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tarde — meaning in English: late

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tarde
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neutral very common
Usage
Native Portuguese speakers typically use the word 'tarde' in both casual and formal settings to refer to the afternoon or when something occurs late in the day. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Eu cheguei tarde ao trabalho' (I arrived late to work) after a long lunch break or when discussing evening plans.
Synonyms & nuances
'Tarde' primarily refers to the time of day, while 'atrasado' specifically denotes being late in a more general sense. Use 'tarde' when referring to the afternoon, and 'atrasado' when discussing punctuality or delays.
Culture
'Tarde' comes from the Latin word 'tardus,' meaning slow or late. In Portuguese culture, the concept of time can be fluid, and being 'tarde' can sometimes be viewed more leniently, especially during social gatherings, where arriving a bit late might be the norm and even expected!
FAQ
Q.What does 'tarde' mean in Portuguese?
'Tarde' means 'late' in English, and it can refer to both a time of day (afternoon) and the concept of being behind schedule.
Q.How do you use 'tarde' in a sentence?
You can use 'tarde' in sentences like 'Hoje vou sair tarde' (Today I will leave late) to describe an action that occurs later in the day.
Q.Are there common mistakes with 'tarde'?
A common mistake is confusing 'tarde' with 'atrasado.' Remember, 'tarde' can refer to the time of day, while 'atrasado' refers specifically to being late or delayed.
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Portuguese Vocabulary