At the A1 level, 'pulso' is simply a part of the body. You learn it alongside 'mão' (hand) and 'braço' (arm). You use it to point to where you wear a watch ('relógio') or to say where it hurts. The grammar is basic: 'O meu pulso' or 'O pulso'. You don't need to worry about metaphors yet. Just know that it is a masculine noun and it is the joint between your hand and arm. If you are at a doctor, you can point to it and say 'Dói aqui' (It hurts here). It is a essential concrete noun for describing your physical self.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'pulso' in more complete sentences and common situations. You learn to use it with verbs like 'torcer' (to sprain) or 'quebrar' (to break). You also start to use it in the context of shopping, such as asking if a 'pulseira' (bracelet) fits your 'pulso'. You might also encounter the very common expression 'pulso firme' for the first time, used to describe a teacher or a boss who is strict but fair. You understand the difference between 'o pulso' (the wrist) and 'a pulsação' (the pulse rate), even if you mostly use 'pulso' for both in casual talk.
At the B1 level, you use 'pulso' with more confidence in idiomatic and metaphorical ways. You can discuss leadership styles using 'ter pulso' or 'falta de pulso'. You understand that 'pulso' can also mean the 'feel' or 'vibe' of a situation, like 'sentir o pulso da reunião' (to feel the vibe of the meeting). Your vocabulary expands to include related words like 'punho' for shirt cuffs and 'munhequeira' for wristbands used in sports. You can describe medical symptoms more accurately, explaining if your pulse is 'rápido' (fast) or 'fraco' (weak).
At the B2 level, you are comfortable with the nuances between 'pulso' and 'punho'. You use 'pulso' in professional settings to describe management qualities. You might read news articles discussing a government's 'pulso firme' in economic policy. You can use the word in more complex grammatical structures, such as passive voice ('O pulso foi imobilizado') or in conditional sentences ('Se eu tivesse pulso firme, teria resolvido o problema'). You also recognize 'pulso' in literature and more sophisticated media, where it might represent the rhythmic life of a city or a movement.
At the C1 level, you use 'pulso' with the precision of a native speaker. You understand its etymological roots and how they influence its various meanings in law, medicine, and the arts. You can debate the effectiveness of 'pulso' in governance versus more collaborative approaches. You use subtle expressions like 'a pulso' (by sheer force of will or manually). You are aware of regional differences, such as the preference for 'punho' in Portugal for anatomical descriptions, and you can switch your register accordingly. Your use of the word is no longer just about the body part, but about the energy and control behind actions.
At the C2 level, 'pulso' is a tool for nuanced expression. You can use it in academic or highly technical discussions about cardiology or biomechanics. You appreciate the word's role in classical Portuguese literature, where it might symbolize the vital force of a character. You can use it in highly idiomatic ways that even some native speakers might find sophisticated, such as 'ganhar a pulso' (to earn something through hard, individual effort). Your mastery includes the ability to use 'pulso' to describe the rhythmic intricacies of complex musical compositions or the 'pulse' of historical eras.

pulso in 30 Sekunden

  • Pulso is the Portuguese word for 'wrist' and 'pulse'. It is a masculine noun used in medical, fashion, and everyday contexts.
  • The word is commonly used in the idiom 'pulso firme', which describes someone with strong leadership or authority.
  • While 'punho' is an anatomical synonym, 'pulso' is the most frequent term in Brazil for the wrist area.
  • Common verbs used with pulso include 'medir' (measure), 'sentir' (feel), and 'torcer' (sprain).

The Portuguese word pulso is a versatile noun that primarily refers to the wrist—the anatomical joint connecting the hand to the forearm. For an English speaker, it is a 'cognate-adjacent' word because it looks like 'pulse,' and indeed, it also means the rhythmic beating of the arteries as felt at the wrist. However, in daily Portuguese conversation, especially in Brazil, you will find it used most frequently to describe the physical area of the wrist itself. Whether you are talking about wearing a watch, experiencing a sprain from sports, or describing someone's firm leadership style, 'pulso' is the go-to term. It is a fundamental part of the body vocabulary that appears in medical contexts, fashion, and idiomatic expressions regarding character and authority.

