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espreguiçadeira

A2 noun 12 min de lecture

espreguiçadeira

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces espreguiçadeira en 30 secondes

Explication espreguiçadeira in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that an 'espreguiçadeira' is a special kind of chair for the beach or pool. It is a long word, but don't be intimidated! Think of it as 'a chair for stretching.' You will mostly use it in simple sentences like 'Eu quero uma espreguiçadeira' (I want a deck chair) or 'A espreguiçadeira é azul' (The deck chair is blue). At this stage, focus on recognizing the word in a vacation context. You might see it on signs at a hotel or hear a lifeguard mention it. It is a feminine noun, so always use 'a' or 'uma' with it. Practice saying it slowly: es-pre-gui-ça-dei-ra. It is one of those fun, long Portuguese words that makes you sound very advanced once you master its pronunciation. Just remember: it's for relaxing, not for sitting at a dining table!

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At the A2 level, you should be able to describe where the 'espreguiçadeira' is and what you are doing with it. You can use prepositions like 'na' (in the) and verbs like 'estar' (to be) or 'gostar' (to like). For example, 'Gosto de ler na espreguiçadeira' (I like to read on the deck chair). You should also know the plural form, 'espreguiçadeiras', and be able to ask for one at a beach or pool. 'Há espreguiçadeiras livres?' (Are there free deck chairs?). At this level, you might also start to notice the material it's made of, such as 'plástico' (plastic) or 'madeira' (wood). It's a key word for any travel-related vocabulary, especially if you plan to visit the coast of Portugal or Brazil. You are moving beyond just naming the object to using it in basic social interactions.

By B1, you can use 'espreguiçadeira' in more complex narratives about your holidays or home life. You can talk about preferences: 'Prefiro as espreguiçadeiras de madeira porque são mais resistentes que as de plástico' (I prefer wooden deck chairs because they are more resistant than plastic ones). You should also be comfortable using the word in the past tense to describe a trip: 'Passei a tarde toda deitado na espreguiçadeira a ouvir música' (I spent the whole afternoon lying on the deck chair listening to music). At this level, you understand the cultural context of the word—that it implies a specific type of leisure and is often associated with summer vacations. You might also use it when shopping for garden furniture, discussing prices, comfort, and durability with a salesperson.

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At the B2 level, you can use 'espreguiçadeira' in a variety of idiomatic or more descriptive contexts. You might discuss the 'guerra das espreguiçadeiras' (the war of the deck chairs) at resorts, referring to the social phenomenon of people reserving them with towels. You can use more specific adjectives like 'reclinável' (reclining), 'acolchoada' (padded), or 'dobrável' (foldable). Your sentences will be more fluid: 'Apesar de o hotel ser luxuoso, as espreguiçadeiras estavam um pouco descuidadas' (Despite the hotel being luxurious, the deck chairs were a bit neglected). You can also handle hypothetical situations: 'Se tivéssemos um terraço maior, compraria duas espreguiçadeiras para apanharmos sol' (If we had a larger terrace, I would buy two deck chairs for us to sunbathe).

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At the C1 level, 'espreguiçadeira' becomes a word you use effortlessly in detailed descriptions, literary contexts, or social critiques. You might use it as a symbol of leisure in a piece of writing about modern lifestyle: 'A espreguiçadeira tornou-se o trono do turista moderno, um símbolo de um repouso muitas vezes planeado e pouco espontâneo' (The deck chair has become the throne of the modern tourist, a symbol of a rest that is often planned and rarely spontaneous). You understand the nuance between 'espreguiçadeira', 'chaise longue', and 'divã' and can choose the correct term based on the setting and social class being described. Your pronunciation is perfect, including the subtle nasalization and the correct stress on the penultimate syllable. You can also engage in technical discussions about furniture design or the environmental impact of plastic outdoor furniture.

