Portuguese Phrase
Escolhe coisas que não precisem ser cozinhadas.
Meaning
This phrase literally means to select items that do not require cooking. It's commonly used when planning meals or snacks that are quick, convenient, or suitable for situations where cooking facilities are unavailable. The subjunctive mood 'precisem' is crucial here, indicating a hypothetical or desired outcome.
When to use
You would use this phrase when suggesting food options for a picnic, a camping trip, a quick lunch, or any situation where you want to avoid cooking. It's a practical suggestion for convenience or when time is limited.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Escolhecoisasquenãoprecisemsercozinhadas
Escolhe (Imperative)
'Escolhe' is the informal singular imperative form of the verb 'escolher' (to choose). It's used to give a direct command or make a suggestion to 'you' (tu).
que (Relative Pronoun)
'Que' acts as a relative pronoun here, connecting 'coisas' (things) to the subsequent clause. It introduces a subordinate clause that describes the 'things'.
precisem (Subjunctive Mood)
'Precisem' is the third-person plural present subjunctive form of 'precisar' (to need). The subjunctive is used after 'que' when expressing a condition, desire, doubt, or something hypothetical, rather than a factual statement.
ser cozinhadas (Passive Infinitive)
'Ser cozinhadas' is the passive infinitive. 'Ser' (to be) combined with the past participle 'cozinhadas' (cooked) forms the passive voice, indicating that the 'things' are the recipients of the action of cooking.
🗨In Conversation
Vamos fazer um piquenique. O que levamos?
Let's have a picnic. What should we bring?
Escolhe coisas que não precisem ser cozinhadas, para ser mais fácil.
Choose things that don't need to be cooked, to make it easier.
✕Common Mistakes
Escolhe coisas que não precisam ser cozinhadas.
The verb 'precisar' should be in the subjunctive mood ('precisem') because it follows 'que' and expresses a condition or desire, not a certainty.
Escolhe coisas que não precisam de cozinhar.
While 'precisar de' is common, 'ser cozinhadas' (to be cooked) is more natural and grammatically correct for the passive voice when referring to things that undergo cooking.
↔Alternatives
Opta por alimentos que não exijam preparação.
Opt for foods that don't require preparation.
Pega em coisas que não precisam de cozedura.
Grab things that don't need cooking.
Escolhe alimentos crus.
Choose raw foods.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, especially in Portugal and Brazil, meals are often a significant event, and home-cooked food is highly valued. However, the concept of 'no-cook' meals is increasingly popular for convenience, especially for snacks, light lunches, or when traveling. This phrase fits well into modern, busy lifestyles, contrasting with traditional, more elaborate meal preparations.