Anatomical Context
In biology and medicine, 'pulso' describes the joint (articulação) and the arterial pulse. Doctors will 'medir o pulso' (measure the pulse) to check your heart rate.

Eu quebrei o meu pulso jogando futebol ontem à tarde.

Beyond the physical, 'pulso' is deeply embedded in how Lusophones describe authority. The expression 'pulso firme' (firm wrist/hand) is used to describe a leader, parent, or teacher who maintains discipline and remains steady under pressure. This metaphorical usage is very common in political commentary and workplace discussions. If a situation is chaotic, people might say the person in charge lacks 'pulso' to control the environment. This makes the word essential not just for basic descriptions but for understanding social dynamics in Portuguese-speaking cultures. You might also encounter it in the context of fashion; a 'pulseira' (bracelet) derives its name directly from 'pulso', as it is the accessory worn around this joint. When shopping for a watch (relógio de pulso), you are specifically looking for a timepiece designed for the wrist rather than a pocket or wall.

Metaphorical Context
Used to indicate strength of character or the ability to govern. 'Ter pulso' means to have the authority to manage a group effectively.

O novo diretor tem pulso para organizar esta empresa bagunçada.

In summary, 'pulso' is a word that connects the physical body to the internal rhythm of life and the external manifestation of power. Whether you are at the gym, the doctor, or a business meeting, you will find 'pulso' being used to describe stability, rhythm, and control. It is one of those words that sounds familiar but carries specific cultural weight in Portuguese that goes beyond the simple English translation of 'wrist' or 'pulse'. As you progress in your studies, notice how it appears in songs and literature to represent the 'beat' of a city or the 'steadiness' of a lover's hand.

Using 'pulso' correctly involves understanding its role as a masculine noun and its common collocations with verbs like 'sentir', 'medir', 'torcer', and 'ter'. Because it refers to a body part, it is often preceded by a definite article (o) or a possessive pronoun (meu, seu, dele). In Portuguese, when we talk about something happening to our own body, we often use the definite article instead of the possessive if the context makes it clear whose body it is, but for 'pulso', both are common. For example, 'Dói-me o pulso' (My wrist hurts) is a very natural way to express pain.

Common Verb Pairings
Verbs like 'torcer' (to sprain), 'quebrar' (to break), and 'imobilizar' (to immobilize) are frequently used with 'pulso' in medical or accidental contexts.

Eu torci o pulso tentando levantar aquela caixa pesada sozinho.

When discussing watches or jewelry, 'pulso' acts as the location. You don't just 'wear' a watch; you wear it 'no pulso' (on the wrist). This is a prepositional phrase you should memorize. 'Ele usa o relógio no pulso esquerdo' (He wears the watch on his left wrist). In more formal or literary settings, 'pulso' can describe the 'pulse' of a situation. 'Sentir o pulso da população' means to gauge the public mood or opinion, similar to 'taking the pulse' in English. This usage is common in journalism and social sciences.

Idiomatic Usage: Pulso Firme
This describes someone with strong will or authority. 'A professora precisa de pulso firme para controlar a turma' (The teacher needs a firm hand to control the class).

O cirurgião tem um pulso muito estável, o que é essencial para a operação.

Finally, let's look at the plural form: 'pulsos'. While we usually talk about one wrist at a time, certain actions involve both. 'Ele foi algemado pelos pulsos' (He was handcuffed by the wrists). In exercise and fitness, you might hear instructions like 'gire os pulsos para aquecer' (rotate your wrists to warm up). Mastering these sentence patterns will allow you to navigate everyday situations, from explaining an injury to describing a person's character or even just talking about your new accessories.

In a Portuguese-speaking environment, 'pulso' is a word that echoes through various corridors of daily life. If you walk into a 'relojoaria' (watch shop) in Rio de Janeiro, the salesperson will undoubtedly use 'pulso' to discuss the fit of a strap. They might ask, 'Qual é o tamanho do seu pulso?' to ensure the watch isn't too loose. Similarly, in a 'joalheria' (jewelry store), when looking at bracelets, the word 'pulso' is central to the conversation. It's the physical anchor for some of our most common personal items.

