A sentence that asks for information. Also a problem or topic to discuss.
- Can I ask you a question?
- That’s a good question.
Goes withask a questionanswer a questiona good questionno questionthe question is
Portuguêspergunta, questãoFazer uma pergunta is ask a question, not make a question. Questão often means issue: “a questão do preço” is “the price issue.”
Españolpregunta, cuestiónHacer una pregunta is ask a question, not make a question. Cuestión often means matter: “It’s a matter of time.”
Exactly; immediately. Also correctly, or toward the right side.
- I’ll be right back.
- Turn right at the bank.
Goes withright nowright awayright hereturn rightright back
Portuguêslogo, bem, à direitaRight now is agora mesmo; right away is imediatamente. Turn right is vire à direita.
Españoljusto, ahora mismo, a la derechaRight now is ahora mismo; right away is enseguida. Turn right is gira a la derecha.
A plan of activities; a TV show; software. This is the American spelling.
- She’s in a training program.
- What’s your favorite TV program?
Goes withtraining programTV programcomputer programexchange programprogram for
PortuguêsprogramaIn American English, a TV program is usually called a show: “my favorite show.” A program is also an app or a course.
EspañolprogramaIn American English, a TV program is usually called a show: “my favorite show.” A program is also an app or a course.
A job, or the place where you do it; effort. Usually no a.
- I’m at work.
- This project is a lot of work.
Goes withat workgo to workafter workhard worka lot of work
Portuguêstrabalho, serviçoWork as a noun has no a: “I have a lot of work,” not “a work.” Go to work, not go to the work.
EspañoltrabajoWork as a noun has no a: “I have a lot of work,” not “a work.” Go to work, not go to the work.
Move fast on foot; manage; operate. Past: ran, run.
- I run every morning.
- She runs a small café.
Goes withrun a businessrun out ofrun intorun latego for a run
Portuguêscorrer, administrar, funcionarRun a business is administrar um negócio. Run out of is acabar: “We ran out of coffee” (o café acabou).
Españolcorrer, dirigir, funcionarRun a business is dirigir un negocio. Run out of is quedarse sin: “We ran out of coffee.”
A word or symbol for an amount. Also a phone number.
- What’s your phone number?
- A number of people called.
Goes withphone numbera number ofthe number ofnumber onewrong number
PortuguêsnúmeroA number of takes a plural verb (“A number of people are here”); the number of takes a singular verb (“The number of cars is growing”).
EspañolnúmeroA number of takes a plural verb (“A number of students are late”); the number of takes a singular verb (“The number of cars is growing”).
Little in size or amount. Smaller, smallest.
- It’s a small apartment.
- Can I have a small coffee?
Goes withsmall townsmall businessa small amountsmall talksmall size
PortuguêspequenoSmall talk is papo leve, the easy chat before a meeting. Little also means an amount: “a little water.”
Españolpequeño, chicoSmall talk is charla trivial, the easy chat before a meeting. Little also means an amount: “a little water.”
The group of people who control a country or a state.
- The government announced new rules.
- She works for the government.
Goes withthe governmentlocal governmentfederal governmentgovernment jobwork for the government
PortuguêsgovernoSay GUV-er-ment, with the stress first. In American English it takes a singular verb: “The government is…”
EspañolgobiernoSay GUV-er-ment, with the stress first. In American English it takes a singular verb: “The government is…”
Have fun with a game or sport; make music; act. Past: played.
- Do you play soccer?
- She plays the piano.
Goes withplay soccerplay the guitarplay a gameplay a roleplay with
Portuguêsjogar, tocar, brincarEnglish uses play for jogar, tocar, and brincar: “play soccer,” “play the guitar,” “play with the kids.”
Españoljugar, tocarEnglish uses play for jugar and tocar: “play soccer,” “play the guitar.” Instruments take the.
Away from a place or surface; not working; not at work.
- Turn off the lights.
- I’m off tomorrow.
Goes withturn offtake offday offget offfar off
Portuguêsdesligado, de folgaTurn off is desligar; a day off is um dia de folga. Get off the bus is descer do ônibus.
Españolapagado, libreTurn off is apagar; a day off is un día libre. Get off the bus is bajarse del autobús.
Change position or place; go to live in a new home. Past: moved.
- We moved to Denver last year.
- Can you move your car?
Goes withmove tomove inmove outmove onmove forward
Portuguêsmover, mudar-seMudar de casa is move: “I moved to Curitiba,” not “I changed to Curitiba.” Move in is entrar num lugar novo; move out is sair.
Españolmover, mudarseMudarse is move: “We moved last year,” not “We changed of house.” Move in is entrar a vivir; move out is irse.
Enjoy; think something is good.
- I like your shirt.
- Would you like some coffee?
Goes withI’d likewould you likelike tolike itreally like
Portuguêsgostar deNo of after like: “I like music,” not “I like of music.” Would you like…? is the polite way to offer.
