In 15 Sekunden
- Making a big public fuss.
- Loudly complaining about a problem.
- Causing a scene due to dissatisfaction.
- Directly confronting an issue.
Bedeutung
Diese Phrase bedeutet, dass Sie sich wirklich über etwas aufregen. Sie beschweren sich lautstark und öffentlich und verursachen einen Aufruhr, weil Sie verärgert sind. Es ist, als würden Sie von den Dächern über ein Problem schreien, ohne Zurückhaltung.
Wichtige Beispiele
3 von 12Texting a friend about a bad experience
O serviço naquele restaurante foi horrível, tive que `pôr a boca em algo` para eles resolverem.
The service at that restaurant was horrible, I had to make a scene for them to fix it.
Complaining about a faulty product
Comprei um telefone que veio com defeito. Vou `pôr a boca em algo` na loja amanhã.
I bought a phone that came with a defect. I'm going to raise a stink at the store tomorrow.
Discussing neighborhood issues
O barulho dos vizinhos é insuportável, já `pusemos a boca em algo` várias vezes.
The neighbors' noise is unbearable, we've already complained loudly several times.
Kultureller Hintergrund
This phrase taps into the cultural value of expressing grievances, especially when feeling that a social contract has been broken. In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, there's a strong tradition of community and directness in addressing issues, rather than passive acceptance. `Pôr a boca em algo` reflects a willingness to confront problems head-on, using one's voice as a primary tool for resolution or at least for making one's dissatisfaction known.
Think 'Mouth ON It!'
Visualize literally putting your mouth onto the problem and shouting about it. It's noisy, it's direct, and it's all about making your displeasure heard.
The Power of Voice
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, direct expression of grievances is valued. This phrase embodies that spirit – don't just suffer in silence, let it be known!
In 15 Sekunden
- Making a big public fuss.
- Loudly complaining about a problem.
- Causing a scene due to dissatisfaction.
- Directly confronting an issue.
What It Means
This idiom, pôr a boca em algo, is all about making a big deal out of a problem. You're not just quietly annoyed; you're actively complaining, often loudly and to anyone who will listen. Think of it as raising a stink or causing a commotion because you're unhappy with a situation. It carries a strong vibe of public dissatisfaction and a refusal to let something slide. It's the opposite of keeping quiet.
Origin Story
The origin of pôr a boca em algo is a bit murky, like trying to find a clean fork in a messy kitchen! But the general idea likely comes from the physical act of speaking out. Your mouth is your primary tool for vocalizing complaints. When you 'put your mouth on something,' you're directing your words, your energy, and your displeasure specifically towards that issue. It's like a dog growling and barking (putting its mouth on) a threat. The phrase likely evolved from this very direct, physical image of vocalizing a grievance forcefully. It’s folk wisdom at its finest, painting a vivid picture with simple actions.
How To Use It
Use pôr a boca em algo when you want to express strong, public disapproval. It's for situations where you feel wronged or dissatisfied. You're not just murmuring your complaints; you're letting everyone know. Imagine your favorite café suddenly changes its coffee beans for the worse. You wouldn't just sip sadly; you'd pôr a boca em algo and tell the manager (and maybe your friends on social media!) exactly what you think. It’s about making your voice heard, often with a bit of drama.
Real-Life Examples
- At the supermarket: "O caixa registrou o item errado duas vezes, tive que
pôr a boca em algopara corrigirem." - With a friend: "Meu vizinho não para de fazer barulho à noite. Vou
pôr a boca em algoamanhã cedo." - On social media: "Essa nova política da empresa é ridícula. Vou
pôr a boca em algono meu post." - After a bad meal: "A comida estava fria e o serviço péssimo. A gente
pôs a boca em algoe pediu o gerente."
