converter

Use 'transformar' or 'mudar', not 'converter'. 'Transformar o quarto em um escritório.'

Use 'converter'. 'Converter-se ao cristianismo.'

Use 'converter'. 'Converter dólares em euros.'

Sounds very similar to the English 'convert', but has specific uses beyond just changing form.

In Portuguese, 'converter' often implies a more fundamental change, like converting currency, converting a file format, or religious conversion. It's less common for general changes like 'converting a room into an office' where 'transformar' or 'mudar' might be more appropriate.

Eu preciso **converter** estes euros para reais. (I need to **convert** these euros to Brazilian Reals.)

Also means 'to transform' or 'to change', leading to overlap with 'converter'.

'Transformar' is generally broader and refers to changing the appearance, nature, or function of something. It's more about altering something significantly, often physically or conceptually, without necessarily implying a different 'type' of thing, as 'converter' sometimes does.

Nós vamos **transformar** o quarto em um escritório. (We are going to **transform** the room into an office.)

A very general verb for 'to change', which can sometimes be used where 'converter' or 'transformar' might also fit.

'Mudar' is the most general verb for 'to change'. It can mean to change location, change an opinion, change clothes, or simply to make something different. It doesn't carry the same sense of a fundamental alteration or specific type conversion as 'converter' or 'transformar'.

Ele **mudou** de cidade no ano passado. (He **changed** cities last year.)

Another verb meaning 'to alter' or 'to change', adding to the confusion.

'Alterar' often implies making a small, usually non-fundamental change or modification to something existing. It's less about a complete conversion or transformation and more about adjusting or modifying. Think of altering a document or a piece of clothing.

Você precisa **alterar** alguns detalhes no relatório. (You need to **alter** some details in the report.)

Can mean 'to exchange' or 'to swap', which sometimes feels similar to 'converting' one thing for another.

'Trocar' specifically means to exchange one thing for another, or to swap. While 'converter' might be about changing the form or type of a single item (e.g., currency), 'trocar' is about replacing one item with a different item. You 'troca' a broken item for a new one, or 'troca' shirts.

Eu quero **trocar** este livro por outro. (I want to **exchange** this book for another.)