EspañolgustarThe person is the subject: “I like it” (me gusta), not “It likes me.” Would you like…? is the polite way to offer.
At all times; every time.
- She always arrives early.
- I’ve always wanted to visit Japan.
Goes withalways beenalmost alwaysas alwaysnot alwaysalways remember
PortuguêssempreAlways goes before the main verb but after be: “I always walk,” “I’m always late.”
EspañolsiempreAlways goes before the main verb but after be: “She always calls,” “She’s always busy.”
The time when it is dark and people usually sleep.
- I work at night.
- Good night!
Goes withat nightlast nightgood nighttonightall night
PortuguêsnoiteUse at night, not in the night, for habits. Boa noite as a greeting is good evening; good night is for leaving or going to bed.
EspañolnocheUse at night, not in the night, for habits. Buenas noches as a greeting is good evening; good night is for leaving or going to bed.
Think something is true; trust someone.
- I believe you.
- I can’t believe it!
Goes withbelieve inI believe socan’t believebelieve mehard to believe
Portuguêsacreditar, crerAcreditar em alguém (trust what they say) is believe someone: “I believe you.” Believe in is for ideas: “I believe in hard work.”
EspañolcreerCreer is often think in conversation: “I think so” is more natural than “I believe so.” Believe in is for ideas: “I believe in hard work.”
On this day.
- What are you doing today?
- Today is my birthday.
Goes withearlier todaylater todayuntil todayfrom todaytoday’s
PortuguêshojeNo preposition before today: “I’m busy today,” not “in today.” Hoje em dia is nowadays or these days.
EspañolhoyNo preposition before today: “I’m busy today,” not “in today.” Hoy en día is nowadays or these days.
Have in your hand or arms; keep; have a meeting or event. Past: held.
- Can you hold my bag?
- Please hold the line.
Goes withhold onhold handshold a meetinghold the doorget hold of
Portuguêssegurar, manter, realizarHold on (on the phone) is aguarde. Realizar uma reunião is hold a meeting, not realize a meeting.
Españolsostener, agarrar, celebrarHold on is espera. Celebrar una reunión is hold a meeting, not celebrate a meeting.
An idea in a discussion; a moment; a dot; a mark in a game.
- That’s a good point.
- What’s the point?
Goes withgood pointthe point isat some pointmake a pointpoint of view
PortuguêspontoPonto de vista is point of view. Ponto final (in writing) is period in American English. Decimals use a point: 2.5 is “two point five.”
EspañolpuntoPunto de vista is point of view. Punto (in writing) is period in American English. Decimals use a point: 2.5 is “two point five.”
Have your home in a place; be alive. Past: lived.
- Where do you live?
- I’ve lived here for ten years.
Goes withlive inlive withlive alonelive onlive together
Portuguêsmorar, viverMorar is live: “I live in Belo Horizonte.” For how long, use the present perfect: “I’ve lived here for two years,” not “I live here for two years.”
EspañolvivirFor how long, use the present perfect: “I’ve lived here for two years,” not “I live here since two years.”
Take place, often without a plan. Past: happened.
- What happened?
- It happens all the time.
Goes withwhat happenedhappen toit happenshappen againwhatever happens
Portuguêsacontecer“What happened?” has no did, because what is the subject: not “What did happen?” Happen to someone: “What happened to you?”
Españolpasar, ocurrir“What happened?” has no did, because what is the subject: not “What did happen?” Happen to someone: “What happened to you?”
Carry something, or come with someone, to a place. Past: brought.
- Can you bring your laptop?
- She brought her sister to the party.
Goes withbring backbring upbring a friendbring alongbring in
Portuguêstrazer, levarBring is toward the speaker (trazer); take is away (levar): “Bring it here,” “Take it to the office.”
Españoltraer, llevarBring is toward the speaker (traer); take is away (llevar): “Bring it here,” “Take it home.”
Coming right after this one.
- See you next week.
- Who’s next?
Goes withnext weeknext timenext doornext tothe next day
Portuguêspróximo, que vemNo the for the coming week or year: “next Monday,” “next year.” Next to is ao lado de.
Españolpróximo, que viene, siguienteNo the for the coming week or year: “next Friday,” “next year.” Next to is al lado de.
Not having; not with.
- I drink my coffee without sugar.
- He left without saying goodbye.
Goes withwithout a doubtwithout medo withoutgo withoutwithout saying
PortuguêssemBefore a verb, use -ing: “without saying,” not “without say” or “without to say.”
EspañolsinBefore a verb, use -ing: “without saying goodbye,” not “without say.”
Earlier than.
- Call me before noon.
- Wash your hands before eating.
Goes withbefore thatthe day beforebefore longbefore you gonever before
Portuguêsantes deBefore a verb, use -ing: “before leaving,” not “before leave” or “before of leaving.”
Españolantes deBefore a verb, use -ing: “before eating,” not “before eat” or “before of eating.”
