Why EP Uses the Infinitive Where BP Uses the Gerund
Brazilian Portuguese uses the gerund (-ndo) in many constructions where European Portuguese uses the infinitive with the preposition a. Knowing this prevents a major source of unnatural EP.
PortuStories Editorial
European Portuguese Grammar Guide
The gerund (-ando, -endo, -indo) exists in EP but its use is far more restricted than in BP. In EP the gerund mainly appears as an adverbial (expressing manner or simultaneity) and in set phrases.
🇵🇹 European Portuguese
Estou a trabalhar.
🇧🇷 Brazilian Portuguese
Estou trabalhando.
Progressive aspect: EP uses estar a + infinitive.
🇵🇹 European Portuguese
Continuou a falar.
🇧🇷 Brazilian Portuguese
Continuou falando.
After continuar, EP uses a + infinitive.
🇵🇹 European Portuguese
Começou a chover.
🇧🇷 Brazilian Portuguese
Começou chovendo.
After começar, EP uses a + infinitive.
The gerund is valid in EP as an adverbial participle: "Saiu a cantar." (He left singing.) and in set expressions.
Saiu a cantar uma canção popular.
He left singing a folk song.
Adverbial gerund — valid EP use.
If in doubt, use a + infinitive. It is always safe in EP. Overusing the gerund marks you as imitating Brazilian Portuguese.
From a PortuStories Story
A criança ficou a brincar no jardim enquanto a mãe estava a ler.
The child stayed playing in the garden while the mother was reading.