At the A1 level, you learn that 'desmarcar' is the opposite of 'marcar'. It is a regular verb ending in -ar. You use it in very simple sentences to say you cannot go to a doctor or a meeting. You might say 'Eu desmarco o médico' or 'Não posso ir, vou desmarcar'. The focus is on the basic action of cancelling a simple plan. You don't need to worry about complex social nuances yet, just the ability to communicate that a planned event is no longer happening. It's a vital survival word for managing your schedule in a Portuguese-speaking environment. Even at this level, knowing the difference between 'cancelar' (for things like flights or TV) and 'desmarcar' (for people and appointments) will make you sound much more natural. You should practice the present tense: eu desmarco, você desmarca, nós desmarcamos, eles desmarcam.
At the A2 level, you start to use 'desmarcar' with reasons and in the past tense. You will often use the 'Pretérito Perfeito' (past simple) to explain why you didn't show up: 'Eu desmarquei porque estava doente'. You also begin to see the word in common places like clinics or hair salons. You might hear a receptionist ask 'Você quer desmarcar?'. You should also learn the word 'remarcar' (to reschedule) as it usually goes hand-in-hand with 'desmarcar'. At this stage, you're building the ability to manage your daily life, and 'desmarcar' is a key tool for that. You might also start to use 'ter que' (to have to) with the infinitive: 'Tive que desmarcar o almoço'. This adds a layer of necessity to your speech.
At the B1 level, you use 'desmarcar' with more nuance and in different tenses, including the future and the conditional. You might say 'Se eu não terminar o trabalho, terei que desmarcar o jantar'. You also start to understand the social implications. You learn phrases like 'desmarcar em cima da hora' (to cancel last minute) and why it's something people try to avoid. You can write simple emails to cancel appointments professionally. You also understand that 'desmarcar' can be used for digital actions, like 'unchecking' a box in a form. Your vocabulary expands to include synonyms like 'adiar' (to postpone) and you can choose which one fits the situation better. You are becoming more flexible with the word.
At the B2 level, you are comfortable using 'desmarcar' in a wide variety of professional and social contexts. You understand the passive voice ('A reunião foi desmarcada') and use it to be more diplomatic. you can handle more complex excuses and justifications. You recognize the difference between 'desmarcar' and 'cancelar' in almost every context. You might use the verb in the 'Pretérito Imperfeito do Subjuntivo' to express hypotheses: 'Se ele desmarcasse, eu ficaria aliviado'. You also start to pick up on the emotional weight of the word in relationships—how 'desmarcar' frequently can damage a friendship. You are now using the word with the natural rhythm of a native speaker, including using the correct prepositions like 'com' when cancelling with a person.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the register and the subtle social power dynamics involved in 'desmarcar'. You use it in highly formal settings, perhaps using 'ver-me-ei na contingência de desmarcar' (I will find myself in the position of having to cancel). You understand its use in news reports and official communications. You can discuss the 'culture of cancelling' (the social phenomenon) using this verb. You are aware of the regional differences between Brazil and Portugal in how the verb is used in continuous tenses. You also know related technical terms like 'distrato' or 'rescisão' for more formal cancellations, but you know that 'desmarcar' remains the best choice for appointments. Your use of the verb is precise, idiomatic, and culturally grounded.
At the C2 level, you use 'desmarcar' with complete mastery, even in literary or philosophical contexts. You might use it metaphorically, such as 'desmarcar o destino' (unmarking/changing destiny). You understand every possible connotation and can play with the word's meaning in puns or sophisticated humor. You can navigate the most delicate social situations where 'desmarcar' is necessary, using it with perfect tone and timing. You are familiar with historical uses of the root 'marcar' and how 'desmarcar' evolved. You can switch between formal, neutral, and slang registers effortlessly. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a tool for nuanced expression of intent, obligation, and social grace.

