enfraquecer in 30 Sekunden
- Enfraquecer means to weaken or become weaker.
- It applies to physical, mental, and abstract weakening.
- Use it when strength or intensity is declining.
- Antonym is 'fortalecer' (to strengthen).
- Core Meaning
- The Portuguese verb 'enfraquecer' means to make something or someone weaker, or to become weaker. It describes a process of losing strength, power, or intensity.
- Physical Weakness
- This can refer to a person or animal becoming physically weaker, perhaps due to illness, age, or exhaustion. For example, an old person might feel their muscles enfraquecer with time, or someone recovering from a serious illness might find their body enfraquecer.
- Emotional or Mental Weakness
- 'Enfraquecer' can also describe a decrease in mental or emotional fortitude. Someone's resolve might enfraquecer when faced with persistent challenges, or their spirit might begin to enfraquecer under pressure.
- Abstract Concepts
- The term extends to abstract concepts as well. An argument can enfraquecer if it lacks strong evidence, a movement can enfraquecer if it loses public support, or a government's authority can enfraquecer if it fails to act effectively.
- Intensity and Power
- It can also denote a reduction in intensity or power. The wind might enfraquecer after a storm, the sound of music might enfraquecer as the volume is turned down, or the effect of a medicine might enfraquecer over time.
A doença começou a enfraquecer o seu corpo.
A falta de provas pode enfraquecer o seu argumento.
O protesto começou a enfraquecer com o passar dos dias.
O som da música começou a enfraquecer quando o volume foi diminuído.
A sua determinação começou a enfraquecer após tantas dificuldades.
- Subject-Verb Agreement
- Like most Portuguese verbs, 'enfraquecer' must agree in number and person with its subject. For example, 'Eu enfraqueço' (I weaken), 'Nós enfraquecemos' (We weaken), 'Eles enfraqueceram' (They weakened).
- Direct and Indirect Objects
- You can use 'enfraquecer' transitively to indicate making something else weaker. For instance, 'O veneno enfraqueceu o animal' (The poison weakened the animal). If you are referring to making oneself weaker, you would use the reflexive form: 'Ele se enfraqueceu com a falta de comida' (He weakened himself with the lack of food).
- Common Verb Tenses
- The present tense 'enfraquece' (he/she/it weakens) is very common. The preterite tense 'enfraqueceu' (he/she/it weakened) is used for completed actions in the past. The imperfect tense 'enfraquecia' (he/she/it used to weaken/was weakening) describes ongoing or habitual weakening in the past.
- With Adverbs
- Adverbs can modify the degree or manner of weakening. 'Enfraquecer rapidamente' (to weaken rapidly), 'enfraquecer gradualmente' (to weaken gradually), 'enfraquecer ligeiramente' (to weaken slightly).
- In Idiomatic Expressions
- While not a very common verb in highly idiomatic expressions, its literal meaning is often used metaphorically. For example, a political opponent might try to 'enfraquecer' the government's position.
O frio começou a enfraquecer as defesas do corpo.
A falta de sono pode enfraquecer a sua concentração.
Os rebeldes tentaram enfraquecer o poder do rei.
Com o tempo, a sua influência começou a enfraquecer.
A tempestade fez enfraquecer o sinal de rádio.
- News and Current Events
- You'll frequently hear 'enfraquecer' in discussions about politics, economics, and international relations. For instance, news reports might discuss how sanctions are intended to 'enfraquecer' a country's economy, or how a political party's support is starting to 'enfraquecer'.
- Health and Medicine
- In medical contexts, doctors might explain how a disease or treatment can 'enfraquecer' a patient's immune system or body. Discussions about aging often involve the natural tendency for physical strength to 'enfraquecer'.
- Sports and Fitness
- Athletes and coaches might use 'enfraquecer' to describe overtraining that leads to diminished performance, or how an injury can 'enfraquecer' a player's ability. Conversely, they might talk about avoiding exercises that 'enfraquecem' muscles.
- Literature and Storytelling
- In novels, poems, and plays, 'enfraquecer' is used to describe the decline of characters, the fading of hope, or the weakening of relationships. A character's resolve might 'enfraquecer' in the face of adversity.