Medical Settings
In hospitals (hospitais) or clinics (clínicas), 'pulso' is used constantly. Nurses check the 'pulso' of patients. If you arrive with a pain, they might ask if you 'torceu o pulso' (sprained your wrist).

A enfermeira colocou o dedo no meu pulso para contar os batimentos.

In the world of sports and fitness, especially in gyms (academias), trainers often warn about 'pulso' positioning. During push-ups or weightlifting, you'll hear 'cuidado com o pulso' (be careful with your wrist) or 'mantenha o pulso reto' (keep your wrist straight). Because the wrist is a common site for repetitive strain injuries, 'pulso' is also a frequent topic in office environments when discussing ergonomics and the use of 'mousepads' with wrist support.

Political and Social News
News anchors often use 'pulso' metaphorically. They might discuss if a politician has the 'pulso' to pass a difficult law or handle a national crisis.

O governo agiu com pulso de ferro para conter a inflação.

You will also hear 'pulso' in music and literature. A drummer might be said to have a 'bom pulso' (good pulse/rhythm), keeping the band in time. In romantic poetry or songs (like Fado or MPB), 'sentir o pulso' can be a metaphor for feeling the life or the heart of another person. It is a word that spans from the most clinical, sterile hospital room to the most passionate, rhythmic dance floor.

For English speakers, the most frequent mistake is assuming 'pulso' only means the heartbeat pulse. While it does mean that, its primary everyday use is for the 'wrist'. Many learners try to use the word 'wrist' or a literal translation that doesn't fit, forgetting that 'pulso' covers both the joint and the rhythm. Another common error is confusing 'pulso' with 'punho'. While they are often used interchangeably in casual Brazilian Portuguese, 'punho' specifically refers to the fist when closed, or the cuff of a shirt. If you want to say 'shirt cuff', you must use 'punho', not 'pulso'.

Pulso vs. Punho
'Pulso' is the wrist/pulse. 'Punho' is the wrist joint/fist/cuff. Using 'pulso' for a shirt cuff is a common mistake for beginners.

Incorreto: A manga da camisa está apertada no meu pulso. (Correct: punho)

Another mistake is gender. Some learners mistakenly think body parts ending in 'o' might be feminine because they associate 'a mão' (the hand) with other hand-related words. However, 'pulso' is strictly masculine: 'o pulso', 'um pulso'. Mixing this up with 'a pulsação' (the pulsation/heart rate) is also common. While 'pulsação' is feminine and refers specifically to the heart's rhythm, 'pulso' is the more general and masculine term.

Preposition Errors
Learners often say 'no meu pulso' (on my wrist) correctly, but sometimes use 'em' without the article. Always remember the contraction: em + o = no.

Correto: Eu sinto uma dor no pulso quando digito muito.

Lastly, don't confuse 'pulso' with 'pulo' (a jump). While they look similar, 'pulo' comes from the verb 'pular'. It’s a common slip of the tongue for beginners. To avoid these mistakes, always visualize the wrist joint or the act of checking a heartbeat when you say 'pulso'. This mental association will help cement the correct usage and gender in your mind, preventing confusion with shirt cuffs or impulsive actions.

When exploring synonyms and alternatives for 'pulso', it's important to differentiate between its anatomical meaning and its rhythmic or metaphorical meanings. The most direct anatomical alternative is punho. In many contexts, especially in Portugal, 'punho' is the preferred term for the wrist joint. However, 'punho' also means 'fist' (as in 'punhos cerrados' - clenched fists). If you are looking for a more scientific term for the pulse, you might use pulsação or batimento cardíaco (heartbeat).

Comparison: Pulso vs. Punho
Pulso: Used for wrist and pulse. Common in Brazil. Punho: Used for wrist joint, fist, and shirt cuff. Preferred in Portugal for anatomy.

O médico checou minha pulsação para ver se eu estava calmo.

In metaphorical terms, if you want to describe someone's authority without using 'pulso', you could use autoridade, firmeza, or rigor. For example, 'Ele governa com rigor' is a more formal way of saying 'Ele tem pulso firme'. In the context of rhythm, especially in music, you might hear cadência or ritmo. While 'pulso' is the underlying beat, 'ritmo' is the overall pattern of sounds.

