Portuguese Expressions That Make No Sense (Until You Learn Them!). Part 2
More Portuguese idiomatic expressions that will make you sound like a native.
Learning a new language is full of challenges, especially when idiomatic expressions defy direct translation. Portuguese, a rich and poetic language, abounds with phrases that, when taken literally, seem nonsensical. These expressions often carry meanings far removed from their surface interpretation, leading to moments of confusion and amusement for language learners.
In this post, we’ll unravel some more colourful and commonly used Portuguese idiomatic expressions. By understanding their true meanings and contexts, you’ll not only avoid potential missteps but also sound more like a native speaker in no time.
1. "Andar à toa" – To wander aimlessly
Literal Meaning: To walk in a daze.
What It Actually Means: To be lost, confused, or wandering without a clear purpose.
Example: "Ele anda à toa desde que perdeu o emprego."
("He’s been wandering aimlessly since he lost his job.")
Tip: Perfect for describing someone who seems disoriented or unsure about what to do next.
2. "Estar com a pulga atrás da orelha" – To be suspicious
Literal Meaning: To have a flea behind the ear.
What It Actually Means: To be suspicious, skeptical, or uneasy about something.
Example: "Fiquei com a pulga atrás da orelha quando ele mudou de assunto de repente."
("I became suspicious when he suddenly changed the subject.")
Tip: Use this when you suspect that something isn’t quite right.
3. "Ter dor de cotovelo" – To be jealous
Literal Meaning: To have elbow pain.
What It Actually Means: To be envious, particularly in romantic situations.
Example: "Ele está com dor de cotovelo porque a ex-namorada arranjou um novo namorado."
("He’s jealous because his ex-girlfriend found a new boyfriend.")
Tip: Mostly used to describe jealousy in love, but can also refer to general envy.
4. "Não ter papas na lÃngua" – To be blunt
Literal Meaning: To not have baby food in the tongue.
What It Actually Means: To be direct and say things without hesitation, often without sugarcoating them.
Example: "A Maria não tem papas na lÃngua, diz sempre o que pensa."
("Maria is very blunt; she always says what she thinks.")
Tip: Great for describing someone who speaks their mind, even when it’s uncomfortable.
5. "Engolir sapos" – To put up with something unpleasant
Literal Meaning: To swallow frogs.
What It Actually Means: To endure an unpleasant situation or tolerate something one strongly disagrees with.
Example: "No trabalho, Ã s vezes temos de engolir sapos para evitar problemas."
("At work, sometimes we have to put up with things to avoid trouble.")
Tip: Often used in professional or personal contexts when someone has to remain silent despite their frustration.
6. "Chorar sobre o leite derramado" – To regret something that can’t be changed
Literal Meaning: To cry over spilled milk.
What It Actually Means: To dwell on past mistakes or losses that cannot be undone.
Example: "Não adianta chorar sobre o leite derramado, temos de seguir em frente."
("It’s no use crying over spilled milk; we have to move forward.")
Tip: This phrase has a direct English equivalent, making it easier to remember.
7. "Ficar a ver navios" – To be left empty-handed
Literal Meaning: To be left watching ships.
What It Actually Means: To expect something that never happens or to be left disappointed.
Example: "Estava à espera de um aumento, mas fiquei a ver navios."
("I was expecting a raise, but I was left empty-handed.")
Tip: Use when someone is let down by an expectation that doesn’t materialize.
8. "Ter a faca e o queijo na mão" – To be in control
Literal Meaning: To have the knife and cheese in the hands.
What It Actually Means: To have all the power or resources needed to succeed.
Example: "Tens a faca e o queijo na mão para tomar a decisão certa."
("You have everything you need to make the right decision.")
Tip: A positive expression meaning that someone is in a favourable position.
9. "Pisar em ovos" – To tread carefully
Literal Meaning: To step on eggs.
What It Actually Means: To be extremely cautious in dealing with a sensitive situation.
Example: "Estou sempre a pisar em ovos quando falo com ele sobre este assunto."
("I’m treading carefully whenever I talk to him about this subject.")
Tip: Ideal for describing delicate social or professional situations.
10. "Quem não tem cão caça com gato" – To make do with what you have
Literal Meaning: If you don’t have a dog, hunt with a cat.
What It Actually Means: To improvise or make do with available resources.
Example: "O projetor avariou, mas usámos o computador. Quem não tem cão caça com gato."
("The projector broke, but we used the computer instead. You have to make do.")
Tip: A great phrase to encourage creativity and adaptability.
Conclusion
Portuguese idiomatic expressions bring vibrancy and humor to the language but can be perplexing for beginners. Mastering these phrases not only helps you avoid misunderstandings but also allows you to communicate with authenticity and cultural nuance.
Want to delve deeper into Portuguese? Our Absolute Beginners Course is the perfect gateway to learning the language and its culture, guiding you step by step through practical, real-world Portuguese. Sign up today at speakportugal.pt and take the first step in your journey toward fluency !