Big. Also a size: small, medium, large.
- Can I have a large coffee?
- It’s a large company.
Goes withlarge numberlarge amountlarge sizeextra largeat large
PortuguêsgrandeLargo is wide, not large: “a wide street” (uma rua larga). Large means grande.
EspañolgrandeLargo is long, not large: “a long road” (un camino largo). Large means grande.
It is necessary. Also: I’m almost sure.
- You must wear a seat belt.
- You must be tired.
Goes withmust bemust haveyou mustmust nota must
Portuguêsdever, ter queNo to after must: “You must stop,” not “You must to stop.” For everyday obligations, Americans usually say have to.
Españoldeber, tener queNo to after must: “You must stop,” not “You must to stop.” For everyday obligations, Americans usually say have to: “I have to go.”
Completely.
- I’m all done.
- She lives all alone.
Goes withall overall rightall the timeall of a suddenall at once
Portuguêstodo, completamenteAll right is tudo bem or está bem. All of a sudden is de repente.
Españoltodo, completamenteAll right is está bien or de acuerdo. All of a sudden is de repente.
Fighting between countries or groups.
- The war ended in 1945.
- They wrote a book about the war.
Goes withworld warcivil warduring the warafter the warwar on
PortuguêsguerraWar sounds like wore, not like “wahr.”
EspañolguerraWar sounds like wore, not like “wahr.”
The place where you live.
- I’m going home.
- Make yourself at home.
Goes withat homego homehometownwork from homefeel at home
Portuguêscasa, larNo to before home: “I’m going home,” not “I’m going to home.” Make yourself at home is fique à vontade.
Españolcasa, hogarNo to before home: “Let’s go home,” not “go to home.” Make yourself at home is estás en tu casa.
Below; less than.
- The cat is under the table.
- It costs under $20.
Goes withunder the tableunder 18under controlunder pressureunder construction
Portuguêsembaixo de, debaixo de, menos deUnder construction is em obras. Under pressure is sob pressão.
Españoldebajo de, bajo, menos deUnder construction is en construcción. Under 18 is menor de 18.
A part of a building with walls. Also space.
- My room is upstairs.
- Is there room for one more?
Goes withliving roombedroommeeting roommake roomroom for
Portuguêsquarto, sala, espaçoQuarto is bedroom; sala is living room. Room can also mean space: “There’s no room in the car.”
Españolcuarto, habitación, sala, espacioHabitación is often bedroom. Room can also mean space: “There’s no room in the car.”
Something that is true.
- Is that a fact?
- In fact, I agree with you.
Goes within factthe fact thata fact of lifefacts and figuresas a matter of fact
PortuguêsfatoDe fato is in fact. In fact can also add something stronger: “I don’t mind. In fact, I love it.”
EspañolhechoDe hecho is in fact. Hecho also means done or made, but fact only means something true.
A part of a place. Also a subject or field.
- Is there a pharmacy in this area?
- She works in the area of health care.
Goes within the areaarea codeparking arearural areaarea of
Portuguêsárea, região, bairroIn the area often means na região or no bairro: “Are there good restaurants in the area?” Area code is DDD.
Españolárea, zonaIn the area often means en la zona: “Is there a bank in the area?” Area code is código de área or lada.
Of a whole country.
- It’s a national holiday.
- She plays on the national team.
Goes withnational holidaynational parknational teamnational newsnational anthem
PortuguêsnacionalSay NASH-uh-nul, with the stress first, not na-sio-NAL.
EspañolnacionalSay NASH-uh-nul, with the stress first, not na-sio-NAL.
Make words on paper or a screen. Past: wrote, written.
- Can you write it down?
- I wrote her an email.
Goes withwrite downwrite towrite an emailwrite backin writing
PortuguêsescreverThe w is silent: write sounds like right. Write down is anotar.
EspañolescribirThe w is silent: write sounds like right. Write down is anotar or apuntar.
Coins and bills you use to buy things. You can’t count it.
- I don’t have much money.
- Can you lend me some money?
Goes withmake moneysave moneyspend moneylend moneymoney back
PortuguêsdinheiroMoney is uncountable: “much money,” “a lot of money,” never “moneys.” Ganhar dinheiro is make money, not win money.
Españoldinero, plataMoney is uncountable: “a lot of money,” never “moneys.” Ganar dinero is make money or earn money, not win money.
Something the law or fairness allows you. Also the right side.
- Everyone has the right to vote.
- The bank is on the right.
Goes withthe right tohuman rightson the rightequal rightsrights and duties
PortuguêsdireitoTer direito a is have the right to: “You have the right to a lawyer.” Direitos humanos is human rights.
EspañolderechoTener derecho a is have the right to: “You have the right to a lawyer.” Derechos humanos is human rights.
A description of events, true or invented. In American English, also a floor of a building.
- Tell me a story.
- It’s a long story.
