levar — meaning in English: to take

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

Guess the translation for to take

lugar

realidade

paradigma

levar

desafios

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 often use 'levar' when discussing transportation, such as taking a bus or taxi. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Vou levar o trem para o trabalho,' meaning 'I'm going to take the train to work.' It's also common in everyday situations when talking about carrying items or taking someone along.

Synonyms & nuances

'Levar' is often compared to 'transportar,' which specifically refers to transporting goods or people. While 'transportar' might seem more formal and is used in logistics contexts, 'levar' is more versatile and applicable in everyday conversation.

Culture

'Levar' has roots in Latin, from the word 'levare,' meaning 'to lift or raise.' Interestingly, in Brazilian culture, 'levar' can also imply emotional support, as in helping someone through tough times, showcasing the multifaceted nature of the word in social contexts.

FAQ

Q.What does 'levar' mean in English?

'Levar' translates to 'to take' in English, but it also encompasses meanings like 'to carry' or 'to lead.'

Q.How do you conjugate 'levar' in the present tense?

In the present tense, 'levar' is conjugated as: eu levo (I take), tu levas (you take), ele/ela leva (he/she takes), nós levamos (we take), vós levais (you all take), eles/elas levam (they take).

Q.Is there a mistake learners often make with 'levar'?

A common mistake is confusing 'levar' with 'trazer' (to bring). Remember, 'levar' is used when you take something away from the speaker's location, while 'trazer' is used for bringing something to the speaker.

Learn portuguese with Maspeak →

Portuguese Vocabulary