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The phrases Portuguese speakers actually use
De um lado para o outro
back and forth
A expressão de um lado para o outro refere-se a um movimento pêndulo constante. Implica dinamismo, e às vezes agitação e inquietude.
Example:
- O Rui tem casa no Porto e em Lisboa e anda sempre a correr de um lado para o outro.
- Rui lives in Porto and Lisbon and is always on the move.
Transcript
Esticar a corda.
Keep going
chancerandom action
Ao calha
The expression "ao calha" means to do or say something randomly. Similar expressions include "à sorte" and "ao acaso".
emotional indifferenceexpressing apathy
Nem me aquece nem me arrefece
"Nem me aquece nem me arrefece" shows complete indifference toward something that has no impact at all, whether emotionally or in any other way.
expressing boredomexpressing frustration
Que seca!
The expression "que seca!" conveys boredom and frustration.
empty-handedeverydaysocial etiquette
De mãos a abanar
"De mãos a abanar" means arriving or leaving with nothing — no result, no purchases, or showing up to a visit without a gift.
insignificancesocial status
Zé-Ninguém
The expression "zé-ninguém" refers to someone insignificant or powerless. It's often used in a dismissive way to belittle someone's authority or importance.
memorymental blank
Ter uma branca
"Ter uma branca" means having a sudden mental blank — losing momentary access to a word, thought, or piece of information. Informal.