Goes withtell a storytrue storylove storynews storylong story short
PortuguêshistóriaHistória (the school subject) is history; events you tell are a story. A three-story house is uma casa de três andares.
Españolhistoria, cuentoHistoria (the school subject) is history; events you tell are a story. A three-story house has three floors.
The clear liquid we drink. You can’t count it.
- Can I have a glass of water?
- Don’t forget to drink water.
Goes witha glass of waterdrink waterhot waterbottled waterunder water
PortuguêságuaAmericans often say WAH-der, with a soft d sound for the t. Water is uncountable: “some water,” “a glass of water.”
EspañolaguaAmericans often say WAH-der, with a soft d sound for the t. Water is uncountable: “some water,” “a bottle of water.”
Your female parent.
- My mother lives in Cali.
- She’s a mother of two.
Goes withmy mothersingle mothermother tongueMother’s Daymother-in-law
PortuguêsmãeMother is a little formal; at home people say mom. Sogra is mother-in-law.
Españolmadre, mamáMother is a little formal; at home people say mom. Suegra is mother-in-law.
Not the same.
- We have different ideas.
- This one is different from that one.
Goes withdifferent fromvery differentsomething differenta different waydifferent kinds of
PortuguêsdiferenteSay different from (or than, in American English), not different of: “It’s different from mine.”
Españoldiferente, distintoSay different from (or than, in American English), not different of: “It’s different from mine.”
Not old; early in life. Younger, youngest.
- She looks young for her age.
- When I was young, I lived on a farm.
Goes withyoung peopleyoung manyoung womanyoung adultsthe youngest
Portuguêsjovem, novoMais novo for brothers and sisters is younger: “my younger brother.” Os jovens is young people.
EspañoljovenMenor for brothers and sisters is younger: “my younger sister.” Los jóvenes is young people.
One of the twelve parts of a year.
- I’ll see you next month.
- The rent is due every month.
Goes withnext monthlast montha month agoevery monthonce a month
PortuguêsmêsFinish month with your tongue between your teeth for the th. Plural: months.
EspañolmesFinish month with your tongue between your teeth for the th. Plural: months.
Mostly in a lot of: a large amount or number. Also a piece of land.
- I have a lot of work.
- Thanks a lot!
Goes witha lot oflots ofthanks a lota lot betterparking lot
Portuguêsmuito, muitosA lot of works with both kinds of nouns: “a lot of time,” “a lot of people.” A parking lot is um estacionamento.
Españolmucho, muchosA lot of works with both kinds of nouns: “a lot of time,” “a lot of people.” A parking lot is un estacionamiento.
Pages with writing, bound together. As a verb: reserve.
- I’m reading a good book.
- I booked a table for two.
Goes withread a bookwrite a bookbook a tablebook a flighte-book
PortuguêslivroBook is also a verb, reservar: “I booked a hotel.” Livraria is bookstore; library is biblioteca.
EspañollibroBook is also a verb, reservar: “I booked a hotel.” Librería is bookstore; library is biblioteca.
The part of the body you see with.
- She has brown eyes.
- Keep an eye on the kids.
Goes withbrown eyeskeep an eye onclose your eyeseye contactin my eyes
PortuguêsolhoEye sounds like the letter I. Keep an eye on is ficar de olho em.
EspañolojoEye sounds like the letter I. Keep an eye on is echarle un ojo a or vigilar.
Learning about a subject; research; a room for studying.
- A new study shows that walking helps you sleep.
- She finished her studies last year.
Goes witha recent studycase studystudies showher studiesfield of study
Portuguêsestudo, pesquisaA study is often uma pesquisa: “Studies show that…” Os estudos (at school) is studies: “She finished her studies.”
Españolestudio, investigaciónA study is often un estudio or una investigación: “Studies show that…” A one-room apartment is a studio.
Work that you are paid for; a task.
- She has a new job.
- Good job!
Goes witha good jobget a joblose a jobfull-time jobgood job
Portuguêsemprego, trabalhoA job is countable: “I have two jobs.” Work is not: “I have a lot of work.” Good job! is mandou bem!
Españoltrabajo, empleoA job is countable: “I have two jobs.” Work is not: “I have a lot of work.” Good job! is ¡buen trabajo!
A type or sort. As an adjective: nice and helpful.
- What kind of music do you like?
- That’s very kind of you.
Goes withkind ofall kinds ofwhat kind ofthe same kindone of a kind
Portuguêstipo, gentilWhat kind of is que tipo de. In speech, kind of also means um pouco: “I’m kind of tired.”
Españoltipo, clase, amableWhat kind of is qué tipo de. In speech, kind of also means un poco: “I’m kind of tired.”
A unit of language with a meaning.
- What does this word mean?
- Can I have a word with you?
Goes within other wordsa word forword for wordhave a word withgive your word
PortuguêspalavraDar a palavra is give your word: “I give you my word.” In other words is em outras palavras.
EspañolpalabraDar tu palabra is give your word: “I give you my word.” In other words is en otras palabras.