desmarcar in 30 Sekunden

  • Desmarcar is specifically for appointments and social meetings.
  • It is the opposite of 'marcar' (to schedule/mark).
  • Common in medical, professional, and social contexts.
  • Always use it when you can't make it to a planned time slot.
The Portuguese verb desmarcar is a sophisticated and essential term for anyone aiming for high-level fluency in Portuguese. At its most fundamental level, it means 'to cancel,' but it is specifically applied to appointments, meetings, reservations, or any previously scheduled engagement. While the word cancelar is a broad synonym, desmarcar is the precise choice for social and professional logistics. It is the linguistic 'undo' button for your calendar.
Social Etiquette
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, time is often viewed through a relational lens. When you 'desmarcar' something, you aren't just changing a data point; you are altering a social contract. Doing so requires a specific set of linguistic tools to maintain politeness. For instance, 'desmarcar em cima da hora' (cancelling at the last minute) is generally considered quite rude unless accompanied by a 'justificativa' (justification).

Sinto muito, mas vou ter que desmarcar a nossa consulta de amanhã por motivos de força maior.

Professional Context
In a business setting, 'desmarcar' is used frequently in emails and phone calls. Common objects include 'reunião' (meeting), 'entrevista' (interview), and 'apresentação' (presentation). It is often paired with 'remarcar' (to reschedule), showing that while the current slot is gone, the intent to meet remains.

O diretor precisou desmarcar a conferência para atender a uma emergência na fábrica.

Daily Life
From the hair salon ('cabeleireiro') to the dentist ('dentista'), you will use this verb whenever you cannot make it to an appointment. It is transitive, meaning it usually takes a direct object without a preposition: 'Desmarquei o médico' (I cancelled the doctor's appointment).

Você pode desmarcar a mesa que reservei para as oito horas?

Infelizmente, teremos que desmarcar o passeio devido à previsão de chuva forte.

Ela ligou para desmarcar o compromisso, mas não deu nenhuma explicação clara.

Using desmarcar correctly involves understanding its transitive nature and its common collocates. It is a regular -ar verb, making its conjugation straightforward for those familiar with Portuguese grammar. However, the complexity lies in the context.
Direct Object Usage
The verb acts directly upon the appointment. You 'desmarcar' the meeting, the lunch, or the date. Example: 'Eu desmarquei a reunião'. It is rarely used intransitively; saying 'Eu desmarquei' without context leaves the listener wondering what was cancelled.

Se você não puder ir, por favor, desmarque com pelo menos 24 horas de antecedência.

Passive and Impersonal Forms
In formal writing, you might see the passive voice: 'A reunião foi desmarcada.' This shifts focus away from who did the cancelling, which can be useful when you want to be diplomatic or avoid blame.

O evento precisou ser desmarcado por conta da greve dos transportes públicos.

Compound Tenses
Using 'ter que' or 'precisar' before 'desmarcar' adds a layer of necessity. 'Tive que desmarcar' (I had to cancel) is the standard way to express an involuntary cancellation. This is much more common than the simple past 'desmarquei' when providing an excuse.

Não fique bravo, mas tive que desmarcar nosso jantar de hoje à noite.

Eles acabaram de desmarcar o voo particular que estava previsto para as dez.

Se o tempo continuar assim, vamos desmarcar a trilha na montanha.

O secretário está a desmarcar as audiências da tarde para o juiz.

You will encounter desmarcar in almost every facet of urban life in a Portuguese-speaking country. It is the language of the 'agenda'. In the professional sphere, it’s the word of choice for PAs, receptionists, and managers. In social life, it’s the word that appears in your WhatsApp group when a friend can't make it to 'happy hour'.
The Medical Clinic
This is perhaps the most common place to hear the word. Receptionists will often ask: 'O senhor deseja remarcar ou apenas desmarcar?' (Do you wish to reschedule or just cancel?). It's a binary choice that defines the clinic's workflow.

Liguei para o consultório para desmarcar minha sessão de fisioterapia.

Social Media and Messaging
In the age of digital communication, 'desmarcar' has become a source of social anxiety. 'Levar um desmarque' (to be cancelled on) is a common complaint. You'll hear friends say: 'Ele desmarcou de novo!' (He cancelled again!), often implying a lack of reliability.