- Everyday Conversations
- In casual conversation, people might use it to describe anything losing strength or intensity. For example, 'O meu telemóvel está a enfraquecer a bateria' (My phone's battery is weakening) or 'A chuva começou a enfraquecer' (The rain started to weaken).
O jornalista explicou como a crise económica estava a enfraquecer o poder de compra dos cidadãos.
O médico alertou que a falta de sono poderia enfraquecer o sistema imunitário.
Após a lesão, o atleta sentiu que a sua perna começou a enfraquecer.
No livro, a personagem principal viu a sua esperança enfraquecer a cada dia.
A bateria do meu telemóvel está a enfraquecer muito rápido hoje.
- Confusing with 'Enfraquecer-se'
- While 'enfraquecer' can be used reflexively ('se enfraquecer'), sometimes learners might forget the reflexive pronoun when they mean 'to weaken oneself'. For example, saying 'Eu enfraqueço com a doença' instead of 'Eu me enfraqueço com a doença' (I weaken myself with the illness) can sound slightly unnatural, though often understandable.
- Using it for 'Getting Stronger'
- The most significant mistake is using 'enfraquecer' when you intend to say 'to strengthen' or 'to become stronger'. The direct antonym is 'fortalecer'. Confusing these will completely change the meaning.
- Incorrect Verb Conjugation
- As with any verb, incorrect conjugation is a common issue. Forgetting the '-ecer' ending changes or conjugating it as if it were a regular '-ar' verb will lead to errors. For example, using 'enfraquecei' when it should be 'enfraqueci' (preterite for 'eu').
- Misinterpreting Abstract vs. Concrete
- While 'enfraquecer' is versatile, learners might sometimes use it in contexts where a more specific verb would be better, or fail to use it in abstract contexts where it fits perfectly. For example, using it for a light becoming dimmer might be less precise than 'diminuir' or 'apagar', but it's perfectly acceptable for abstract concepts like 'hope' or 'resolve'.
- Using 'Enfraquecer' for 'To Break'
- 'Enfraquecer' means to become weaker, not to break completely. For breaking, you would use verbs like 'quebrar' or 'romper'. If something is 'enfraquecido', it is still functional but less robust.
Mistake: A alimentação saudável vai enfraquecer o meu corpo.
Mistake: Ele enfraqueceu-se com a vitória.
- Diminuir (to diminish, to decrease)
- 'Diminuir' is a broader term for reduction. While 'enfraquecer' specifically implies a loss of strength or power, 'diminuir' can refer to a decrease in size, quantity, intensity, or importance. For example, 'O som diminuiu' (The sound decreased) is more general than 'O som enfraqueceu' (The sound weakened, implying it lost its power/volume).
- Abalar (to shake, to weaken, to unsettle)
- 'Abalar' often implies causing instability or a significant shock that leads to weakening, especially in emotional or structural contexts. 'A crise abalou a confiança do público' (The crisis shook/weakened public confidence) is similar to 'A crise enfraqueceu a confiança do público', but 'abalar' suggests a more forceful impact.
- Debilitar (to debilitate, to weaken)
- 'Debilitar' is a very close synonym, often used in medical or physical contexts to describe severe weakening. It implies a more profound loss of vitality or strength than 'enfraquecer'. 'A doença o debilitou gravemente' (The illness severely debilitated him) suggests a more serious state than 'A doença o enfraqueceu'.
- Enfraquecer vs. Fortalecer (Antonyms)
- The primary antonym for 'enfraquecer' is 'fortalecer' (to strengthen, to fortify). 'Fortalecer' describes the process of gaining strength, power, or resilience. You strengthen muscles, arguments, economies, and spirits.
- Perder Força (to lose strength)
- This is a more descriptive phrase rather than a single verb, but it conveys a similar meaning. 'Ele perdeu força nas pernas' (He lost strength in his legs) is very similar to 'As suas pernas enfraqueceram'.
'Enfraquecer' means to become weaker. 'Fortalecer' means to become stronger.
A crise económica fez diminuir o poder de compra, e a falta de confiança fez enfraquecer o mercado.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The root 'fraco' itself traces back to the Latin word 'fractus', meaning 'broken', which evolved to signify weakness or fragility. So, 'enfraquecer' carries a deep historical connection to the idea of being broken or diminished.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing the initial 'en' as a pure 'en' sound instead of a nasal vowel.
