Archive for 'Learning'
Veja Bem Posted by Rachel on Jun 23, 2011
Today we’re going to learn a useful expression that you can use in everyday conversation. Veja bem literally means “see here,” and can also translate as “Let me explain” or “Well now” or “Mind you.” It’s an expression you’d use before you’re about to tell someone something they may not like. Here’s an example that…
Collective Nouns in Portuguese: Objects Posted by Rachel on Jun 21, 2011
Today is our last installment of the collectives series, where we learn words for groups of objects. acervo – collection (art, collectibles, etc) baixela – tableware bagagem – luggage cartuchame – cartridges (ie for printers, video games, etc) clientela – clientele comboio – fleet of trucks, ships, or trains elenco – cast madeixa – tress/lock…
Ainda Bem Posted by Rachel on Jun 16, 2011
We’ve learned about the phrase “ainda bem” before, as it’s used as an interjection. But today we’re going to learn how to use it within a sentence. The meaning is the same: this expression means “good thing” or “thank goodness” or “how fortunate that…” Let’s see it used in a sentence: Ainda bem que ela…
Para Quem Posted by Rachel on Jun 8, 2011
Today we’re going to learn a very useful expression that you can use in everyday conversation. The term “para quem” followed by a verb in the indicative tense means “for those or “for anyone.” Let’s take a look at how it’s used. Para quem gosta de cozinhar, tenho uma receita muito boa! For anyone who…
Good and Well Posted by Rachel on May 31, 2011
Since much of Portuguese Blog is aimed at intermediate and advanced learners, I thought we’d do a post to help some of our readers who are just starting to study Portuguese. Still, this particular tip should be useful for everyone, since I’ve noticed this is a common mistake. Bem vs. bom It’s important to remember…
Hard to Believe Posted by Rachel on May 25, 2011
The other day, I was talking to a Brazilian friend and he used an expression that I wanted to share, since it’s perfect for using in everyday conversation. Por mais incrível que pareça / Pelo incrível que pareça This expression roughly translates as, “As difficult as it is to believe,” or “As hard as it…
Collective Nouns in Portuguese: Animals Posted by Rachel on May 24, 2011
While these nouns aren’t as vital to daily conversation as some other nouns you’ll learn here, they’ll help you sound like a much more experienced speaker. Today, we’re going to learn about animal collectives, or coletivos. alcateia = pack (of wolves, hyenas, wild dogs) cáfila = caravan of camels cardume = school of fish enxame…