Não acredito que ela desmarcou o cinema dez minutos antes do filme começar!

Corporate Culture
In large corporations, 'desmarcar' is often seen as a power move or a sign of extreme busyness. High-level executives 'desmarcam' commitments to prioritize urgent crises. In these contexts, it's often used with 'adiar' (to postpone).

O cliente desmarcou a visita técnica porque a fábrica está em manutenção.

Tivemos que desmarcar o treinamento por falta de quórum.

Ela vive desmarcando os nossos encontros, acho que ela não quer mais sair comigo.

Por favor, avise ao Dr. Silva que precisei desmarcar o almoço de negócios.

Even advanced learners of Portuguese can stumble when using desmarcar, primarily because of interference from English or other Romance languages. The most common error is using 'cancelar' in contexts where 'desmarcar' is more natural, or using the wrong preposition.
Overusing 'Cancelar'
While 'cancelar o médico' is grammatically possible and understood, it sounds slightly 'foreign' or overly bureaucratic. A native speaker will almost always say 'desmarcar o médico'. 'Cancelar' is better for events (a show, a flight) or legal/financial items (a contract, a credit card).

Errado: Vou cancelar meu encontro.
Correto: Vou desmarcar meu encontro.

Preposition Pitfalls
Learners often try to use 'de' or 'para' after 'desmarcar'. Remember: 'desmarcar algo' (direct object). If you are cancelling with someone, it is 'desmarcar com alguém'. Using 'desmarcar de' is a common mistake influenced by verbs like 'desistir de'.

Errado: Desmarquei de ir ao cinema.
Correto: Desmarquei o cinema.

Confusion with 'Apagar'
Because 'marcar' can mean to highlight or mark text, some learners use 'desmarcar' to mean 'unhighlight' or 'erase'. While 'desmarcar' can technically mean 'uncheck' a box in a digital interface, 'apagar' or 'remover o destaque' is usually better for text.

Na planilha, você deve desmarcar a opção de envio automático.

Não se esqueça de desmarcar a reserva do hotel se os planos mudarem.

Ele acabou por desmarcar a viagem por causa do preço das passagens.

Tivemos que desmarcar a palestra porque o palestrante adoeceu.

Understanding the ecosystem of verbs related to scheduling will help you choose the right word for every situation. Portuguese offers several nuances that English often bundles under 'cancel' or 'postpone'.
Desmarcar vs. Cancelar
As discussed, desmarcar is for appointments. Cancelar is for subscriptions, contracts, entire events, or flights. If a concert is 'cancelado', it's not happening for anyone. If you 'desmarcar' your ticket, you just aren't going.
Adiar vs. Postergar
Adiar is the most common word for 'to postpone'. It implies the event will definitely happen later. Postergar is more formal and often used in academic or legal contexts to mean 'to push back' or 'to delay'.

Em vez de desmarcar, não seria melhor apenas adiar a reunião para a semana que vem?

Anular vs. Revogar
Anular means 'to nullify' or 'to void'. You use it for votes, marriages, or goals in a soccer match. Revogar is legalistic, used for laws, decrees, or powers of attorney.

O juiz decidiu anular a audiência, o que é bem diferente de apenas desmarcar por um dia.

Suspender
Used when an ongoing process is stopped temporarily. 'Suspenderam as aulas' (They suspended classes). It sounds more authoritative and temporary than 'desmarcar'.

A prefeitura resolveu suspender o rodízio de veículos durante o feriado.

Para desmarcar um compromisso sem parecer mal-educado, use sempre 'infelizmente'.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The root 'marcar' comes from the Germanic 'marka', meaning a boundary or sign. So 'desmarcar' is literally removing the boundary or sign of a planned event.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /dɨʒ.mɐɾ.ˈkaɾ/
US /dez.maʁ.ˈkaχ/
The stress is on the last syllable: 'kar'.
Reimt sich auf
ficar lugar cantar pensar olhar chegar andar falar
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 's' as 's' instead of 'z' or 'sh' before 'm'.
  • Forgetting to stress the final syllable in the infinitive.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'marcar'.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires knowing the correct object and prepositions.

