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B2 conjunction 11 min de lectura

contanto que

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos contanto que en 30 segundos

Explicación contanto que in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'contanto que' might be a bit too advanced for your daily needs, but it is good to recognize it as a special way of saying 'if'. Usually, at this stage, you use 'se' (if). For example, instead of 'contanto que', you would say 'Se você me ajudar, eu fico feliz' (If you help me, I am happy). Think of 'contanto que' as a more 'adult' or 'serious' version of 'se'. When you see it, just remember it means there is a rule or a condition that must happen first. You don't need to worry about using it yourself yet, but knowing that it means 'provided that' will help you understand more complex signs or instructions you might see in a Portuguese-speaking country. Focus on the idea of 'Action A happens ONLY IF Action B happens'.

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At the A2 level, you are starting to build more complex sentences. You might begin to use 'contanto que' to express simple conditions, especially in writing. The key thing to remember at this stage is that 'contanto que' is like a 'contract word'. You use it when you want to be very clear about a deal. For example: 'Eu vou à praia, contanto que não chova' (I will go to the beach, as long as it doesn't rain). At this level, you should start noticing that the verb after 'contanto que' looks a little different—it's in the subjunctive mood. Don't worry if you don't know all the subjunctive forms yet; just try to recognize the pattern. It's a great way to make your Portuguese sound a bit more professional than just using 'se' all the time.

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At the B1 level, you should be actively trying to use 'contanto que' in your conversations and writing. This is the stage where you learn the Present Subjunctive, which is the most common partner for 'contanto que'. You can use it to set boundaries and make agreements. For instance, 'Eu te empresto dinheiro, contanto que você me pague amanhã' (I'll lend you money, provided that you pay me tomorrow). Notice how 'pague' is the subjunctive form of 'pagar'. At B1, you are moving away from simple sentences to 'if/then' logic. Using 'contanto que' shows that you understand how to link two ideas together with a specific condition. It's also a good time to compare it with 'desde que', which is a very common synonym you will hear often in Brazil and Portugal.

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At the B2 level, 'contanto que' should be a natural part of your vocabulary. You should be able to use it fluently in both the Present and Imperfect Subjunctive. For example, in a professional email, you might write: 'Podemos agendar a reunião, contanto que todos os diretores estejam disponíveis' (We can schedule the meeting, provided that all directors are available). At this level, you understand the nuance: 'contanto que' emphasizes the strictness of the condition more than a simple 'se'. You should also be comfortable using it in the middle or at the beginning of sentences to change the emphasis. You are now expected to use this conjunction correctly without thinking too hard about the subjunctive conjugation that follows it. It is a key indicator of your upper-intermediate proficiency.

At the C1 level, you use 'contanto que' with precision and stylistic flair. you understand how it functions in formal documents, legal texts, and high-level literature. You can use it to create complex conditional arguments, perhaps pairing it with other advanced structures like 'ainda que' (even though) or 'visto que' (since). You are also aware of the subtle difference in register between 'contanto que' and its alternatives like 'com a ressalva de que' or 'sob a condição de que'. In a C1 context, you might use it to qualify a philosophical point or a scientific hypothesis: 'A teoria é válida, contanto que os dados iniciais sejam precisos.' Your use of the subjunctive is flawless, and you can even use the Imperfect Subjunctive to discuss hypothetical past conditions with ease.

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At the C2 level, 'contanto que' is just one of many tools in your sophisticated linguistic arsenal. You use it with the ease of a native speaker, often in rhetorical ways or to add a specific rhythmic quality to your prose. You might use it in a speech to set a tone of authoritative negotiation or in a literary essay to dissect a character's motivations. At this level, you also understand the historical development of the phrase and how it relates to other Romance languages. You can play with the word order and context to convey subtle shades of meaning—for instance, using it ironically or to create a sense of suspense. Your mastery extends to knowing exactly when *not* to use it to avoid sounding overly pedantic, choosing instead the most appropriate regional or situational synonym.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

contanto que en 30 segundos

A formal conditional conjunction meaning 'provided that' or 'as long as' in English communication.
Crucially requires the use of the subjunctive mood in the following clause to express potentiality.
Commonly used in professional, legal, and formal social contexts to establish clear rules or deals.
Functions as a more precise and sophisticated alternative to the basic conditional word 'se' (if).

