to internalize this construction is through practice. Try writing your own sentences using “quer… quer…” and ask native speakers for feedback. Platforms like Talkpal can connect you with native speakers and AI-driven language coaches for personalized correction and support. The more you use this structure, the more natural it will feel.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “quer… quer…” to mean “either… or…” adds a new layer of sophistication to your Portuguese. With regular practice and by integrating this structure into your daily conversations, you will be able to express possibilities and alternatives more fluently and naturally. For more tips and personalized language learning support, explore the resources on Talkpal’s AI language learning blog. Happy learning!