Compete-nos esclarecer a circunstância de que

You use it to introduce a fact that changes the context. It usually starts a sentence to set a serious tone. After the phrase, you always follow with the specific fact or situation. It is like putting on a suit before you start speaking. Use it when you want people to pay attention to a correction. It works best in writing or prepared speeches.

This is perfect for a business email when a client is confused. Use it in a meeting if someone gets the facts wrong. It is great for official announcements or public statements. If you are writing a letter to a landlord, this phrase is your best friend. It makes your argument sound legally sound and well-thought-out. You are basically saying, 'I am the expert here, listen up.'

Do not use this with your friends at a bar. They will think you have been replaced by a robot. Avoid it when texting your partner about dinner plans. It is way too heavy for casual chats. If you say this during a fight with a sibling, it might sound sarcastic. Use só queria dizer que instead for light conversations. Keep it away from children; they won't have the patience for it!

Portuguese culture values formal education and 'speaking well.' Using complex structures like compete-nos shows you are educated. It stems from a long tradition of legal and bureaucratic language in Portugal and Brazil. Even today, being 'formal' is a sign of respect in many circles. It is a linguistic 'power move' in the workplace. It shows you know the rules of the game.

You might hear cabe-nos esclarecer which is a bit softer but similar. Some people use cumpre-nos informar which sounds even more like a duty. If you are alone, you say compete-me instead of compete-nos. In Brazil, you might hear gostaríamos de esclarecer for a friendlier vibe. All of these aim to do the same thing: bring clarity to a messy situation.