- Not stressing the correct syllable.
- Omitting the final 'r' sound.
- Pronouncing the 'qu' as 'kw' instead of 'k'.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
At CEFR A2 level, 'enfraquecer' is introduced and used in simple contexts. Understanding its core meaning of 'to weaken' is achievable. As the CEFR level increases, the nuances and abstract uses become more common, requiring a higher level of comprehension.
Beginners (A1-A2) might initially struggle with correct conjugation and application. Intermediate learners (B1-B2) can use it more confidently in various contexts. Advanced learners (C1-C2) can employ it effectively in complex and abstract sentences.
Pronunciation of the nasal 'en' and correct stress are important. Learners at A2 can start using it in basic sentences. Fluency and natural usage in diverse contexts improve with practice at higher levels.
Recognizing the verb in speech is generally straightforward once familiar with its sound. Understanding the context to grasp whether it refers to physical, emotional, or abstract weakening is key at higher levels.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Verb Conjugation of -ECER verbs
Enfraquecer follows the pattern of verbs ending in -ecer, with specific conjugations in the present subjunctive and preterite for 'eu'. (e.g., eu enfraqueço, eu enfraqueci).
Reflexive Verbs
When the subject performs the action on itself, use the reflexive pronoun: 'Eu me enfraqueço', 'Ele se enfraqueceu'.
Causative Verbs (Fazer + Infinitive)
To express 'to make something weaken', use 'fazer + enfraquecer': 'O frio fez enfraquecer a bateria'.
Modal Verbs + Infinitive
Verbs like 'poder' (can) or 'dever' (should) are followed by the infinitive: 'Isso pode enfraquecer a sua saúde'.
Prepositional Phrases with Infinitives
Phrases like 'começar a enfraquecer' (to begin to weaken) or 'acabar por enfraquecer' (to end up weakening) use 'a' + infinitive.
Beispiele nach Niveau
O meu corpo enfraquece.
My body weakens.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
A luz enfraquece.
The light weakens.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
Ele enfraquece.
He weakens.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
A força enfraquece.
The strength weakens.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
O som enfraquece.
The sound weakens.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
A vela enfraquece.
The candle weakens.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
O inverno enfraquece as plantas.
Winter weakens the plants.
Simple present tense, third person singular, transitive use.
A sua voz enfraquece.
His voice weakens.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
A doença começou a enfraquecer o meu pai.
The illness started to weaken my father.
Preterite tense (começou) and infinitive (enfraquecer).
O exercício físico ajuda a não enfraquecer.
Physical exercise helps not to weaken.
Infinitive used after a preposition.
Com a idade, os músculos podem enfraquecer.
With age, muscles can weaken.
Modal verb 'poder' followed by infinitive.
A falta de água enfraqueceu as plantas.
The lack of water weakened the plants.
Preterite tense, third person singular.
O argumento dele enfraqueceu com a nova informação.
His argument weakened with the new information.
Preterite tense, third person singular.
O frio fez enfraquecer a bateria do carro.
The cold made the car battery weaken.
Causative structure 'fazer' + infinitive.
A sua determinação não pode enfraquecer.
His determination cannot weaken.
Modal verb 'poder' + negative + infinitive.
O vento enfraqueceu depois da tempestade.
The wind weakened after the storm.
Preterite tense, third person singular.
A constante pressão política começou a enfraquecer a autoridade do governo.
The constant political pressure began to weaken the government's authority.
Present tense 'começou' + infinitive.
Os investigadores estão a estudar como certas substâncias podem enfraquecer o sistema imunitário.
Researchers are studying how certain substances can weaken the immune system.
Present continuous 'estão a estudar' + modal verb 'poder' + infinitive.
A falta de investimento a longo prazo pode enfraquecer a economia do país.
Lack of long-term investment can weaken the country's economy.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive.
Ele sentiu a sua coragem enfraquecer ao enfrentar o perigo.
He felt his courage weaken when facing danger.
Verb 'sentir' + object + infinitive.
As antigas muralhas da cidade começaram a enfraquecer com o tempo e a erosão.
The old city walls began to weaken with time and erosion.
Preterite tense 'começaram' + infinitive.