Sprechen 4/5

Requires correct pronunciation of the 's' and stress.

Hören 3/5

Commonly used in rapid speech, especially in 'desmarquei'.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

marcar consulta reunião agenda cancelar

Als Nächstes lernen

remarcar adiar justificar imprevisto compromisso

Fortgeschritten

contingência unilateralmente rescisão anuência postergar

Wichtige Grammatik

Regular -ar verb conjugation

Eu desmarco, você desmarca, nós desmarcamos.

Direct Object Pronouns with desmarcar

A reunião? Eu a desmarquei ontem.

Subjunctive after 'Caso'

Caso ele desmarque, eu vou ao cinema.

Passive Voice with 'ser'

O evento foi desmarcado por segurança.

Preposition 'com' for social cancellation

Desmarquei com ela porque estou cansado.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Eu preciso desmarcar o médico.

I need to cancel the doctor's appointment.

Present infinitive after 'preciso'.

2

Você desmarca o jantar hoje?

Are you cancelling the dinner today?

Present tense question.

3

Eu desmarco a aula de português.

I am cancelling the Portuguese class.

First person singular present.

4

Por favor, desmarque a mesa.

Please, cancel the table (reservation).

Imperative form (você).

5

Ela desmarca o compromisso.

She cancels the commitment.

Third person singular present.

6

Nós desmarcamos a reunião agora.

We are cancelling the meeting now.

First person plural present.

7

Eles desmarcam a festa?

Are they cancelling the party?

Third person plural present.

8

Não desmarque o dentista!

Don't cancel the dentist!

Negative imperative.

1

Eu desmarquei a consulta ontem.

I cancelled the appointment yesterday.

Pretérito Perfeito (past simple).

2

Ela teve que desmarcar o cinema.

She had to cancel the cinema.

'Ter que' + infinitive.

3

Nós vamos desmarcar o passeio amanhã.

We are going to cancel the outing tomorrow.

Immediate future.

4

Você desmarcou com o João?

Did you cancel with João?

Use of 'com' for people.

5

Eles desmarcaram a viagem por causa da chuva.

They cancelled the trip because of the rain.

Pretérito Perfeito with cause.

6

O médico desmarcou todos os pacientes.

The doctor cancelled all the patients.

Subject is 'O médico'.

7

Preciso desmarcar porque estou doente.

I need to cancel because I am sick.

Reasoning with 'porque'.

8

Vou ligar para desmarcar o cabeleireiro.

I'm going to call to cancel the hairdresser.

Purpose with 'para'.

1

Se eu não terminar, vou ter que desmarcar.

If I don't finish, I'll have to cancel.

Conditional 'se' + future.

2

Ele desmarcou a reunião em cima da hora.

He cancelled the meeting at the last minute.

Idiomatic expression 'em cima da hora'.

3

Gostaria de desmarcar minha reserva, por favor.

I would like to cancel my reservation, please.

Conditional 'Gostaria' for politeness.

4

Ela sempre desmarca nossos planos.

She always cancels our plans.

Adverb of frequency 'sempre'.

5

A reunião foi desmarcada pelo diretor.

The meeting was cancelled by the director.

Passive voice.

6

Você pode desmarcar essa opção no site?

Can you uncheck this option on the website?

Technical usage.

7

Sinto muito por ter que desmarcar assim.

I'm sorry for having to cancel like this.

Apology structure.

8

Eles desmarcariam se pudessem.

They would cancel if they could.

Conditional + Imperfect Subjunctive.

1

Infelizmente, ver-me-ei obrigado a desmarcar.

Unfortunately, I will be forced to cancel.

Formal future with mesoclisis (rare) or formal construction.

2

É a terceira vez que ele desmarca esta semana.

It's the third time he's cancelled this week.

Expressing repetition.

3

Caso ele desmarque, avise-me imediatamente.

In case he cancels, let me know immediately.

Subjunctive after 'Caso'.

4

Não é educado desmarcar sem uma boa razão.

It's not polite to cancel without a good reason.

