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A2 preposition #2,000 الأكثر شيوعاً 16 دقيقة للقراءة

Atrás de

الأكثر شيوعاً #2,000

At the A1 beginner level, the phrase 'atrás de' is introduced as a fundamental vocabulary item for describing basic spatial relationships and giving simple directions. When you are just starting to learn Portuguese, you need to know how to explain where things are located in your immediate environment. This phrase is the direct equivalent of the English word 'behind'. At this stage, the focus is entirely on physical, tangible objects and their positions relative to one another. For example, you will learn to say that the dog is behind the house, the book is behind the computer, or the car is behind the tree. The most critical grammatical concept introduced at this level is the necessity of contracting the preposition 'de' with the definite articles 'o', 'a', 'os', and 'as'. Beginners must practice forming 'do', 'da', 'dos', and 'das' until it becomes automatic. You will practice sentences like 'O gato está atrás da porta' (The cat is behind the door) or 'A cadeira está atrás da mesa' (The chair is behind the table). You will also learn to use it with basic personal pronouns, specifically 'mim' (me) and 'você' (you). For instance, 'Ele está atrás de mim' (He is behind me). At this level, teachers will often use visual aids, such as flashcards or physical objects in the classroom, to demonstrate the concept. You might be asked to place a pen behind a book and describe the action in Portuguese. The vocabulary used in conjunction with 'atrás de' at the A1 level is generally limited to common nouns for furniture, buildings, animals, and people. By mastering this simple spatial preposition early on, beginners build a strong foundation for more complex descriptive language in the future. It is a highly practical phrase that you will use immediately in everyday conversations, whether you are looking for your keys or trying to find a specific store on a map. Consistent practice with the contractions is the key to success at this stage.

At the A2 elementary level, learners expand their understanding of 'atrás de' beyond simple static locations and begin to incorporate dynamic movement. While the basic spatial meaning (behind) remains crucial, students now learn to pair the phrase with verbs of motion, most notably 'correr' (to run) and 'ir' (to go). This introduces the concept of pursuit or following. Instead of just saying where something is, you can now describe an action directed towards an object or person. For example, you will learn to construct sentences like 'O policial correu atrás do ladrão' (The police officer ran after the thief) or 'O cachorro está correndo atrás da bola' (The dog is running after the ball). This dynamic usage is incredibly common in everyday Portuguese and is essential for telling simple stories or describing events. Additionally, at the A2 level, learners are introduced to the concept of going after something in order to retrieve it or obtain it. If you forget your jacket at a restaurant, you might say 'Vou atrás da minha jaqueta' (I am going after my jacket). This usage bridges the gap between physical movement and a specific goal. Grammatically, students at this level must be fully comfortable with all contractions of 'de', including those with third-person pronouns: 'dele' (him), 'dela' (her), 'deles' (them, masculine), and 'delas' (them, feminine). You will practice sentences like 'Não ande atrás dele' (Do not walk behind him). The vocabulary surrounding the phrase also expands to include more varied contexts, such as sports, daily routines, and simple social interactions. You might hear it used in the context of waiting in line: 'Quem está atrás de você na fila?' (Who is behind you in the line?). By mastering these dynamic applications, A2 learners significantly enhance their ability to describe actions and sequences of events, making their Portuguese sound much more natural and expressive.

At the B1 intermediate level, the usage of 'atrás de' takes a significant leap from the literal and physical into the metaphorical and abstract. While B1 learners are already comfortable using the phrase to describe location and physical pursuit, they now begin to use it to express the pursuit of goals, dreams, and intangible objectives. This is a hallmark of intermediate fluency, as it demonstrates an understanding of how Portuguese speakers use everyday vocabulary to convey deeper meanings. At this stage, the verb 'correr' (to run) is frequently paired with 'atrás de' to mean 'to strive for' or 'to work hard to achieve'. You will learn to construct and understand sentences such as 'Ela está correndo atrás dos seus sonhos' (She is chasing her dreams) or 'Ele foi para a cidade grande atrás de um emprego melhor' (He went to the big city after a better job). This metaphorical usage is pervasive in Brazilian culture, reflecting a proactive and determined attitude towards life. Furthermore, B1 learners encounter the phrase in the context of seeking information or uncovering hidden truths. If there is a problem or a mystery, you might ask 'O que está atrás dessa situação?' (What is behind this situation?), meaning what is the underlying cause or secret motive. This requires a more nuanced understanding of context. Grammatically, students are expected to use the phrase flawlessly with all types of pronouns and articles, and they begin to encounter it in more complex sentence structures, including subordinate clauses. They also learn to differentiate it clearly from similar phrases like 'por trás de' and 'depois de', understanding when to use each for maximum precision. By incorporating these metaphorical uses into their active vocabulary, B1 learners can participate in more profound conversations about ambitions, motivations, and the complexities of daily life, moving beyond simple descriptions of their physical environment.

