sempre — meaning in English: always

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for always

perna

importante

nebuloso

muito

sempre

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Portuguese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'sempre' in various contexts, from daily conversations to formal discussions. For instance, you might hear it in phrases like 'Eu sempre vou ao mercado' (I always go to the market) when discussing routines or habits, or in a romantic setting where someone declares, 'Eu vou te amar sempre' (I will always love you).

Synonyms & nuances

'Sempre' is often compared to 'jamais,' which means 'never.' While 'sempre' indicates continuity and permanence, 'jamais' conveys the absence of something. You would use 'sempre' when expressing enduring commitment or habitual actions, whereas 'jamais' would be appropriate in contexts of denial or negation.

Culture

'Sempre' comes from the Latin word 'semper', which also means 'always'. This word has woven itself into various Portuguese expressions, highlighting the importance of constancy and reliability in both personal relationships and cultural traditions. An interesting note is that in Portuguese folklore, 'sempre' is often associated with tales of eternal love, emphasizing its deep cultural roots.

FAQ

Q.What does sempre mean in English?

'Sempre' translates to 'always' in English, indicating a sense of constancy or perpetual occurrence.

Q.How can I use sempre in a sentence?

You can use 'sempre' in sentences like 'Ela sempre chega cedo' (She always arrives early) to express regularity in actions.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with sempre?

A common mistake is to confuse 'sempre' with 'às vezes' (sometimes). Remember, 'sempre' implies continuity, while 'às vezes' indicates occasional actions.

Learn portuguese with Maspeak →

Portuguese Vocabulary