Infinitive as subject.

5

A palestra foi desmarcada por falta de público.

The lecture was cancelled due to lack of audience.

Passive voice with reason.

6

Ela desmarcou o compromisso alegando cansaço.

She cancelled the appointment claiming tiredness.

Gerund 'alegando' for reason.

7

Tente não desmarcar, pois o cliente é importante.

Try not to cancel, as the client is important.

Imperative 'Tente' + negative infinitive.

8

O hotel cobra uma taxa se você desmarcar hoje.

The hotel charges a fee if you cancel today.

Real condition.

1

Houve um imprevisto e precisei desmarcar a conferência.

There was an unexpected event and I needed to cancel the conference.

Use of 'imprevisto' (unforeseen event).

2

A empresa desmarcou o lançamento do produto.

The company cancelled the product launch.

Corporate context.

3

Ela desmarcou a viagem, citando problemas pessoais.

She cancelled the trip, citing personal problems.

Formal 'citando'.

4

O evento foi desmarcado devido a circunstâncias imprevistas.

The event was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

Formal passive voice.

5

Desmarcar compromissos recorrentemente afeta sua credibilidade.

Cancelling appointments repeatedly affects your credibility.

Adverb 'recorrentemente'.

6

Solicito que desmarquem a minha audiência com o sócio.

I request that you (plural) cancel my hearing with the partner.

Formal request with Subjunctive.

7

Ele desmarcou o jantar, o que me deixou bastante frustrado.

He cancelled the dinner, which left me quite frustrated.

Relative clause 'o que'.

8

Apesar de ter desmarcado, ele prometeu vir amanhã.

Despite having cancelled, he promised to come tomorrow.

Concessive 'Apesar de'.

1

O destino pareceu desmarcar o nosso encontro fortuito.

Fate seemed to unmark (cancel) our chance meeting.

Metaphorical usage.

2

A desmarcação sistemática de reuniões revela má gestão.

The systematic cancellation of meetings reveals poor management.

Noun form 'desmarcação'.

3

Ele viu-se na contingência de desmarcar o cruzeiro.

He found himself in the position of having to cancel the cruise.

High-level formal expression.

4

Desmarcar um compromisso de Estado exige protocolos rígidos.

Cancelling a State commitment requires rigid protocols.

Diplomatic context.

5

A incerteza política levou o governo a desmarcar o leilão.

Political uncertainty led the government to cancel the auction.

Political/Economic context.

6

Não se pode desmarcar o que já foi gravado na história.

One cannot unmark (undo) what has already been recorded in history.

Philosophical usage.

7

A decisão de desmarcar a cimeira foi tomada unilateralmente.

The decision to cancel the summit was taken unilaterally.

Adverb 'unilateralmente'.

8

O autor desmarcou a sessão de autógrafos sem aviso prévio.

The author cancelled the book signing session without prior notice.

'Sem aviso prévio' (without notice).

Häufige Kollokationen

desmarcar uma consulta
desmarcar em cima da hora
desmarcar uma reunião
desmarcar o compromisso
desmarcar a reserva
desmarcar o jantar
desmarcar por telefone
desmarcar antecipadamente
desmarcar a viagem
desmarcar a aula

Häufige Phrasen

Vou ter que desmarcar.

— I'm going to have to cancel. Used when you have an unexpected problem.

Desculpe, vou ter que desmarcar.

Posso desmarcar?

— Can I cancel? A polite way to ask if it's okay to change plans.

Ainda posso desmarcar a reserva?

Ele desmarcou comigo.

— He cancelled on me. Used for social situations.

Fiquei triste porque ele desmarcou comigo.

Desmarcar por imprevisto.

— To cancel due to an unforeseen event. Common in formal excuses.

Preciso desmarcar por um imprevisto familiar.

Não desmarque!

— Don't cancel! Used to encourage someone to keep a commitment.

Por favor, não desmarque nossa ida ao cinema.

Desmarcar de última hora.

— To cancel at the last minute. (Synonym for 'em cima da hora').

Odeio quando desmarcam de última hora.