At the B2 upper-intermediate level, learners are expected to wield the phrase 'atrás de' with a high degree of naturalness and precision, fully grasping its idiomatic and culturally specific applications. At this stage, the phrase is no longer just a grammatical construct; it is a tool for expressing complex social dynamics, professional ambitions, and psychological states. B2 students encounter and actively use common idiomatic expressions that feature the phrase. The most prominent example is 'correr atrás do prejuízo', which literally translates to 'running behind the damage' but means to make up for lost time, to recover from a setback, or to do damage control. This idiom is used in a wide variety of contexts, from a student studying late to pass an exam after failing the first one, to a company trying to regain market share. Understanding and using such idioms is a key indicator of B2 proficiency. Additionally, learners at this level explore the nuances of using 'atrás de' to describe interpersonal relationships, such as romantic pursuit ('ele vive correndo atrás dela' - he is always chasing after her) or professional networking ('estou atrás de novos contatos' - I am after new contacts). The phrase is also used extensively in journalistic and analytical contexts to discuss the hidden factors driving political or economic events. A news article might analyze 'os interesses atrás da nova lei' (the interests behind the new law). Grammatically, B2 learners use the phrase effortlessly within complex syntax, combining it with various verb tenses, including the subjunctive and conditional, to express hypothetical pursuits or past intentions. They also demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of register, knowing when the phrase is appropriate for formal writing versus casual conversation. By mastering these advanced applications, B2 students can engage in sophisticated debates, analyze complex texts, and express their own ambitions and observations with the fluency and cultural awareness of a native speaker.

At the C1 advanced level, the phrase 'atrás de' is utilized with complete mastery, characterized by an intuitive understanding of its subtlest nuances, rhetorical power, and stylistic variations. C1 learners do not merely use the phrase correctly; they use it to enhance the persuasiveness and elegance of their discourse. At this level, the focus is on the phrase's role in complex argumentation, literary analysis, and sophisticated professional communication. In academic or formal contexts, a C1 speaker might use the phrase to deconstruct an argument, examining 'a ideologia atrás do discurso' (the ideology behind the speech) or 'as premissas ocultas atrás da teoria' (the hidden premises behind the theory). This demonstrates a capacity for critical thinking expressed through precise language. Furthermore, advanced learners are highly attuned to the emotional and psychological weight the phrase can carry. In literature or creative writing, 'atrás de' can be used to evoke a sense of paranoia, hidden danger, or profound longing. A character might be described as constantly looking 'atrás de si' (behind themselves), not just physically, but metaphorically haunted by their past. C1 learners also navigate the fluid boundaries between 'atrás de' and 'por trás de', often choosing one over the other based on rhythm, tone, or a microscopic shift in emphasis. They are comfortable with highly idiomatic and colloquial uses, seamlessly integrating them into natural conversation without sounding forced. They might use expressions like 'não vou ficar correndo atrás' (I'm not going to keep chasing) to assert boundaries or express frustration. Grammatically, the phrase is integrated into the most complex sentence structures without hesitation. The C1 learner's use of 'atrás de' reflects a deep cultural immersion, demonstrating an ability to understand the unwritten rules of Brazilian or Portuguese society regarding ambition, pursuit, and the uncovering of hidden truths. It is a tool for sophisticated expression, allowing the speaker to navigate the complexities of the Portuguese language with confidence and grace.

At the C2 mastery level, the user's command of 'atrás de' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, the phrase is employed with absolute precision, creativity, and a profound awareness of its historical and etymological resonance. C2 users manipulate the phrase not just to convey information, but to craft tone, establish rhythm, and evoke specific cultural or literary associations. They are capable of using 'atrás de' in highly abstract philosophical or sociological discussions, analyzing, for instance, the structural inequalities 'atrás da fachada de progresso' (behind the facade of progress). In literary contexts, a C2 user can appreciate and replicate the ways in which classic Portuguese and Brazilian authors have utilized the phrase to build tension or reveal character depth. They understand how the simple spatial concept of 'behind' can be elevated to represent the subconscious, the past, or the metaphysical unknown. Furthermore, at the C2 level, users can invent their own metaphors and idiomatic extensions based on the core concept of 'atrás de', knowing instinctively what will sound natural and evocative to a native ear. They can play with the language, perhaps using the phrase ironically or subverting its usual meaning for rhetorical effect. The grammatical execution is flawless and entirely subconscious; contractions, pronoun usage, and syntactic placement are handled with effortless automaticity. The C2 speaker also possesses a comprehensive understanding of regional variations and historical shifts in the usage of the phrase, allowing them to adapt their language to any audience or context, from a formal academic symposium to an intimate, highly colloquial conversation. At this level, 'atrás de' is fully integrated into the user's linguistic identity, serving as a versatile and powerful instrument for expressing the most complex and nuanced thoughts imaginable in the Portuguese language.

