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A2 preposition #100 am häufigsten 14 Min. Lesezeit

além de

Top 100

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to build your Portuguese foundation. 'Além de' might seem a bit complex at first, but you can start by using it in its simplest form: to add one thing to another. Think of it as a more advanced way of saying 'and' (e). For example, if you are talking about your family, you could say 'Além do meu pai, tenho uma mãe' (In addition to my father, I have a mother). At this stage, focus on how 'de' changes when it meets 'o' or 'a'. You don't need to worry about complex verbs yet. Just use it with simple nouns like food, colors, or family members. It helps you make your sentences a little longer and more interesting than just 'I have this and I have that.' You will mostly see it in simple reading exercises or hear it when people are listing things they like. Practice saying 'além de' followed by your favorite hobbies or foods. For instance, 'Além de pizza, gosto de massa.' This simple structure will help you get used to the sound and rhythm of the phrase. Remember that it always needs that 'de' at the end to connect to the next word. Without the 'de,' the word 'além' just means 'beyond' or 'over there,' which is a different use. So, at A1, treat 'além de' as a single block that means 'plus' or 'as well as.' This will give you a great head start on connecting your thoughts in Portuguese.

At the A2 level, you are becoming more comfortable with basic structures and can start using 'além de' to describe your daily life and routines in more detail. This is the level where you should start using 'além de' with verbs. Remember the rule: the verb must be in the infinitive form. So, instead of just saying 'I work and I study,' you can say 'Além de trabalhar, eu estudo.' This makes you sound much more like a natural speaker. You can also use it to describe people or places with more than one quality. 'A cidade é bonita além de ser calma' (The city is beautiful besides being calm). You will encounter 'além de' frequently in travel guides, simple news stories, and everyday conversations. It is a key tool for providing more information without starting a new sentence every time. You should also be very careful with contractions like 'além do' and 'além da' at this stage. Make sure you are matching the gender and number of the noun that follows. For example, 'além das tarefas' (besides the tasks). At A2, 'além de' helps you move away from 'baby talk' and towards more cohesive paragraphs. You can use it to explain your reasons for doing something or to give a more complete answer to a question. If someone asks why you like a certain movie, you can say 'Além da história, a música é ótima.' This shows you can think about multiple aspects of a topic at once.

As a B1 learner, you are entering the 'intermediate' phase where you can handle more abstract topics. 'Além de' becomes an essential tool for expressing opinions and constructing arguments. You can use it to introduce a point that supports your main idea or to show that you have considered multiple factors. For example, 'Além de ser uma questão econômica, é também um problema social' (Besides being an economic issue, it is also a social problem). At this level, you should be able to use 'além de' with more complex verb structures, including the personal infinitive if necessary. You will also start to see the spatial and metaphorical uses more often. 'Isso vai além do que discutimos ontem' (This goes beyond what we discussed yesterday). You should be able to distinguish clearly between 'além de' and 'além disso' in your writing. Use 'além de' to link ideas within a sentence and 'além disso' to link separate sentences. This will significantly improve the flow of your essays and spoken presentations. You might also start to notice 'além de' in more formal contexts, like business emails or newspaper editorials. It allows you to add nuance to your speech, showing that you understand that situations are often multi-faceted. Practice using it to contrast or complement different ideas, such as 'Além de ser vantajoso para a empresa, é bom para os funcionários.' This level of expression is exactly what is expected at B1.

At the B2 level, you are expected to have a high degree of fluency and the ability to discuss complex, technical, or literary topics. 'Além de' is no longer just a way to add items to a list; it is a rhetorical device. You can use it to set up a 'not only... but also' structure (não só... mas também), which is often more elegantly expressed using 'além de.' For example, 'Além de ignorar os avisos, ele agiu de forma irresponsável' (Besides ignoring the warnings, he acted irresponsibly). You should be comfortable using 'além de' in its spatial sense to describe abstract boundaries, such as 'além da compreensão humana' (beyond human understanding) or 'além dos limites da lei' (beyond the limits of the law). Your use of contractions and verb forms should be flawless. You can also start to explore the use of 'para além de' to add emphasis or a more literary tone to your work. At B2, you should be able to follow 'além de' with complex noun phrases or clauses starting with 'o que.' For example, 'Além do que já foi dito, é preciso considerar...' (In addition to what has already been said, it is necessary to consider...). This allows you to reference previous parts of a conversation or text smoothly. You will find 'além de' used frequently in academic papers and formal speeches to introduce supplementary evidence or to define the scope of a study. Mastering its use at this level means being able to weave it into your discourse to create a sophisticated and persuasive narrative.

