além

Além is a Portuguese word that functions as both an adverb and a preposition. It denotes distance or scope beyond a reference point, or the idea of addition, similar to “beyond,” “farther than,” or “in addition to.” It can introduce spatial references, temporal extension, or abstract notions, and it commonly appears in fixed expressions such as além de, além disso, and para além de.

Etymology traces Além to Latin ultrā, meaning “beyond,” and it reached Portuguese through old forms that led to the current spelling and pronunciation. The accent on the é signals the stressed syllable in most varieties of Portuguese.

Usage and examples vary by region. In spatial use: “A vila fica além das colinas.” In constructions with a dependent clause: “Além de ser rápido, ele é confiável.” This latter form often expresses addition or contrast. “Além disso” functions as a connector meaning “moreover” or “furthermore,” as in: “O projeto tem alto custo; além disso, requer muito tempo.” In European Portuguese, “para além de” is commonly used to express “beyond” in a more formal register.

See also: common phrases include além de, além disso, para além de. Depending on the locale, preference may lean toward para além de in European Portuguese or além de in Brazilian Portuguese. The word remains a versatile element in both everyday speech and formal writing.