The Portuguese conjunction contanto que is a sophisticated way to express a condition, translating directly to the English phrases "provided that," "as long as," or "on the condition that." In the hierarchy of Portuguese conditional connectors, it sits comfortably in the middle-to-high register, being more formal than the ubiquitous "se" (if) but slightly more common in educated speech than the legalistic "sob a condição de que." When a speaker uses contanto que, they are establishing a strict boundary: the main action will only happen if the specific requirement following the conjunction is met. It is essentially a linguistic contract. For English speakers, the most important grammatical hurdle is realizing that this phrase acts as a 'trigger'—it mandates the use of the subjunctive mood because the condition is a possibility, a desire, or a requirement, rather than an established fact. In everyday life, you might hear a parent say it to a child regarding chores, or a manager using it in a meeting to outline project requirements. It carries a weight of intentionality; it is not just a casual 'if,' but a deliberate stipulation that clarifies the terms of an agreement. Understanding this nuance helps learners transition from basic A2-level 'if/then' structures to more nuanced B2-level communication where conditions are prioritized and clearly defined within a sentence structure.

Semantic Range: It covers conditional necessity, restrictive permission, and contractual stipulations.

Register: Primarily formal and neutral; it is frequently found in literature, news reports, and professional emails.

Grammatical Trigger: Always requires the Subjunctive mood (Presente or Imperfeito do Subjuntivo).

Eu aceito o convite para o jantar, contanto que você me deixe pagar a conta.

Podemos viajar amanhã, contanto que o tempo esteja bom.

Eles podem brincar no jardim, contanto que não façam muito barulho.

O projeto será aprovado, contanto que todos os requisitos sejam cumpridos.

Você pode levar o meu carro, contanto que o devolva com o tanque cheio.

Furthermore, the use of contanto que implies a certain level of logical reasoning. It is not used for hypothetical 'what if' scenarios that are purely imaginative (like "if I were a bird"), but rather for practical, real-world dependencies. It is the language of negotiation. In Brazilian Portuguese, you might find it slightly less often in very casual street slang, where people prefer simpler structures, but in any professional or academic setting in either Brazil or Portugal, it is an essential tool for precise communication. It allows the speaker to grant permission or make promises while simultaneously protecting their own interests through a clearly stated caveat. By mastering this conjunction, you demonstrate to native speakers that you have moved beyond simple sentences and are capable of constructing complex logical arguments and agreements in their language.

Using contanto que correctly involves a two-step process: identifying the condition and then conjugating the following verb in the subjunctive mood. The most common mistake learners make is using the indicative (the 'normal' present or past tense). For example, saying "Eu vou, contanto que você *vai*" is incorrect; it must be "Eu vou, contanto que você vá." The subjunctive is required because the condition is not a certainty—it is a requirement that may or may not be fulfilled. The structure usually follows the pattern: [Main Clause (Indicative or Imperative)] + [contanto que] + [Dependent Clause (Subjunctive)]. This conjunction can appear at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis, though it is much more common in the middle. When placed at the start, it creates a more dramatic or formal tone: "Contanto que você estude, passará na prova." (Provided that you study, you will pass the exam). Note how the focus shifts to the condition itself when it leads the sentence.

Present Tense Usage: Pair it with the Present Subjunctive for conditions related to the present or future: 'Eu ajudo, contanto que você peça.'

Past Tense Usage: Pair it with the Imperfect Subjunctive for hypothetical past conditions or polite requests: 'Eu teria ajudado, contanto que você tivesse pedido.'

Negative Conditions: Simply add 'não' after the conjunction: 'Vou à festa, contanto que não chova.'

Podemos ir ao cinema, contanto que o filme não seja de terror.

Eu te empresto o livro, contanto que você o cuide bem.

Eles aceitam o acordo, contanto que o pagamento seja feito à vista.

Ficaremos aqui, contanto que haja comida suficiente para todos.

Você pode sair hoje à noite, contanto que chegue antes da meia-noite.

In terms of sentence flow, contanto que provides a rhythmic pause that alerts the listener to an upcoming condition. It is more melodic than the quick "se" and gives the speaker time to formulate the specific requirement. In written Portuguese, it is often preceded by a comma when it introduces a dependent clause in the middle of a sentence, which helps to visually separate the main statement from its condition. As you practice, try to replace simple 'if' sentences with 'contanto que' to see how it changes the tone of your conversation. For instance, instead of "Se você me ajudar, eu termino rápido," try "Eu termino rápido, contanto que você me ajude." The second version sounds much more professional and clear about the dependency of the task. This transition is a hallmark of reaching the B2 level in Portuguese proficiency.

While contanto que might seem like a term reserved for textbooks, it is surprisingly prevalent in various real-world scenarios. You will frequently encounter it in the world of business and law. Contracts often use this phrase to define the parameters under which a clause remains valid. For example, a service agreement might state that a fee is waived contanto que the client provides 24 hours' notice for cancellation. In journalism, reporters use it to describe political compromises or international treaties: "O país aceita os termos, contanto que as fronteiras sejam respeitadas." Beyond these formal settings, it is a favorite in the domestic sphere for establishing rules. Parents in Portugal and Brazil use it to negotiate with teenagers, creating a clear link between behavior and reward. It's the language of the 'deal'.