At the C1 level, you are approaching near-native proficiency. Your use of 'além de' should be nuanced and context-aware. You can use it to create subtle shifts in emphasis or to introduce ironic or unexpected additions. For example, 'Além de ser um excelente médico, ele é um cozinheiro medíocre' (Besides being an excellent doctor, he is a mediocre cook). The contrast here is highlighted by the use of 'além de.' You should also be familiar with its use in idiomatic expressions and more obscure literary constructions. You can use 'além de' to express a sense of 'nothing but' in negative sentences, such as 'Não restou nada além de cinzas' (Nothing remained but ashes), and understand the poetic weight this carries. At this level, you can experiment with the placement of 'além de' phrases for stylistic effect, perhaps placing them at the end of a long sentence for a dramatic reveal. You should also be able to recognize and use synonyms like 'outrossim' or 'bem como' to avoid repetition and to match the specific register of your writing or speaking. In professional or legal contexts, you will use 'além de' to define boundaries of responsibility or jurisdiction with absolute precision. Your understanding of the word's etymology and its historical development from Latin will help you appreciate its use in older texts or in very formal modern Portuguese. At C1, 'além de' is a tool for precision, allowing you to delineate exactly where one concept ends and another begins, or how they overlap in complex ways.

At the C2 level, you have mastered the Portuguese language to the point where you can use 'além de' with the same ease and subtlety as a highly educated native speaker. You can use it in philosophical discourse to discuss the 'beyond' (o além) as a noun, referring to the afterlife or the unknown. You can employ 'além de' in complex rhetorical structures to build layers of meaning, using it to introduce premises that you will later deconstruct. Your use of the phrase is perfectly integrated into your personal style, whether you are writing a technical manual, a legal brief, or a piece of creative fiction. You understand the historical nuances of how 'além de' has been used in different eras of Portuguese literature, from the epic poetry of Camões to the modernism of Pessoa. You can use it to create specific atmospheres—perhaps a sense of vastness, a sense of overwhelming addition, or a sense of strict limitation. At this level, you are also aware of regional variations across the entire Lusophone world and can adjust your usage of 'além de' or 'para além de' to suit your audience. You can use the phrase to engage in high-level wordplay or to craft sentences that are both grammatically perfect and aesthetically pleasing. For a C2 learner, 'além de' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile instrument in your linguistic orchestra, capable of producing a wide range of tones and effects. You use it to navigate the most complex intellectual landscapes, always finding the right way to connect ideas and push the boundaries of expression.

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além de in 30 Sekunden

Used to add information, qualities, or actions to a sentence, similar to 'in addition to' or 'besides' in English.
Can also describe something located 'beyond' a physical or metaphorical limit, like a boundary or a level of understanding.
Always requires the preposition 'de', which contracts with articles (do, da, dos, das) when followed by a definite noun.
When followed by a verb, the verb must be in the infinitive form, never the gerund (-ing) form.

The Portuguese prepositional phrase além de is a versatile and essential component of the language, primarily serving to expand the scope of a statement. At its core, it functions similarly to the English expressions 'in addition to,' 'besides,' or 'beyond.' Understanding its usage requires a grasp of both its literal spatial origins and its more common figurative applications in modern discourse. Historically, 'além' derives from the combination of the Latin 'ad' (to) and 'illic' (there), suggesting a movement or a position that is further away or on the other side of a boundary. When paired with the preposition 'de,' it creates a relational link that allows speakers to stack information or indicate that something exceeds a certain limit. In everyday conversation, you will hear it used to list qualities, hobbies, or requirements. For instance, if someone is describing a multi-talented individual, they might say that the person is a great cook além de being a talented musician. This additive function is crucial for creating fluid, sophisticated sentences that move beyond simple subject-verb-object structures. It is not merely a tool for listing; it is a tool for emphasis. By using 'além de,' the speaker often highlights that the subsequent information is an extra benefit or a further complication. In professional settings, it is used to outline responsibilities that go beyond the standard job description. In academic writing, it serves to introduce supplementary evidence or alternative perspectives. The beauty of 'além de' lies in its ability to bridge different parts of a sentence without requiring complex conjunctions. It is a 'prepositional locution,' meaning it acts as a single prepositional unit. Whether you are talking about physical distances—like something being 'beyond the mountains'—or abstract concepts—like something being 'beyond my comprehension'—this phrase provides the necessary linguistic bridge.

Additive Usage: Used to include extra items or qualities in a list. Example: 'Além de maçãs, comprei laranjas' (In addition to apples, I bought oranges).

Ela fala francês além de português e inglês.

Spatial Usage: Used to describe something located on the further side of a point. Example: 'A vila fica além de montanha' (The village lies beyond the mountain).

O horizonte estende-se além de nossa visão.