A problem or an important topic. Also one edition of a magazine.
- Is there an issue with the payment?
- Housing is a big issue here.
Goes withthe issue isan issue witha big issuekey issueno issue
Portuguêsquestão, problema, assuntoIn conversation, issue often means problema: “We have an issue with the printer.” Say ISH-oo.
Españoltema, asunto, problemaIn conversation, issue often means problema: “There’s an issue with my account.” Say ISH-oo.
The left or right part; one surface; a position in an argument.
- Park on the other side of the street.
- Whose side are you on?
Goes withon the other sideside by sideon my sideside effectthe bright side
PortuguêsladoAo lado de is next to, not on the side of: “The bank is next to the café.” Side effect is efeito colateral.
EspañolladoAl lado de is next to, not on the side of: “The bank is next to the café.” Side effect is efecto secundario.
The number 4.
- We have four kids.
- The meeting is at four.
Goes withfour timesfour of usfour o’clockfour yearsfourth
PortuguêsquatroFour and for sound the same. Fourteen (14) stresses the end; forty (40) stresses the start and has no u.
EspañolcuatroFour and for sound the same. Fourteen (14) stresses the end; forty (40) stresses the start and has no u.
Buying and selling; a company; work matters.
- She runs her own business.
- I’m here on business.
Goes withrun a businesssmall businessbusiness tripon businessnone of your business
Portuguêsnegócio, empresaBusiness has two syllables: BIZ-nis. Os negócios in general is business, with a singular verb: “Business is good.”
Españolnegocio, empresaBusiness has two syllables: BIZ-nis. Los negocios in general is business, with a singular verb: “Business is good.”
Although; but. At the end of a sentence it means however.
- Though it was late, we kept working.
- It’s expensive. It’s good, though.
Goes witheven thoughas thoughthough not always
Portuguêsembora, mas, porémEven though is mesmo que or embora, followed by a normal sentence: “Even though it rained, we went.”
Españolaunque, sin embargoAunque with a fact is even though; with a possibility, even if: “Even if it rains, we’ll go.”
The top part of the body. Also the leader of a group.
- My head hurts.
- She’s the head of the department.
Goes withhead ofheadachehead officehead startshake your head
Portuguêscabeça, chefeWith body parts, use my: “My head hurts,” not “The head hurts me.” Head of is chefe de.
Españolcabeza, jefeWith body parts, use my: “My head hurts,” not “The head hurts me” (me duele la cabeza).
At or to a great distance. Farther, farthest.
- Is it far from here?
- So far, so good.
Goes withfar fromhow farso farfar awayby far
PortuguêslongeHow far is a que distância: “How far is the airport?” So far is até agora.
EspañollejosHow far is a qué distancia: “How far is the airport?” So far is hasta ahora.
Big in length or time. Longer, longest.
- It was a long day.
- She has long hair.
Goes witha long timea long waylong hairlong weekendlong story
Portuguêslongo, compridoLonge is far, not long: “It’s far from here.” Long is comprido or longo.
EspañollargoLargo is long, and large is grande: “long hair” (pelo largo).
The darkest color.
- I take my coffee black.
- She’s wearing a black dress.
Goes withblack coffeeblack and whiteblack teapitch blackblack hair
Portuguêspreto, negroColors go before the noun and have no plural: “black shoes,” not “shoes blacks.”
EspañolnegroColors go before the noun and have no plural: “black shoes,” not “shoes blacks.”
The number 1,000,000.
- The city has two million people.
- Thanks a million!
Goes witha millionmillions ofone in a milliontwo millionthanks a million
PortuguêsmilhãoAfter a number, million has no s and no of: “three million people,” not “three millions of people.”
EspañolmillónAfter a number, million has no s and no of: “three million people,” not “three millions of people.”
The two together.
- Both of my sisters are teachers.
- I like both.
Goes withboth ofboth of usboth sidesboth … andboth ways
Portuguêsambos, os doisBoth goes before the main verb but after be: “We both work here,” “They’re both here.”
Españolambos, los dosBoth goes before the main verb but after be: “We both work here,” “They’re both here.”
Small; young. A little means some, a small amount.
- They have a little girl.
- Can I have a little sugar?
Goes witha littlelittle by littlea little bitlittle brothervery little
Portuguêspequeno, poucoA little is um pouco: “I speak a little English.” Little alone means pouco (not enough): “I have little time.”
Españolpequeño, pocoA little is un poco: “I speak a little English.” Little alone means poco (not enough): “I have little time.”
A word to agree, accept, or answer.
- Yes, I do.
- “Are you ready?” “Yes, let’s go.”
Goes withyes or nosay yesyes, pleaseoh yesyes and no
PortuguêssimShort answers repeat the helper verb: “Do you like it?” “Yes, I do,” not just “Yes, I like.”
EspañolsíShort answers repeat the helper verb: “Do you speak English?” “Yes, I do,” not “Yes, I speak.”