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At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the word and its various connotations. You can appreciate the word's morphology and its roots in the verb 'espreguiçar-se'. You might use the word in a metaphorical sense or in high-level academic or journalistic writing about tourism, architecture, or sociology. You can discuss the evolution of the 'espreguiçadeira' from the 19th-century steamer chairs to modern ergonomic designs. You are also aware of regional variations across the Lusosphere and can adapt your usage if you are in Lisbon, Luanda, or Rio de Janeiro. For a C2 speaker, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a cultural touchstone that can be used to evoke a specific mood, setting, or social commentary with precision and stylistic flair.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

espreguiçadeira en 30 secondes

A feminine noun for a sun lounger or reclining outdoor chair.
Derived from 'espreguiçar' (to stretch oneself).
Commonly found at beaches, pools, and in gardens.
Essential vocabulary for summer travel and leisure in Portuguese.

The word espreguiçadeira is a quintessential term in the Portuguese vocabulary of leisure and relaxation. At its core, it refers to a long, reclining chair designed for lounging outdoors, typically found near swimming pools, on beaches, or in private gardens. The name itself is beautifully descriptive, derived from the verb espreguiçar-se, which means to stretch one's limbs, especially after waking up or when feeling tired. Therefore, an espreguiçadeira is literally a 'stretcher-outer'—a piece of furniture specifically engineered to facilitate that satisfying physical expansion of the body. In Portuguese culture, particularly in the sun-drenched regions like the Algarve or the coastal cities of Brazil, the espreguiçadeira represents more than just furniture; it symbolizes the 'dolce far niente' or the 'sweetness of doing nothing.' When you see one, the immediate association is a break from the rigors of work and the stresses of urban life.

Design and Variation: An espreguiçadeira can be made from various materials including high-grade teak wood for luxury resorts, lightweight and rust-proof aluminum for modern patios, or the ubiquitous white molded plastic found in public pools. The defining feature is the adjustable backrest, which allows the user to transition from a seated reading position to a fully flat lying position for a nap or tanning.

Depois de um mergulho refrescante na piscina, nada sabe melhor do que relaxar numa espreguiçadeira com um bom livro e uma bebida fresca ao lado.

Beyond the beach, you might encounter this word in interior design contexts, though it primarily remains an outdoor item. In a household setting, having a set of espreguiçadeiras on the balcony or in the backyard is a sign of a home geared towards hospitality and enjoyment of the climate.

Social Etiquette: In popular tourist destinations, the 'war of the espreguiçadeiras' is a common humorous (and sometimes tense) topic, referring to the practice of guests placing towels on them early in the morning to reserve their spot for the day.

A gerência do hotel pede aos hóspedes que não reservem a espreguiçadeira com toalhas antes das oito da manhã.

Historically, these chairs evolved from the simple wooden deck chairs used on ocean liners in the late 19th century. Today, they are an essential component of the global tourism industry. In terms of linguistic structure, the suffix '-eira' often denotes a container or an object associated with a specific action or thing, reinforcing the idea of a 'place for stretching.' Understanding this word allows you to navigate summer vacations in the Lusophone world with ease, ensuring you know exactly what to ask for when you want to sunbathe.

Maintenance and Care: Because they are exposed to sun and salt, espreguiçadeiras require care. Wooden ones need oiling, while plastic ones need frequent cleaning to prevent the buildup of sunscreen residues and dust.

Comprei uma espreguiçadeira de vime para o meu terraço, mas tenho de a cobrir quando chove.

As crianças adoram saltar de espreguiçadeira em espreguiçadeira, o que pode ser perigoso se o chão estiver molhado.

Não há nada como o conforto de uma espreguiçadeira acolchoada para passar uma tarde inteira a apanhar sol.

In summary, this word is your gateway to understanding the Portuguese art of relaxation. It is a long, expressive word for a long, expressive chair.