Abstract Usage: Used to indicate that something exceeds a limit of understanding or possibility. Example: 'Isso está além de minhas capacidades' (This is beyond my capabilities).

Sua coragem vai além de qualquer expectativa.

O projeto exige dedicação além de recursos financeiros.

Não há nada além de silêncio naquela sala.

In summary, 'além de' is a high-frequency phrase that allows for the expansion of ideas, the description of physical boundaries, and the expression of limits. It is a foundational element for any learner reaching the A2 level and beyond, as it enables the construction of more complex and informative sentences.

Using além de correctly involves understanding its grammatical placement and the words that typically follow it. One of the most common structures is 'além de + noun/pronoun.' This is used to add a person, place, or thing to a list. For example, 'Além de Maria, João também veio' (In addition to Maria, João also came). In this context, 'além de' functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a secondary subject or object. Another critical structure is 'além de + infinitive verb.' Unlike English, which often uses the gerund ('besides going'), Portuguese uses the personal or impersonal infinitive. For instance, 'Além de trabalhar, eu estudo' (Besides working, I study). This is a frequent point of confusion for English speakers, who might be tempted to use a present participle. It is also important to note how 'além de' interacts with articles. When followed by a definite article, 'de' contracts: 'além do' (de + o), 'além da' (de + a), 'além dos' (de + os), and 'além das' (de + as). For example, 'Além das flores, ele trouxe chocolates' (In addition to the flowers, he brought chocolates). In more formal or literary contexts, 'além de' can be used to denote spatial transcendence. 'O explorador viajou além das fronteiras conhecidas' (The explorer traveled beyond known borders). Here, it implies crossing a physical or metaphorical line. Furthermore, 'além de' can be used to express 'except for' in certain negative constructions, though this is less common than its additive use. For example, 'Não havia ninguém lá além de mim' (There was no one there besides/except me). The flexibility of 'além de' makes it a powerful tool for linking clauses. It can appear at the beginning of a sentence to set the stage or in the middle to provide supplementary details. When placed at the start, it usually requires a comma after the introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause.

With Nouns: The most straightforward use, simply adding one noun to another. Example: 'Além de café, temos chá' (Besides coffee, we have tea).

Eles visitaram a Itália além de Portugal.

With Verbs: Always use the infinitive. Example: 'Além de cantar, ela dança' (Besides singing, she dances).

Precisamos economizar além de investir.

Contractions: 'De' + 'o/a/os/as' results in 'do/da/dos/das'. Example: 'Além do problema principal, há outros menores'.

Fomos além das expectativas iniciais.

Ele não tem nada além de boas intenções.

Vá além de seus limites hoje.

Mastering 'além de' involves practicing these different structures until they become second nature. It is one of those phrases that, once learned, appears everywhere, from the lyrics of a Fado song to the fine print of a contract.

In the Lusophone world, além de is a staple of both spoken and written language. If you are watching the evening news in Lisbon or São Paulo, you will frequently hear journalists use it to provide context or add details to a story. For example, a reporter might say, 'Além dos danos materiais, a tempestade causou interrupções no tráfego' (In addition to material damage, the storm caused traffic interruptions). This usage is common because it allows for the efficient delivery of multiple pieces of information. In the workplace, 'além de' is used during meetings and in emails to expand on project requirements or employee duties. A manager might tell a team, 'Além de terminar o relatório, precisamos preparar a apresentação' (Besides finishing the report, we need to prepare the presentation). It conveys a sense of thoroughness and comprehensive planning. You will also encounter 'além de' in the world of Brazilian and Portuguese music. Songwriters often use it to express the depth of their feelings, often reaching for the spatial meaning to describe a love that goes 'beyond the stars' (além das estrelas) or 'beyond life' (além da vida). In literature, it is a favorite of authors like Fernando Pessoa or Machado de Assis, who use it to explore philosophical boundaries and the limits of the human condition. Even in casual settings, such as a dinner party, you might hear someone say, 'Além de ser uma ótima anfitriã, ela cozinha maravilhosamente' (Besides being a great host, she cooks wonderfully). It is a natural way to give compliments. In the digital age, social media influencers and bloggers use 'além de' to list benefits of products or travel destinations. A travel blogger might write, 'Além de praias incríveis, a ilha oferece uma vida noturna vibrante' (In addition to incredible beaches, the island offers a vibrant nightlife). This phrase is truly ubiquitous, appearing in legal documents, scientific papers, and children's stories alike.

In the News: Used to report multiple consequences of an event. Example: 'Além da crise econômica, há uma crise política'.

O governo anunciou novas medidas além das já existentes.

In Music and Poetry: Used to express vastness or transcendence. Example: 'O amor vai além do tempo' (Love goes beyond time).

