Learning Brazilian Portuguese opens the door to a vibrant culture filled with colorful expressions. Brazilian Portuguese is rich in idiomatic phrases that reflect the country’s humor, creativity, and unique worldview. Here are five fun Brazilian Portuguese phrases, what they mean, and how to use them like a native.
1. “Pagar o pato”
Literal translation: To pay the duck
Meaning: To take the blame for something you didn’t do.
This phrase doesn’t involve actually buying ducks! Instead, it’s used when you’re blamed or forced to bear the consequences of someone else’s actions. This is a great phrase to use when you find yourself paying for someone else’s mistake.
“Eu não quebrei o vaso, mas vou pagar o pato.” (“I didn’t break the vase, but I’ll take the blame.”)
2. “Chutar o balde”
Literal translation: To kick the bucket
Meaning: To give up or let loose.
In English, “kicking the bucket” means to die, but in Brazilian Portuguese, it’s used when someone quits or throws caution to the wind. It often applies to situations where someone has had enough and decides not to care anymore.
“Depois de tantas reclamações, ele chutou o balde e pediu demissão.” (“After so many complaints, he quit and resigned.”)
3. “Ficar de molho”
Literal translation: To stay in sauce
Meaning (figurative): To take time off—usually to recover from an illness or injury.
While it might conjure up a funny image of someone literally soaking in sauce, it’s all about taking it easy and giving yourself time to rest and recuperate. It’s perfect for those well-deserved self-care days.
“Estou gripado, então vou ficar de molho hoje.” (“I have a cold, so I’ll stay in bed today.”)
4. “Enfiar o pé na jaca”
Literal translation: To stick your foot in the jackfruit
Meaning: To overindulge, especially in food or drink.
This delightfully odd phrase is used when someone goes overboard, particularly during celebrations or a night out. Jackfruit is large and messy, making it a perfect metaphor for overdoing it.
“Na festa de aniversário, enfiei o pé na jaca com tantos doces.” (“At the birthday party, I overdid it with all the sweets.”)
5. “Segurar vela”
Literal translation: To hold a candle
Meaning: To be a third wheel.
This phrase harks back to old traditions where a servant would hold a candle for a courting couple. Today, it’s used when you tag along with a couple and feel out of place.
“Não quero sair com vocês dois, porque não gosto de segurar vela.” (“I don’t want to go out with you two because I don’t like being a third wheel.”)
Why Learn These Phrases?
Idioms are more than just linguistic quirks; they offer insight into how Brazilians perceive the world, express their identity, and showcase their sense of humor. Using them correctly helps you connect more deeply and sound more like a local.
Final Tip
Practice these phrases in conversations, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes! Brazilian Portuguese is full of warmth, and Brazilians will appreciate your effort to learn their language.