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Atrás de في 30 ثانية

Spatial location: being physically behind an object or person.
Dynamic pursuit: chasing or following someone or something.
Metaphorical goals: striving for dreams, jobs, or success.
Hidden truths: the underlying reasons or motives behind a situation.

The Portuguese prepositional phrase 'atrás de' is an absolutely essential component of everyday communication, serving as a fundamental building block for expressing spatial relationships, dynamic movement, and metaphorical concepts. At its most basic and literal level, this phrase translates directly to the English preposition 'behind'. However, limiting its definition merely to a static position would be a significant oversimplification of its true linguistic versatility. To truly master this expression, one must delve deeply into the various ways it manifests in both spoken and written Portuguese across different contexts and regions. When we consider the physical world, 'atrás de' is used to describe the location of an object or a person that is situated at the back of another object or person. For instance, if you are playing hide and seek, you might hide behind a tree, which in Portuguese would be expressed using this exact phrase. This spatial application is typically the very first meaning that language learners encounter, as it is crucial for giving and receiving directions, describing scenes, and explaining where things are located in a room or a city. Beyond the static physical placement, the phrase takes on a highly dynamic role when paired with verbs of motion, particularly the verb 'correr' (to run) or 'ir' (to go). In these dynamic contexts, the phrase shifts its meaning from a simple location to a state of active pursuit. If a police officer is chasing a thief, they are running 'atrás de' the thief. This introduces a vector of movement, indicating that the subject is following the trajectory of the object. This dynamic usage seamlessly transitions into the metaphorical realm, which is arguably where the phrase finds its most expressive and culturally rich applications. In Portuguese, you do not simply pursue a goal or chase a dream; you run 'atrás de' it. This metaphorical pursuit applies to a wide array of abstract concepts, including success, happiness, employment opportunities, and even lost time. The expression 'correr atrás do prejuízo' (literally, to run behind the damage) is a highly common idiom used to describe the act of trying to make up for lost time or recover from a setback. Furthermore, the phrase can be used to indicate the hidden cause or the underlying reason for a particular situation or event. If there is a mystery or an unexplained phenomenon, one might ask what is 'atrás de' it, meaning what is the secret motive or the concealed truth driving the circumstances. This usage highlights the concept of something being obscured from plain view, requiring investigation or deeper understanding to uncover. In terms of grammatical structure, it is important to note that the phrase is composed of the adverb 'atrás' (behind/back) and the preposition 'de' (of/from). Because it ends with the preposition 'de', it must contract with definite and indefinite articles that follow it. For example, 'de' plus 'o' becomes 'do', 'de' plus 'a' becomes 'da', 'de' plus 'ele' becomes 'dele', and so on. Mastering these contractions is absolutely vital for achieving fluency and sounding natural when speaking Portuguese.

Spatial Meaning: Refers to the physical location of being at the back of something else, like standing behind a door or a wall.

Dynamic Pursuit: Indicates the action of following or chasing someone or something, often used with verbs of motion.

Metaphorical Goal: Represents the pursuit of abstract objectives such as dreams, careers, or solutions to complex problems.

O menino está escondido atrás da porta.

O cachorro correu atrás do gato.

Ela sempre corre atrás dos seus sonhos.

O que está atrás de toda essa confusão?

Deixei as chaves atrás do sofá.