O treinador alertou que o excesso de treino poderia enfraquecer os atletas.
The coach warned that overtraining could weaken the athletes.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive.
A sua fé foi posta à prova, mas não chegou a enfraquecer.
His faith was put to the test, but it did not weaken.
Negative past subjunctive 'chegar a enfraquecer'.
O calor intenso fez enfraquecer a estrutura do edifício.
The intense heat made the building's structure weaken.
Causative structure 'fazer' + infinitive.
A persistente falta de sono acabou por enfraquecer a sua capacidade de concentração e raciocínio.
The persistent lack of sleep ended up weakening his ability to concentrate and reason.
Preterite tense 'acabou por enfraquecer'.
Os analistas temem que a instabilidade política possa enfraquecer significativamente o crescimento económico.
Analysts fear that political instability could significantly weaken economic growth.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with adverb 'significativamente'.
A dieta restritiva, sem acompanhamento médico, pode enfraquecer o organismo e torná-lo mais suscetível a doenças.
A restrictive diet, without medical supervision, can weaken the body and make it more susceptible to diseases.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, followed by another infinitive 'tornar'.
Os críticos argumentam que a censura tende a enfraquecer o debate público e a liberdade de expressão.
Critics argue that censorship tends to weaken public debate and freedom of expression.
Verb 'tender a' + infinitive.
A exposição prolongada a ruído excessivo pode enfraquecer a audição de forma permanente.
Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can permanently weaken hearing.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with adverb 'permanentemente'.
A erosão do solo, causada pelas chuvas intensas, começou a enfraquecer os alicerces da ponte.
Soil erosion, caused by intense rains, began to weaken the bridge's foundations.
Preterite tense 'começou' + infinitive, with participial phrase explaining cause.
O regime autoritário procurou enfraquecer a oposição através da intimidação e da propaganda.
The authoritarian regime sought to weaken the opposition through intimidation and propaganda.
Infinitive 'enfraquecer' used as the object of 'procurou'.
As negociações fracassaram, o que fez enfraquecer ainda mais as relações diplomáticas.
The negotiations failed, which caused diplomatic relations to weaken further.
Causative structure 'fazer' + infinitive, with relative clause.
A globalização, embora traga benefícios, também pode inadvertidamente enfraquecer economias locais menos competitivas.
Globalization, although it brings benefits, can also inadvertently weaken less competitive local economies.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with adverb 'inadvertidamente'.
A erosão da confiança nas instituições democráticas é um sintoma preocupante que pode enfraquecer o tecido social.
The erosion of trust in democratic institutions is a worrying symptom that can weaken the social fabric.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive.
O uso indiscriminado de antibióticos tem contribuído para o aparecimento de bactérias multirresistentes, o que pode enfraquecer a eficácia dos tratamentos médicos.
The indiscriminate use of antibiotics has contributed to the emergence of multi-resistant bacteria, which can weaken the effectiveness of medical treatments.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with relative clause.
A falta de investimento em infraestruturas críticas pode, a longo prazo, enfraquecer a capacidade de um país de responder a crises.
Lack of investment in critical infrastructure can, in the long term, weaken a country's ability to respond to crises.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with temporal adverbial phrase.
A desinformação disseminada nas redes sociais tem o potencial de enfraquecer o discurso cívico e polarizar a sociedade.
Disinformation spread on social media has the potential to weaken civic discourse and polarize society.
'Ter o potencial de' + infinitive.
O desgaste natural das peças, aliado à falta de manutenção, começou a enfraquecer a integridade estrutural da máquina.
The natural wear and tear of the parts, combined with the lack of maintenance, began to weaken the machine's structural integrity.
Preterite tense 'começou' + infinitive, with participial phrase.
As políticas de austeridade, embora visem a estabilidade fiscal, podem inadvertidamente enfraquecer os serviços públicos essenciais.
Austerity policies, although aimed at fiscal stability, can inadvertently weaken essential public services.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with concessive clause.
O isolamento social prolongado pode enfraquecer a resiliência psicológica de um indivíduo, aumentando o risco de depressão.
Prolonged social isolation can weaken an individual's psychological resilience, increasing the risk of depression.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, followed by a gerund phrase.
A constante exposição a narrativas negativas pode insidiosamente enfraquecer a esperança e a motivação para a mudança social.