Alternative: Articulação
This is the general word for 'joint'. If you are at a physiotherapist, they might refer to the 'articulação do pulso'.

A articulação do meu braço com a mão está inflamada.

Understanding these nuances allows you to be more precise in your speech. While 'pulso' is a great 'all-rounder' word for A2 learners, knowing that 'punho' exists for shirt cuffs and 'pulsação' for medical pulse will help you sound more like a native speaker. As you move into higher levels of Portuguese, you'll start to choose these alternatives based on the specific register—formal, technical, or poetic—of your conversation.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word 'pulso' is related to 'pousar' (to land/rest) and 'pausa' (pause) in a very distant ancestral way through the idea of a beat ending.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈpuɫ.su/
US /ˈpuw.su/
The stress is on the first syllable: PUL-so.
Reimt sich auf
impulso recurso discurso curso urso avulso percurso concurso
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 'l' too clearly like an English 'l'.
  • Pronouncing the 'o' as a deep 'oh' instead of a reduced 'u'.
  • Aspirating the 'p' (adding a puff of air).
  • Confusing it with 'pulo' (jump).
  • Stress on the second syllable.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 1/5

Easy to recognize because it looks like 'pulse'.

Schreiben 2/5

Simple spelling, but remember the 'l' and masculine gender.

Sprechen 3/5

The dark 'l' or vocalized 'w' in Brazil can be tricky for English speakers.

Hören 2/5

Usually clear, but can be confused with 'pulo' in fast speech.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

mão braço corpo relógio ter

Als Nächstes lernen

punho ombro cotovelo articulação batimento

Fortgeschritten

pulsação firmeza liderança anatomia ergonomia

Wichtige Grammatik

Masculine nouns ending in 'o'

O pulso, o braço, o corpo.

Contraction of 'em' + 'o'

No pulso (in/on the wrist).

Possessive adjectives with body parts

Meu pulso dói (My wrist hurts).

Adjective agreement

Pulso forte (Strong wrist).

Definite article for body parts

Ele quebrou o pulso (He broke [the] wrist).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

O meu pulso dói.

My wrist hurts.

Simple subject + verb 'doer' (to hurt).

2

Eu uso um relógio no pulso.

I wear a watch on my wrist.

Use of 'no' (em + o) for location.

3

O pulso é pequeno.

The wrist is small.

Masculine noun 'pulso' with masculine adjective 'pequeno'.

4

Lave o pulso também.

Wash the wrist too.

Imperative verb 'lavar'.

5

Onde está o seu pulso?

Where is your wrist?

Interrogative sentence with possessive 'seu'.

6

Ela tem uma pulseira no pulso.

She has a bracelet on her wrist.

Noun 'pulseira' is derived from 'pulso'.

7

O pulso dele é forte.

His wrist is strong.

Possessive phrase 'dele' (of him).

8

Toque no seu pulso.

Touch your wrist.

Verb 'tocar' followed by 'no' (em + o).

1

Eu torci o pulso na academia.

I sprained my wrist at the gym.

Past tense 'torci' (sprained).

2

O médico mediu o meu pulso.

The doctor measured my pulse.

Verb 'medir' (to measure) in the past tense.

3

Preciso de uma munhequeira para o pulso.

I need a wristband for my wrist.

Noun 'munhequeira' relates to the wrist area.

4

Este relógio não cabe no meu pulso.

This watch doesn't fit on my wrist.

Verb 'caber' (to fit).

5

Ela caiu e machucou o pulso esquerdo.

She fell and hurt her left wrist.

Adjective 'esquerdo' (left) agreeing with 'pulso'.

6

O professor tem pulso firme com os alunos.

The teacher has a firm hand with the students.

Idiom 'pulso firme' used for authority.

7

Sinto o pulso batendo rápido.

I feel the pulse beating fast.

Gerund 'batendo' (beating).

8

Você pode ver as veias no pulso.

You can see the veins in the wrist.

Plural noun 'veias' (veins).

1

Falta pulso ao gerente para resolver o conflito.

The manager lacks the authority to resolve the conflict.