When To Use It
This phrase is perfect for situations where you feel a strong injustice. Think of a company overcharging you, a friend breaking a promise, or a service not meeting expectations. It's for when you're genuinely upset and want to express that anger or frustration. It’s also great for those times when you see something wrong and feel compelled to speak up, even if it might be a little uncomfortable. It’s about taking a stand, vocally.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid pôr a boca em algo for minor inconveniences or personal preferences. If your friend orders a pizza topping you don't like, don't pôr a boca em algo about it. It’s also not suitable for formal settings where politeness and diplomacy are key, like a job interview or a delicate negotiation. Using it inappropriately can make you seem petty or overly aggressive. It's not for subtle hints; it's for making noise!
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using it for something trivial. It dilutes the impact. Another is using it in a very formal context where it sounds out of place. Sometimes people confuse it with simply talking about something. Remember, it's about *complaining* loudly.
- ✗ "Eu gosto muito desse filme, vou
pôr a boca em algosobre ele." - ✓ "Eu não gostei desse filme, vou
pôr a boca em algosobre ele." - ✗ "Precisamos
pôr a boca em algosobre os planos para o fim de semana." - ✓ "Precisamos discutir os planos para o fim de semana."
Similar Expressions
Reclamar alto: To complain loudly. Very direct.Fazer um escândalo: To make a scene/scandal. More dramatic.Dar o berro: To yell/scream. Focuses on the sound.Bater o pé: To stomp your foot. Shows stubbornness.
Memory Trick
Imagine someone literally stuffing their mouth full of words (complaints) and then shouting them out. Pôr a boca em algo = putting your mouth *onto* the problem and letting all the words spill out in a big, noisy way. It’s a bit silly, but it works! Think of a grumpy parrot squawking about its cage.
Quick FAQ
- Is it always negative? Mostly, yes. It implies dissatisfaction.
- Can it be humorous? Sometimes, if the situation is absurd, but the core is complaint.
- Is it common? Yes, quite common in informal speech.
Nutzungshinweise
This idiom is strictly informal and should be used in casual conversation among friends or family. Avoid it in professional settings, formal writing, or when trying to be diplomatic. The core idea is making a loud, public complaint, so ensure the context warrants such an expressive reaction.
Think 'Mouth ON It!'
Visualize literally putting your mouth onto the problem and shouting about it. It's noisy, it's direct, and it's all about making your displeasure heard.
The Power of Voice
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, direct expression of grievances is valued. This phrase embodies that spirit – don't just suffer in silence, let it be known!
Don't Use for Minor Annoyances!
Using `pôr a boca em algo` for something trivial, like a friend choosing the wrong movie, makes you sound overly dramatic or petty. Save it for genuine issues!
Intent vs. Action
You can say you *will* `pôr a boca em algo` (intend to complain) or that you *did* `pôr a boca em algo` (already complained). The tense changes the timing.
Beispiele
12O serviço naquele restaurante foi horrível, tive que `pôr a boca em algo` para eles resolverem.
The service at that restaurant was horrible, I had to make a scene for them to fix it.
Here, 'fazer uma cena' is the direct outcome of `pôr a boca em algo`.
Comprei um telefone que veio com defeito. Vou `pôr a boca em algo` na loja amanhã.
I bought a phone that came with a defect. I'm going to raise a stink at the store tomorrow.
Implies a strong, vocal complaint is planned.
O barulho dos vizinhos é insuportável, já `pusemos a boca em algo` várias vezes.
The neighbors' noise is unbearable, we've already complained loudly several times.
Shows repeated attempts to address the issue vocally.
Quando os direitos são ignorados, é hora de `pôr a boca em algo`. #JustiçaJá
When rights are ignored, it's time to speak out loudly. #JusticeNow
Used metaphorically for activism or strong public opinion.
Esse filme foi uma decepção total! Vou `pôr a boca em algo` nos comentários.
This movie was a total disappointment! I'm going to make a fuss in the comments.
Modern usage, referring to online discourse.
Precisamos `pôr a boca em algo` sobre o prazo irrealista que nos deram.
We need to make a strong complaint about the unrealistic deadline they gave us.
Used here to advocate for the team's needs.
Em uma situação assim, eu tenderia a `pôr a boca em algo` de forma construtiva.
In a situation like that, I would tend to voice my concerns constructively.
Shows a more measured, though still direct, approach.