Understanding how to properly use the phrase 'atrás de' is a critical step in achieving fluency in the Portuguese language. The mechanics of this phrase involve a combination of spatial awareness, grammatical rules regarding prepositions, and a deep understanding of how Portuguese handles contractions. First and foremost, the structural foundation of this phrase relies on the adverb 'atrás', which conveys the concept of being at the back or in the rear. However, 'atrás' alone is often insufficient when you need to specify the object or person that serves as the reference point. This is where the preposition 'de' becomes absolutely indispensable. By adding 'de', you create a bridge between the position (behind) and the reference object. The most crucial grammatical rule to remember when using this phrase is the mandatory contraction of the preposition 'de' with definite articles, indefinite articles, and certain demonstrative pronouns. In Portuguese, it is considered grammatically incorrect and highly unnatural to say 'atrás de o carro' (behind the car). Instead, the 'de' and the 'o' must fuse together to form 'do', resulting in the correct phrase 'atrás do carro'. Similarly, 'de' plus 'a' becomes 'da' (atrás da casa - behind the house), 'de' plus 'os' becomes 'dos' (atrás dos prédios - behind the buildings), and 'de' plus 'as' becomes 'das' (atrás das árvores - behind the trees). This rule also applies to indefinite articles, though slightly less commonly in this specific context: 'de' plus 'um' becomes 'dum', and 'de' plus 'uma' becomes 'duma'. Furthermore, when referring to people using personal pronouns, you must use the correct prepositional pronouns. You cannot say 'atrás de eu'; you must say 'atrás de mim' (behind me). You must say 'atrás de ti' (behind you, informal) or 'atrás de você' (behind you, standard). For third-person pronouns, the contractions 'dele' (of him/his), 'dela' (of her/hers), 'deles' (of them, masculine), and 'delas' (of them, feminine) are used. So, 'behind him' is 'atrás dele'. Beyond the grammatical mechanics, the usage of this phrase is heavily influenced by the verbs that precede it. When used with static verbs like 'estar' (to be, temporarily) or 'ficar' (to stay/to be located), the phrase describes a fixed position. For example, 'O restaurante fica atrás do banco' means the restaurant is located behind the bank. However, when paired with dynamic verbs of motion, the meaning shifts to pursuit. The most common verb in this category is 'correr' (to run). 'Correr atrás de' literally means to run behind, but it is universally understood as to chase or to pursue. This can be literal, like a dog chasing a ball ('O cachorro corre atrás da bola'), or metaphorical, like a student pursuing a degree ('O aluno corre atrás do diploma'). Another common verb is 'ir' (to go). 'Ir atrás de' means to go after something or someone, often implying a search or an attempt to retrieve something. For instance, if you forget your wallet, you might say 'Vou atrás da minha carteira' (I am going after my wallet).

Contractions with Articles: The preposition 'de' must contract with definite articles (o, a, os, as) to form do, da, dos, das.

Pronoun Usage: Always use prepositional pronouns like 'mim' and 'ti', or contractions like 'dele' and 'dela', never subject pronouns.

Verb Pairings: The meaning changes significantly depending on whether it is used with static verbs (estar) or dynamic verbs (correr).

O estacionamento fica atrás do supermercado.

Não se esconda atrás de desculpas.

Vou atrás de um novo emprego amanhã.

Ele está sempre atrás de problemas.

A verdade está atrás dessa história complicada.

The phrase 'atrás de' is ubiquitous in the Portuguese-speaking world, permeating almost every level of discourse, from the most casual street conversations to formal academic writing and professional environments. Because it deals with fundamental concepts of space, movement, and pursuit, it is impossible to navigate daily life in a Portuguese-speaking country without encountering this phrase frequently. In everyday domestic life, you will hear it constantly when people are looking for lost items or describing the layout of a home. A mother might tell her child that their shoes are 'atrás da porta' (behind the door), or someone might mention that the garden is 'atrás da casa' (behind the house). In the context of navigating a city, it is a standard component of giving directions. If you ask for the location of a pharmacy, a local might instruct you to go past the bakery, as the pharmacy is 'atrás do correio' (behind the post office). Moving beyond literal spatial descriptions, the phrase is heavily utilized in the context of sports and competition. In a football match, a commentator might describe a player running 'atrás da bola' (after the ball) or a team that is losing as having to 'correr atrás do placar' (chase the scoreboard, meaning to try to catch up). This competitive usage naturally extends into the business world and professional environments. In an office setting, you will frequently hear colleagues talking about running 'atrás de metas' (after goals) or going 'atrás de novos clientes' (after new clients). It conveys a sense of proactive effort and determination. In the realm of personal relationships and social dynamics, the phrase takes on an emotional and psychological dimension. If someone is romantically interested in another person and is actively trying to win their affection, they are said to be 'correndo atrás' of that person. Conversely, if someone is trying to discover the hidden truth about a situation or a person's motives, they might investigate what is 'atrás de' their behavior. This implies looking beyond the surface level to find the underlying reality. Furthermore, the phrase is deeply embedded in Brazilian popular culture, frequently appearing in the lyrics of samba, sertanejo, and pop songs, often describing the pursuit of love, happiness, or a better life. The idiom 'correr atrás do prejuízo' is so common that it is used in almost any situation where someone needs to recover from a mistake, a delay, or a financial loss. Whether you are watching a soap opera, reading a news article, or chatting with friends at a local café, the phrase 'atrás de' will undoubtedly make an appearance, serving as a versatile tool for expressing a wide range of human experiences and spatial realities.

Everyday Directions: Used constantly to explain where buildings, objects, or people are located in relation to one another.

Professional Goals: Common in business contexts to describe the active pursuit of targets, clients, or career advancement.

