Portuguese Phrase
Quais são os maiores desafios deste cargo?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct and professional way to inquire about the main difficulties or obstacles associated with a particular job role. It shows proactivity and a desire to understand the full scope of responsibilities, not just the positive aspects. It's often used in job interviews or when discussing career paths.
When to use
This phrase is primarily used in professional contexts, especially during job interviews when you want to understand the difficulties of a role, or in career discussions with colleagues or mentors. It demonstrates a thoughtful and strategic approach to understanding a position.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quaissãoosmaioresdesafiosdestecargo?
Quais
“Quais” is the plural form of “qual” (which/what). It is used when referring to plural nouns, like “desafios” (challenges).
São
“São” is the third-person plural conjugation of the verb “ser” (to be). It agrees with the plural subject “quais” and “desafios”.
Os maiores
“Os maiores” means “the biggest” or “the greatest”. “Maiores” is the comparative/superlative form of “grande” (big/great).
Deste
“Deste” is a contraction of the preposition “de” (of/from) and the demonstrative pronoun “este” (this). It means “of this”.
🗨In Conversation
Obrigado pela entrevista. Quais são os maiores desafios deste cargo?
Thank you for the interview. What are the biggest challenges of this position?
Um dos maiores desafios é gerenciar múltiplos projetos simultaneamente.
One of the biggest challenges is managing multiple projects simultaneously.
✕Common Mistakes
Qual é os maiores desafios deste cargo?
“Qual” is singular, “quais” is plural. “É” is singular, “são” is plural. Since “desafios” (challenges) is plural, “quais são” must be used.
Quais são os maiores desafios de este cargo?
The preposition “de” (of) combines with the demonstrative “este” (this) to form the contraction “deste” (of this).
↔Alternatives
Quais são as principais dificuldades desta função?
What are the main difficulties of this role?
O que torna este cargo desafiador?
What makes this position challenging?
Quais obstáculos eu posso esperar nesta posição?
What obstacles can I expect in this position?
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking professional environments, asking about challenges is seen as a sign of maturity and genuine interest, rather than a negative outlook. It indicates that you are realistic and prepared to tackle difficulties. It's a common and expected question in job interviews, especially in Brazil, and can help you stand out as a thoughtful candidate.

