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Portuguese Phrase

É um assunto complicado.

/ɛ ˈũ aˈsũtu kõpliˈkadu/
Meaning"It’s a complicated subject."
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Meaning

This sentence means “It’s a complicated subject.” It conveys that the topic being discussed is complex or difficult to understand, often implying that careful consideration is needed.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you want to comment on the difficulty of a topic, whether in a casual conversation, a classroom discussion, or a professional meeting. It signals that the matter may require more time, research, or a nuanced approach.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Éumassuntocomplicado.

1

É (ser)

The verb 'ser' is used for permanent characteristics; here it links the subject 'um assunto' with the adjective 'complicado'.

2

Indefinite article 'um'

Use 'um' for masculine singular nouns; 'assunto' is masculine, so the article matches in gender and number.

3

Adjective agreement

Adjectives must agree with the noun they modify in gender and number; 'complicado' matches the masculine singular noun 'assunto'.

4

Sentence ending punctuation

A period finalizes the statement; in spoken Portuguese the intonation rises slightly before the final stop.

🗨In Conversation

A

É um assunto complicado.

It’s a complicated subject.

Concordo, vamos analisar com calma.

I agree, let’s analyze it calmly.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • É uma assunto complicado.

    The noun 'assunto' is masculine, so the correct article is 'um', not 'uma'.

  • É um assunto complicado.

    Missing the final 'a' changes the word; the correct adjective is 'complicado' (masculine) to match 'assunto'.

  • É um assunto complicado

    When speaking quickly, some learners drop the final period in writing; always include punctuation in formal text.

↔Alternatives

  • É um tema complexo.

    It’s a complex theme.

  • É uma questão difícil.

    It’s a difficult issue.

  • É um tópico delicado.

    It’s a delicate topic.

pt

Cultural Tip

In Brazilian Portuguese, 'assunto' is a neutral word used for both concrete and abstract topics. While 'complicado' is perfectly acceptable, speakers often prefer 'complexo' for academic contexts and 'difícil' for everyday problems. Adjust the adjective based on the formality of the setting.