Portuguese Phrase
A gente usa lápis para desenhar.
Meaning
Literally “We use pencils to draw.” The phrase uses the informal collective “a gente” instead of the more formal “nós.” It’s a simple statement about the tool you need for drawing.
When to use
Use this sentence when talking about art supplies in a casual setting—classroom, workshop, or a chat with friends about drawing habits.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Agenteusalápisparadesenhar
A gente
Colloquial way to say “we”; it takes third‑person singular verbs.
usa
Present indicative of usar; agrees with “a gente” (third‑person singular).
lápis
Masculine noun meaning “pencil”; note the acute accent on the i.
para + infinitive
Preposition that expresses purpose; followed by the infinitive verb.
desenhar
Infinitive verb meaning “to draw.”
🗨In Conversation
A gente usa lápis para desenhar.
We use pencils to draw.
É verdade, mas eu prefiro canetas.
That’s true, but I prefer pens.
✕Common Mistakes
A gente usamos lápis para desenhar.
“A gente” takes third‑person singular verbs, so the correct form is “usa.”
A gente usa lapis para desenhar.
The accent on the i is required; without it the word is misspelled.
A gente usa lápis para desenha.
After “para” you need the infinitive form, not a conjugated verb.
↔Alternatives
Nós usamos lápis para desenhar.
We use pencils to draw.
A gente costuma usar lápis para desenhar.
We usually use pencils to draw.
Usamos lápis ao desenhar.
We use pencils when drawing.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, “a gente” is the go‑to informal way to say “we,” especially among friends and in spoken Portuguese. In formal writing or presentations, switch to “nós.” Also, the word “lápis” keeps its accent even in plural (os lápis).