B1 (Intermediate)Lesson 5: The "SE" Constructions
Using "se" to create impersonal constructions that avoid specifying the agent of an action.
Creates impersonal/passive meaning
Agent unnamed or irrelevant
Transitive verbs: agrees with object (vendem-se casas)
Intransitive verbs: always singular (precisa-se de...)
Common in: signs, ads, formal writing
Position: usually before verb
Colloquial alternatives: a gente, eles
Not reflexive despite using "se"
The impersonal "se" is everywhere in Brazilian public life! From "Vende-se" (For Sale) signs to "Precisa-se" (Wanted) job ads, you can't navigate cities without understanding these constructions. They create formal, professional distance when the actor doesn't matter – what matters is the action. But agreement rules trip up even educated Brazilians, making this a grammar point where knowing the rules can make you sound more educated than natives. Essential for reading formal texts, understanding public signs, and writing professionally.
se + verb (3rd person) + complement OR verb + se (formal placement)
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Removes specific agent/actor
Focuses on action, not who does it
Creates formal, objective tone
Equivalent to passive voice
"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"
Preposition = no agreement
When verb is already reflexive:
❌ "Se veste-se bem aqui"
✓ "Veste-se bem aqui"
Or: "A pessoa se veste bem"
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