Constant exposure to negative narratives can insidiously weaken hope and motivation for social change.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with adverb 'insidiosamente'.
A fragmentação do discurso político, exacerbada pelas bolhas informacionais, corre o risco de enfraquecer a coesão social e o entendimento mútuo.
The fragmentation of political discourse, exacerbated by information bubbles, runs the risk of weakening social cohesion and mutual understanding.
'Correr o risco de' + infinitive.
O declínio na participação cívica, se não for ativamente combatido, pode progressivamente enfraquecer os pilares da democracia representativa.
The decline in civic participation, if not actively combated, can progressively weaken the pillars of representative democracy.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with adverb 'progressivamente', and conditional clause.
A sobrecarga de informações e a superficialidade das interações online podem, paradoxalmente, enfraquecer a profundidade do conhecimento e a capacidade de pensamento crítico.
Information overload and the superficiality of online interactions can, paradoxically, weaken the depth of knowledge and critical thinking ability.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with adverb 'paradoxalmente'.
A desvalorização do trabalho científico e a proliferação de pseudociências ameaçam enfraquecer a confiança pública na razão e na evidência empírica.
The devaluation of scientific work and the proliferation of pseudoscience threaten to weaken public trust in reason and empirical evidence.
Verb 'ameaçar' + infinitive.
A ausência de um diálogo intercultural robusto pode exacerbar mal-entendidos e, consequentemente, enfraquecer as relações entre diferentes comunidades.
The absence of robust intercultural dialogue can exacerbate misunderstandings and, consequently, weaken relations between different communities.
Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive, with adverb 'consequentemente'.
A complacência perante a degradação ambiental corre o risco de, a longo prazo, enfraquecer a habitabilidade do planeta para as gerações futuras.
Complacency in the face of environmental degradation runs the risk of, in the long term, weakening the planet's habitability for future generations.
'Correr o risco de' + infinitive, with temporal adverbial phrase.
A tentativa de silenciar vozes dissidentes, através de mecanismos de controlo social, visa, em última instância, enfraquecer a própria essência da liberdade.
The attempt to silence dissenting voices, through mechanisms of social control, ultimately aims to weaken the very essence of freedom.
Infinitive 'enfraquecer' used as the object of 'visa', with adverbial phrase 'em última instância'.
Synonyme
Gegenteile
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— To begin to weaken; to start losing strength or intensity.
O sinal do telemóvel começou a enfraquecer nas montanhas.
— To stop weakening; to stabilize or start strengthening.
Esperamos que a economia deixe de enfraquecer em breve.
— To end up weakening; to eventually become weaker, often despite initial efforts.
A sua determinação acabou por enfraquecer após tantos obstáculos.
— To cause something to weaken; to make something weaker.
O frio fez enfraquecer a bateria do carro.
— Without weakening; maintaining strength or intensity.
Ele trabalhou sem enfraquecer até o fim do projeto.
— To continue weakening; to keep losing strength or intensity.
A sua saúde continuou a enfraquecer apesar dos cuidados.
— Tends to weaken; shows a tendency to become weaker.
Este tipo de material tende a enfraquecer com a exposição ao sol.
— Can weaken; has the potential to become weaker or to make something weaker.
A falta de sono pode enfraquecer a sua concentração.
— To stop weakening oneself.
Ele decidiu parar de se enfraquecer com pensamentos negativos.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
'Enfraquecer' means to weaken, while 'fortalecer' means to strengthen. They are direct opposites.
'Diminuir' means to decrease or diminish in general. 'Enfraquecer' specifically refers to a loss of strength or power.
This is the past participle used as an adjective, meaning 'weakened'. For example, 'O corpo enfraquecido' (The weakened body).
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— Used metaphorically to describe a situation, plan, or argument that is becoming unstable and likely to collapse due to a lack of solid foundation or support.
Depois de descobrir a fraude, o castelo de cartas da empresa começou a enfraquecer.
General— Refers to a person's life force, energy, or will to live diminishing, often due to severe illness, extreme hardship, or deep despair.
Com o passar dos anos e a solidão, a sua força vital começou a enfraquecer.
Literary, Medical— Literally, to make one's knees weak. Metaphorically, it can describe feeling weak-kneed due to fear, emotion (like love or nervousness), or physical exhaustion.