News & Media: Used to report on diplomatic negotiations and legislative conditions in newspapers like 'Público' or 'Folha de S.Paulo'.

Professional Environments: Common in emails and meetings to set project parameters or conditional approvals.

Literature & Film: Used by authors to create complex dialogue where characters set terms for their cooperation or loyalty.

O governo reduzirá os impostos, contanto que a inflação permaneça baixa.

Você pode ficar com o troco, contanto que não conte para o seu pai.

A empresa contratará novos estagiários, contanto que eles falem inglês fluentemente.

Eu perdoo o seu erro, contanto que isso não se repita no futuro.

O artista concordou em dar a entrevista, contanto que não falassem sobre sua vida privada.

In academic writing, contanto que is invaluable. It allows researchers to qualify their findings, stating that a certain result is valid only under specific experimental conditions. This precision is vital in the sciences and humanities alike. Even in popular music, particularly in genres like Bossa Nova or MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), you might find lyrics where the singer expresses love or devotion contanto que their partner remains faithful or present. This versatility—from the courtroom to the concert hall—makes it one of the most useful 'advanced' conjunctions to have in your vocabulary. It bridges the gap between simple communication and sophisticated expression, allowing you to navigate various social and professional landscapes with confidence.

The most frequent pitfall for English speakers learning contanto que is the 'Subjunctive Trap.' In English, "provided that" often works with the indicative mood (e.g., "provided that he *is* here"). In Portuguese, however, the mood must switch to the subjunctive because the condition is perceived as a non-factual, potential state. Another common error is confusing contanto que with por tanto (therefore) or no entanto (however). These look similar but serve completely different logical functions. Additionally, some learners mistakenly use the future indicative after it, which is a carry-over from English 'will' structures. You cannot say "contanto que ele *virá*" (future indicative); you must use the present subjunctive "contanto que ele venha" or, in some contexts, the future subjunctive "contanto que ele vier" (though the present subjunctive is far more common with this specific conjunction).

The Mood Error: Using the indicative instead of the subjunctive. Wrong: 'contanto que ele faz'. Right: 'contanto que ele faça'.

The Phonetic Confusion: Confusing 'contanto que' with 'no entanto' (however). Remember: 'contanto' implies 'counting on' a condition.

Preposition Omission: Forgetting the 'que'. You cannot simply say 'contanto ele venha'. The 'que' is mandatory to link the clauses.

Errado: Eu vou, contanto que você vai também.

Correto: Eu vou, contanto que você vá também.

Errado: No entanto que você estude, passará.

Correto: Contanto que você estude, passará.

Errado: Ele ajuda, contanto o paguem.

Finally, avoid overusing contanto que in very informal, rapid-fire speech. While grammatically correct, it can sound a bit stiff if you're just chatting with friends at a bar. In those cases, "desde que" or a simple "se" is often more natural. However, the biggest mistake is avoiding it altogether. Many learners stick to "se" because it's safe and doesn't always require the complex subjunctive forms. By doing this, you miss out on the precision and elegance that contanto que provides. Embrace the subjunctive, double-check your 'que', and you'll avoid the most common traps associated with this powerful conditional conjunction.

Portuguese offers several ways to express conditions, and knowing when to use contanto que versus its synonyms can greatly enhance your fluency. The most direct synonym is desde que. In most contexts, they are interchangeable and both require the subjunctive. However, desde que can also mean "since" (temporal), which can occasionally lead to ambiguity that contanto que avoids. Another alternative is a menos que (unless), which provides the negative condition (if not). For very formal or legal writing, sob a condição de que (under the condition that) is the preferred choice. If you want to sound more casual, you might use caso (in case), which also takes the subjunctive but has a slightly different logical feel—it's more about preparation for a possibility than a strict requirement for an action.

Desde que: The most common synonym. Example: 'Vou, desde que você vá.' Very natural in both Brazil and Portugal.

A menos que: Used for negative conditions. Example: 'Não vou, a menos que você peça desculpas.' (I won't go unless you apologize).

Caso: Focuses on the possibility. Example: 'Caso você precise de ajuda, ligue-me.' (In case you need help, call me).

Eu compro, desde que o preço seja justo.

Nós sairemos, a menos que comece a chover.

O acordo é válido, sob a condição de que ambas as partes assinem.

Eu ajudo, com a ressalva de que não tenho muito tempo.

Faremos o evento, se e somente se houver patrocínio.