Procuro algo além do que os olhos podem ver.

In Professional Settings: Used to define scope and additional requirements. Example: 'Além de competência, buscamos criatividade'.

O contrato cobre manutenção além de instalação.

Ela é uma líder nata além de técnica.

Não vejo nada além de oportunidades aqui.

By paying attention to 'além de' in these various contexts, you will start to appreciate its role as a connective tissue that adds depth and precision to the Portuguese language.

For English speakers learning Portuguese, além de presents a few specific challenges that can lead to common errors. The first and most frequent mistake is confusing 'além de' with 'além disso.' While both translate to 'besides' or 'in addition to,' they function differently in a sentence. 'Além de' is a prepositional phrase that must be followed by an object (a noun, pronoun, or infinitive verb). 'Além disso,' on the other hand, is a conjunctive phrase that stands alone, usually at the beginning of a sentence or after a semicolon, to transition to a new point. For example, you should say 'Além de estudar, eu trabalho' but 'Eu estudo. Além disso, eu trabalho.' Using 'além de' without an object is a grammatical error. Another common pitfall is the incorrect use of the verb form following 'além de.' English speakers often want to use the '-ing' form (gerund) because they would say 'besides going' or 'in addition to eating.' In Portuguese, however, 'além de' must be followed by the infinitive: 'além de ir' or 'além de comer.' Using the gerund ('além de indo') is incorrect and sounds very unnatural to native speakers. A third mistake involves the contraction of the preposition 'de' with articles. Many learners forget to contract 'de' with 'o, a, os, as,' resulting in 'além de o' or 'além de a,' which is incorrect. It must always be 'além do' or 'além da.' Additionally, some learners confuse 'além de' with 'fora de' (outside of) or 'exceto' (except). While there is some overlap in meaning, 'além de' is primarily additive, whereas 'exceto' is subtractive. Finally, there is the issue of 'além que.' This is a common 'portunhol' error or a literal translation from other Romance languages like Spanish ('además de que'). In Portuguese, 'além de que' is sometimes used in very specific literary contexts, but for the vast majority of cases, 'além de' followed by an infinitive is the correct and preferred structure.

Confusing with 'Além disso': Remember: 'Além de' needs a companion; 'Além disso' is a lone wolf. Example of error: 'Eu gosto de ler. Além de, eu gosto de correr'. Correct: 'Além disso, eu gosto de correr'.

Errado: Além de estudando, ele trabalha. Correto: Além de estudar, ele trabalha.

Forgetting Contractions: Never say 'além de o'. Always say 'além do'. Example: 'Além do carro, ele tem uma moto'.

Errado: Além de a chuva, estava frio. Correto: Além da chuva, estava frio.

Using 'Além que': Avoid 'além que' as a direct translation of 'besides that'. Use 'além de' + infinitive or 'além do fato de que'.

Errado: Além que ser caro, é feio. Correto: Além de ser caro, é feio.

Errado: Além de mim não havia ninguém. (Correct, but sometimes confused with 'fora eu').

Errado: Além de os livros. Correto: Além dos livros.

By being mindful of these common errors, you can use 'além de' with the confidence and precision of a native speaker, avoiding the typical 'gringo' mistakes that often mark a learner's speech.

While além de is a very common way to express addition or transcendence, Portuguese offers several other words and phrases that can be used depending on the context and the desired level of formality. One of the closest synonyms is para além de. In many cases, these are interchangeable, but 'para além de' often carries a stronger sense of physical or metaphorical distance. It is particularly common in Portugal and in academic writing to emphasize that something goes significantly further than a given point. Another alternative is ademais, which is a more formal version of 'além disso.' It is used to transition between sentences or paragraphs in a structured argument. If you want to say 'as well as,' you might use bem como. This is very common in formal lists, such as 'O projeto beneficia crianças, bem como idosos' (The project benefits children as well as the elderly). For a more casual way to add information, speakers often use e também (and also) or ainda (still/yet/also). For example, 'Ele fala inglês e também alemão.' If the context is specifically about exclusion rather than addition, exceto or fora are the appropriate choices. 'Todos foram, fora o Pedro' (Everyone went, except for Pedro). In very formal or legal Portuguese, you might encounter outrossim, which is a highly sophisticated way of saying 'likewise' or 'moreover.' Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the word that best fits your situation. While 'além de' is the 'workhorse' of addition, knowing when to use 'bem como' for a list or 'para além de' for emphasis will make your Portuguese sound much more natural and varied.

Para além de: More emphatic or spatial. Often used in Portugal. Example: 'Para além das montanhas' (Beyond the mountains).

O sucesso vai para além do dinheiro.

