Meaning
Asking about the manner or method of something.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'De que forma?' is often used in corporate environments to show professionalism. In Portugal, it is used similarly but can sound slightly more formal than in Brazil. In academic circles, it is the standard way to ask about methodology. It is highly preferred in formal writing over the simpler 'Como'.
Use for Precision
Use this phrase when you want to show you are paying attention to the details of a process.
Avoid in Casual Chat
Don't use it with friends when asking how they are, or you'll sound like a robot.
Meaning
Asking about the manner or method of something.
Use for Precision
Use this phrase when you want to show you are paying attention to the details of a process.
Avoid in Casual Chat
Don't use it with friends when asking how they are, or you'll sound like a robot.
Professional Edge
Use it in emails to sound more professional than just using 'Como'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct phrase.
______ você pretende resolver este problema?
The correct phrase is 'De que forma' (In what way).
Which sentence is more formal?
Select the best option.
'De que forma' is more formal and precise than 'Como'.
Match the question to the context.
Match: 1. De que forma o sistema funciona? 2. Como você está?
Technical inquiries require the formal 'De que forma'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Precisamos de um novo plano. B: ______?
The speaker is asking for the method of the new plan.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises______ você pretende resolver este problema?
The correct phrase is 'De que forma' (In what way).
Select the best option.
'De que forma' is more formal and precise than 'Como'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Technical inquiries require the formal 'De que forma'.
A: Precisamos de um novo plano. B: ______?
The speaker is asking for the method of the new plan.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral-formal. It is not 'stiff', just precise.
Yes, if the text is professional or serious.
Yes, 'De que forma' asks for a method, 'Como' is general.
Yes, but it's rare. Usually, you'd use 'Qual é a forma?'
Yes, it is standard in both.
They might think you are being sarcastic or very serious.
No, it is invariable.
Yes, 'De que forma eu poderia ajudar?' is very polite.
Yes, it is very common in professional settings.
No, it is a neutral inquiry.
Related Phrases
De que maneira
synonymIn what way
Como assim
contrastWhat do you mean?
Por qual meio
similarBy what means
De que jeito
similarIn what way