Understanding these alternatives allows you to vary your speech and avoid repetition. If you've already used contanto que once in a paragraph, switching to desde que or com a condição de que keeps the text engaging. It also allows you to fine-tune the intensity of the condition. Contanto que feels firm and deliberate. Desde que feels a bit more fluid. A menos que shifts the focus to the one thing that would stop the action. By building a toolkit of these conjunctions, you move from simply translating English thoughts into Portuguese to actually thinking and negotiating within the unique logical framework of the Portuguese language.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"A proposta será apreciada, contanto que venha acompanhada dos documentos necessários."

Neutral

"Podemos sair agora, contanto que você já esteja pronto."

Informal

"Eu te ajudo com isso, contanto que você pague a cerveja depois."

Child friendly

"Você pode comer o doce, contanto que coma toda a sopa primeiro."

Jerga

"Eu colo no rolê, contanto que não tenha treta."

Dato curioso

The root 'contar' is one of the most versatile in Portuguese, covering both mathematics (counting) and narrative (storytelling). 'Contanto que' represents the logical/mathematical side of this root.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /kõ.ˈtɐ̃.tu kɨ/

US /kõ.ˈtɐ̃.tu ki/

The primary stress is on the second syllable of the first word: con-TAN-to.

Rima con

entanto portanto espanto canto manto santo recanto amanto

Errores comunes

Pronouncing 'contanto' without nasalization (sounding like 'con-tan-to' in English).
Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.
Pronouncing the 'que' too strongly like 'kay' (Spanish influence).
Merging the words too much so it sounds like 'contantoke'.
Forgetting the nasal 'n' sounds.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

Easy to recognize in text once the meaning is known.

Escritura 7/5

Requires correct knowledge of subjunctive conjugations.

Expresión oral 6/5

Requires mental speed to conjugate the subjunctive on the fly.

Escucha 4/5

Generally clear, but can be confused with similar-sounding words.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

se que tanto contar subjuntivo

Aprende después

desde que embora ainda que caso conquanto

Avanzado

condicional composto orações subordinadas adverbiais condicionais conjunções concessivas regência verbal

Gramática que debes saber

Subjunctive Mood Requirement

Contanto que ele *estude* (not estuda).

Sequence of Tenses

Eu iria, contanto que você *fosse* (Imperfect Subjunctive).

Negative Placement

Contanto que *não* chova.

Comma Usage

Vou à festa, contanto que você vá.

Interchangeability with 'Desde que'

Desde que/Contanto que você queira, nós vamos.

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Ejemplos por nivel

Eu vou, contanto que você vá.

I go, as long as you go.

A1 students can focus on the 'contanto que' + 'vá' (subjunctive of 'ir').

Comemos pizza, contanto que tenha queijo.

We eat pizza, provided it has cheese.

Simple condition using the verb 'ter' in the subjunctive 'tenha'.

Eu ajudo, contanto que seja fácil.

I help, as long as it is easy.

'Seja' is the subjunctive of 'ser'.

Ela estuda, contanto que haja silêncio.

She studies, provided there is silence.

'Haja' is the subjunctive of 'haver'.

Nós jogamos, contanto que você jogue também.

We play, as long as you play too.

'Jogue' is the subjunctive of 'jogar'.

Eu compro o pão, contanto que esteja quente.

I buy the bread, provided it is hot.

'Esteja' is the subjunctive of 'estar'.

Você pode entrar, contanto que use máscara.

You can enter, as long as you use a mask.

'Use' is the subjunctive of 'usar'.

Eu bebo o suco, contanto que seja de laranja.

I drink the juice, as long as it is orange (juice).

Focus on the condition of flavor.

Pode levar o carro, contanto que volte cedo.

You can take the car, provided you return early.

'Volte' is the subjunctive of 'voltar'.

Eu aceito o trabalho, contanto que o salário seja bom.

I accept the job, as long as the salary is good.

Common professional condition.

Ficamos no hotel, contanto que tenha piscina.

We stay at the hotel, provided it has a pool.

Travel-related condition.

Você pode sair, contanto que faça o dever de casa.

You can go out, provided you do your homework.

'Faça' is the subjunctive of 'fazer'.

Eu empresto o livro, contanto que você o devolva logo.

I lend the book, as long as you return it soon.

'Devolva' is the subjunctive of 'devolver'.

Podemos viajar, contanto que tenhamos dinheiro.

We can travel, provided we have money.

'Tenhamos' is the 1st person plural subjunctive.

Eles compram a casa, contanto que o jardim seja grande.

They buy the house, as long as the garden is big.

Real estate condition.

Eu cozinho hoje, contanto que você lave a louça.

I cook today, as long as you wash the dishes.

'Lave' is the subjunctive of 'lavar'.

Eu assino o contrato, contanto que não haja cláusulas ocultas.

I sign the contract, provided there are no hidden clauses.

Use of 'haja' (subjunctive of 'haver') in a negative condition.

Vou te contar o segredo, contanto que você prometa não contar a ninguém.

