B1 (Intermediate)Lesson 5: The "SE" Constructions
Using se in passive and impersonal constructions to avoid specifying the agent of an action.
Creates impersonal/passive meaning
Agent unnamed or irrelevant
Passive se: the verb agrees with its patient subject in standard writing (vendem-se casas)
Impersonal se with intransitive/prepositional verbs: 3rd person singular (precisa-se de...)
Common in: signs, ads, formal writing
Position depends on context: clause-initial vende-se in standard writing; after não, the pronoun precedes the verb
Colloquial alternatives: a gente, eles
Not reflexive despite using "se"
Verb (3rd person) + se OR se + verb; placement depends on context, including words such as não
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These constructions with "se" are everywhere in Brazilian public life! From "Vende-se" (For Sale) signs to "Precisa-se" (Wanted) job ads, understanding these constructions helps you read public information. They create formal, professional distance when the actor doesn't matter – what matters is the action. Distinguishing passive se from impersonal se helps you choose the right agreement in standard writing. Essential for reading formal texts, understanding public signs, and writing professionally.
Removes specific agent/actor
Focuses on action, not who does it
Can create a formal, objective tone
Passive se and impersonal se are different constructions
"Houses are sold" → Vendem-se casas
"One speaks Portuguese" → Fala-se português
"Workers needed" → Precisa-se de funcionários
"Vende-se este terreno" (This land for sale)
"Alugam-se quartos para estudantes" (Rooms for rent to students)
"Consertam-se sapatos e bolsas" (Shoes and bags repaired)
"Compra-se ouro e prata" (We buy gold and silver)
"Precisa-se de motoboy com experiência" (Motorcycle courier needed with experience)
"Contratam-se vendedores" (Salespeople wanted)
"Procura-se cozinheiro para restaurante" (Cook wanted for restaurant)
"Oferece-se vaga para auxiliar" (Position offered for assistant)
Many Brazilians incorrectly pluralize:
❌ "Precisam-se de funcionários"
✓ "Precisa-se de funcionários"
With precisar de, the noun after de is a complement, not a plural subject
Do not add another pronominal se simply to make a reflexive action general:
❌ "Se veste-se bem aqui"
✓ "Veste-se bem aqui"
Or: "A pessoa se veste bem". Two consecutive se can be valid when the first is a conditional conjunction and the second a pronoun.
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