Learning a new language can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor. Among the many aspects of language learning, mastering phrasal verbs is often a significant hurdle. These multi-word expressions can be tricky because their meanings are not always directly inferred from the individual words. For those learning Portuguese, getting a handle on common phrasal verbs can greatly enhance your conversational skills and comprehension. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most frequently used Portuguese phrasal verbs, providing explanations and examples to help you incorporate them into your vocabulary.
What Are Phrasal Verbs?
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and one or more particles (prepositions or adverbs) that create a single semantic unit. In Portuguese, these are often referred to as “verbos frasais” or “locuções verbais.” They can be particularly challenging because the meaning of the phrasal verb is usually different from the meanings of the individual words.
For example, the English phrasal verb “give up” means “to quit” or “to stop trying,” which is quite different from the meanings of the words “give” and “up” on their own. Similarly, in Portuguese, the phrasal verb “dar-se bem” means “to get along well,” which is different from the meanings of “dar” (to give) and “bem” (well).
Common Portuguese Phrasal Verbs
1. Dar-se bem/mal
One of the most useful phrasal verbs you’ll come across is “dar-se bem/mal.” This expression means “to get along well/badly” with someone.
Example:
– Eu me dou bem com meus colegas de trabalho. (I get along well with my coworkers.)
– Ela se deu mal na prova. (She didn’t do well on the exam.)
2. Ficar com
The phrasal verb “ficar com” translates to “to keep” or “to stay with.”
Example:
– Você pode ficar com o troco. (You can keep the change.)
– Ele vai ficar com os pais dele durante as férias. (He will stay with his parents during the holidays.)
3. Passar por
“Passar por” means “to go through” or “to undergo.”
Example:
– Eles passaram por muitas dificuldades. (They went through many difficulties.)
– Eu passei por um túnel ontem. (I went through a tunnel yesterday.)
4. Acabar de
This phrasal verb means “to have just” done something. It’s frequently used to describe something that has recently happened.
Example:
– Eu acabei de chegar em casa. (I just got home.)
– Eles acabaram de terminar o projeto. (They just finished the project.)
5. Voltar a
“Voltar a” means “to return to” or “to do something again.”
Example:
– Ele voltou a estudar depois de muitos anos. (He returned to studying after many years.)
– Eu voltei a praticar piano. (I started playing the piano again.)
6. Lidar com
This phrasal verb translates to “to deal with.”
Example:
– Ela sabe lidar com situações difíceis. (She knows how to deal with difficult situations.)
– Como você lida com o estresse? (How do you deal with stress?)
7. Contar com
“Contar com” means “to count on” or “to rely on.”
Example:
– Eu posso contar com você? (Can I count on you?)
– Eles sempre contam com a ajuda dos amigos. (They always rely on the help of friends.)
8. Sair de
“Sair de” translates to “to leave” or “to go out from.”
Example:
– Eu saí de casa cedo hoje. (I left home early today.)
– Eles saíram de férias na semana passada. (They went on vacation last week.)
9. Chegar a
“Chegar a” means “to arrive at” or “to reach.”
Example:
– Nós chegamos à conclusão de que ele está certo. (We reached the conclusion that he is right.)
– Eles chegaram ao destino final. (They arrived at the final destination.)
10. Dar para
This versatile phrasal verb can mean “to be able to” or “to be suitable for.”
Example:
– Isso não dá para fazer agora. (It’s not possible to do that now.)
– Este quarto dá para duas pessoas. (This room is suitable for two people.)
Tips for Mastering Portuguese Phrasal Verbs
Learning phrasal verbs can be daunting, but here are some tips to help you master them:
1. Practice Regularly
The key to mastering phrasal verbs is consistent practice. Try to use new phrasal verbs in your daily conversations. Make sentences and seek feedback from native speakers or language instructors.
2. Use Flashcards
Flashcards can be a handy tool for memorizing phrasal verbs. Write the phrasal verb on one side of the card and its meaning and an example sentence on the other side. Review them regularly.
3. Engage with Native Content
Watching movies, listening to music, or reading books in Portuguese can expose you to common phrasal verbs in context. This helps you understand how they are used naturally.
4. Group by Function
Sometimes it helps to group phrasal verbs by their function or meaning. For example, group together phrasal verbs that mean “to start” or “to finish.” This can make it easier to remember them.
5. Keep a Journal
Maintain a journal where you jot down new phrasal verbs, their meanings, and example sentences. Review this journal periodically to reinforce your learning.
Conclusion
Phrasal verbs are an essential part of mastering Portuguese and can significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively. While they might seem overwhelming at first, consistent practice and exposure will make them a natural part of your vocabulary. Remember to use the tips provided to make your learning process smoother and more efficient.
Happy learning, and boa sorte (good luck)!
