perquè

Causal and Purpose Perquè

Level 3

Perquè introduces a cause with indicative or a purpose with subjunctive in the basic contrast.

How It Works

No vinc perquè estic malalt gives the reason for not coming. T'ho dic perquè ho sàpigues gives the purpose of telling you: so that you know. The first presents an asserted cause; the second presents an intended outcome.

For purpose, the subordinate subject may differ from the main subject. If the same person performs both actions, a purpose infinitive can be possible in an appropriate per/per a construction. Do not replace every purpose clause mechanically without considering who acts.

Keep one-word perquè distinct from two-word per què in a question asking why. The mood contrast here is a practical foundation; negation and the speaker's treatment of a proposed reason can create more advanced patterns. Begin by identifying whether the clause explains a fact or names a desired result.

Examples (3)

  1. No surto perquè plou.

    I am not going out because it is raining.

  2. T’ho explico perquè ho entenguis.

    I explain it to you so that you understand it.

  3. Obro la finestra perquè entri aire.

    I open the window so that air comes in.

How It Connects

Tap a pattern to see what it builds on and what it leads to.

perquèLevel 3Causal and Purpose Perquè

Learn This First

Distinguish reason-question per què from clause-linking perquè. Recognize subjunctive for a desired outcome.

Learn Next

Patterns that build on this one.

Words in This Pattern