Portuguese Phrase
Quando eles se conheceram?
Meaning
This phrase is used to ask about the specific point in time when two or more people first encountered each other. It utilizes the reciprocal pronoun 'se' to indicate that the action of meeting was mutual between the subjects.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are curious about the history of a couple, a pair of friends, or business partners. It is a standard question used in social settings to learn more about people's relationships.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quandoelesseconheceram
Quando
An interrogative word used to ask about time, equivalent to 'when' in English.
Se (Pronoun)
A reciprocal pronoun used here to show that the action of 'conhecer' (meeting/knowing) happened between the individuals mentioned.
Conheceram
The third-person plural form of the verb 'conhecer' in the Pretérito Perfeito (simple past tense).
🗨In Conversation
Eles parecem ser grandes amigos.
They seem to be great friends.
Sim, eles são. Quando eles se conheceram?
Yes, they are. When did they meet?
✕Common Mistakes
Quando eles conheceram?
Without the pronoun 'se', the sentence is incomplete because 'conhecer' requires an object; 'se' indicates they met each other.
Quando eles se conhecem?
This uses the present tense, which asks when they know each other; use the past tense 'conheceram' for the event of meeting.
↔Alternatives
Faz tempo que eles se conhecem?
Have they known each other for a long time?
Como eles se conheceram?
How did they meet?
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, especially in Brazil, asking about how or when a couple met is a very common and friendly way to show interest in their lives. It is often seen as a warm conversation starter rather than an intrusive question.