I'll tell you the secret, as long as you promise not to tell anyone.

'Prometa' is the subjunctive of 'prometer'.

Podemos fazer a trilha, contanto que todos tragam água.

We can do the trail, provided everyone brings water.

'Tragam' is the subjunctive of 'trazer'.

Eu perdoo o que aconteceu, contanto que você seja sincero.

I forgive what happened, as long as you are sincere.

Emotional condition using 'ser' in subjunctive.

O projeto será um sucesso, contanto que trabalhemos em equipe.

The project will be a success, provided we work as a team.

'Trabalhemos' is the subjunctive of 'trabalhar'.

Você pode usar meu computador, contanto que não apague meus arquivos.

You can use my computer, as long as you don't delete my files.

'Apague' is the subjunctive of 'apagar'.

Eu aceito o desafio, contanto que eu tenha tempo para treinar.

I accept the challenge, provided I have time to train.

Personal condition for a commitment.

Nós vamos à festa, contanto que o convite chegue a tempo.

We are going to the party, as long as the invitation arrives on time.

'Chegue' is the subjunctive of 'chegar'.

A empresa expandirá seus negócios, contanto que o mercado se mantenha estável.

The company will expand its business, provided the market remains stable.

'Mantenha' is the subjunctive of 'manter'.

Eu faria o investimento, contanto que houvesse mais garantias.

I would make the investment, provided there were more guarantees.

Imperfect subjunctive 'houvesse' paired with conditional 'faria'.

O acordo será mantido, contanto que nenhuma das partes viole os termos.

The agreement will be maintained, as long as neither party violates the terms.

'Viole' is the subjunctive of 'violar'.

Eles aceitaram a proposta, contanto que as obras começassem imediatamente.

They accepted the proposal, provided the works began immediately.

Past context using imperfect subjunctive 'começassem'.

Eu te dou o apoio necessário, contanto que você apresente um plano sólido.

I give you the necessary support, as long as you present a solid plan.

'Apresente' is the subjunctive of 'apresentar'.

Poderemos reduzir custos, contanto que otimizemos nossos processos.

We will be able to reduce costs, provided we optimize our processes.

'Otimizemos' is the subjunctive of 'otimizar'.

A paz será duradoura, contanto que o diálogo prevaleça sobre a força.

The peace will be lasting, as long as dialogue prevails over force.

'Prevaleça' is the subjunctive of 'prevalecer'.

Eu compraria esse apartamento, contanto que a vista fosse para o mar.

I would buy this apartment, provided the view was of the sea.

Hypothetical condition with 'fosse' (subjunctive of 'ser').

A validade jurídica do documento é plena, contanto que todas as assinaturas sejam reconhecidas em cartório.

The legal validity of the document is full, provided all signatures are notarized.

Formal legal register using 'sejam' (subjunctive of 'ser').

O autor aceitou as edições, contanto que a essência da obra permanecesse intacta.

The author accepted the edits, as long as the essence of the work remained intact.

Literary context using 'permanecesse' (imperfect subjunctive).

A pesquisa avançará, contanto que o financiamento governamental não sofra novos cortes.

The research will advance, provided governmental funding does not suffer further cuts.

'Sofra' is the subjunctive of 'sofrer'.

A democracia se fortalece, contanto que as instituições ajam com total independência.

Democracy strengthens, as long as institutions act with total independence.

'Ajam' is the subjunctive of 'agir'.

Eu teria aceitado o cargo, contanto que a remuneração estivesse à altura das responsabilidades.

I would have accepted the position, provided the compensation was commensurate with the responsibilities.

Compound past conditional with 'estivesse' (imperfect subjunctive).

O filósofo argumenta que a liberdade é possível, contanto que a ética guie as ações humanas.

The philosopher argues that freedom is possible, provided ethics guide human actions.

Abstract philosophical condition using 'guie'.

A reforma será eficaz, contanto que haja um consenso entre os diversos setores da sociedade.

The reform will be effective, as long as there is consensus among the various sectors of society.

Political nuance using 'haja'.

Podemos considerar sua proposta, contanto que você nos forneça referências sólidas.

We can consider your proposal, provided you provide us with solid references.

'Forneça' is the subjunctive of 'fornecer'.

A soberania nacional é inalienável, contanto que o Estado cumpra seu dever primordial de proteger o cidadão.

National sovereignty is inalienable, provided the State fulfills its primary duty to protect the citizen.

High-level political discourse using 'cumpra'.

O sistema permanecerá em equilíbrio, contanto que as variáveis externas não excedam os limites de tolerância.

The system will remain in equilibrium, provided external variables do not exceed tolerance limits.

Scientific/Mathematical register using 'excedam'.

