Voltar a vs Voltar para: What’s the Difference?

voltar a vs voltar para - European Portuguese Lesson

The verb voltar means “to return” or “to go back”, but the preposition that follows it can change what we mean. Two very common structures are: voltar a + infinitivevoltar a/para + place At first, these can be confusing because voltar a can have two different meanings. Let’s look at how they work. Voltar a … Read more

Começar a vs Passar a: What’s the Difference in Portuguese?

European Portuguese Lesson about the differences between "começar a" and "passar a"

If you want to say that someone started doing something in Portuguese, you probably already know the structure: começar a + infinitivo Comecei a estudar português.I started studying Portuguese. But there is another very useful construction that can sometimes be translated similarly: passar a + infinitivo Passei a estudar português. At first, these two structures … Read more

The Feira da Dieta Mediterrânica in Tavira: Portuguese Culture, Language and Life

Every year, during the first week of September, the Feira da Dieta Mediterrânica in Tavira brings the historic centre of the city to life. For several days, the historic centre of Tavira fills with music, food, crafts, exhibitions, workshops and cultural performances inspired by the traditions of the Mediterranean. But the Feira is about much … Read more

“Lost in thought” em português (B1)

Lost in Thought in Portuguese - The Sounds of Portuguese.

Para dizer “lost in thought” em português, temos a expressão “perdido em pensamentos”, que é uma tradução direta e utilizada. Mas temos outras expressões ainda mais utilizadas no dia a dia para expressar esta ideia. No final desta aula, vais conseguir compreender e usar estas expressões. 1. “estar a matutar” “Estar a matutar” significa pensar … Read more

3 Portuguese Idioms for a Backfired Plan

Illustration of a person confused by a failed plan with Portuguese idioms.

One of the most enjoyable parts of learning European Portuguese is discovering idiomatic expressions — those colourful phrases that make the language feel alive and authentic. Today, we’re looking at 3 Portuguese Idioms for a Backfired Plan. We use these three popular expressions when something doesn’t go as planned, or when a plan completely backfires. … Read more

Muitos anos a virar frangos

Discover idiomatic expressions in Portuguese with The Sounds of Portuguese.

Does muitos anos a virar frangos have anything to do with chickens??? Let’s discover ways to say “I wasn’t born yesterday” in Portuguese – with flair! When you want to say you’re no fool in English, you might say “I wasn’t born yesterday”, “Don’t take me for a fool” or even “You can’t pull the … Read more

How To Say I Love You in Portuguese

Valentine’s style image with Portuguese flag heart and roses - how to say I love you in Portuguese

Love is a universal language, but expressing it in Portuguese adds a romantic flair that can truly capture the heart of your beloved. Whether you’re wooing a Portuguese-speaking partner or simply want to impress with your linguistic prowess, knowing how to say I love you in Portuguese is essential. So, let’s delve into the nuances … Read more

Comprehensive Guide to Ordering Food in Portugal

Eating out is one of the best parts of visiting Portugal, but it can feel intimidating if you don’t know how to order food in Portuguese. In this complete guide, you’ll learn the exact Portuguese restaurant phrases, café expressions, and menu vocabulary you need to confidently order meals, drinks, and coffee in Portugal, like a … Read more

Ordering Drinks in Portugal

Wondering how to order drinks in Portuguese when you’re in Portugal? Whether you’re at a café, a bar, or a seaside restaurant, knowing how to confidently order your drinks in Portuguese makes every experience smoother – and far more enjoyable. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to order drinks in Portugal like a local, from … Read more