The use of the first person plural (we) in detriment to the first singular (I) is called “modest plural”. So, in order to understand this statement, analyze both statements that follow:
I want to thank you for your presence.
X
We want to thank you for your presence.
This relevant linguistic fact dates back to the condition expressed by the ancient kings of Portugal, in which they, in attempt to ease the distance that separated them from the people, they used a modest style, making use of the aforementioned pronoun. Until the beginning of the century. XVI, with D. João III, the real absolutism began, a fact that culminated in the resumption of the use of the first person singular. However, the high prelates of the Church still used the pronoun “we”, as a form of humility and solidarity with the faithful. Thus, through the growth of that institution in power and goods, such use began to "sound" as an attitude contrary to the modesty, thus denoting an instinct for greatness – which is why the plural of modesty is also called the plural majestic.
Seeking to contextualize the use of such an occurrence, especially when it comes to everyday communication situations, we infer that it is present in the discourse of some writers, orators and politicians, whose intent, mainly referring to the latter, is simply to avoid marks of individualism in the words that utter, making readers/listeners and even supporters share their ideas, as well as to dispel any notion of vanity or pride.
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Through such postulates, the notion of collectivity occurs to us, that is, of a being speaking on behalf of all, in general. Thus, it is noteworthy that when making use of this linguistic resource, what must be taken into account is that the pronouns and verbs will go to the plural, however, the adjectives will remain in the singular, inflecting according to the person who speaks or to whom they refer. So, let's look at some examples:
- We are sure that all the campaign promises will be fulfilled - said the politician in his speech.
- We feel dismayed with the fact that happened - said the principal to the parents of students.
By Vânia Duarte
Graduated in Letters
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
DUARTE, Vânia Maria do Nascimento. "Plural of Modesty"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/gramatica/plural-modestia.htm. Accessed on June 28, 2021.