Desmarcar a agenda.

— To clear one's schedule.

Vou desmarcar minha agenda para te atender.

Desmarcar o encontro.

— To cancel the date or meeting.

Eles desmarcaram o encontro romântico.

Desmarcar sem avisar.

— To cancel without notifying.

É falta de educação desmarcar sem avisar.

Desmarcar a pedido de.

— To cancel at the request of someone else.

A reunião foi desmarcada a pedido do cliente.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

desmarcar vs cancelar

'Cancelar' is for subscriptions or events; 'desmarcar' is for appointments.

desmarcar vs remarcar

'Remarcar' means to reschedule, whereas 'desmarcar' is just to cancel.

desmarcar vs adiar

'Adiar' means to postpone to a later time, 'desmarcar' means the current slot is gone.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"dar um bolo"

— To stand someone up. More extreme than just cancelling.

Ele me deu um bolo ontem.

slang
"furar"

— To fail to show up or to cancel a social plan.

Não fura comigo hoje, hein!

informal
"desmarcar em cima da hora"

— To cancel at the very last second, often seen as rude.

Ela sempre desmarca em cima da hora.

neutral
"tirar o time de campo"

— To withdraw from a situation or plan.

Depois da confusão, ele resolveu tirar o time de campo.

informal
"voltar atrás"

— To go back on one's word or a decision.

Ele prometeu vir, mas voltou atrás e desmarcou.

neutral
"roer a corda"

— To back out of an agreement or promise.

Na hora H, ele roeu a corda e desmarcou.

informal
"ficar na mão"

— To be left hanging because someone cancelled.

Ele desmarcou e eu fiquei na mão.

informal
"dar para trás"

— To back out of a deal or plan.

O investidor deu para trás e desmarcou a assinatura.

informal
"lavar as mãos"

— To stop taking responsibility for a plan.

Eu desmarquei e lavei as mãos sobre o assunto.

neutral
"pular fora"

— To jump out or quit a plan.

Ele pulou fora e desmarcou a sociedade.

informal

Leicht verwechselbar

desmarcar vs cancelar

Both mean 'to cancel'.

'Desmarcar' is for appointments (doctor, lunch). 'Cancelar' is for contracts, flights, or TV shows.

Cancelei a Netflix, mas desmarquei o dentista.

desmarcar vs apagar

Both can mean removing a mark.

'Apagar' is to erase text or light. 'Desmarcar' is to cancel a plan or uncheck a box.

Apague o quadro, mas não desmarque a reunião.

desmarcar vs desistir

Both involve not doing something planned.

'Desistir' is 'to give up' on an idea. 'Desmarcar' is the logistical act of cancelling the time slot.

Desisti de ser médico e desmarquei meu vestibular.

desmarcar vs atrasar

Both involve time changes.

'Atrasar' is to be late. 'Desmarcar' is to not go at all.

Ele se atrasou, então o médico desmarcou a consulta dele.

desmarcar vs soltar

In some languages, 'releasing' a slot is used.

In Portuguese, you don't 'soltar' an appointment. You 'desmarcar'.

Preciso desmarcar (not soltar) a reserva.

Satzmuster

A1

Eu + desmarco + [noun]

Eu desmarco o médico.

A2

Eu + desmarquei + [noun] + porque + [reason]

Eu desmarquei o jantar porque estava cansado.

B1

Preciso + desmarcar + [noun]

Preciso desmarcar a reserva.

B1

Se + [present] + vou + desmarcar

Se chover, vou desmarcar o passeio.

B2

[Noun] + foi + desmarcado(a) + por + [reason]

A aula foi desmarcada por falta de luz.

C1

Apesar de + [infinitive] + [clause]

Apesar de ter desmarcado, ele pagou a multa.

C1

Devido a + [noun] + foi necessário + desmarcar

Devido a um imprevisto, foi necessário desmarcar a reunião.

