Understanding Probability in the Future Tense
When we talk about the future, we often want to express not just what will happen, but how likely something is to occur. In Portuguese, just like in English, there are specific ways to show certainty, possibility, or uncertainty regarding future events. This is commonly done using modal verbs, adverbs, and certain verb constructions.
Using the Simple Future Tense
The simple future tense in Portuguese is formed by adding specific endings to the infinitive form of the verb. For example:
- Eu viajarei para Portugal. (I will travel to Portugal.)
- Ela chegará amanhã. (She will arrive tomorrow.)
However, the simple future tense alone often expresses a statement of fact, not probability. To add a sense of probability or uncertainty, additional words are typically needed.
Expressing Probability with Modal Verbs
Portuguese uses modal verbs and phrases to suggest that something is probable, possible, or uncertain in the future. The most common modal verb for expressing probability is dever (should / ought to):
- Ele deve chegar amanhã. (He should arrive tomorrow.)
- Você deve gostar do filme. (You will probably like the movie.)
When used in the future tense, dever indicates a strong likelihood or probability, similar to “will probably” or “should” in English.
Using Adverbs to Indicate Probability
Adverbs play an essential role in expressing probability. Common adverbs and adverbial phrases include:
- Provavelmente (probably)
- Talvez (maybe / perhaps)
- Certamente (certainly)
- Possivelmente (possibly)
These can be combined with the future tense to add nuance:
- Provavelmente, ele vai viajar amanhã. (He will probably travel tomorrow.)
- Talvez nós cheguemos tarde. (Maybe we will arrive late.)
Using “Vai” + Infinitive for Near Future Probability
In spoken Portuguese, the structure ir (to go) + infinitive is often used to talk about the near future. It can also convey probability, especially when combined with adverbs:
- Ela vai provavelmente chegar cedo. (She will probably arrive early.)
- Você vai gostar do jantar. (You are likely to enjoy the dinner.)
Subjunctive Mood for Uncertainty
The future subjunctive is used in Portuguese to express uncertainty or conditions regarding future events. This is especially common in “if” clauses (se):
- Se ele chegar, avise-me. (If he arrives, let me know.)
- Quando você for ao Brasil, visite o Cristo Redentor. (When you go to Brazil, visit Christ the Redeemer.)
Although not a direct marker of probability, the subjunctive often implies a degree of uncertainty about the future.
Tips for Learners: Practicing Probability in Context
To become comfortable using these structures, practice forming sentences about your plans, predictions, and guesses. For example, try writing or saying sentences like:
- Talvez eu estude português amanhã. (Maybe I will study Portuguese tomorrow.)
- Provavelmente, vamos sair no fim de semana. (We will probably go out on the weekend.)
Using language learning platforms like Talkpal can provide interactive practice with these expressions in real conversation scenarios.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overusing the simple future: Remember that the simple future tense without adverbs or modal verbs often sounds too certain. To indicate probability, include words like provavelmente or use dever.
- Forgetting agreement: In Portuguese, verbs must agree in person and number with the subject. Double-check your verb endings.
- Mixing up tenses: Make sure to distinguish between the simple future, the “vai + infinitive” construction, and the future subjunctive for appropriate contexts.
Conclusion
Expressing probability in the future tense is an important skill for effective communication in Portuguese. By mastering modal verbs, adverbs, and the right verb structures, you can convey your intentions and predictions more naturally. Remember to practice these forms regularly, and take advantage of resources like Talkpal to boost your confidence and fluency. Boa sorte (good luck) on your Portuguese learning journey!
