The preposition “para” presents many variations in its form, generating some doubts in Portuguese speakers. In the end, when it is appropriate to use "to", "to" and "to with"?
When to use “to”?
The standard form of the preposition "for" can be used in any context! This form is accepted both in formal and informal situations, in writing or orally, so it is the safest to be used.
It is the form present in texts that require the use of the standard norm, such as journalistic texts, academics, official communications, among others. It is also recommended in oral language in formal contexts, such as official, institutional or ceremonial speeches, and journalistic speech.
It was an honor to go for his inauguration ceremony.
they spoke for a large audience.
We had to separate several sweets for the children.
It can also be used in informal contexts, as in family conversations, colloquial dialogues, texts on social media. However, its use has been less frequent in these contexts than the “pra” variant.
Say it for she I loved the present!
Went for Bahia last month, did I tell you?
we need a date for the wedding.
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Do not stop now... There's more after the advertising ;)
When to use “pra”?
The "to" form is the contraction in the standard “to” way. If there is a article after this preposition, it will be contracted with the preposition itself:
to → to
to → to
to → pro
Is very used in informal contexts of writing and, above all, oforality, having been increasingly present in everyday life. Therefore, in addition to being a form widely used in colloquial oral language, it is also widely used in informal writings, such as posts on social networks or instant messages. It is also adopted in advertising speeches, which explore the conative function to get closer to the receiver.
Say it for she I loved the present!
Went for Bahia last month, did I tell you?
we need a date pro wedding.
We have many promotions for you!
When to use “to with”?
The expression "toward" is a prepositional phraseused in specific regency, simply meaning “with” or “in relation to”. Its use is usually restricted to contexts of extreme formality, not being a very common expression in the day by day, since informally it is customary to just use the preposition "with" instead of "to with". Note usage in the following examples:
he has a lot of respect towards the olders.
she was very severe towards your superiors.
I have no grievances towards Your Honor.
See too: Stir or stir?
solved exercises
Question 1 - In which context the use of the form "pra" no it's adequate?
A) In an instant message to a friend.
B) In an advertising call with strong appealing language.
C) In a conversational conversation with the family.
D) In a school or academic text.
E) In a post on your favorite social network.
Resolution
Alternative D. In school or academic texts, the use of the standard norm and therefore the “to” form is expected.
Question 2 -Read the following statement:
Mom, I brought you a _____ gift.
Tick the alternative that no presents a shape that correctly fills the gap.
A) to
B) to
C) to
D) All of the above forms correctly fill the gap.
E) No previous form correctly fills the gap.
Resolution
Alternative C. The prepositional phrase “para com” does not fit in the context presented in the statement.
By Guilherme Viana
Portuguese teacher
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
VIANA, William. "To, to, and to"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/gramatica/para-pra-para-com.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.