C2

Ver-me-ei na contingência de + desmarcar

Ver-me-ei na contingência de desmarcar o nosso compromisso.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

desmarcação (the act of cancelling)
marcador (marker)
marca (mark)

Verben

marcar (to schedule)
remarcar (to reschedule)
demarcar (to delimit)

Adjektive

desmarcado (cancelled)
marcado (scheduled/marked)

Verwandt

agenda
compromisso
consulta
horário
reunião

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very high in daily speech and professional writing.

Häufige Fehler
  • Eu cancelei o médico. Eu desmarquei o médico.

    While 'cancelar' is understood, 'desmarcar' is the natural choice for appointments.

  • Desmarquei de ir ao almoço. Desmarquei o almoço.

    Avoid the 'de' after desmarcar when followed by a noun.

  • Vou desmarcar a Maria. Vou desmarcar o encontro com a Maria.

    You cancel the event, not the person.

  • Eu desmarco o Netflix. Eu cancelo o Netflix.

    Use 'cancelar' for subscriptions.

  • A reunião desmarcou. A reunião foi desmarcada.

    A meeting cannot cancel itself; use the passive voice.

Tipps

Direct Object

Always remember that 'desmarcar' usually takes a direct object. Don't forget to say WHAT you are cancelling.

Politeness

In social situations, always use 'infelizmente' (unfortunately) to soften the blow of a cancellation.

Desmarcar vs Remarcar

If you want to move the appointment, use 'remarcar'. If you just want to stop it, use 'desmarcar'.

Final R

In the infinitive, the final 'r' is important. Don't drop it unless you are speaking very informal Brazilian Portuguese.

Checkboxes

Use 'desmarcar' when telling someone to uncheck a box on a computer form.

Em cima da hora

Learn the phrase 'em cima da hora'. It's the most common way to describe a last-minute cancellation.

Justification

In a Portuguese office, 'desmarcar' without a 'justificativa' is seen as unprofessional.

Context Clues

If you hear 'médico' or 'reunião', the verb 'desmarcar' is almost certainly what follows if there's a change.

Email Subject

A good subject line for an email is 'Desmarcação de reunião - [Seu Nome]'.

Visual Aid

Visualize a physical calendar. 'Marcar' is writing on it. 'Desmarcar' is using an eraser.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'DE-MARK-AR'. You are 'DE-MARKING' the date on your calendar.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a red 'X' being erased from a calendar page.

Word Web

calendar appointment doctor meeting cancel reschedule agenda time

Herausforderung

Try to 'desmarcar' three imaginary appointments in Portuguese using different excuses for each one.

Wortherkunft

From the prefix 'des-' (negation/reversal) + the verb 'marcar' (to mark).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To remove a mark or to un-mark something.

Romance (Latin root 'marcare').

Kultureller Kontext

Always use 'infelizmente' (unfortunately) when cancelling to avoid sounding rude.

English speakers tend to use 'cancel' for everything. Learning 'desmarcar' is a major step toward sounding like a native.

A common theme in Brazilian 'Crônicas' (short stories) about the chaos of urban life. Used in many Bossa Nova lyrics regarding missed encounters.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Medical

  • Gostaria de desmarcar minha consulta.
  • O médico desmarcou?
  • Tem taxa para desmarcar?
  • Posso remarcar em vez de desmarcar?

Social

  • Desculpe desmarcar em cima da hora.
  • Vamos ter que desmarcar o jantar.
  • Ela desmarcou comigo de novo.
  • Não desmarca, por favor!

Work

  • O chefe pediu para desmarcar a reunião.
  • A conferência foi desmarcada.
  • Preciso desmarcar minha agenda hoje.
  • O cliente desmarcou a visita.

Digital

  • Desmarque a caixa de seleção.
  • Como desmarcar essa opção?
  • Você deve desmarcar o item.
  • A opção está desmarcada.

Travel

  • Tivemos que desmarcar o passeio.
  • O guia desmarcou a trilha.
  • Vou desmarcar a reserva do hotel.
  • Eles desmarcaram o voo particular.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Você já precisou desmarcar algo importante em cima da hora?"

"O que você faz quando um amigo desmarca com você repetidamente?"

"É comum desmarcar compromissos no seu país?"