Bem como: Equivalent to 'as well as'. Formal and precise. Example: 'Estudamos história, bem como geografia'.

A empresa oferece bônus, bem como seguro de saúde.

Fora / Exceto: Used for exclusion. Example: 'Não gosto de nada aqui, fora o bolo'.

Todos aceitaram, exceto o diretor.

Ele tem muitos amigos além de você.

Isso é mais do que suficiente.

Exploring these alternatives will not only expand your vocabulary but also give you a deeper understanding of the subtle shades of meaning that 'além de' can convey.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

Neutral

Informell

Child friendly

Umgangssprache

Wusstest du?

The word 'além' is part of the name of the Portuguese region 'Alentejo', which literally means 'Além do Tejo' (Beyond the Tagus River).

Aussprachehilfe

UK /aˈlẽj̃ dʒi/

US /aˈlẽj̃ dʒi/

The stress is on the second syllable of 'além' (lém).

Reimt sich auf

bem trem vém contém porém alguém também amém

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'além' like 'Allen' without the nasalization.
Pronouncing 'de' as 'dee' instead of the softer 'dji' (Brazilian) or 'de' (European).
Failing to stress the 'lém' syllable.
Treating 'além' and 'de' as two separate, disconnected words.
Pronouncing the final 'm' as a hard 'm' instead of a nasal vowel.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize in text once the meaning is known.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires careful attention to contractions and infinitive verb forms.

Sprechen 3/5

Nasalization of 'além' can be tricky for beginners.

Hören 3/5

Can be confused with 'além disso' if the listener isn't paying attention to the sentence structure.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

de mais também e fora

Als Nächstes lernen

além disso ademais entretanto embora visto que

Fortgeschritten

outrossim conquanto não obstante porquanto todavia

Wichtige Grammatik

Contraction of Prepositions

de + o = do; de + a = da.

Infinitive after Prepositions

Depois de preposições, usamos o infinitivo (além de estudar).

Personal Infinitive

Além de eles estudarem, eles trabalham.

Placement of Commas

Além de ser rico, ele é generoso. (Comma after the introductory phrase).

Negative Exclusion

Não havia ninguém lá além de mim.

Beispiele nach Niveau

Além de mim, ele está aqui.

Besides me, he is here.

'Mim' is the stressed object pronoun used after prepositions.

Além de café, eu quero leite.

In addition to coffee, I want milk.

Simple addition of two nouns.

Além do gato, ela tem um cão.

Besides the cat, she has a dog.

'De' + 'o' contracts to 'do'.

Além da mãe, o pai está lá.

In addition to the mother, the father is there.

'De' + 'a' contracts to 'da'.

Além de azul, eu gosto de verde.

Besides blue, I like green.

Used to list preferences.

Além de pão, comprei queijo.

In addition to bread, I bought cheese.

Common usage for shopping lists.

Além de um irmão, tenho uma irmã.

Besides a brother, I have a sister.

Used with indefinite articles.

Além de hoje, venho amanhã.

Besides today, I'm coming tomorrow.

Used with adverbs of time.

Além de estudar, eu trabalho muito.

Besides studying, I work a lot.

Followed by the infinitive 'estudar'.

Além de ser bonito, o carro é rápido.

In addition to being beautiful, the car is fast.

Followed by the infinitive 'ser'.

Além das frutas, comemos doces.

Besides the fruits, we ate sweets.

'De' + 'as' contracts to 'das'.

Além de falar inglês, ela fala espanhol.

Besides speaking English, she speaks Spanish.

Lists skills or abilities.

Além do frio, estava a chover.

In addition to the cold, it was raining.

Describes weather conditions.

Além de ler, eu gosto de correr.

Besides reading, I like to run.

Connects two hobbies.

Além dos livros, comprei uma caneta.

In addition to the books, I bought a pen.

'De' + 'os' contracts to 'dos'.

Além de cozinhar, ele lava a louça.

Besides cooking, he washes the dishes.

Describes household chores.

Além de ser caro, o hotel é longe.

Besides being expensive, the hotel is far away.

Used to give multiple reasons for a negative opinion.

Além do que eu disse, há outro ponto.

In addition to what I said, there is another point.

Uses 'o que' to refer back to a previous statement.

Além de ajudar, ele deu bons conselhos.

Besides helping, he gave good advice.

Highlights multiple positive actions.

Além da crise, a empresa enfrenta greves.

In addition to the crisis, the company faces strikes.

Common in news and business contexts.

Além de viajar, ele gosta de fotografar.

Besides traveling, he likes to take photos.

Links two related interests.

Além de mim, ninguém sabia o segredo.

Besides me, no one knew the secret.

Used to express exclusion in a negative sentence.

