lubrificante
/lu.bɾi.fiˈkɐ̃.t͡ʃi/
The English phrase 'lube' is translated into Portuguese as lubrificante.
The term is used to describe any substance applied to surfaces to reduce friction.
Which one should you use?
While lubrificante is the general term, you may encounter more specific formal variations: Óleo lubrificante refers specifically to oil-based lubricants and Creme lubrificante refers to a lubricating cream.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 5 syllables, with the stress on the 4th syllable: /lu.bɾi.fiˈkɐ̃.tʃi/.
Did you know?
- In Brazilian slang, the verb lubrificar is sometimes used metaphorically to describe the act of bribing someone to make a process move faster.
- While lubrificante is the correct term, Brazilians often use the word gel in intimate contexts regardless of the product's actual consistency.
- In a Brazilian hardware store, you can simply ask for óleo to find a lubricant, even if the product you need is a thick grease or a spray.
Examples in context
- Gostaria de obter informações sobre lubrificantes para motores.I would like to get information about engine lubricants.
- O pessoal estava brincando sobre lubrificante no churrasco.People were joking about lube at the barbecue.
- Eu preciso de um lubrificante para a corrente da bicicleta.I need a lubricant for the bicycle chain.
- O mecânico usou um lubrificante nas peças do motor.The mechanic used a lubricant on the engine parts.
- Este lubrificante é muito bom para as dobradiças.This lubricant is very good for the hinges.
Example conversation
Lucas is fixing a squeaky door in the living room.
- LucasEssa porta está rangendo muito.This door is squeaking a lot.
- MarianaVocê tem um lubrificante para usar?Do you have a lubricant to use?
- LucasTenho sim, vou buscar na garagem.I do, I will go get it in the garage.
- MarianaObrigada, Lucas.Thanks, Lucas.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry lubrificante, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