"Qual é a melhor desculpa para desmarcar um encontro?"

"Você prefere que as pessoas liguem ou mandem mensagem para desmarcar?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escreva sobre uma vez que você teve que desmarcar um plano que você estava ansioso para realizar.

Como você se sente quando alguém desmarca um compromisso com você sem avisar?

Descreva a importância de ser pontual e não desmarcar reuniões de trabalho.

Você acha que a tecnologia tornou mais fácil desmarcar as coisas? Por quê?

Crie um diálogo entre um paciente e uma recepcionista para desmarcar uma consulta.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Usually, you use 'cancelar' for flights. However, if you have a private lesson or a specific appointment to book a flight, you could 'desmarcar' that appointment. For the ticket itself, use 'cancelar'.

Yes, it is equally common in both countries, though the pronunciation of the 's' and the 'r' will differ significantly.

You can say 'Ele me deu um bolo' or 'Ele desmarcou comigo em cima da hora' (if they actually called). If they didn't call, 'dar um bolo' is best.

Yes! In digital interfaces, 'marcar' is to check a box and 'desmarcar' is to uncheck it.

The noun is 'desmarcação'. For example: 'A desmarcação da reunião causou problemas'.

It is 'desmarcar o' (direct object). 'Desmarcar de' is a common mistake for learners. You desmarcar the event.

No, you 'desmarcar' the appointment WITH the person. 'Desmarquei com o Pedro' or 'Desmarquei o almoço com o Pedro'.

Yes, it follows the standard -ar verb pattern (desmarco, desmarquei, desmarcarei).

'Preciso desmarcar minha reserva' or 'Gostaria de cancelar minha reserva'. Both are acceptable for reservations.

'Infelizmente, não poderei comparecer. Terei que desmarcar.'

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write a simple sentence saying you are cancelling the doctor's appointment.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write why you cancelled the lunch yesterday (use 'porque').

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a short polite message to a friend cancelling a movie tonight.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a formal sentence explaining that the meeting was cancelled due to a problem.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain the difference between 'desmarcar' and 'cancelar' in Portuguese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Ask a question: 'Are you cancelling the party?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Say 'We had to cancel the trip'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write: 'I would like to cancel my reservation, please.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'em cima da hora' in a sentence about a friend.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a formal sentence using 'contingência'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'I cancel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'They cancelled yesterday'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'The meeting was cancelled'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'Try not to cancel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'The decision was taken unilaterally'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'Please cancel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'I need to cancel because of the rain'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'She always cancels'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'The hotel charges a fee'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'Despite having cancelled...'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I want to cancel' in Portuguese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain that you cancelled the doctor because you were busy.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Roleplay: Call a restaurant to cancel a reservation for 8 PM.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Complain about a friend who always cancels at the last minute.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Discuss the professional consequences of frequently cancelling meetings.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Please cancel the class'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'We are going to cancel the dinner'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The meeting was cancelled by the boss'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I had to cancel because of an unforeseen event'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I find myself forced to cancel our appointment'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Don't cancel'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I cancelled yesterday'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I would like to reschedule'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'He stood me up'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The decision was taken unilaterally'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I cancel the table'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'She cancelled with me'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Uncheck the box'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The lecture was cancelled due to lack of audience'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Citing personal reasons, she cancelled'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the verb: 'Vou desmarcar o médico.'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Ela desmarcou ontem.' When did she cancel?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Preciso desmarcar em cima da hora.' Is this early or late?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'A reunião foi desmarcada pelo diretor.' Who cancelled?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Devido a imprevistos, desmarcamos.' What caused it?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Eu desmarco.' Who is the subject?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Nós desmarcamos.' Who is the subject?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Desmarque a opção.' What should you do?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Tivemos que desmarcar.' Was it voluntary?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'A desmarcação foi unilateral.' How many sides decided?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Não desmarque.' Is it positive or negative?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Eles desmarcaram.' Plural or singular?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Reserva desmarcada.' What was cancelled?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Alegando cansaço.' Why?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'Incidência de desmarcações.' Is it about one or many?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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