Using espreguiçadeira correctly involves understanding its gender (feminine) and its typical verbal companions. Since it is a feminine noun, you will always use feminine articles: a espreguiçadeira (the deck chair) or uma espreguiçadeira (a deck chair). When talking about multiple chairs, the plural is as espreguiçadeiras. The most common verbs used with this noun are deitar-se (to lie down), sentar-se (to sit down), relaxar (to relax), and apanhar sol (to sunbathe).

Direct Action: When you want to describe the act of using the chair, you use the preposition 'na' (in the/on the). For example: 'Eu estou deitado na espreguiçadeira.' This indicates your current state of repose.

Podes trazer-me o protetor solar? Deixei-o em cima da espreguiçadeira azul.

If you are discussing the purchase or placement of the furniture, you might use adjectives to describe its material or color. 'Uma espreguiçadeira de madeira' (a wooden deck chair) suggests a classic, sturdy look, while 'uma espreguiçadeira dobrável' (a folding deck chair) emphasizes portability and convenience.

Positional Context: It is also useful to know how to describe the location of the chair. You might say it is 'à beira da piscina' (by the pool) or 'no meio do jardim' (in the middle of the garden). These spatial markers help clarify where the relaxation is happening.

Colocámos a espreguiçadeira à sombra da palmeira para evitar o calor excessivo do meio-dia.

In more complex sentences, you can use espreguiçadeira as a subject to describe its qualities. 'Esta espreguiçadeira é muito desconfortável' (This deck chair is very uncomfortable) or 'As espreguiçadeiras deste hotel são fantásticas' (The deck chairs at this hotel are fantastic).

Comparative Usage: Sometimes you need to compare it to other furniture. 'Prefiro a espreguiçadeira à cadeira normal porque posso esticar as pernas.' (I prefer the deck chair to the normal chair because I can stretch my legs.)

A espreguiçadeira partiu-se quando o meu primo tentou sentar-se nela com demasiada força.

Preciso de comprar almofadas novas para a minha espreguiçadeira antiga; o tecido já está muito gasto pelo sol.

Será que há uma espreguiçadeira livre perto da zona dos miúdos?

In professional contexts, such as working in a hotel or furniture store, the word is used with precision regarding inventory and logistics. 'Temos de recolher as espreguiçadeiras antes que comece a tempestade' (We have to collect the deck chairs before the storm starts). This demonstrates the word's versatility across casual and formal settings. Finally, don't forget the diminutive espreguiçadeirinha, which might be used playfully for a child's version or to express a sense of coziness and affection for your favorite spot.

If you are traveling through Portugal or Brazil, you will hear the word espreguiçadeira in very specific, high-vibe environments. The most common place is undoubtedly the beach resort or 'clube de praia.' As you arrive, a 'funcionário' (staff member) might ask you, 'Deseja alugar uma espreguiçadeira e um chapéu de sol?' (Would you like to rent a deck chair and a parasol?). This is a standard interaction in places like Vilamoura, Cascais, or the beach clubs of Florianópolis.

Hotel and Resort Contexts: At the reception or the pool bar, guests often inquire about the availability of these chairs. 'A que horas abrem a zona das espreguiçadeiras?' (What time does the deck chair area open?). You will also hear it in the instructions given by lifeguards or pool attendants regarding safety and placement.

O nadador-salvador pediu para não movermos a espreguiçadeira para muito perto da borda da piscina.

Another major setting is the home improvement or furniture store, such as IKEA, Leroy Merlin, or local Portuguese shops like Pollux. Here, customers and sales assistants discuss the merits of different models. 'Esta espreguiçadeira é resistente aos raios UV?' (Is this deck chair UV resistant?). You'll hear technical terms like 'encosto ajustável' (adjustable backrest) and 'rodas' (wheels) being used in conjunction with the main noun.

Social Media and Travel Vlogs: In the age of Instagram, the word appears frequently in captions and travel stories. Influencers will post photos with the tag #relax na espreguiçadeira, showcasing a lifestyle of ease. It has become a keyword for the 'vacation aesthetic' in the Portuguese-speaking digital world.