Metaphorical use of 'pulso' as authority.

2

O enfermeiro não conseguiu encontrar o pulso do paciente.

The nurse couldn't find the patient's pulse.

Negative structure 'não conseguiu'.

3

Depois da cirurgia, meu pulso ficou imobilizado.

After the surgery, my wrist was immobilized.

Passive state with 'ficou' + participle.

4

O baterista mantém o pulso da música perfeitamente.

The drummer keeps the pulse of the music perfectly.

Musical context of 'pulso'.

5

Ele usa o relógio no pulso direito por hábito.

He wears the watch on his right wrist out of habit.

Prepositional phrase 'por hábito'.

6

A dor no pulso é um sintoma de esforço repetitivo.

The pain in the wrist is a symptom of repetitive strain.

Noun phrase 'esforço repetitivo'.

7

Ela tem pulso para liderar grandes equipes.

She has the leadership to lead large teams.

Verb 'ter pulso' meaning to have leadership skills.

8

O pulso é uma zona muito sensível do corpo.

The wrist is a very sensitive zone of the body.

Adjective 'sensível' (sensitive).

1

O governo precisa de pulso firme para enfrentar a crise econômica.

The government needs a firm hand to face the economic crisis.

Idiomatic expression in a political context.

2

A inflamação no pulso impede que ela escreva bem.

The inflammation in her wrist prevents her from writing well.

Subjunctive 'escreva' after 'impede que'.

3

Sentir o pulso da cidade é essencial para um jornalista.

Feeling the pulse of the city is essential for a journalist.

Metaphorical 'sentir o pulso'.

4

O atleta quebrou o pulso durante a queda no campeonato.

The athlete broke his wrist during the fall in the championship.

Compound sentence with 'durante'.

5

Ele agiu com pulso de ferro durante a negociação.

He acted with an iron fist during the negotiation.

Idiom 'pulso de ferro' (iron fist/wrist).

6

A fisioterapia ajudou a recuperar os movimentos do pulso.

Physical therapy helped recover the wrist movements.

Infinitive 'recuperar'.

7

O pulso arterial pode ser sentido em vários pontos do corpo.

The arterial pulse can be felt at various points of the body.

Scientific adjective 'arterial'.

8

A pulseira de ouro ficava larga em seu pulso fino.

The gold bracelet was loose on her thin wrist.

Adjective 'larga' (loose/wide).

1

A ausência de pulso político resultou na fragmentação do partido.

The lack of political leadership resulted in the party's fragmentation.

Abstract noun 'ausência' + 'pulso político'.

2

O cirurgião demonstrou um pulso invejável durante o procedimento delicado.

The surgeon demonstrated an enviable steadiness during the delicate procedure.

Adjective 'invejável' (enviable).

3

É necessário ter pulso para gerir uma crise desta magnitude.

It is necessary to have a firm hand to manage a crisis of this magnitude.

Impersonal 'É necessário' + infinitive.

4

O poema capta o pulso vibrante da vida urbana moderna.

The poem captures the vibrant pulse of modern urban life.

Literary usage of 'pulso'.

5

Ganhou a vida a pulso, sem ajuda de ninguém.

He made his living by hard work, without anyone's help.

Idiom 'a pulso' (by sheer effort).

6

A lesão no pulso pôs em risco a carreira do pianista.

The wrist injury put the pianist's career at risk.

Expression 'pôr em risco' (to put at risk).

7

O ritmo da bateria é o pulso que guia toda a orquestra.

The rhythm of the drums is the pulse that guides the whole orchestra.

Relative clause 'que guia'.

8

A medição do pulso deve ser feita com o paciente em repouso.

The pulse measurement should be done with the patient at rest.

Passive voice 'deve ser feita'.

1

A governabilidade depende, em última análise, do pulso do Executivo.

Governability depends, ultimately, on the firmness of the Executive branch.

Complex prepositional phrase 'em última análise'.

2

O autor utiliza a metáfora do pulso para descrever a vitalidade da nação.

The author uses the pulse metaphor to describe the nation's vitality.

Formal verb 'utilizar'.

3

As flutuações no pulso do mercado financeiro geram incerteza.