✗ Eu gosto de sorvete de chocolate, vou `pôr a boca em algo` sobre isso.
✗ I like chocolate ice cream, I'm going to make a fuss about it.
This is far too strong for a simple preference. You'd use 'gosto' or 'adoro'.
✗ Peço desculpas, mas tive que `pôr a boca em algo` sobre o atraso.
✗ I apologize, but I had to make a fuss about the delay.
This mixes apology with aggressive complaint. You'd say 'explicar o motivo do atraso' or 'pedir desculpas pelo atraso'.
Esse pão está tão duro que dá pra `pôr a boca em algo` e quebrar um dente!
This bread is so hard you could complain loudly and break a tooth!
Exaggerated for comedic effect, focusing on the 'hard' aspect.
Tentar resolver esse problema na prefeitura é impossível, a gente `põe a boca em algo` e ninguém escuta.
Trying to solve this problem at the city hall is impossible, we complain loudly and nobody listens.
Highlights the futility of complaining against bureaucracy.
O voo atrasou seis horas! Tivemos que `pôr a boca em algo` no aeroporto.
The flight was delayed six hours! We had to make a big fuss at the airport.
Relatable travel complaint scenario.
Teste dich selbst
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the idiom.
The sentence describes a bad service, implying a complaint. 'Pôr a boca em algo' means to complain loudly or make a fuss.
Choose the sentence that uses `pôr a boca em algo` correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
The correct option describes a situation of dissatisfaction leading to a complaint, which is the meaning of the idiom. The other options misuse the phrase.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The original sentence is grammatically correct and uses the idiom appropriately. There is no error to fix in this instance, but the idiom implies a strong, vocal complaint about injustice.
Translate this sentence into Portuguese.
This translation captures the meaning of making a large, vocal complaint about a specific issue (the new policy).
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the idiom.
The situation describes passenger frustration due to a canceled flight, fitting the meaning of complaining loudly or making a fuss.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The phrase 'pôr a boca em algo' means to complain loudly and make a scene. Saying 'I don't want to make a fuss' implies you *would* if you chose to, making the contrast with 'prefer to stay quiet' awkward. A simpler verb like 'reclamar' (to complain) or 'falar' (to speak) fits better if the intention is to avoid making noise.
Choose the sentence that uses `pôr a boca em algo` correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly uses the idiom to express a potential loud complaint if the service doesn't improve. The other options misuse the phrase.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
The sentence 'Ele pôs a boca na reunião' means he complained loudly or made a scene during the meeting. Note: 'pôr a boca em algo' is the infinitive, here conjugated as 'pôs a boca na reunião' (put his mouth on the meeting/complained at the meeting).
Translate this sentence into Portuguese.
This translation accurately conveys the meaning of making a loud complaint ('fazer uma cena') about the specific issue (the incorrect bill) using the idiom `pôr a boca em algo`.
Choose the sentence that uses `pôr a boca em algo` correctly in a nuanced way.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly implies that she is inclined to complain loudly or make a fuss when she witnesses injustice. The other options are either too general or misuse the phrase.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
Using 'pôs a boca em algo' for a small problem sounds disproportionate and aggressive. A simpler phrase like 'fez muito barulho' (made a lot of noise) or 'reclamou muito' (complained a lot) is more fitting and less dramatic for a minor issue.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This is the infinitive form, often used when stating intent. 'Vou pôr a boca em algo' means 'I am going to make a fuss about something'.
🎉 Ergebnis: /12
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Formality Spectrum for `Pôr a Boca em Algo`
Used among close friends, family, or in very casual settings where strong emotions are expressed freely.
O serviço foi péssimo, tive que `pôr a boca em algo`!
Common in everyday conversations, social media, and general public complaints.
Se o preço continuar assim, vou `pôr a boca em algo`.
Rarely used in neutral contexts; its nature is inherently informal and expressive.
N/A
Completely inappropriate for formal settings like business meetings or official reports.
N/A
Where You Might `Pôr a Boca em Algo`
Bad restaurant service
O garçom demorou uma hora!
Faulty product purchase
Essa TV não funciona direito!
