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passar — meaning in English: to spend

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Guess the translation for to spend
dezesseis
pequeno
de qualquer forma
intencional
passar
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers use 'passar' in various contexts, such as discussing how they spend their time or money. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Eu passei o dia no parque' (I spent the day in the park) when recounting their weekend activities.
Synonyms & nuances
'Passar' is often compared to 'gastar,' which specifically refers to spending money. While 'gastar' is focused on financial expenditure, 'passar' encapsulates the broader concept of spending time or experiences, making it a more versatile choice in everyday language.
Culture
'Passar' has roots in Latin, deriving from 'passare,' which means 'to pass.' In Portuguese, this word not only conveys the idea of spending time but also embodies the notion of transition, making it a versatile term in daily conversation. Fun fact: in some regions of Brazil, 'passar' can also refer to passing an exam, showcasing its adaptability in the language.
FAQ
Q.What does 'passar' mean in English?
'Passar' translates to 'to spend' in English, often used in the context of time or experiences. For example, one might say, 'passar tempo' which means 'to spend time.'
Q.How do you use 'passar' in a sentence?
You can use 'passar' in sentences like 'Eu passei a tarde estudando' (I spent the afternoon studying). It’s often followed by a period of time or an activity.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'passar'?
A common mistake is confusing 'passar' with 'gastar.' Remember that while 'gastar' is strictly about money, 'passar' can refer to spending both time and money, so choose accordingly based on the context.
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Portuguese Vocabulary