Romantic Pursuit: Frequently used in social contexts to describe the act of trying to win someone's romantic affection.

A padaria fica logo ali, atrás do posto de gasolina.

Nossa equipe de vendas está correndo atrás das metas deste mês.

Ele passou anos correndo atrás dela antes de se casarem.

O detetive quer saber o que está atrás desse crime misterioso.

Acordei tarde hoje, agora tenho que correr atrás do prejuízo.

When learning the Portuguese phrase 'atrás de', students frequently encounter several common pitfalls that can lead to grammatical errors or awkward phrasing. Understanding these common mistakes is essential for developing a natural and accurate command of the language. The most prevalent mistake, without a doubt, is the failure to properly contract the preposition 'de' with the definite or indefinite articles that follow it. English speakers, in particular, are accustomed to keeping prepositions and articles separate (e.g., 'behind the car'). Consequently, they often directly translate this structure into Portuguese, resulting in the incorrect phrase 'atrás de o carro'. This sounds highly unnatural to a native speaker. The correct form requires the fusion of 'de' and 'o' into 'do', making it 'atrás do carro'. This rule applies universally across all genders and numbers: 'da' for feminine singular, 'dos' for masculine plural, and 'das' for feminine plural. Another frequent error involves the misuse of personal pronouns following the preposition. In Portuguese, prepositions must be followed by oblique pronouns, not subject pronouns. Therefore, saying 'atrás de eu' (behind I) is a severe grammatical mistake. The correct form is 'atrás de mim' (behind me). Similarly, one must use 'atrás de ti' (behind you) instead of 'atrás de tu'. When dealing with third-person pronouns, learners sometimes forget to use the contracted forms 'dele', 'dela', 'deles', and 'delas'. Saying 'atrás de ele' is incorrect; it must be 'atrás dele'. Furthermore, learners often confuse 'atrás de' with other spatial prepositions or adverbs, most notably 'depois de' (after) and 'trás' (rear/back). While 'atrás de' refers to physical location or pursuit, 'depois de' is primarily used for temporal sequences (time). For example, if you want to say 'I will go after you' in the sense of time, you should use 'depois de você'. If you use 'atrás de você', it implies you are physically following them or standing behind them. The word 'trás' is usually used with the preposition 'por' to form 'por trás de', which has a similar meaning to 'atrás de' but often carries a stronger connotation of something being hidden or concealed (e.g., 'A intenção por trás das palavras' - the intention behind the words). Lastly, a common pronunciation mistake is ignoring the acute accent on the 'a' in 'atrás'. The accent indicates that the stress falls on the final syllable. Pronouncing it with the stress on the first syllable changes the rhythm of the word and can make it difficult for native speakers to understand. Mastering these nuances and avoiding these common errors will significantly improve the fluency and accuracy of your Portuguese.

Missing Contractions: Failing to combine 'de' with articles, resulting in incorrect phrases like 'atrás de o' instead of 'do'.

Wrong Pronouns: Using subject pronouns like 'eu' instead of prepositional pronouns like 'mim' after the phrase.

Time vs Space: Confusing 'atrás de' (spatial/pursuit) with 'depois de' (temporal sequence).

Incorreto: O gato está atrás de o sofá. Correto: atrás do sofá.

Incorreto: Ele está escondido atrás de eu. Correto: atrás de mim.

Incorreto: Vou chegar atrás de você (meaning time). Correto: depois de você.

Incorreto: A loja é atrás de a praça. Correto: atrás da praça.

Incorreto: Corra atrás de ele. Correto: atrás dele.

In the rich tapestry of the Portuguese language, there are several words and phrases that share similarities with 'atrás de', either in their spatial meaning, their temporal implications, or their metaphorical usage. Understanding the subtle distinctions between these similar terms is crucial for selecting the most precise and appropriate vocabulary for any given situation. The most closely related phrase is 'por trás de'. While 'atrás de' simply denotes the physical location of being behind something, 'por trás de' often carries a deeper connotation of concealment, hidden motives, or underlying structures. For example, if you say 'a parede atrás de mim' (the wall behind me), it is a simple spatial fact. However, if you say 'a intenção por trás das palavras' (the intention behind the words), you are implying a hidden meaning that is not immediately visible. Another word that frequently causes confusion is 'depois'. While 'atrás de' is primarily spatial (behind), 'depois' is temporal (after). If you are standing in a line, the person 'atrás de' you is physically behind you. If you are scheduling meetings, the meeting 'depois' lunch happens later in time. However, in some contexts, 'atrás' can be used to refer to the past, as in 'anos atrás' (years ago), which adds a layer of complexity. The word 'trás' (without the 'a') is also related but is rarely used on its own as a preposition. It usually appears in fixed expressions like 'para trás' (backwards) or 'de trás' (from behind). For instance, 'a parte de trás' means the back part of something. Another similar concept is expressed by the phrase 'no fundo de', which translates to 'at the bottom of' or 'at the back of'. This is used when describing the deepest or furthest part of an enclosed space, such as 'no fundo da sala' (at the back of the room). While 'atrás de' implies being outside and behind an object, 'no fundo de' implies being inside but at the furthest point. Finally, the word 'após' is a formal synonym for 'depois' (after) and is strictly temporal. It should never be used to describe physical location. By carefully distinguishing between these related terms, learners can greatly enhance their descriptive capabilities and ensure that their intended meaning is conveyed with absolute clarity and precision.

