Among the many statements that we usually come across, we will emphasize this one, common by the way:
Well, this one, like so many others, represents a typical example of communicative situations that have already crystallized in the over time, once uttered in an almost generalized way, but that represent a disagreement when it comes to language formal.
This time, we arrive at an important discussion: which one is correct?
When symptoms persist, the physician should be notified.
or
If symptoms persist, the physician should be notified.
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To do so, it is enough to analyze that the "a", portrayed in the second alternative, represents a condition, perfectly materialized by:
If symptoms persist...
If symptoms persist...
On the other hand, the combination represented by “ao” denotes the meaning consistent with time, that is, when the symptoms persist... A fact that becomes proven through the following example:
As he approached, the boy showed interest.
As he approached, the boy showed interest.
Thus, such elucidations confirm that there really is a misunderstanding regarding the occurrence under discussion. So choose the right way!
By Vânia Duarte
Graduated in Letters
Brazil School Team
Grammar - Brazil School
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
DUARTE, Vânia Maria do Nascimento. "To persist or to persist? "; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/gramatica/ao-persistir-ou-persistir.htm. Accessed on June 28, 2021.