Fluctuations in the financial market's pulse generate uncertainty.

Metaphorical 'pulso do mercado'.

4

Sua escrita possui um pulso rítmico que remete à tradição oral.

His writing has a rhythmic pulse that refers to oral tradition.

Verb 'remeter a' (to refer/allude to).

5

O mestre de capoeira conduz o jogo com um pulso firme e ancestral.

The capoeira master conducts the game with a firm and ancestral hand.

Adjective 'ancestral'.

6

A patologia manifesta-se através de irregularidades no pulso venoso.

The pathology manifests through irregularities in the venous pulse.

Technical term 'pulso venoso'.

7

Conquistou seu espaço na academia a pulso e com muito intelecto.

He conquered his space in academia through sheer effort and great intellect.

Idiom 'a pulso' used in an academic context.

8

O pulso da revolução ainda ecoava nas ruas décadas depois.

The pulse of the revolution still echoed in the streets decades later.

Abstract usage of 'pulso' as energy.

Häufige Kollokationen

medir o pulso
pulso firme
torcer o pulso
relógio de pulso
sentir o pulso
pulso de ferro
dor no pulso
pulso rápido
dar o pulso
perder o pulso

Häufige Phrasen

No pulso

— On the wrist. Used for accessories.

Ela usa três pulseiras no pulso.

Pulso aberto

— A folk term for a wrist strain or weakness.

Minha avó diz que estou com o pulso aberto.

Ter pulso

— To have authority or character.

Ele não tem pulso para esse cargo.

Sentir o pulso de

— To gauge the mood of a group.

Vou sentir o pulso da equipe antes de decidir.

Pulso fraco

— A literal weak pulse or a weak personality.

O paciente está com o pulso fraco.

Até o pulso

— Up to the wrist. Used for depth or coverage.

A luva cobre até o pulso.

Pulso estável

— A steady hand, often for surgeons or artists.

O pintor tem um pulso estável.

Pulsos cortados

— Slit wrists. A dark medical/literary term.

O personagem tinha cicatrizes nos pulsos.

Girar os pulsos

— To rotate the wrists. Common in exercise.

Gire os pulsos antes de começar o treino.

Pulso social

— The social trend or mood.

O pulso social mudou após as eleições.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

pulso vs punho

Often interchangeable for wrist, but punho also means fist or cuff.

pulso vs pulo

Means 'jump'. Watch the vowel sound.

pulso vs impulso

Means 'impulse'. Related but different meaning.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Pulso firme"

— Strong, authoritative leadership.

A diretora agiu com pulso firme.

informal/neutral
"Pulso de ferro"

— Extremely strict or tyrannical control.

Ele comanda a empresa com pulso de ferro.

neutral
"A pulso"

— By one's own great effort, against odds.

Ele construiu sua fortuna a pulso.

literary
"Sentir o pulso da situação"

— To evaluate the current state of affairs.

Antes de investir, sinta o pulso da situação.

neutral
"Falta de pulso"

— Inability to lead or control.

A falta de pulso do governo gerou o caos.

neutral
"Ganhar a pulso"

— To earn something through hard work.

Ele ganhou o respeito da equipe a pulso.

neutral
"Manter o pulso"

— To keep the rhythm or control.

É difícil manter o pulso durante a crise.

neutral
"Pulso de mestre"

— The steady, skilled hand of an expert.

O quadro foi pintado com um pulso de mestre.

literary
"Medir o pulso ao mercado"

— To check market trends.

Os investidores estão medindo o pulso ao mercado.

business
"Deixar o pulso cair"

— To lose control or give up authority.

Não deixe o pulso cair agora que está quase acabando.

informal

Leicht verwechselbar

pulso vs punho

Both refer to the wrist area.

Punho is more technical for the joint and also means 'fist'. Pulso is more common in Brazil for 'wrist' and also means 'pulse'.

Ele deu um soco com o punho fechado.

pulso vs pulsação

Both relate to the heart rhythm.

Pulsação is the abstract noun for the act of pulsing; pulso is the physical thing or the measurement.

A pulsação dele está acelerada.

pulso vs impulso

Similar sound and shared root.

