andar — meaning in English: to walk

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Guess the translation for to walk

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andar

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'andar' in everyday situations, such as when discussing plans to go for a walk in the park, or when describing how they get to work. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Eu vou andar até a escola' (I will walk to school) when chatting with friends or family.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'caminhar', which also means 'to walk'. However, 'caminhar' is often used in a more formal context, while 'andar' is more casual and can also imply moving around in general, not just walking.

Culture

'Andar' comes from the Latin word 'ambulare', which also means 'to walk'. In Portuguese-speaking cultures, walking is not just a mode of transportation; it's often associated with leisure and social interaction, such as walking along beautiful coastal paths in Portugal or strolling through vibrant streets in Brazil.

FAQ

Q.What is the correct conjugation of 'andar' in the present tense?

'Andar' is a regular verb in the present tense. The conjugations are: eu ando (I walk), tu andas (you walk), ele/ela anda (he/she walks), nós andamos (we walk), vós andais (you all walk), eles/elas andam (they walk).

Q.Can 'andar' be used in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, 'andar' can also be used metaphorically. For example, one might say 'andar nas nuvens' (to walk in the clouds) to describe being daydreamy or lost in thought.

Q.Is there a difference between 'andar' and 'ir'?

'Ir' means 'to go' and is more general, while 'andar' specifically refers to the act of walking. You would use 'andar' when you want to emphasize how you are moving on foot.

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Portuguese Vocabulary