Are you interested in expanding your Portuguese vocabulary? Perhaps you’ve come across the phrase “put out” in English and now wish to learn how to express the same idea in Portuguese. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various ways to say “put out” in Portuguese, both formally and informally. We will also touch upon regional variations, although Portuguese is generally quite standardized across different regions. Read on to discover the different nuances, tips, and examples associated with this versatile phrase.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Put Out”
When it comes to formal situations, it’s important to use appropriate language and expressions. In this section, you’ll find some formal alternatives for “put out” in Portuguese:
1. Apagar
This word translates directly to “to extinguish” or “to turn off.” It is commonly used when referring to extinguishing flames, turning off lights, or shutting down equipment. Here are a few examples:
Por favor, apague as velas antes de sair. (Please extinguish the candles before you leave.)
Apague as luzes quando sair do escritório. (Turn off the lights when leaving the office.)
2. Extinguir
“Extinguir” is another formal option when “putting out” implies completely eliminating or ending something. It can particularly be used in legal, scientific, or bureaucratic contexts. Take a look at these examples:
O governo pretende extinguir o programa de subsídios. (The government intends to eliminate the subsidy program.)
A empresa decidiu extinguir o departamento de contabilidade. (The company decided to discontinue the accounting department.)
Informal Alternatives for “Put Out”
When conversing with friends, family, or acquaintances, a more informal language style is often preferred. Here are a few informal expressions you can use instead of “put out” in Portuguese:
1. Apagar o Fogo
Literally meaning “to put out the fire,” this phrase is not limited to extinguishing actual flames. It is commonly used to convey the idea of solving a problem or calming a tense situation. Check out these examples:
O advogado conseguiu apagar o fogo durante a negociação. (The lawyer managed to defuse the situation during the negotiation.)
Precisamos encontrar uma solução para apagar esse fogo. (We need to find a solution to resolve this issue.)
2. Dar um Jeito
“Dar um jeito” is an informal expression that can be used in a wide range of contexts. It implies finding a way to solve a problem, fix a situation, or sort something out. It’s often accompanied by resourcefulness and creativity. Take a look at these examples:
Não se preocupe, eu vou dar um jeito nisso. (Don’t worry, I’ll find a way to fix this.)
Eu dei um jeito de entregar o trabalho a tempo. (I managed to sort out delivering the assignment on time.)
Regional Variations
While Portuguese is relatively consistent across regions, there can be some minor variations in vocabulary and expressions. Here are a couple of regional variations for “put out” in Portuguese:
1. Soprar
In some regions, particularly Brazil, “soprar” can be used informally to mean “to put out” or “to blow out.” It is commonly employed when referring to blowing out candles or extinguishing flames. Examples:
Não se esqueça de soprar as velas do bolo. (Don’t forget to blow out the birthday candles.)
Você pode soprar essa vela, por favor? (Could you put out this candle, please?)
2. Dar um Basta
This expression, mostly used in Portugal, can be translated as “to put an end to” or “to call it quits.” It conveys the idea of stopping or finishing something. Here are a few examples:
Já chega! Vou dar um basta nisso tudo. (Enough is enough! I’m putting an end to all of this.)
Ele decidiu dar um basta no relacionamento. (He decided to call it quits in the relationship.)
Final Thoughts
Congratulations on reaching the end of our comprehensive guide! Now you are equipped with various ways to express “put out” in Portuguese, both formally and informally. Remember to adapt your choice of expression to fit the context and level of formality required. Keep practicing these phrases, and you’ll soon become more confident in your Portuguese skills. Whether you’re in a formal setting, having a casual conversation with friends, or exploring different regional variations, you’ll be able to express the idea of “putting out” effortlessly in Portuguese.
Obrigado (Thank you) and boa sorte (good luck) with your Portuguese language journey!