Later than the time when.
- After I finish work, I go to the gym.
- Call me after you get home.
Goes withafter Isoon afterright afterafter thatlong after
Portuguêsdepois queNo will after after for the future: “Call me after you arrive,” not “after you will arrive.”
Españoldespués de queSpanish uses the subjunctive (después de que llegues). English uses the present: “Call me after you arrive.”
From a time in the past until now. Also because.
- I’ve lived here since I was a child.
- Since it’s raining, let’s stay in.
Goes withsince thenever sincesince I wassince whenlong since
Portuguêsdesde que, já queSince with a time takes the present perfect: “I’ve worked here since 2020,” not “I work here since 2020.”
Españoldesde que, ya queSince with a time takes the present perfect: “I’ve worked here since 2020,” not “I work here since 2020.”
On all sides of; near; about.
- We walked around the lake.
- See you around six.
Goes witharound the worldaround herearound the corneraround sixlook around
Portuguêsem volta de, por volta dePor volta das seis is around six. Around the corner is virando a esquina, or very close.
Españolalrededor de, por, a eso deA eso de las seis is around six. Around the corner is a la vuelta de la esquina.
For a long time.
- How long have you lived here?
- I won’t be long.
Goes withhow longso longlong agoas long asall day long
Portuguêsmuito tempoHow long…? asks about time: “How long does it take?” (Quanto tempo leva?) As long as is contanto que.
Españolmucho tiempoHow long…? asks about time: “How long does it take?” (¿Cuánto tiempo tarda?) As long as is siempre que.
Give or supply something that is needed.
- The hotel provides free breakfast.
- Can you provide more details?
Goes withprovide forprovide withprovide informationprovide supportprovided that
Portuguêsfornecer, oferecerProvidenciar is arrange or get, not provide: “I’ll arrange the tickets.” Provide is fornecer.
Españolproporcionar, dar, ofrecerProvide someone with something: “They provided us with maps.” In everyday speech, give is more common.
Help or work done for customers. Also a system such as buses or mail.
- The service was great.
- Is there bus service on Sundays?
Goes withcustomer serviceroom serviceservice chargepublic servicein service
Portuguêsserviço, atendimentoAtendimento is service: “The service was slow.” Ir para o serviço (a job) is go to work, not go to the service.
Españolservicio, atenciónAtención al cliente is customer service. Los servicios (bathrooms, in Spain) are restrooms in American English: “Where’s the restroom?”
Having great value or effect.
- It’s important to sleep well.
- This is an important meeting.
Goes withvery importantimportant tothe most importantimportant forit’s important that
Portuguêsimportante“It’s important to…” needs it: “It’s important to rest,” not “Is important to rest.”
Españolimportante“It’s important to…” needs it: “It’s important to rest,” not “Is important to rest.”
Be on a chair or other seat. Past: sat.
- Please sit down.
- Can I sit here?
Goes withsit downsit upsit next tosit stillsit back
PortuguêssentarNo extra pronoun: “Sit down, please,” not “Sit you down.” Senta aí is “Have a seat.”
EspañolsentarseNo extra pronoun: “I sat down,” not “I sat me down.” Siéntate is “Sit down” or “Have a seat.”
To or at a distance; not here.
- Go away!
- The beach is two miles away.
Goes withfar awaygo awayright awayaway fromgive away
Portuguêslonge, fora, emboraIr embora is go away or leave. Two miles away is a duas milhas daqui. Right away is imediatamente.
Españollejos, fueraIrse is go away or leave. Two miles away is a dos millas. Right away is enseguida.
A person you like and know well.
- She’s my best friend.
- We’re just friends.
Goes withbest friendold friendmake friendsa friend of mineclose friend
Portuguêsamigo, amigaFazer amigos is make friends, not do friends. A friend of mine is um amigo meu.
Españolamigo, amigaHacer amigos is make friends, not do friends. A friend of mine is un amigo mío.
But. Also: in whatever way.
- It was expensive. However, it was worth it.
- However hard I try, I can’t sleep.
Goes withhowever muchhowever longhowever you likehowever hard
Portuguêsporém, no entanto, contudoHowever starts a new sentence, with a comma after it. In speech, but or though is more common.
Españolsin embargo, no obstanteHowever starts a new sentence, with a comma after it. In speech, but or though is more common.
Strength; control; electricity.
- The power went out last night.
- Knowledge is power.
Goes withpower outagein powerthe power topower plantwillpower
Portuguêspoder, energia, luzAcabou a luz is “The power went out.” A power plant is uma usina.
Españolpoder, energía, luzSe fue la luz is “The power went out.” A power plant is una central eléctrica.
A word to disagree, refuse, or answer.
- No, thanks.
- “Is it far?” “No, not really.”
Goes withno thanksno wayoh nosay nono problem
PortuguêsnãoShort answers repeat the helper verb: “Do you smoke?” “No, I don’t.” No, thanks is the polite way to refuse.
