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ajudar — meaning in English: to help

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Guess the translation for to help
tanto faz
parábola
anacronismo
ajudar
inexorável
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neutral very common
Usage
Native Portuguese speakers often use 'ajudar' in everyday situations, such as offering assistance to a friend moving houses or helping a colleague with work tasks. It's also common in community settings, like volunteering at a local shelter or during school projects where teamwork is essential.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'ajudar' is a general term for helping, synonyms like 'assistir' typically imply a more supportive role, often used in contexts like 'assisting' in a medical or professional setting. Choose 'ajudar' when you want to convey a broader sense of help in everyday situations.
Culture
'Ajudar' stems from the Latin word 'adjutare', meaning 'to assist'. In Portuguese culture, the concept of helping others is deeply rooted, and you’ll often hear it in phrases like 'ajudar o próximo' (helping your neighbor), reflecting a strong community spirit present in many Brazilian and Portuguese societies.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'ajudar' in the present tense?
'Ajudar' is a regular -ar verb. In the present tense, it conjugates as follows: eu ajudo (I help), você ajuda (you help), ele/ela ajuda (he/she helps), nós ajudamos (we help), and eles/elas ajudam (they help).
Q.Can 'ajudar' be used in a formal context?
Yes, 'ajudar' can be used in formal situations, such as in business meetings or official communications when discussing assistance or support. However, context matters; ensure the tone remains respectful and professional.
Q.What are some common phrases using 'ajudar'?
Common phrases include 'ajudar alguém' (to help someone) and 'ajudar em algo' (to help with something). Be mindful of the prepositions; they can change the nuance of the assistance being offered.
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Portuguese Vocabulary