Ao vê-lo pela primeira vez, os seus joelhos começaram a enfraquecer.
Figurative, Emotional— Similar to 'castelo de cartas', this idiom emphasizes the fragility and lack of substance in an argument that easily crumbles when examined or challenged.
Quando confrontado com factos, o seu argumento enfraqueceu como um castelo de areia.
Figurative, Debate— To diminish the momentum or drive of something, such as a movement, a project, or an attack.
A intervenção da polícia ajudou a enfraquecer o ímpeto da manifestação.
General, Action-oriented— Literally, to loosen a knot. Metaphorically, it can mean to weaken a connection, a bond, or a commitment.
A falta de comunicação começou a enfraquecer o nó da sua amizade.
Figurative, Relationships— To diminish the intensity or passion of something, like love, enthusiasm, or a cause.
O desinteresse dele começou a enfraquecer a chama do nosso relacionamento.
Figurative, Emotional— To undermine the foundation or fundamental support of something, making it unstable.
A corrupção pode enfraquecer a base de qualquer governo.
Figurative, Political/Structural— To weaken the core or essence of something.
A tentativa de simplificação excessiva pode enfraquecer o cerne da questão.
Figurative, Abstract— To weaken the thread, implying a fragile connection or a tenuous hold.
A sua paciência estava a enfraquecer o fio.
Figurative, Abstract/EmotionalLeicht verwechselbar
Both 'enfraquecer' and 'debilitar' mean to weaken.
'Debilitar' often implies a more severe, profound, or debilitating weakening, frequently used in medical contexts. 'Enfraquecer' is more general and can apply to a wider range of situations, including less severe weakening.
A doença grave o debilitou severamente, enquanto a falta de sono apenas o enfraqueceu um pouco.
Both can describe a weakening effect.
'Abalar' often implies a shaking or unsettling impact that leads to weakening, particularly in emotional contexts or structures. 'Enfraquecer' focuses more directly on the resultant state of being weaker.
A notícia abalou a sua confiança (shook/unsettled her confidence), fazendo-a sentir-se mais fraca (enfraquecida).
Both indicate a reduction.
'Diminuir' is a general term for decrease in size, quantity, intensity, or amount. 'Enfraquecer' specifically denotes a loss of strength, power, or vitality.
O volume da música diminuiu (decreased), mas a sua potência não enfraqueceu (did not weaken).
Both can imply a loss of resistance or strength.
'Ceder' means to yield, give way, or collapse, often under pressure. It suggests a failure to resist. 'Enfraquecer' is the process leading up to potentially ceding or breaking, or simply becoming less strong without necessarily failing completely.
A estrutura enfraqueceu com a corrosão e finalmente cedeu.
This phrase directly conveys the meaning of weakening.
'Enfraquecer' is a single verb that encapsulates the process of losing strength. 'Perder força' is a more descriptive phrase that explains the outcome of that process. They are very close in meaning.
O atleta sentiu a sua força enfraquecer (verb) no final da maratona, ele estava a perder força (phrase).
Satzmuster
Subject + enfraquece/enfraqueceram.
O inverno enfraquece as plantas.
Subject + enfraqueceu.
A sua força enfraqueceu.
Subject + pode + enfraquecer.
O stress pode enfraquecer o corpo.
Subject + começou a + enfraquecer.
A sua determinação começou a enfraquecer.
Subject + fez + enfraquecer.
O frio fez enfraquecer a bateria.
Subject + acabar por + enfraquecer.
Ele acabou por enfraquecer com a doença.
Subject + tende a + enfraquecer.
Este tipo de material tende a enfraquecer.
Subject + tem o potencial de + enfraquecer.
A falta de atenção tem o potencial de enfraquecer a segurança.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Common
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Using 'enfraquecer' instead of 'fortalecer' when meaning to gain strength.
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Fortalecer
This is a fundamental error in meaning. 'Enfraquecer' means to weaken, while 'fortalecer' means to strengthen. Ensure you choose the correct verb based on whether strength is decreasing or increasing.
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Incorrect conjugation, e.g., 'eu enfraqueço' instead of 'eu enfraqueço' (present) or 'eu enfraqueci' (preterite).