Impulso is a sudden urge or a physical push; pulso is the wrist/pulse.

Ele agiu por impulso.

pulso vs pulo

Visual similarity.

Pulo is a jump; pulso is a wrist.

O gato deu um pulo alto.

pulso vs repulso

Shared root.

Repulso is the past participle of repulsar (to repel); pulso is the wrist.

O ataque foi repulso pelos soldados.

Satzmuster

A1

O [body part] dói.

O pulso dói.

A1

Eu tenho um [object] no [body part].

Eu tenho um relógio no pulso.

A2

Eu [verb] o pulso.

Eu torci o pulso.

A2

O [person] tem pulso firme.

O chefe tem pulso firme.

B1

[Verb] o pulso de [someone].

Medir o pulso do paciente.

B1

A dor no pulso é [adjective].

A dor no pulso é constante.

B2

Agir com pulso de [material].

Agir com pulso de ferro.

C1

Conquistar algo a pulso.

Ele conquistou o cargo a pulso.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

pulsação
pulsante
pulseira
impulsão
pulsar

Verben

pulsar
impulsionar
repulsar

Adjektive

pulsátil
pulsante
impulsivo
repulsivo

Verwandt

corpo
mão
braço
coração
ritmo

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very common in daily life and medical contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • A pulso O pulso

    Thinking it's feminine like 'a mão'.

  • Eu sinto meu pulso no punho da camisa. Eu sinto meu pulso no pulso.

    Confusing 'punho' (cuff) with 'pulso' (wrist).

  • Medir a pulsação no pulso. Medir o pulso.

    While 'pulsação' is okay, 'medir o pulso' is the standard phrase.

  • Torci o pulo. Torci o pulso.

    Confusing 'pulo' (jump) with 'pulso' (wrist).

  • O relógio de punho. O relógio de pulso.

    The standard term for a wristwatch is 'relógio de pulso'.

Tipps

Watch your wrist

Associate 'pulso' with 'relógio' (watch). You wear a 'relógio de pulso'.

Gender check

Always remember 'pulso' is masculine. 'O pulso está quebrado'.

Lead with pulso

Use 'pulso firme' when talking about a strong boss or teacher.

The Brazilian 'L'

In Brazil, don't pronounce the 'L' with your tongue; make it a 'W' sound.

Doctor's visit

If you are hurt, tell the doctor 'Dói no pulso'.

Regional choice

Use 'pulso' in Brazil and you'll sound perfectly natural.

Feel the vibe

'Sentir o pulso' can be used for feeling the vibe of a party or meeting.

Warm up

Before sports, 'gire os pulsos' (rotate your wrists) to avoid injury.

Accessories

A 'pulseira' is for your 'pulso'. Easy to remember!

Spelling

It's spelled with 's', not 'z'. Pulso.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'PULSE' that you feel at your 'WRIST'. Both start with 'P' and 'W' is just two 'V's, but in Portuguese, they both live in 'PULSO'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a large, ticking watch (relógio) strapped tightly around a joint. That joint is the 'pulso'.

Word Web

corpo saúde relógio pulseira médico ritmo firmeza mão

Herausforderung

Try to say 'O meu relógio está no meu pulso' five times fast without making the 'l' sound like an English 'l'.

Wortherkunft

From the Latin 'pulsus', meaning 'a beating, stroke, or push'. This comes from the verb 'pellere' (to drive, beat).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A rhythmic beating or striking.

Romance (Latin-derived).

Kultureller Kontext

No specific sensitivities, but be careful when using 'pulso de ferro' as it can imply a lack of democracy or kindness.

English speakers often distinguish between 'wrist' and 'pulse', whereas Portuguese uses 'pulso' for both, which can be confusing at first.

