Portuguese Phrase
A biblioteca é aquele grande prédio de pedra?
Meaning
This phrase is used to ask for confirmation about the location or identity of the library, specifically pointing to a large stone building. It implies that the speaker has a visual reference and is seeking to verify if that particular building is indeed the library. It's a direct question used for clarification.
When to use
You would use this phrase when you are in an unfamiliar area, you see a prominent building that you suspect might be the library, and you want to confirm its identity with a local or someone who knows the area. It's perfect for situations where you're trying to orient yourself visually.
✦Grammar Breakdown
A bibliotecaéaquelegrandeprédiode pedra
A biblioteca
'A' is the definite feminine article 'the', agreeing with 'biblioteca' (library), which is a feminine noun. This is a common way to introduce a specific subject.
É (Ser)
'É' is the third-person singular form of the verb 'ser' (to be). It's used here for identification and definition, indicating what something *is*, rather than its temporary location or state.
Aquele
'Aquele' is a masculine singular demonstrative pronoun meaning 'that one' or 'that'. It points to something far from both the speaker and the listener, and it agrees in gender and number with the noun 'prédio' (building).
Grande
'Grande' means 'big' or 'large'. In Portuguese, adjectives usually come after the noun, but 'grande' can sometimes precede it, especially when emphasizing a general quality rather than a specific characteristic.
Prédio de pedra
'Prédio' means 'building'. 'De pedra' (of stone) functions as an adjective phrase, describing the material of the building. In Portuguese, materials are often expressed with 'de' + noun.
🗨In Conversation
Com licença, a biblioteca é aquele grande prédio de pedra?
Excuse me, is the library that big stone building?
Sim, é aquele mesmo. Fica logo ali.
Yes, it's that one. It's right there.
✕Common Mistakes
A biblioteca está aquele grande prédio de pedra?
Using 'estar' (está) implies a temporary state or location, but 'ser' (é) is used for permanent identification or definition. Here, you are identifying what the library *is*, not where it *is* temporarily located.
A biblioteca é aquela grande prédio de pedra?
The demonstrative pronoun 'aquele' (that) must agree in gender with the noun it refers to. 'Prédio' (building) is masculine, so 'aquele' is correct, not 'aquela' (feminine).
A biblioteca é aquele grande prédio de pedras?
When 'de pedra' is used to describe the material, it typically remains singular, acting as an adjective phrase. 'De pedras' would imply 'of rocks' or 'made of multiple, distinct stones' rather than 'stone-made'.
↔Alternatives
Onde fica a biblioteca?
Where is the library?
A biblioteca é o prédio grande?
Is the library the big building?
É a biblioteca aquele edifício?
Is that building the library?
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, it's common to be quite direct when asking for directions or confirming information. However, always start with a polite greeting like 'Com licença' (Excuse me) or 'Olá' (Hello) before asking your question. People are generally very helpful, and a friendly approach will be well-received. Don't be afraid to point if you're unsure of the words.