Além do talento, ela tem muita disciplina.

In addition to talent, she has a lot of discipline.

Combines innate and acquired qualities.

Além de ser útil, o presente é lindo.

Besides being useful, the gift is beautiful.

Complimentary usage.

Além de ignorar os fatos, ele mentiu.

Besides ignoring the facts, he lied.

Used to emphasize a serious fault.

Além das fronteiras, há novas culturas.

Beyond the borders, there are new cultures.

Spatial/metaphorical use of 'beyond'.

Além de promover a saúde, o exercício relaxa.

In addition to promoting health, exercise relaxes.

Used in a more formal, informative tone.

Além do impacto social, há o custo ambiental.

Besides the social impact, there is the environmental cost.

Discusses complex, multi-dimensional issues.

Além de pesquisar, os alunos devem debater.

Besides researching, students must debate.

Outlines academic requirements.

Além de tudo, ela ainda manteve a calma.

On top of everything, she still kept her cool.

'Além de tudo' is a common idiomatic expression.

Além do horizonte, o sol se punha.

Beyond the horizon, the sun was setting.

Poetic/spatial usage.

Além de ser eficiente, o sistema é seguro.

Besides being efficient, the system is secure.

Technical/professional description.

Além de ser um dever, é um privilégio.

Besides being a duty, it is a privilege.

Rhetorical use to elevate the importance of an action.

Além das aparências, reside a verdade.

Beyond appearances, lies the truth.

Philosophical/abstract usage.

Além de comprometer a paz, gera ódio.

Besides compromising peace, it generates hatred.

Used in formal political or social analysis.

Além do que se vê, há muito a descobrir.

Beyond what is seen, there is much to discover.

Encourages deeper investigation.

Além de suas funções, ele coordena o setor.

In addition to his functions, he coordinates the sector.

Precise description of professional roles.

Além de nada ter dito, ele saiu cedo.

Besides having said nothing, he left early.

Uses the past infinitive 'ter dito' for a completed action.

Além do mero lucro, buscamos a ética.

Beyond mere profit, we seek ethics.

Expresses corporate or personal values.

Além de qualquer dúvida, ele é inocente.

Beyond any doubt, he is innocent.

Legalistic/emphatic expression.

Além do ser, existe o devir.

Beyond being, there is becoming.

Philosophical usage involving ontological concepts.

Além das névoas do tempo, a lenda vive.

Beyond the mists of time, the legend lives.

Highly literary/poetic usage.

Além de não o ajudar, ainda o prejudicou.

Besides not helping him, he even harmed him.

Complex structure with double negation and emphasis.

Além do que a razão dita, age a emoção.

Beyond what reason dictates, emotion acts.

Abstract psychological analysis.

Além de toda a pompa, havia vazio.

Beyond all the pomp, there was emptiness.

Literary contrast between appearance and reality.

Além de si mesmo, ele não ama ninguém.

Besides himself, he loves no one.

Uses the reflexive pronoun 'si mesmo'.

Além do limiar da dor, encontrou forças.

Beyond the threshold of pain, he found strength.

Metaphorical use of 'threshold'.

Além de transcender a forma, inovou na cor.

Besides transcending form, he innovated in color.

Used in high-level art criticism.

Häufige Kollokationen

além de tudo

além do horizonte

além das expectativas

além da conta

além do limite

além da imaginação

além de ser

além do mais

além da vida

além das fronteiras

Häufige Phrasen

Ir além de

Para além de

Além de que

Nada além de

Muito além de

Além de si

Além do tempo

Além do mar

Além da medida

Além do óbvio

Wird oft verwechselt mit

além de vs além disso

Used as a transition between sentences, whereas 'além de' needs an object.

além de vs fora

Means 'except for', focusing on exclusion rather than addition.

além de vs além que

A common mistake; 'além de' is the correct prepositional form.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Além da conta"

To do something in excess, especially drinking or spending.

Gastamos além da conta no Natal.

informal

"Além de tudo"

On top of everything else; used to add a final, often negative, point.

Perdi o ônibus e, além de tudo, começou a chover.

neutral

"Estar além de si"

To be out of control due to strong emotion (anger, joy, etc.).

Maria estava além de si de felicidade.

neutral

"Ir além das pernas"

To try to do more than one is capable of (similar to 'bite off more than you can chew').

Não tente ir além das pernas com esse projeto.

informal

"Além do bem e do mal"

To be indifferent to moral judgments or social norms.

Ele age como se estivesse além do bem e do mal.

literary

"Além da imaginação"

Something so incredible it's hard to believe.

A riqueza dele é além da imaginação.

neutral

"Além do horizonte"

Referring to the future or something far away and unknown.