Unfair work policy
Essa nova regra é absurda!
Neighbor's noise
Eles não param de fazer barulho!
Online complaint
Estou reclamando nos comentários!
Public transport issue
Esse ônibus está lotado!
Comparing `Pôr a Boca em Algo` with Similar Phrases
Scenarios for `Pôr a Boca em Algo`
Consumer Complaints
- • Faulty electronics
- • Bad food quality
- • Overpriced services
Social Issues
- • Unfair treatment
- • Public policy
- • Community problems
Interpersonal Conflicts
- • Neighbor disputes
- • Breach of promise
- • Disrespectful behavior
Online Outrage
- • Social media rants
- • Bad app reviews
- • Viral complaints
Aufgabensammlung
12 AufgabenO serviço foi péssimo, então eu decidi _______.
The sentence describes a bad service, implying a complaint. 'Pôr a boca em algo' means to complain loudly or make a fuss.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
The correct option describes a situation of dissatisfaction leading to a complaint, which is the meaning of the idiom. The other options misuse the phrase.
Finde und korrigiere den Fehler:
Ela vai pôr a boca em algo sobre a injustiça que sofreu.
The original sentence is grammatically correct and uses the idiom appropriately. There is no error to fix in this instance, but the idiom implies a strong, vocal complaint about injustice.
They're going to make a huge fuss about the new policy.
Hinweise: Think about 'make a fuss' in Portuguese., The idiom involves 'mouth' and 'something'.
This translation captures the meaning of making a large, vocal complaint about a specific issue (the new policy).
Quando o voo foi cancelado, os passageiros começaram a _______.
The situation describes passenger frustration due to a canceled flight, fitting the meaning of complaining loudly or making a fuss.
Finde und korrigiere den Fehler:
Eu não quero pôr a boca em algo sobre isso, prefiro ficar quieto.
The phrase 'pôr a boca em algo' means to complain loudly and make a scene. Saying 'I don't want to make a fuss' implies you *would* if you chose to, making the contrast with 'prefer to stay quiet' awkward. A simpler verb like 'reclamar' (to complain) or 'falar' (to speak) fits better if the intention is to avoid making noise.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly uses the idiom to express a potential loud complaint if the service doesn't improve. The other options misuse the phrase.
Ordne die Worter in der richtigen Reihenfolge:
Klicke auf die Worter oben, um den Satz zu bilden
The sentence 'Ele pôs a boca na reunião' means he complained loudly or made a scene during the meeting. Note: 'pôr a boca em algo' is the infinitive, here conjugated as 'pôs a boca na reunião' (put his mouth on the meeting/complained at the meeting).
She made a big scene about the bill being wrong.
Hinweise: Consider the idiom for 'make a big scene'., The 'something' refers to the incorrect bill.
This translation accurately conveys the meaning of making a loud complaint ('fazer uma cena') about the specific issue (the incorrect bill) using the idiom `pôr a boca em algo`.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This option correctly implies that she is inclined to complain loudly or make a fuss when she witnesses injustice. The other options are either too general or misuse the phrase.
Finde und korrigiere den Fehler:
Apesar de ser um problema pequeno, ele pôs a boca em algo muito alto.
Using 'pôs a boca em algo' for a small problem sounds disproportionate and aggressive. A simpler phrase like 'fez muito barulho' (made a lot of noise) or 'reclamou muito' (complained a lot) is more fitting and less dramatic for a minor issue.
Ordne die Worter in der richtigen Reihenfolge:
Klicke auf die Worter oben, um den Satz zu bilden
This is the infinitive form, often used when stating intent. 'Vou pôr a boca em algo' means 'I am going to make a fuss about something'.
🎉 Ergebnis: /12
Video-Tutorials
Finde Video-Tutorials zu dieser Redewendung auf YouTube.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
20 FragenLiterally, it translates to 'to put the mouth on something'. This vivid image suggests directing your voice, your complaints, and your energy directly onto a specific issue or problem.
The core idea is to complain loudly and publicly, making a significant fuss about something that has displeased you. It's about causing a scene or raising a stink, not just a quiet grumble.
