escolhamos

Escolhamos is the present subjunctive form of the Portuguese verb escolher (to choose) for the first person plural. It expresses a collective suggestion, doubt, or desire, and is commonly translated as “let us choose” in English. The form is typically used in clauses introduced by a word like que (que nós escolhamos) and can also appear as an exhortation in more formal or rhetorical contexts without an explicit conjunction.

Grammatically, escolher is a regular -er verb, and the present subjunctive 1st plural is escolha‑based, yielding escolhamos. This form should not be confused with the indicative present plural nós escolhemos, which simply means “we choose.” In everyday speech, speakers often favor more colloquial constructions such as vamos escolher, but escolhamos remains standard in formal writing, speeches, slogans, and persuasive texts.

Usage can be found in political, religious, or educational discourse, where collective action or shared decision-making is emphasized. It also appears in literary or formal prose to convey inclusive intent or a proposed course of action.

Etymology and related forms: escolher derives from the Romance languages, with roots in Latin eligere (to choose). Related forms in other languages include Spanish escoger and French choisir, reflecting a common Latin origin.

See also: escolher, present subjunctive, Portuguese verb conjugation, mood in Portuguese.