O que nos espera além do horizonte?

poetic

"Nada além da verdade"

Only the truth and nothing else.

Diga nada além da verdade no tribunal.

formal

"Além do véu"

Referring to the afterlife or a spiritual realm.

Dizem que ela consegue ver além do véu.

mystical

"Além da curva"

Referring to someone who is exceptionally talented or different from the norm.

Ele é um gênio, totalmente além da curva.

informal

Leicht verwechselbar

além de vs Ademais

Both mean 'besides' or 'moreover'.

'Ademais' is a standalone adverb used for transitions, while 'além de' is a preposition requiring an object.

Ele é rico. Ademais, é muito culto.

além de vs Exceto

Both can translate to 'besides' in certain English contexts.

'Exceto' always means exclusion (minus), while 'além de' usually means inclusion (plus).

Todos vieram, exceto o João.

além de vs Ali

Both relate to distance or location.

'Ali' means 'there' (a specific spot), while 'além' means 'beyond' or 'further away'.

O livro está ali. O horizonte está além.

além de vs Ainda

Both can add information.

'Ainda' means 'still' or 'also', while 'além de' specifically introduces a secondary item or action.

Ele ainda não chegou. Além de chegar tarde, esqueceu o presente.

além de vs Também

Both express addition.

'Também' is an adverb meaning 'also', while 'além de' is a prepositional phrase.

Eu também vou. Além de mim, ele também vai.

Satzmuster

Além de [Noun], [Subject] [Verb].

Além de café, eu bebo chá.

Além de [Infinitive], [Subject] [Verb].

Além de estudar, eu trabalho.

Além do/da [Noun], há [Noun].

Além do sol, há muito vento.

Além de ser [Adjective], é [Adjective].

Além de ser caro, é perigoso.

Além do que [Clause], [Main Clause].

Além do que foi dito, precisamos agir.

Não... além de [Noun/Pronoun].

Não restou nada além de esperança.

Ir além de [Limit].

Ele foi além de suas forças.

Além de [Pronoun], [Subject] [Verb].

Além de você, quem mais vem?

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Portuguese.

Häufige Fehler

Além de estudando... → Além de estudar...
In Portuguese, prepositions are followed by the infinitive, not the gerund.
Além de o livro... → Além do livro...
The preposition 'de' must contract with the definite article 'o'.
Eu gosto de ler. Além de, eu gosto de correr. → Eu gosto de ler. Além disso, eu gosto de correr.
'Além de' requires an object; 'além disso' is the correct transition for a new sentence.
Além que ser caro... → Além de ser caro...
'Além que' is not a standard Portuguese construction; use 'além de' with the infinitive.
Além de mim não havia ninguém. → Além de mim, não havia ninguém.
While the words are correct, a comma is usually needed to separate the introductory phrase.

Tipps

Watch the Verb Form

Always follow 'além de' with the infinitive (e.g., 'além de correr'). Avoid the temptation to use the gerund (-ing) as you would in English. This is the most common error for learners.

Use for Flow

Use 'além de' to combine two short sentences into one. Instead of 'Ele é rico. Ele é humilde.', try 'Além de ser rico, ele é humilde.' It makes your Portuguese sound much more sophisticated.

Nasalize the 'e'

The 'e' in 'além' is nasal. Imagine you are saying 'aim' but directing the air through your nose. Don't pronounce the 'm' at the end like a hard English 'm'.

Contraction Check

Always remember to contract 'de' with articles: do, da, dos, das. Saying 'além de o' is a clear sign of a beginner. Practice the rhythm: 'além do carro', 'além da casa'.

Spatial vs. Additive

Be aware that 'além de' can mean both 'in addition to' and 'beyond'. Context usually makes it clear, but keep both meanings in mind when reading literature or news.

Além de vs. Além disso

If you need a word to start a new sentence that means 'moreover', use 'além disso'. If you are adding something within the same clause, use 'além de'.

Master 'Além de tudo'

This is a great phrase for storytelling. Use it to add that 'final straw' or 'cherry on top' to your anecdotes. It adds a lot of natural flavor to your speech.

Comma Placement

When starting a sentence with an 'além de' phrase, always place a comma before the main clause. It helps the reader navigate the structure of your thought.

Listen for the 'de'

When listening, the 'de' is the key. If you hear 'além' followed by 'de', you know an object is coming. If you hear 'além disso', you know a new sentence is starting.

Try 'Para além de'

If you want to sound more like a native of Portugal or add a poetic touch, try using 'para além de' instead of the simple 'além de'. It adds a nice rhythmic variety.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'A-LEM' as 'A-LIMIT'. When you go 'além de', you go past the limit or add more to the limit.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a fence. 'Além de' is what is on the other side of the fence, or what you are carrying in your arms while standing at the fence.