Yes, it's almost exclusively used to express negative feelings like anger, frustration, or strong dissatisfaction. It signifies a problem that needs addressing, and you're making sure people know about it.
Use it when you're genuinely upset about a situation and want to express it forcefully. Think of poor service, a faulty product, or an unfair situation where you feel compelled to speak up.
It's generally too informal for most professional settings. However, in certain situations where a strong stance needs to be taken about workplace issues, it might be used among colleagues, but cautiously.
Reclamar simply means 'to complain'. Pôr a boca em algo adds the element of loudness, public display, and making a scene. It's a complaint with extra volume and drama.
Absolutely! This phrase is perfect for venting frustrations to friends about everyday annoyances, like a bad movie, a terrible driver, or a disappointing online order. It fits naturally in casual conversation.
Ideally, yes. While you can say pôr a boca em algo generally, it's often more impactful when you specify what you're complaining about, like pôr a boca na conta (complain about the bill) or pôr a boca no serviço (complain about the service).
It's firmly in the informal camp. Using it in a formal speech or written report would sound jarring and inappropriate, potentially undermining your credibility.
Learners might use it for trivial matters, making them sound petty, or use it in formal settings, sounding out of place. Another mistake is confusing it with simply discussing a topic.
Yes, you can! If someone is complaining excessively about something minor, you might sarcastically say, 'Nossa, você vai pôr a boca em algo por causa disso?' (Wow, are you going to make a fuss over that?).
It reflects a cultural tendency in some Portuguese-speaking communities to address issues directly and vocally. It empowers individuals to voice their discontent rather than accepting things passively.
While widely understood, the intensity or frequency of use might vary. However, the core meaning of making a loud complaint remains consistent across Portuguese-speaking regions.
If you want to complain but keep it more low-key, simply use reclamar. For example, 'Vou reclamar do serviço' (I will complain about the service) is less dramatic than pôr a boca em algo.
Yes, absolutely. You can use past tenses like 'pôs a boca em algo' (he/she/it put his/her/its mouth on something/complained loudly) or 'pusemos a boca em algo' (we complained loudly) to describe past actions.
The opposite would be to remain silent, to accept something without complaint, or perhaps to praise something. Phrases like ficar quieto (stay quiet) or aceitar passivamente (accept passively) convey the opposite sentiment.
Imagine someone literally stuffing their mouth with complaints and then shouting them out. The 'mouth' is 'on' the 'something' (the problem), making noise. It's a silly image, but effective!
It's rare in formal news reporting, which prefers more neutral language. However, you might see it in opinion pieces, blogs, or informal social media posts shared by news outlets.
If your goal is constructive criticism, pôr a boca em algo is usually too aggressive. You'd use phrases like dar feedback construtivo (give constructive feedback) or sugerir melhorias (suggest improvements).
Yes, the 'something' can be abstract. You can pôr a boca em algo about a situation, a policy, an idea, or even a general feeling of injustice. The key is that it's a specific target for your vocal complaint.
Verwandte Redewendungen
Reclamar
synonymTo complain
This is the base verb for complaining, while `pôr a boca em algo` specifies the *manner* of complaining (loudly, making a scene).
Fazer um escândalo
related topicTo make a scene/scandal
Both phrases involve causing a commotion due to dissatisfaction, but `fazer um escândalo` often implies more dramatic, disruptive behavior.
Dar o berro
related topicTo yell/scream
This focuses purely on the loud vocalization aspect, similar to the loudness implied in `pôr a boca em algo`, but without the specific 'complaint' context.
Pôr os pingos nos is
antonymTo dot the i's and cross the t's / Clarify
While both start with 'pôr', this phrase means to clarify details precisely, the opposite of making a loud, potentially imprecise fuss.
Ficar quieto
antonymTo stay quiet
This is the direct behavioral opposite of `pôr a boca em algo`, which inherently involves speaking out loudly.
Criticar
related topicTo criticize
Criticism is a form of expressing disapproval, but `pôr a boca em algo` implies a much louder, more public, and emotionally charged expression of that disapproval.