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Correct conjugation based on tense and subject.
Verbs ending in -ecer have specific conjugation patterns. Pay attention to the present tense ('-eço' for 'eu') and the preterite tense ('-eci' for 'eu').
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Forgetting the reflexive pronoun when referring to oneself weakening.
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Eu me enfraqueço / Ele se enfraqueceu.
When the subject is also the object of the weakening, the reflexive pronoun is needed. 'Eu enfraqueço' means 'I weaken (something else)', while 'Eu me enfraqueço' means 'I weaken (myself)'.
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Using 'enfraquecer' for a complete breakdown or breaking.
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'Quebrar', 'romper', 'desmoronar'.
'Enfraquecer' means to become weaker, not necessarily to break completely. If something breaks, use a verb like 'quebrar'. 'Enfraquecido' means weakened, not broken.
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Confusing the abstract and concrete uses.
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Use 'enfraquecer' appropriately for both physical and abstract subjects.
While 'enfraquecer' is versatile, ensure you're using it in contexts where weakening is logical. For example, 'O argumento enfraqueceu' is correct, but 'O copo enfraqueceu' would be unusual unless referring to a material defect.
Tipps
Mastering the Nasal Sound
The initial 'en' in 'enfraquecer' is a nasal vowel. Practice saying 'um', 'in', 'on', 'an' in Portuguese to get a feel for these sounds. Try saying 'enfraquecer' while lightly touching your nose to feel the vibration.
Antonym Association
Learn 'enfraquecer' alongside its antonym 'fortalecer'. Associating opposites can help solidify the meaning of both words in your memory.
Reflexive vs. Transitive
Distinguish between 'enfraquecer' (transitive, making something else weaker) and 'se enfraquecer' (reflexive, becoming weaker oneself). For example, 'A doença enfraqueceu o paciente' vs. 'O paciente se enfraqueceu'.
Visual Storytelling
Create a mental image or a short story where something or someone is visibly weakening. The more vivid the image, the easier it will be to recall the word 'enfraquecer'.
Sentence Building
Actively try to construct sentences using 'enfraquecer' in different tenses and contexts. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.
Real-World Listening
When watching Portuguese-language media or listening to conversations, actively listen for 'enfraquecer'. Note the context in which it's used to deepen your understanding.
Root Word Connection
Recall that 'enfraquecer' comes from 'fraco' (weak). This connection helps reinforce the core meaning of losing strength.
Synonym Nuances
Understand the subtle differences between 'enfraquecer', 'debilitar', and 'diminuir'. Consider the intensity and specific type of reduction being described.
Apply It Today
Try to use 'enfraquecer' at least once today in a practice sentence or in your thoughts about Portuguese. Active recall is crucial for language learning.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Imagine a strong warrior who, after a long battle, starts to 'en-fraque-CER' (en-feeble-CER). The 'CER' sound can remind you of 'sir', and the warrior is becoming a weak 'sir'.
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a strong tree whose branches are slowly bending and breaking, becoming weaker and weaker. The tree is 'enfraquecendo'.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to use 'enfraquecer' in five sentences describing different scenarios: a physical weakening, a mental weakening, a weakening of an object, a weakening of an abstract concept, and a reflexive use of the verb.
Wortherkunft
The verb 'enfraquecer' comes from the prefix 'en-' (meaning 'in' or 'into', here used to form verbs) and the adjective 'fraco' (meaning 'weak'). It essentially means 'to make weak'. This structure is common in Romance languages, derived from Latin.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To make weak.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseKultureller Kontext
When discussing illness, aging, or personal struggles, using 'enfraquecer' should be done with empathy. It's important to be mindful of the context and the emotional impact of the word.
The concept of 'weakening' is universal. In English, we have 'weaken', 'diminish', 'wane', 'fade', 'debilitate', etc. The Portuguese 'enfraquecer' covers a broad spectrum similar to these English terms.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Health and Illness
- A doença enfraqueceu o corpo.
- O sistema imunitário pode enfraquecer.
- Sentir-se a enfraquecer.
Physical Effort and Aging
- Os músculos enfraqueceram com a idade.
- A falta de exercício pode enfraquecer a resistência.
- Perder força e enfraquecer.
