Signification
In difficult situations, people tend to prioritize their own interests and survival.
Contexte culturel
In Brazil, this phrase is often linked to the 'Jeitinho Brasileiro', but in a negative sense. It describes the breakdown of public services where citizens feel they must bypass rules to survive. In Portugal, the phrase retains a more fatalistic, maritime flavor. It is often used to describe historical moments of crisis or the stoic nature of individual struggle. In Angola, similar expressions are used to describe the 'desenrasca' (survival/improvisation) needed during and after the civil war periods. Used in urban centers like Maputo to describe the competitive nature of informal trade and transport (chapas).
Use it for irony
Brazilians often use this phrase with a sarcastic tone to complain about bad organization.
Don't use at weddings
It implies a lack of partnership, which is the opposite of a marriage vow.
Signification
In difficult situations, people tend to prioritize their own interests and survival.
Use it for irony
Brazilians often use this phrase with a sarcastic tone to complain about bad organization.
Don't use at weddings
It implies a lack of partnership, which is the opposite of a marriage vow.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct reflexive pronoun.
Na hora do perigo, é cada um por ___ e Deus por todos.
The third-person reflexive pronoun 'si' is required after the preposition 'por' in this proverb.
In which situation is this phrase MOST appropriate?
A situation where...
The phrase describes chaotic individualism, which fits the train scenario.
Complete the dialogue.
João: 'O mercado está um caos e ninguém se ajuda!' Maria: 'Pois é, João. Infelizmente, nessas horas...'
The context of chaos and lack of help perfectly matches the proverb.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesNa hora do perigo, é cada um por ___ e Deus por todos.
The third-person reflexive pronoun 'si' is required after the preposition 'por' in this proverb.
A situation where...
The phrase describes chaotic individualism, which fits the train scenario.
João: 'O mercado está um caos e ninguém se ajuda!' Maria: 'Pois é, João. Infelizmente, nessas horas...'
The context of chaos and lack of help perfectly matches the proverb.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, although it mentions God, it is a secular proverb about human behavior.
Yes, the second half is often omitted in casual speech.
It's not rude, but it is cynical. It describes a rude situation.
It is a reflexive pronoun meaning 'themselves' or 'oneself'.
The opposite is 'Um por todos e todos por um' (One for all and all for one).
Yes, it is equally common in Portugal and Brazil.
Only to describe a chaotic situation, not as a personal philosophy if you want to be a team player!
Proverbs are fixed. 'Por' implies acting on behalf of someone.
Frequently, especially in action or drama movies involving crowds or disasters.
In the proverb, it often implies that since humans aren't helping, only God can.
Expressions liées
Farinha pouca, meu pirão primeiro
similarWhen resources are scarce, I will take care of myself first.
Salve-se quem puder
synonymSave yourself if you can.
Um por todos e todos por um
contrastOne for all and all for one.