A poética de Camões ressoa até hoje, contanto que o leitor se disponha a decifrar seus arcaísmos.

Camões' poetics resonate to this day, as long as the reader is willing to decipher his archaisms.

'Disponha' is the subjunctive of 'dispor'.

A paz mundial é uma utopia, contanto que a ganância prevaleça sobre a solidariedade.

World peace is a utopia, as long as greed prevails over solidarity.

Rhetorical use of 'prevaleça'.

O réu será absolvido, contanto que as provas apresentadas pela defesa sejam irrefutáveis.

The defendant will be acquitted, provided the evidence presented by the defense is irrefutable.

Legal terminology using 'sejam'.

A inovação floresce em ambientes livres, contanto que o erro não seja estigmatizado.

Innovation flourishes in free environments, provided error is not stigmatized.

Social commentary using 'seja'.

O crescimento econômico será sustentável, contanto que a preservação ambiental seja priorizada.

Economic growth will be sustainable, as long as environmental preservation is prioritized.

Economic/Environmental policy discourse.

A narrativa mantém sua coesão, contanto que o narrador não perca o fio da meada.

The narrative maintains its cohesion, as long as the narrator doesn't lose the thread of the story.

Idiomatic expression 'perder o fio da meada' in the subjunctive.

Colocaciones comunes

contanto que seja

contanto que haja

contanto que não

contanto que você

contanto que ele

contanto que todos

contanto que o tempo

contanto que os termos

contanto que se

contanto que possa

Frases Comunes

Contanto que você esteja feliz.

— Expresses that the speaker's priority is the other person's happiness, regardless of other factors.

Não me importo com o lugar, contanto que você esteja feliz.

Contanto que tudo corra bem.

— Used when planning something and hoping that no problems arise.

Estaremos lá amanhã, contanto que tudo corra bem.

Contanto que não custe caro.

— A very common practical condition regarding the price of something.

Podemos comprar a mesa, contanto que não custe caro.

Contanto que seja verdade.

— Used when expressing skepticism or a condition for believing something.

Eu acredito em você, contanto que seja verdade.

Contanto que eu saiba.

— Expresses the need to be informed as a condition for something else.

Você pode decidir, contanto que eu saiba o que foi escolhido.

Contanto que não chova.

— The classic condition for outdoor plans in Portuguese-speaking countries.

Vamos ao parque, contanto que não chova.

Contanto que haja respeito.

— A fundamental social rule for discussions or relationships.

Podemos discordar, contanto que haja respeito.

Contanto que se faça silêncio.

— A common requirement in libraries, cinemas, or while someone is sleeping.

Podem entrar, contanto que se faça silêncio.

Contanto que você prometa.

— Used when making a deal that relies on trust.

Eu te conto, contanto que você prometa segredo.

Contanto que todos concordem.

— Used when a group decision requires consensus.

Mudaremos a data, contanto que todos concordem.

Se confunde a menudo con

contanto que vs no entanto

Means 'however' or 'nevertheless'. It is used for contrast, not condition.

contanto que vs portanto

Means 'therefore' or 'so'. It is used for conclusions.

contanto que vs por tanto

Means 'for so much' (preposition + adjective/pronoun).

Modismos y expresiones

"Contanto que a esmola não seja demais."

— A play on the proverb 'Quando a esmola é demais, o santo desconfia'. It means being wary of things that seem too good to be true.

Eu aceito o presente, contanto que a esmola não seja demais.

Colloquial

"Contanto que não se perca o fio da meada."

— Meaning as long as one doesn't lose track of the main point or the logic of a situation.

Podemos discutir outros assuntos, contanto que não se perca o fio da meada.

Neutral

"Contanto que o barco não afunde."

— A metaphorical way of saying as long as the situation doesn't become a disaster.

Podemos tentar essa nova estratégia, contanto que o barco não afunde.

Informal

"Contanto que se mantenha as aparências."

— Refers to a situation where the most important thing is how things look to others.

Eles continuam juntos, contanto que se mantenha as aparências.

Neutral

"Contanto que não se jogue a toalha."

— As long as one doesn't give up or surrender.

Ainda há esperança, contanto que não se jogue a toalha.

Informal

"Contanto que o sol brilhe para todos."

— As long as there is fairness or equal opportunity.

A competição é boa, contanto que o sol brilhe para todos.

Poetic/Metaphorical

"Contanto que não se mexa em time que está ganhando."

— As long as one doesn't change something that is already working well.

Podemos melhorar o design, contanto que não se mexa em time que está ganhando.

Informal

"Contanto que as contas batam."

— As long as the numbers add up or the finances are in order.

Podemos contratar mais gente, contanto que as contas batam.

Business/Informal

"Contanto que não se queime o filme."

— As long as one doesn't ruin their reputation or image.

