Subjuntivo Imperfeito

The pretérito imperfeito do subjuntivo expresses hypothetical or contrary-to-fact situations in the past, wishes, and conditions that are unlikely or impossible. This tense is essential for "if" clauses: "Se eu fosse rico, viajaria" (If I were rich, I would travel). Formed from the third person plural of the pretérito perfeito by replacing -ram with -sse, -sses, -sse, -ssemos, -ssem, it has very few irregulars once you know the preterite. The imperfeito do subjuntivo appears after expressions of doubt, emotion, or desire referring to past situations and is used in polite, softened requests. Mastering this tense unlocks sophisticated conditional expressions in Portuguese.