Word Web

Addition Beyond Besides Extra Transcendence Horizon Infinitive Contractions

Herausforderung

Try to write three sentences about yourself using 'além de': one about your hobbies, one about your skills, and one about your family.

Wortherkunft

From the Vulgar Latin 'ad illic', which combined 'ad' (to) and 'illic' (there). This evolved into the Old Portuguese 'além', meaning 'on that side' or 'further on'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To that place; on the further side.

Romance (Latin-derived).

Kultureller Kontext

No specific sensitivities, but 'o além' can have spiritual or religious connotations depending on the context.

English speakers often use 'besides' or 'in addition to' in similar ways, but 'além de' is more frequently used in Portuguese to link verbs.

Song: 'Além do Horizonte' by Roberto Carlos. Literature: 'Mensagem' by Fernando Pessoa (references to the 'beyond'). Region: 'Alentejo' (Beyond the Tagus).

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Shopping and Lists

Além de pão...
Além do leite...
Além das frutas...
O que mais além de...?

Describing People

Além de inteligente...
Além de ser simpático...
Além do talento...
Além de falar português...

Work and Tasks

Além do relatório...
Além de trabalhar...
Além das reuniões...
Ir além das metas.

Giving Opinions

Além de ser caro...
Além do problema...
Além de tudo...
Muito além do que eu pensava.

Travel and Geography

Além das montanhas...
Além do rio...
Além da fronteira...
Além do mar.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Além de português, que outras línguas você gostaria de aprender?"

"Além do seu trabalho atual, o que você mais gosta de fazer?"

"Além da sua cidade, qual é o seu lugar favorito no mundo?"

"Além de cozinhar, você tem algum outro hobby interessante?"

"Além de viajar, o que te faz sentir realmente feliz?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escreva sobre as qualidades que você busca em um amigo, além da honestidade.

Descreva um objetivo que você tem que vai além da sua carreira profissional.

Pense em um desafio que você superou. O que você aprendeu além da lição óbvia?

Quais são as coisas que você não consegue viver sem, além de comida e água?

Reflita sobre como sua vida mudou no último ano, além das mudanças físicas.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, it is very common to start a sentence with 'além de' to introduce a secondary point. Just remember to put a comma after the phrase. For example: 'Além de ser um ótimo amigo, ele é um excelente colega de trabalho.' This structure helps to set the context for the main point you are about to make.

'Além de' is a prepositional phrase that must be followed by a noun, pronoun, or verb (e.g., 'além de você'). 'Além disso' is a conjunctive phrase that stands alone and means 'besides that' or 'moreover' (e.g., 'Eu estudo. Além disso, trabalho.'). You cannot say 'Além de, eu trabalho.' without specifying what it is 'besides'.

No, in Portuguese, you must use the infinitive form of the verb after 'além de'. For example, say 'além de cantar' instead of 'além de cantando'. This is a common mistake for English speakers because English uses the gerund ('besides singing'). Stick to the infinitive to sound natural.

The preposition 'de' in 'além de' contracts with the definite articles 'o, a, os, as' when they follow it. So, 'além de + o carro' becomes 'além do carro', and 'além de + as meninas' becomes 'além das meninas'. If there is no definite article, it remains 'além de' (e.g., 'além de pessoas').

'Para além de' is very similar and often interchangeable with 'além de'. However, it is more common in European Portuguese and often carries a stronger sense of physical or metaphorical distance ('beyond'). In Brazil, 'além de' is the standard choice for simple addition.

Yes, in negative sentences, 'além de' can function like 'except for' or 'but'. For example, 'Não quero nada além de paz' means 'I want nothing besides/but peace'. In these cases, it highlights that the only thing remaining or desired is the object of the preposition.

You use the spatial/abstract sense of the phrase: 'além das minhas expectativas'. Note the contraction 'das' (de + as). This is a very common collocation in both professional and personal contexts to describe something that exceeded what was anticipated.

It is neutral and can be used in any register. It is equally appropriate in a casual conversation with friends ('Além de pizza, vamos comer bolo?') and in a formal academic paper ('Além dos dados coletados, analisamos a literatura existente.'). Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths.

'Além de tudo' is an idiomatic expression meaning 'on top of everything' or 'to top it all off'. It is often used to add a final, significant point to a story, frequently a negative one. For example: 'O carro quebrou, perdi a chave e, além de tudo, começou a nevar!'

Absolutely. You can say 'Além de Maria, o Pedro também foi à festa.' This is a standard way to list people who participated in an action or share a quality. It follows the same rules for contractions if a title is used (e.g., 'além do Sr. Silva').