Abstract Concepts (Arguments, Hope, Power)
- O argumento enfraqueceu.
- A esperança começou a enfraquecer.
- Enfraquecer a autoridade.
Technology and Environment
- O sinal enfraqueceu.
- A bateria está a enfraquecer.
- O vento enfraqueceu.
Emotional and Mental States
- A sua coragem começou a enfraquecer.
- Não deixes a tua fé enfraquecer.
- Sentir-se a enfraquecer emocionalmente.
Gesprächseinstiege
"Have you ever felt your strength weaken after a long day?"
"What do you think makes people's resolve weaken?"
"How does a weakening economy affect everyday life?"
"Can you think of a time when a signal weakened unexpectedly?"
"What are some common reasons why someone's health might weaken?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe a situation where you or someone you know experienced physical weakening. What were the causes and effects?
Reflect on a time your determination or hope began to weaken. What helped you to regain it or overcome it?
Think about an abstract concept like 'trust' or 'confidence'. How can it weaken over time, and what are the consequences?
Consider a natural phenomenon like the wind or a light. How does it weaken, and what are examples you've observed?
Write about the difference between 'enfraquecer' (to weaken) and 'fortalecer' (to strengthen) in your own life or in society.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenThe main meaning of 'enfraquecer' is to make or become weak or weaker. It describes a loss of strength, power, or intensity in various contexts, whether physical, emotional, or abstract.
Yes, 'enfraquecer' can be used reflexively with 'se' (e.g., 'ele se enfraqueceu'). This means 'he weakened himself' or 'he became weak himself', often implying an unintentional process.
The most common opposite of 'enfraquecer' is 'fortalecer', which means 'to strengthen' or 'to fortify'.
It's used in many situations: when talking about health declining, arguments losing validity, signals fading, political power diminishing, or even a person's resolve weakening under pressure.
The pronunciation is roughly 'en-fra-que-CER', with the stress on the last syllable 'CER'. The 'en' is a nasal sound, and the 'qu' is pronounced like 'k'.
It can be both. As a transitive verb, it means to make something weaker (e.g., 'O veneno enfraqueceu o animal'). As an intransitive verb, it means to become weaker (e.g., 'O meu corpo enfraqueceu').
'Debilitar' usually implies a more severe or profound weakening, often in a medical context, whereas 'enfraquecer' is more general and can describe a lesser degree of weakening.
Yes, it can be used for inanimate objects, for example, describing a weakening signal ('O sinal enfraqueceu'), a weakening battery ('A bateria enfraqueceu'), or a weakening structure ('A estrutura enfraqueceu').
The preterite tense for 'eu' (I) is 'enfraqueci', and for 'ele/ela/você' (he/she/you) is 'enfraqueceu'. For example, 'Eu enfraqueci' and 'Ele enfraqueceu'.
Yes, common phrases include 'começar a enfraquecer' (to begin to weaken), 'acabar por enfraquecer' (to end up weakening), and 'fazer enfraquecer' (to cause to weaken).
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Summary
The Portuguese verb 'enfraquecer' signifies a reduction in strength, power, or intensity, applicable to physical, emotional, or abstract entities. Its core meaning is to make or become weaker, contrasting directly with 'fortalecer' (to strengthen).
- Enfraquecer means to weaken or become weaker.
- It applies to physical, mental, and abstract weakening.
- Use it when strength or intensity is declining.
- Antonym is 'fortalecer' (to strengthen).
Mastering the Nasal Sound
The initial 'en' in 'enfraquecer' is a nasal vowel. Practice saying 'um', 'in', 'on', 'an' in Portuguese to get a feel for these sounds. Try saying 'enfraquecer' while lightly touching your nose to feel the vibration.
Context is Key
Remember that 'enfraquecer' can apply to many things. Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand if it refers to physical strength, emotional resolve, a signal's intensity, or an argument's validity.
Antonym Association
Learn 'enfraquecer' alongside its antonym 'fortalecer'. Associating opposites can help solidify the meaning of both words in your memory.
Reflexive vs. Transitive
Distinguish between 'enfraquecer' (transitive, making something else weaker) and 'se enfraquecer' (reflexive, becoming weaker oneself). For example, 'A doença enfraqueceu o paciente' vs. 'O paciente se enfraqueceu'.
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