Por trás de: Similar to 'atrás de', but often implies something is hidden, concealed, or is the underlying cause of a situation.

Depois de: Used for temporal sequences (time), meaning 'after', whereas 'atrás de' is primarily used for spatial location (space).

No fundo de: Means 'at the back of' or 'at the bottom of' an enclosed space, rather than simply behind an object.

Qual é o segredo por trás de tanto sucesso?

Eu vou chegar depois do almoço.

Os alunos bagunceiros sentam no fundo da sala.

Não olhe para trás agora.

A reunião será após as dezoito horas.

How Formal Is It?

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عامية

مستوى الصعوبة

قواعد يجب معرفتها

أمثلة حسب المستوى

O gato está atrás da porta.

The cat is behind the door.

Contraction of 'de' + 'a' = 'da'.

A cadeira fica atrás da mesa.

The chair is behind the table.

Using 'fica' to indicate location.

O menino está atrás da árvore.

The boy is behind the tree.

Basic spatial description.

O carro branco está atrás do ônibus.

The white car is behind the bus.

Contraction of 'de' + 'o' = 'do'.

Ele está em pé atrás de mim.

He is standing behind me.

Use of prepositional pronoun 'mim'.

A escola é atrás do parque.

The school is behind the park.

Describing city locations.

Meu sapato está atrás do sofá.

My shoe is behind the sofa.

Everyday domestic vocabulary.

A bola caiu atrás da casa.

The ball fell behind the house.

Past tense 'caiu' with spatial location.

O cachorro correu atrás do gato.

The dog ran after the cat.

Dynamic verb 'correr' + 'atrás de'.

Vou atrás da minha carteira.

I am going after my wallet.

Verb 'ir' used for retrieving an object.

Não ande atrás dele.

Do not walk behind him.

Contraction 'dele' (de + ele).

Quem está atrás de você na fila?

Who is behind you in the line?

Question structure with preposition.

A polícia foi atrás dos ladrões.

The police went after the thieves.

Plural contraction 'dos' (de + os).

Ela olhou para trás de si.

She looked behind herself.

Reflexive pronoun usage.

O restaurante fica logo atrás do banco.

The restaurant is right behind the bank.

Adding 'logo' for emphasis (right behind).

Eles estão escondidos atrás das caixas.

They are hidden behind the boxes.

Feminine plural contraction 'das'.

Ela sempre corre atrás dos seus sonhos.

She always chases her dreams.

Metaphorical use of 'correr atrás'.

O que está atrás dessa decisão?

What is behind this decision?

Abstract concept of underlying reasons.

Ele foi para São Paulo atrás de um emprego.

He went to São Paulo after a job.

Pursuit of an opportunity.

Não vou mais correr atrás de você.

I am not going to run after you anymore.

Emotional/relationship context.

A verdade atrás da história é muito triste.

The truth behind the story is very sad.

Hidden facts or reality.

Estamos atrás de novos clientes para a empresa.

We are after new clients for the company.

Professional context.

O sol se pôs atrás das montanhas.

The sun set behind the mountains.

Descriptive nature vocabulary.

Ele deixou o passado para trás de uma vez por todas.

He left the past behind once and for all.

Idiomatic expression of moving on.

Tivemos que correr atrás do prejuízo após a crise.

We had to make up for lost time after the crisis.

Common idiom 'correr atrás do prejuízo'.

Há muitos interesses políticos atrás dessa nova lei.

There are many political interests behind this new law.

Analyzing hidden motives.

A equipe está correndo atrás de bater a meta do trimestre.

The team is striving to hit the quarter's target.

Corporate jargon.

Ele vive correndo atrás de aprovação alheia.

He is always seeking the approval of others.

Psychological description.

Atrás de um grande homem, há sempre uma grande mulher.

Behind a great man, there is always a great woman.

Classic proverb.

O detetive descobriu o esquema por trás da fraude.