EspañolnoShort answers repeat the helper verb: “Do you smoke?” “No, I don’t.” No, thanks is the polite way to refuse.
Until now, in questions and negatives. Also but.
- Have you eaten yet?
- I haven’t finished yet.
Goes withnot yetyet againas yetand yethave you … yet
Portuguêsainda, jáJá in questions is yet: “Have you eaten yet?” Ainda não is not yet.
Españoltodavía, ya, aúnYa in questions is yet: “Have you eaten yet?” Todavía no is not yet.
Your male parent.
- My father is retired.
- He’s a father of three.
Goes withmy fatherfather-in-lawFather’s Daysingle fatherfather and son
PortuguêspaiPais (both parents) is parents, not fathers: “My parents live in Recife.” At home, people say dad.
Españolpadre, papáPadres (both parents) is parents, not fathers: “My parents live in Quito.” At home, people say dad.
Sixty minutes. The h is silent.
- It takes an hour to get there.
- The store is open 24 hours.
Goes withan hourhalf an hourrush houroffice hoursfor hours
PortuguêshoraThe h is silent, so use an: “an hour.” Hora on the clock is time: “What time is it?” not “What hour is it?”
EspañolhoraThe h is silent, so use an: “an hour.” Hora on the clock is time: “What time is it?” not “What hour is it?”
Many times.
- How often do you exercise?
- I often work late.
Goes withhow oftenvery oftennot oftenquite oftenmore often
Portuguêsfrequentemente, muitas vezesMany Americans don’t say the t: OFF-en. How often is com que frequência.
Española menudo, seguido, con frecuenciaMany Americans don’t say the t: OFF-en. How often is ¿con qué frecuencia?
Up to the time when.
- Wait until I get back.
- I didn’t know until you told me.
Goes withuntil nowuntil thennot untiluntil laterup until
Portuguêsaté, até queNo will after until for the future: “Wait until I call,” not “until I will call.” Até for a place is to: “I walked to the park.”
Españolhasta, hasta queSpanish uses the subjunctive (hasta que llegue). English uses the present: “Wait until she arrives.” Hasta for a place is to.
About government and politics.
- We don’t talk about political topics at work.
- It’s a political decision.
Goes withpolitical partypolitical viewspolitical systempolitical issuepolitical science
PortuguêspolíticoPolítico (the person) is politician: “He’s a politician,” not “He’s a political.” Political describes things.
EspañolpolíticoPolítico (the person) is politician: “She’s a politician,” not “She’s a political.” Political describes things.
A long thin mark; a row of people waiting; a phone connection.
- Please wait in line.
- The line is busy.
Goes withwait in linestand in lineline upon the linedraw a line
Portuguêslinha, filaFila is line in American English: “wait in line.” British English says queue.
Españollínea, fila, colaFila or cola is line in American English: “wait in line.” British English says queue.
The last part.
- See you at the end of the day.
- In the end, we stayed home.
Goes withat the end ofin the endthe endthe end of the yearcome to an end
Portuguêsfim, finalAt the end of is no final de (a time or place); in the end is no fim das contas (finally). Fim de semana is weekend.
Españolfin, finalAt the end of is al final de (a time or place); in the end means finally: “In the end, we didn’t go.” Fin de semana is weekend.
Be on your feet; be in a place; accept something hard. Past: stood.
- Please stand up.
- I can’t stand the noise.
Goes withstand upstand forcan’t standstand in linestand out
Portuguêsficar de pé, aguentarCan’t stand is não aguento or não suporto: “I can’t stand the heat.” What does it stand for? is o que significa a sigla?
Españolestar de pie, aguantarCan’t stand is no aguanto or no soporto: “I can’t stand the heat.” What does it stand for? is ¿qué significa la sigla?
In a group of three or more.
- She’s popular among students.
- Among other things, he speaks four languages.
Goes withamong other thingsamong friendsamong the bestamong themamong us
PortuguêsentreAmong is for groups: “one among many.” Between is for two: “between you and me.”
EspañolentreAmong is for groups: “one among many.” Between is for two: “between you and me.”
An activity with rules, played for fun; a sports match.
- Did you watch the game last night?
- Let’s play a game.
Goes withplay a gamevideo gameboard gamewatch the gamegame night
Portuguêsjogo, partidaJogo (a match) is game in American English: “the soccer game.” Watch the game, not assist the game.
Españoljuego, partidoPartido is game in American English: “the soccer game.” Watch the game, not assist the game.
At any time. Used in questions and after superlatives.
- Have you ever been to Mexico?
- It’s the best pizza I’ve ever had.
Goes withhave you everever sincebetter than everhardly everthe best … ever
Portuguêsjá, alguma vez, nuncaVocê já foi…? is “Have you ever been…?” After superlatives: “the best I’ve ever seen” (o melhor que já vi).
