quão

Quão is a Portuguese word that functions primarily as an adverb. It is used to ask about or express the degree or extent of something. In English, it most commonly translates to "how" when used in interrogative sentences or exclamations. For example, "Quão alto ele é?" translates to "How tall is he?". Similarly, "Quão bonito é este lugar!" means "How beautiful this place is!".

The word "quão" can also be used in comparative constructions, similar to "as" or "how" in English comparative phrases. It indicates a measure of comparison. For instance, "Ele é quão mais alto que eu" might be understood as "He is how much taller than me," or more naturally in English, "He is so much taller than me."

While "quão" is grammatically correct and used in more formal or literary contexts, in everyday spoken Portuguese, the adverb "como" is often used interchangeably with "quão" to express a similar degree or manner. Therefore, "Como alto ele é?" or "Como bonito é este lugar!" are common alternatives in informal speech. "Quão" adds a touch of emphasis and elegance to the expression of degree.