1. As a verb:
* "estar" - This is the most common and versatile way to say "are" in Portuguese. It means "to be" and is used for temporary states, locations, and feelings.
* "ser" - This also means "to be" but it's used for permanent characteristics, professions, and origins.
2. As a question:
* "é?" - This is the most common way to ask "are you?" or "is it?"
* "está?" - This is used in the same way as "é?" but it implies a temporary state.
Examples:
* "Você está bem?" (Are you well?)
* "Eles estão na escola." (They are at school.)
* "Ela é médica." (She is a doctor.)
* "Você é brasileiro?" (Are you Brazilian?)
* "É tarde?" (Is it late?)
Remember to conjugate the verbs correctly based on the subject and tense.