Você pode ir à festa, contanto que não queime o filme da família.

Slang (Brazil)

"Contanto que o santo ajude."

— As long as luck or divine intervention is on our side.

Vamos conseguir terminar a obra, contanto que o santo ajude.

Colloquial

Fácil de confundir

contanto que vs conquanto

Sounds very similar to 'contanto'.

'Conquanto' means 'although' (concessive), while 'contanto que' means 'provided that' (conditional). Both take the subjunctive.

Conquanto estivesse chovendo, saímos. (Although it was raining, we went out.)

contanto que vs enquanto

Ends with the same sound and is a common conjunction.

'Enquanto' means 'while' (temporal), describing simultaneous actions.

Eu estudo enquanto você dorme. (I study while you sleep.)

contanto que vs entanto

Part of the phrase 'no entanto'.

'No entanto' is an adversative connector (contrast), whereas 'contanto que' is conditional.

Ele é rico; no entanto, é infeliz. (He is rich; however, he is unhappy.)

contanto que vs desde que

Functionally identical in many cases.

'Desde que' can also mean 'since' (time), which 'contanto que' cannot.

Desde que cheguei, estou cansado. (Since I arrived, I am tired.)

contanto que vs se

Both express conditions.

'Se' can take the future subjunctive or indicative, while 'contanto que' almost exclusively takes the present/imperfect subjunctive.

Se você vier, eu fico. (If you come, I stay.)

Patrones de oraciones

Eu [v. presente], contanto que [v. subjuntivo].

Eu ajudo, contanto que você peça.

Podemos [infinitivo], contanto que não [v. subjuntivo].

Podemos sair, contanto que não demore.

O [substantivo] será [adjetivo], contanto que [v. subjuntivo].

O evento será ótimo, contanto que todos venham.

Eu [v. condicional], contanto que [v. imp. subjuntivo].

Eu compraria, contanto que fosse barato.

Contanto que [v. subjuntivo], [v. futuro].

Contanto que haja esforço, teremos sucesso.

[Oração Principal], contanto que se [v. subjuntivo].

É possível vencer, contanto que se lute.

Contanto que a [substantivo] não [v. subjuntivo], [conclusão].

Contanto que a ética não seja esquecida, avançaremos.

Haverá [substantivo], contanto que [v. subjuntivo] o [substantivo].

Haverá progresso, contanto que prevaleça o bom senso.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Common in written Portuguese and formal/neutral speech.

Errores comunes

Using the indicative mood. → Eu vou, contanto que você vá.
Learners often say 'contanto que você vai', which is incorrect. The subjunctive is mandatory.
Confusing with 'no entanto'. → Contanto que você estude, passará.
'No entanto' means 'however'. 'Contanto que' means 'provided that'. They are not interchangeable.
Omitting the 'que'. → Contanto que ele chegue...
The 'que' is a necessary part of the conjunction. You cannot say 'contanto ele chegue'.
Using with the future indicative. → Contanto que ele venha amanhã.
Even for future events, 'contanto que' typically takes the present subjunctive, not the future indicative 'virá'.
Using for purely hypothetical 'ifs'. → Se eu fosse rico, viajaria.
For 'if I were' scenarios, 'se' is better. 'Contanto que' is for real conditions and requirements.

Consejos

The Subjunctive Rule

Always follow 'contanto que' with a subjunctive verb. If the verb ends in -ar, the subjunctive often ends in -e. If it ends in -er or -ir, it often ends in -a.

Vary Your Conjunctions

Don't use 'se' for every condition. Using 'contanto que' in your writing will instantly make your Portuguese sound more advanced and professional.

Nasal Sounds

Pay close attention to the nasal 'n' in 'contanto'. It's not 'co-tan-to', but 'cõ-tɐ̃-tu'. This is key to sounding like a native.

Negotiation Tool

Use this phrase when you want to agree to something but with a specific condition. It sounds much more polite than just saying 'no'.

Synonym Swap

If you find 'contanto que' hard to pronounce, use 'desde que'. They mean the same thing in 99% of conditional situations.

Formal Emails

In business emails, use 'contanto que' to define project scopes or agreement terms clearly.

Counting Conditions

Think of 'contanto' as 'counting' the conditions before you can proceed with the main action.

Regional Nuance

In Brazil, you might hear 'contanto que' followed by a slightly different 'que' sound (ki) compared to Portugal (kuh).

Strict Dependency

Use 'contanto que' when the result *depends* entirely on the condition being met.

Daily Drill

Try to say one thing you will do today 'contanto que' something else happens (e.g., 'Vou dormir cedo, contanto que termine o trabalho').

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'CON-TANTO' as 'CONdition is TAN-TAmount' (equal) to the result. If the condition isn't met, the result doesn't happen.