The detective uncovered the scheme behind the fraud.

Using 'por trás de' for criminal investigation.

Eles estão atrás de financiamento para o projeto de pesquisa.

They are seeking funding for the research project.

Academic/Professional pursuit.

A motivação atrás da atitude dela permanece um mistério.

The motivation behind her attitude remains a mystery.

Abstract noun 'motivação' followed by the phrase.

A complexidade estrutural atrás da fachada do edifício é impressionante.

The structural complexity behind the building's facade is impressive.

Technical and descriptive language.

O autor explora a angústia existencial escondida atrás do cotidiano banal.

The author explores the existential anguish hidden behind the banal everyday life.

Literary analysis.

Não adianta chorar pelo leite derramado; é preciso correr atrás do prejuízo.

It's no use crying over spilled milk; one must make up for the loss.

Combining proverbs and idioms.

A ideologia por trás do discurso político foi duramente criticada.

The ideology behind the political speech was harshly criticized.

Academic/Political discourse.

Ele construiu um império, mas deixou muitos inimigos para trás de si.

He built an empire, but left many enemies behind him.

Metaphorical consequence.

A busca incessante atrás da perfeição acabou por arruinar sua saúde.

The relentless pursuit of perfection ended up ruining his health.

Abstract noun 'busca' modifying the phrase.

Há uma teia de corrupção intrincada por trás dessas negociações.

There is an intricate web of corruption behind these negotiations.

Advanced vocabulary 'teia intrincada'.

A verdadeira intenção atrás da proposta só foi revelada meses depois.

The true intention behind the proposal was only revealed months later.

Passive voice construction.

A exegese do texto revela as premissas filosóficas latentes atrás da narrativa.

The exegesis of the text reveals the latent philosophical premises behind the narrative.

Highly academic vocabulary.

O que se esconde atrás da aparente bonomia do ditador é uma crueldade inominável.

What hides behind the apparent geniality of the dictator is an unspeakable cruelty.

Complex rhetorical structure.

A sociedade de consumo nos condiciona a correr eternamente atrás de quimeras.

Consumer society conditions us to eternally chase after chimeras.

Sociological critique.

Atrás da cortina de fumaça midiática, operavam-se mudanças legislativas profundas.

Behind the media smokescreen, profound legislative changes were taking place.

Metaphorical 'cortina de fumaça'.

A melancolia intrínseca à obra reside na percepção do tempo que ficou para trás.

The melancholy intrinsic to the work resides in the perception of the time that was left behind.

Literary critique.

O sofisma por trás da argumentação dele foi prontamente desconstruído no debate.

The sophism behind his argumentation was promptly deconstructed in the debate.

Philosophical terminology.

Atrás daquela resignação estoica, fervilhava um ressentimento ancestral.

Behind that stoic resignation, an ancestral resentment seethed.

Evocative psychological description.

A dialética histórica nos mostra que atrás de cada revolução há uma crise sistêmica.

Historical dialectics show us that behind every revolution there is a systemic crisis.

Advanced historical analysis.

تلازمات شائعة

correr atrás de

ir atrás de

ficar atrás de

esconder-se atrás de

estar atrás de

deixar para trás

olhar para trás

passar para trás

voltar atrás

o motivo atrás de

العبارات الشائعة

correr atrás do prejuízo

correr atrás dos sonhos

estar atrás das grades

ficar para trás

voltar atrás na decisão

olhar para trás

deixar o passado para trás

passar alguém para trás

ir atrás do que quer

estar um passo atrás

يُخلط عادةً مع

Atrás de vs Depois de (used for time, not space)

Atrás de vs Trás (used mainly in fixed expressions like 'para trás')

Atrás de vs Por trás de (implies something is hidden or concealed)

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

سهل الخلط

Atrás de vs

أنماط الجُمل

كيفية الاستخدام

formality levels

The phrase is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the metaphorical 'correr atrás' is slightly more informal.

common collocations

Frequently paired with verbs like 'correr', 'ir', 'estar', 'ficar', and 'esconder'.

regional differences

In some regions of Brazil, the 'de' might be dropped in extremely informal speech ('atrás a porta'), but this is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided by learners.

أخطاء شائعة

Saying 'atrás de o' instead of 'atrás do'.
Using 'atrás de eu' instead of 'atrás de mim'.
Confusing 'atrás de' (space) with 'depois de' (time).
Forgetting the accent mark on 'atrás'.
Using 'atrás de' when 'por trás de' (hidden motive) would be more appropriate.

نصائح

Master the Contractions

The most important rule is to always contract 'de' with articles. Practice saying 'do, da, dos, das' out loud until it feels natural. Never write 'de o'.