Españolalguna vez, jamás¿Alguna vez has ido…? is “Have you ever been…?” After superlatives: “the best I’ve ever seen” (lo mejor que he visto).
Not have something anymore; not win. Past: lost.
- I lost my keys.
- We lost the game.
Goes withlose weightlose timelose a gamelose your wayget lost
PortuguêsperderPerder o ônibus is miss the bus, not lose the bus. Lose has one o; loose (two o’s) means not tight.
EspañolperderPerder el autobús is miss the bus, not lose the bus. Lose has one o; loose (two o’s) means not tight.
Not good; serious. Worse, worst.
- I have a bad cold.
- That’s not bad at all.
Goes withtoo badnot badbad newsbad atfeel bad
Portuguêsruim, mauBad describes things; badly describes actions: “He sings badly,” not “He sings bad.” Worse and worst are irregular.
Españolmalo, malMalo is bad; mal is usually badly: “He drives badly.” Worse and worst are irregular.
A person who belongs to a group.
- She’s a member of the team.
- Members get a discount.
Goes withfamily memberteam memberstaff membermember ofbecome a member
Portuguêsmembro, sócioSócio of a club or gym is member: “I’m a gym member.” In a company, sócio is partner.
Españolmiembro, socioSocio of a club or gym is member: “I’m a gym member.” In business, socio is partner.
See someone for the first time; get together. Past: met.
- Nice to meet you.
- Let’s meet at the café.
Goes withnice to meet youmeet upmeet withmeet a deadlinemeet new people
Portuguêsconhecer, encontrarConhecer alguém for the first time is meet: “I met her in 2019,” not “I knew her in 2019.”
Españolconocer, reunirse, quedarConocer a alguien for the first time is meet: “I met him in 2019,” not “I knew him in 2019.”
Give money for something. Past: paid.
- Can I pay by card?
- Who’s paying for dinner?
Goes withpay forpay attentionpay backpay a visitpay off
PortuguêspagarPay for the thing you buy: “I paid for the tickets.” Prestar atenção is pay attention.
EspañolpagarPay for the thing you buy: “I paid for dinner,” not “I paid the dinner.” Prestar atención is pay attention.
A rule made by a government; the system of rules.
- It’s against the law.
- She studies law.
Goes withagainst the lawbreak the lawlaw schoolby lawin-laws
Portuguêslei, direitoDireito (the subject) is law: “I studied law.” Lei is a law: “There’s a new law.” Your in-laws are a família do cônjuge.
Españolley, derechoDerecho (the subject) is law: “I studied law.” Ley is a law: “There’s a new law.” Your in-laws are tu familia política.
Nearly; not quite.
- I’m almost ready.
- Almost everyone came.
Goes withalmost readyalmost alwaysalmost neveralmost everyonealmost there
PortuguêsquaseAlmost everyone, not almost of everyone. Quase nunca is almost never or hardly ever.
EspañolcasiAlmost everyone, not almost of everyone. Casi nunca is almost never or hardly ever.
A vehicle with four wheels for a few people.
- I drive my car to work.
- We went by car.
Goes withby carcar rentaldrive a carget in the carcar wash
PortuguêscarroBy car has no the: “I go by car.” Get in the car, not enter in the car; get out of the car.
Españolcarro, auto, cocheBy car has no the: “We went by car.” Get in the car, not enter in the car; get out of the car.
At a time after now.
- See you later!
- I’ll call you later.
Goes withsee you laterlater onsooner or latertwo days laterlater today
Portuguêsmais tarde, depoisAté mais is “See you later.” Later means after now; latter means the second of two.
Españolmás tarde, luego, despuésHasta luego is “See you later.” Later means after now; latter means the second of two.
A lot; to a large degree.
- Thank you very much.
- I feel much better.
Goes withvery muchmuch bettertoo muchso muchnot much
PortuguêsmuitoWith comparatives, use much, not very: “much better,” not “very better.”
EspañolmuchoWith comparatives, use much, not very: “much better” (mucho mejor), not “very better.”
The word or words that someone or something is called.
- What’s your name?
- My last name is Silva.
Goes withfirst namelast namefull namename tagin the name of
PortuguêsnomeSobrenome is last name; apelido is nickname. Meu nome é is “My name is…” or simply “I’m…”
EspañolnombreApellido is last name; apodo is nickname. Me llamo is “My name is…” or simply “I’m…”
Have something as one part; make someone part of a group.
- Breakfast is included.
- The price includes tax.
Goes withincludedincludinginclude inbe includedtax included
PortuguêsincluirEstá incluso? is “Is it included?” Including is incluindo: “five people, including me.”
Españolincluir¿Está incluido? is “Is it included?” Including is incluyendo: “five people, including me.”
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Word list and ranking: A Frequency Dictionary of Contemporary American English (Mark Davies and Dee Gardner, Routledge, 2010). Meanings, examples, word partners, translations, and notes are written for Thomas’s Classroom.