Learning a new language often involves diving into the nuances of vocabulary, grammar, and usage. For English speakers learning Portuguese, distinguishing between similar yet distinct words can be challenging. Two such words are “permitir” and “divulgar,” which translate to “allow” and “disclose,” respectively. While both words might seem straightforward at first glance, their proper usage requires an understanding of context and subtle differences.
Understanding “Permitir” – To Allow
The Portuguese verb “permitir” translates to “to allow” in English. It is used to express giving permission for something to happen or for someone to do something. Here are a few key points to consider when using “permitir”:
1. Basic Usage
At its core, “permitir” is employed to indicate that someone has been granted permission. For instance:
– **Permitir** que alguém faça algo: To allow someone to do something.
– Eu **permiti** que ele usasse meu carro: I allowed him to use my car.
2. Conjugation
“Permitir” is a regular verb in Portuguese and follows the regular conjugation patterns for -ir verbs. Here is its conjugation in the present tense:
– Eu **permito** (I allow)
– Tu **permites** (You allow)
– Ele/Ela/Você **permite** (He/She/You allow)
– Nós **permitimos** (We allow)
– Vós **permitis** (You all allow)
– Eles/Elas/Vocês **permitem** (They/You all allow)
Knowing these forms is crucial for using “permitir” correctly in different contexts.
3. Common Expressions
“Permitir” often appears in various expressions and phrases:
– **Permitir-se**: To allow oneself.
– Exemplo: Eu não me **permito** errar: I don’t allow myself to make mistakes.
– **Permitir-se a liberdade**: To allow oneself the freedom.
– Exemplo: Ela se **permitiu** a liberdade de descansar: She allowed herself the freedom to rest.
Understanding “Divulgar” – To Disclose
The verb “divulgar” translates to “to disclose” or “to reveal” in English. It is used when information is shared or made known to others. Here are some important aspects of “divulgar”:
1. Basic Usage
“Divulgar” is used when one wants to share or make information public. For example:
– **Divulgar** informações: To disclose information.
– A empresa **divulgou** os resultados financeiros: The company disclosed the financial results.
2. Conjugation
“Divulgar” is a regular verb in Portuguese and follows the regular conjugation patterns for -ar verbs. Here is its conjugation in the present tense:
– Eu **divulgo** (I disclose)
– Tu **divulgas** (You disclose)
– Ele/Ela/Você **divulga** (He/She/You disclose)
– Nós **divulgamos** (We disclose)
– Vós **divulgais** (You all disclose)
– Eles/Elas/Vocês **divulgam** (They/You all disclose)
Familiarity with these forms is essential for accurate usage in conversations and writing.
3. Common Expressions
“Divulgar” is often found in various contexts and expressions:
– **Divulgar um segredo**: To disclose a secret.
– Exemplo: Ela **divulgou** o segredo para a imprensa: She disclosed the secret to the press.
– **Divulgação de notícias**: Disclosure of news.
– Exemplo: A **divulgação** de notícias falsas pode ser prejudicial: The disclosure of false news can be harmful.
Comparing “Permitir” and “Divulgar”
Despite both being verbs, “permitir” and “divulgar” serve different functions in Portuguese. Understanding their differences is key to using them correctly.
1. Contextual Differences
– **Permitir** is about granting permission or allowing something to happen.
– Exemplo: A mãe **permitiu** que as crianças brincassem no parque: The mother allowed the children to play in the park.
– **Divulgar** is about making information known or public.
– Exemplo: O governo **divulgou** novas medidas de segurança: The government disclosed new security measures.
2. Grammatical Usage
– **Permitir** is often followed by a clause with “que” (that) + subjunctive verb.
– Exemplo: Eu **permito que** você saia mais cedo: I allow that you leave earlier.
– **Divulgar** can be followed by a noun or a clause.
– Exemplo: Eles **divulgaram** os resultados: They disclosed the results.
– Exemplo: Ela **divulgou que** estava grávida: She disclosed that she was pregnant.
3. Formality and Tone
– **Permitir** can be used in both formal and informal contexts without a significant change in tone.
– Exemplo informal: Você me **permite** usar seu telefone?: Do you allow me to use your phone?
– Exemplo formal: O regulamento **permite** o uso de celulares: The regulation allows the use of cellphones.
– **Divulgar** is typically more formal and often used in professional or official contexts.
– Exemplo: A empresa **divulgou** o balanço anual: The company disclosed the annual balance.
Practical Tips for Learners
To master the use of “permitir” and “divulgar,” practice and exposure to various contexts are essential. Here are some practical tips for learners:
1. Practice with Examples
Create sentences using both verbs in different tenses and contexts. For instance:
– Eu **permiti** que ela usasse meu livro (I allowed her to use my book).
– Eles **divulgaram** os detalhes do evento (They disclosed the event details).
2. Read and Listen
Engage with Portuguese media, such as news articles, podcasts, and books, to see how these verbs are used in real-life contexts. Pay attention to:
– News reports: Often use **divulgar** to talk about information disclosure.
– Conversations: Frequently use **permitir** when discussing permissions.
3. Practice Speaking
Incorporate these verbs into your spoken practice. For example, simulate conversations where you need to ask for permission or disclose information.
– “Você me **permite** entrar?” (Do you allow me to enter?)
– “Eu queria **divulgar** uma novidade” (I wanted to disclose some news).
4. Use Language Apps
Leverage language learning apps that provide contextual examples and exercises. Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise often have modules focused on verb usage and can help reinforce your understanding.
Conclusion
Mastering the verbs “permitir” and “divulgar” in Portuguese involves understanding their meanings, conjugations, and contextual uses. While “permitir” focuses on granting permission, “divulgar” is about making information known. By practicing these verbs in various contexts, reading and listening to native content, and engaging in conversation practice, English speakers can gain a more nuanced understanding and accurate usage of these important Portuguese verbs. Remember, language learning is a journey, and every new word and verb mastered is a step closer to fluency. So, keep practicing, stay curious, and enjoy the process!