Stress the Last Syllable

Remember the accent mark on 'atrás'. The stress must be on the 'trás'. If you stress the first syllable, it sounds like a different word and can cause confusion.

Learn the Idiom

Memorize the phrase 'correr atrás do prejuízo'. You will hear it constantly in Brazil. It is the perfect phrase to use when you are trying to catch up on work or studies.

Space vs. Time

Use 'atrás de' for WHERE things are (space). Use 'depois de' for WHEN things happen (time). This simple rule will prevent many common translation errors.

No Subject Pronouns

Erase 'atrás de eu' from your memory. Always use 'atrás de mim'. Prepositions require oblique pronouns in Portuguese.

Listen for the 'Djee' Sound

In many parts of Brazil, 'de' is pronounced like 'djee'. So 'atrás de mim' might sound like 'a-tras djee mim'. Be prepared for this regional pronunciation.

Use 'Por trás de' for Analysis

If you are writing an essay and want to sound sophisticated when discussing hidden motives or underlying causes, use 'por trás de' instead of just 'atrás de'.

Embrace the Hustle

When talking to Brazilians about your goals, use the phrase 'estou correndo atrás'. It shows that you are proactive and understand the cultural mindset of determination.

Don't Confuse with 'Traz'

'Atrás' means behind. 'Traz' is the verb 'trazer' (to bring). They sound similar but have completely different meanings and spellings.

Describe Your Room

A great way to practice is to sit in your room and describe where everything is using 'atrás de'. 'A cama está atrás da mesa', etc. Do this daily.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Imagine a TRASH can (atrás) BEHIND the door. 'Atrás de' = behind.

أصل الكلمة

Latin

السياق الثقافي

'Correr atrás do prejuízo' is a ubiquitous idiom used in business, sports, and daily life to mean making up for lost time or fixing a mistake.

While 'atrás de' is used identically for spatial location, the metaphorical 'correr atrás' is slightly more prevalent in Brazilian colloquial speech, though perfectly understood in Portugal.

The phrase 'passar para trás' means to cheat or deceive someone, literally 'to pass them behind'.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

بدايات محادثة

"Você costuma correr atrás dos seus sonhos?"

"O que você acha que está atrás dessa nova tendência?"

"Você já teve que correr atrás do prejuízo no trabalho?"

"O que tem atrás da sua casa?"

"Você acha que é importante nunca olhar para trás?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Descreva um momento em que você teve que correr atrás do prejuízo.

O que está atrás da sua motivação para aprender português?

Descreva a vista que existe atrás da sua casa.

Escreva sobre um sonho que você está correndo atrás atualmente.

Você acha que as pessoas escondem suas verdadeiras intenções por trás de sorrisos?

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

'Atrás de' is used for spatial location, meaning 'behind' in physical space. 'Depois de' is used for temporal sequences, meaning 'after' in time. For example, you stand 'atrás de' someone in line, but you arrive 'depois de' them at a party. Confusing the two is a common mistake for English speakers.

Yes, in standard Portuguese, the contraction is mandatory. You must say 'atrás do carro' and never 'atrás de o carro'. This rule applies to all definite and indefinite articles. Failing to contract them sounds very unnatural to native speakers.

No, that is grammatically incorrect. After prepositions in Portuguese, you must use prepositional pronouns. The correct form is 'atrás de mim'. Similarly, use 'atrás de ti' instead of 'atrás de tu'.

This is a very common Brazilian idiom. It literally translates to 'running behind the damage'. It means to make up for lost time, to fix a mistake, or to work hard to recover from a bad situation or a setback.

Yes, 'atrás' always has an acute accent on the final 'a'. This indicates that the stress of the word falls on the last syllable. Without the accent, the pronunciation would be incorrect.

While both can mean 'behind', 'por trás de' often carries a stronger connotation of something being hidden, concealed, or being the underlying cause of a situation. You stand 'atrás da porta' (behind the door), but you look for the motive 'por trás do crime' (behind the crime).

Absolutely. In Portuguese, it is very common to use 'atrás de' with the verb 'correr' to express the pursuit of abstract goals. You can 'correr atrás de um sonho' (chase a dream) or 'correr atrás de sucesso' (chase success).

You use the contractions 'dele' and 'dela'. 'Behind him' is 'atrás dele' (atrás + de + ele). 'Behind her' is 'atrás dela' (atrás + de + ela). Do not say 'atrás de ele'.

The phrase itself is neutral and can be used in any register, from academic writing to casual street slang. However, certain idioms that use it, like 'correr atrás', are slightly more colloquial.

It is a cultural expression reflecting hustle and determination. When a Brazilian says 'tô correndo atrás', it means they are working hard, looking for opportunities, or actively trying to improve their situation.