Vejam só esta vista da minha espreguiçadeira! É o paraíso na terra.

Literature and Media: In contemporary Portuguese novels or soap operas (telenovelas), the espreguiçadeira is a common prop for scenes involving wealthy characters plotting or relaxing at their villas. It serves as a visual shorthand for status and leisure time.

Naquela cena da novela, a vilã estava a beber champanhe numa espreguiçadeira enquanto planeava a sua vingança.

O catálogo de verão está cheio de modelos novos de espreguiçadeira para todos os bolsos.

Ouvi dizer que as espreguiçadeiras daquela praia privada são feitas de materiais reciclados.

In short, whenever the sun is out and there is a body of water nearby, the word espreguiçadeira will be floating in the air, synonymous with the collective desire for rest.

For English speakers, the primary challenge with espreguiçadeira is its length and the specific phonetic clusters it contains. A common mistake is mispronouncing the 'gui' as 'gwee' or 'jai'. In Portuguese, 'gui' is a hard 'g' followed by an 'ee' sound, like in the English word 'geese'. Another frequent error is forgetting the 'ç' (cedilla) which gives the 's' sound. Some learners might accidentally say 'espreguicadeira' with a hard 'k' sound, which is incorrect and can lead to confusion.

Gender Confusion: Because many furniture items end in 'a' but some don't (like 'sofá'), learners often trip up on the gender. Remember: 'a espreguiçadeira' (feminine). Saying 'o espreguiçadeira' is a common A1/A2 mistake that immediately identifies you as a beginner.

Errado: Eu comprei um espreguiçadeira. Correto: Eu comprei uma espreguiçadeira.

Another mistake is using the word 'cadeira' (chair) when you specifically mean a lounger. While an espreguiçadeira is a type of chair, calling it just a 'cadeira' at a beach club might result in the attendant bringing you a small plastic upright chair instead of the reclining lounger you actually want. Precision is key in these service-oriented environments.

Spelling Pitfalls: The sequence of vowels 'e-i-r-a' at the end is common in Portuguese but can be tricky to spell. Many learners forget the 'i' and write 'espreguiçadera'. Always remember the diphthong 'ei' which sounds like the 'ay' in 'stay'.

Não confundas espreguiçadeira com esteira. Uma esteira é um tapete fino, geralmente de palha, para pôr na areia.

Preposition Errors: Learners sometimes say 'sentar em espreguiçadeira' without the article. In Portuguese, we almost always use the definite article in this context: 'sentar-se na espreguiçadeira'.

Muitos alunos esquecem-se do 'i' em espreguiçadeira, pronunciando-o como se fosse apenas 'e'.

Cuidado para não trocar o 'ç' por 'ss'; embora soem iguais, a grafia com 'ç' é obrigatória.

Evite traduzir 'sun lounger' literalmente como 'lounger de sol'; o termo correto é sempre espreguiçadeira.

Finally, some students struggle with the plural form. Since it ends in 'a', you simply add an 's'. However, the stress remains on the 'dei' syllable: es-pre-gui-ça-DEI-ras. Over-stressing the final 'as' is a common rhythmic mistake for English speakers accustomed to different stress patterns.

While espreguiçadeira is the most precise term for a sun lounger, there are several related words that you should know to enrich your vocabulary and avoid confusion. Each has a slightly different nuance or context.

Cadeira de Praia vs. Espreguiçadeira: A 'cadeira de praia' is usually a lightweight, foldable chair that you carry to the beach yourself. You sit in it like a regular chair. An 'espreguiçadeira' is larger, often heavier, and allows you to lie down completely. Use 'cadeira de praia' for the portable version and 'espreguiçadeira' for the resort-style lounger.

A espreguiçadeira é muito pesada para levar para a areia; prefiro levar a minha cadeira de praia dobrável.