The song 'O Pulso' by the Brazilian rock band Titãs, which lists various diseases but notes 'o pulso ainda pulsa' (the pulse still pulses). The term 'pulso firme' frequently used in Brazilian political history to describe various leaders. Medical dramas on TV (like 'Sob Pressão') where 'checar o pulso' is a common dramatic action.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Hospital

  • Medir o pulso
  • Pulso fraco
  • Sentir o pulso
  • Pulso irregular

Gym

  • Torcer o pulso
  • Protetor de pulso
  • Girar o pulso
  • Manter o pulso reto

Shopping

  • Relógio de pulso
  • Pulseira de ouro
  • Medida do pulso
  • Ajustar no pulso

Office

  • Dor no pulso
  • Apoio para o pulso
  • Esforço no pulso
  • Tendinite no pulso

Leadership

  • Ter pulso firme
  • Falta de pulso
  • Agir com pulso
  • Pulso de ferro

Gesprächseinstiege

"Você usa relógio no pulso esquerdo ou direito?"

"Você já torceu o pulso fazendo algum esporte?"

"Você acha que um bom gerente precisa ter pulso firme?"

"Qual é a cor da pulseira que você tem no pulso?"

"Você sabe medir o seu próprio pulso sozinho?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Descreva uma situação em que você precisou ter pulso firme para resolver um problema.

Escreva sobre a última vez que você sentiu seu pulso bater muito rápido de emoção.

Você prefere usar relógios de pulso clássicos ou smartwatches? Por quê?

Imagine que você é um médico. Explique para um paciente como cuidar de um pulso quebrado.

O que a expressão 'sentir o pulso da sociedade' significa para você no contexto atual?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, in most contexts, 'pulso' is the translation for 'wrist' in Portuguese, especially in Brazil. In Portugal, 'punho' is also very common.

You say 'medir o pulso' or 'tomar o pulso'.

No, 'pulso' is always masculine: 'o pulso'.

It means someone has strong authority or a firm hand in leadership.

Yes, 'pulseira' (bracelet) comes from 'pulso' because it's worn on the wrist.

You say 'Eu torci o pulso'.

'Pulso' is what you feel at the wrist; 'batimento' is the actual beat of the heart.

No, for a shirt cuff you must use 'punho'.

Yes, it refers to the basic beat or pulse of a musical piece.

Simply add an 's': 'pulsos'.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence about wearing a watch on your wrist.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a strict teacher using the word 'pulso'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain what happened when you fell down (use 'pulso').

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a medical instruction about checking a pulse.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'pulso de ferro' in a sentence about a historical leader.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using 'pulso' in a musical context.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'My wrist is swollen because of the injury.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Create a sentence using 'pulseira' and 'pulso'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a manager who lacks authority.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about rotating your wrists before exercise.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The doctor felt the patient's pulse.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'a pulso' in a sentence about success.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about a thin wrist.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I have a pain in my right wrist.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe the location of the wrist.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about a fast pulse.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'sentir o pulso' metaphorically.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'She broke her wrist last year.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about a steady hand.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a wristwatch as a gift.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce the word 'pulso' correctly.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'O meu pulso dói.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Eu uso um relógio no pulso.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain in Portuguese where the 'pulso' is.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Tell a short story about a broken wrist.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'O médico mediu o meu pulso.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a strict boss using 'pulso firme'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask someone where they wear their watch.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Gire os pulsos para aquecer.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain the meaning of 'pulseira'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Sinto o meu pulso bater rápido.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Ele governa com pulso de ferro.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a pain in the wrist to a doctor.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'A pulsação dele está normal.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask a nurse to check your pulse.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Eu torci o pulso na academia.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain 'a pulso' in your own words.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'O pulso é uma articulação sensível.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Preciso de uma munhequeira nova.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'O baterista mantém o pulso.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and write the word: pulso

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

Listen and write: O meu pulso dói.

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

Listen and write: Relógio de pulso.

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

Listen and write: Ele tem pulso firme.

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

Listen and identify the body part mentioned.

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

Listen and write: Eu torci o pulso.

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

Listen and write: Medir o pulso.

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

Listen and write: Pulso de ferro.

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

Listen and write: Sinto o pulso batendo.

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

Listen and write: A pulseira no pulso.

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

Listen and write: O pulso é pequeno.

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

Listen and write: Girar os pulsos.

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

Listen and write: Pulsação irregular.

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

Listen and write: Falta de pulso.

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

Listen and write: Ganhar a pulso.

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

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

War das hilfreich?
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!