Asociación visual

Imagine a gatekeeper holding a clipboard. You can pass 'contanto que' (provided that) you show your ID card (the condition).

Word Web

Se (If) Desde que (As long as) Condição (Condition) Subjuntivo (Subjunctive) Regra (Rule) Acordo (Agreement) Contrato (Contract) Limite (Limit)

Desafío

Try to write three sentences about your weekend plans using 'contanto que' and different subjunctive verbs (seja, faça, vá).

Origen de la palabra

Derived from the Portuguese verb 'contar' (to count), which comes from the Latin 'computare'. The phrase evolved as a way of saying 'taking into account that'.

Significado original: Originally implied a calculation or an accounting of conditions before an action.

Romance (Indo-European).

Contexto cultural

There are no major sensitivities, but using it in very low-register slang environments might make you sound slightly out of place or 'posh'.

English speakers often default to 'if' for everything. Learning 'contanto que' helps them replicate the more varied and precise conditional structures found in Romance languages.

Used frequently in the legal codes of Portugal and Brazil (Código Civil). Appears in the lyrics of many Fado songs when expressing the conditions of love. Commonly used by famous Portuguese authors like José Saramago to create complex, conditional narrative voices.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Business Negotiations

Contanto que o prazo seja cumprido.
Contanto que o valor seja reduzido.
Contanto que haja um contrato assinado.
Contanto que a qualidade seja garantida.

Travel and Tourism

Contanto que o voo não atrase.
Contanto que o hotel tenha wi-fi.
Contanto que o guia fale inglês.
Contanto que o clima esteja bom.

Family and Relationships

Contanto que você me avise.
Contanto que cheguemos a tempo.
Contanto que não haja brigas.
Contanto que possamos descansar.

Academic/Legal

Contanto que a fonte seja citada.
Contanto que as regras sejam seguidas.
Contanto que a tese seja provada.
Contanto que o réu confesse.

Technology/Instructions

Contanto que o sistema seja atualizado.
Contanto que a senha seja forte.
Contanto que a conexão seja estável.
Contanto que o backup seja feito.

Inicios de conversación

"Você aceitaria um emprego em outro país, contanto que o salário fosse muito alto?"

"Você perdoaria uma traição, contanto que a pessoa fosse totalmente honesta depois?"

"Você moraria em uma ilha deserta, contanto que tivesse internet ilimitada?"

"Você faria uma cirurgia plástica, contanto que o resultado fosse garantido?"

"Você emprestaria seu carro para um estranho, contanto que ele pagasse um seguro caro?"

Temas para diario

Escreva sobre um objetivo que você quer alcançar, contanto que certas condições sejam atendidas.

Descreva o seu parceiro ideal, contanto que ele/ela tenha três qualidades específicas.

Reflita sobre uma decisão difícil que você tomou, contanto que pudesse voltar no tempo.

Imagine um mundo perfeito, contanto que uma única regra fosse seguida por todos.

Escreva sobre suas condições para aceitar um novo desafio profissional no próximo ano.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, 'contanto que' strictly requires the subjunctive mood. Using the indicative (e.g., 'contanto que você vai') is grammatically incorrect and sounds very unnatural to native speakers. Always use 'vá', 'faça', 'seja', etc.

In their conditional sense, they are virtually identical. However, 'desde que' is more common in casual speech, while 'contanto que' is slightly more formal. Also, 'desde que' can mean 'since' in a temporal sense, whereas 'contanto que' is always conditional.

Yes, it is used in all Portuguese-speaking countries. The usage and grammar are the same across all variants of the language, though European Portuguese might favor it slightly more in formal writing.

Yes, you can. For example: 'Contanto que você estude, terá boas notas.' This puts more emphasis on the condition itself. It's perfectly correct and often used for stylistic variety.

Use the Present Subjunctive for present or future conditions ('Eu vou, contanto que você vá'). Use the Imperfect Subjunctive for hypothetical or past conditions ('Eu iria, contanto que você fosse').

The standard form is 'contanto que' (one word for 'contanto'). While 'com tanto que' exists in some very old texts or specific poetic contexts, it is not used in modern Portuguese.

No, 'unless' is translated as 'a menos que' or 'a não ser que'. 'Contanto que' means 'provided that' or 'as long as'. It sets a positive requirement, while 'unless' sets a negative exception.

It is moderately formal. It's perfect for business meetings, academic papers, and polite social interactions. It's not so formal that it sounds archaic, but it's more refined than 'se'.

Yes, it's very common: 'contanto que não...' (provided that... not...). Example: 'Eu vou, contanto que não chova' (I'll go, provided it doesn't rain).

The best equivalents are 'provided that', 'on the condition that', or 'as long as'. All these phrases establish a dependency between two actions.

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