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Portuguese Phrase

Curte discutir literatura?

/ˈkuɾ.tʃi dʒi.skuˈtiɾ li.teɾaˈtu.ɾa/
Meaning"Do you enjoy discussing literature?"
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Meaning

A informal question asking whether the listener enjoys talking about books, authors, and literary topics. It uses the slang verb “curtir” (to like/enjoy) and the infinitive “discutir” (to discuss).

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When to use

Use this phrase in casual conversations with friends, classmates, or members of a book club when you want to gauge someone's interest in literary discussion. It’s too informal for a formal interview or academic setting.

Grammar Breakdown

Curtediscutirliteratura?

1

Curtir (present 3rd person singular)

“Curte” is the present‑indicative form for “você/ele/ela.” It’s informal slang for “to like/enjoy.”

2

Infinitive after curtir

When “curtir” is followed by another verb, the second verb stays in the infinitive without a preposition.

3

Question intonation

In spoken Portuguese, raising the pitch at the end signals a question; the written form uses a question mark.

🗨In Conversation

A

Curte discutir literatura?

Do you enjoy discussing literature?

Sim, adoro! Sempre que posso, troco ideias sobre Machado de Assis e Clarice Lispector.

Yes, I love it! Whenever I can, I exchange ideas about Machado de Assis and Clarice Lispector.

B

Common Mistakes

  • Curte de discutir literatura?

    The verb “curtir” does not take the preposition “de” before another infinitive.

  • Gosta discutir literatura?

    When using “gostar,” you must add the preposition “de.”

  • Curte discutir literatura!

    A question mark is required for a question; using an exclamation changes the meaning to a statement.

Alternatives

  • Gosta de discutir literatura?

    Do you like discussing literature?

  • Você curte conversar sobre literatura?

    Do you enjoy chatting about literature?

  • Tem interesse em debater literatura?

    Are you interested in debating literature?

pt

Cultural Tip

In Brazil, “curtir” is a colloquial verb that works like “to like” or “to enjoy.” It’s common among younger speakers and in informal settings. Avoid using it in formal emails, academic papers, or when speaking with someone you don’t know well; opt for “gostar de” instead.