Chaise Longue: Borrowed from French, this term is used in Portugal and Brazil to refer to indoor furniture—specifically a sofa with an extended seat for reclining. While functionally similar to an espreguiçadeira, a chaise longue is almost always upholstered and part of a living room set.

Comprámos um sofá novo com uma chaise longue integrada para podermos ver filmes confortavelmente.

Divã: A 'divã' is a couch or daybed, often associated with a psychoanalyst's office or a classic boudoir. It lacks the adjustable outdoor nature of an espreguiçadeira and carries a more formal or clinical connotation.

O paciente deitou-se no divã para começar a sua sessão de terapia.

Rede (Hammock): While not a chair, a 'rede' serves a similar purpose of relaxation. In Brazil, the 'rede' is a cultural icon and often preferred over an espreguiçadeira for afternoon naps due to the airflow it allows.

Não havia espreguiçadeiras livres, por isso acabei por dormir uma sesta na rede entre as duas árvores.

A espreguiçadeira de plástico é mais barata, mas a de alumínio dura muito mais tempo.

Na loja, eles chamam a isto uma 'cadeira de repouso', mas toda a gente sabe que é uma espreguiçadeira.

Knowing these distinctions helps you sound more like a native speaker. If you're at a high-end store, using 'espreguiçadeira' shows you know the specific term for outdoor luxury, whereas 'cadeira' might sound a bit too generic. Always look at the context: if it's for reclining and it's outside, espreguiçadeira is your best bet.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"Solicitamos que as espreguiçadeiras sejam mantidas nas áreas designadas."

Neutre

"Vou comprar uma espreguiçadeira nova para o jardim."

Informel

"Estou aqui na espreguiçadeira a curtir o sol."

Child friendly

"Olha a espreguiçadeira colorida! Queres sentar-te?"

Argot

"Aquela espreguiçadeira é top, mano!"

Le savais-tu ?

The word contains 'preguiça', which is also the Portuguese name for the 'sloth' animal, further emphasizing the theme of slow movement and relaxation.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ɨʃ.pɾɨ.ɡi.sɐ.ˈðɐj.ɾɐ/

US /es.pɾe.ɡi.sa.ˈdej.ɾa/

The primary stress is on the penultimate syllable 'DEI'.

Rime avec

cadeira beira eira madeira poeira ceifeira banheira carteira

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'gui' as 'gwee'. It should be 'gee'.
Forgetting the 'i' in 'deira'.
Using a hard 'k' sound for the 'ç'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Long word but follows standard phonetic rules.

Écriture 3/5

The 'gui' and 'ç' can be tricky for beginners to remember.

Expression orale 4/5

The multiple syllables and 'gui' sound require practice for fluency.

Écoute 2/5

Distinctive sound makes it easy to recognize once known.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

cadeira sol praia piscina descansar

Apprends ensuite

reclinável acolchoado guarda-sol toalha bronzeador

Avancé

ócio estival repouso ergonomia vime

Grammaire à connaître

Contractions with 'em'

na espreguiçadeira (em + a)

Feminine noun agreement

a espreguiçadeira branca

Pluralization of nouns ending in 'a'

espreguiçadeiras

Verb 'gostar' + 'de'

Gosto da espreguiçadeira.

Placement of adjectives

espreguiçadeira confortável (adjective usually follows)

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Exemples par niveau

A espreguiçadeira é branca.

The deck chair is white.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

Eu vejo uma espreguiçadeira.

I see a deck chair.

Use of the indefinite article 'uma'.

Onde está a espreguiçadeira?

Where is the deck chair?

Basic question with 'onde'.

A espreguiçadeira está no jardim.

The deck chair is in the garden.

Prepositional phrase 'no jardim'.

Gosto desta espreguiçadeira.

I like this deck chair.

Verb 'gostar' requires the preposition 'de'.

Uma espreguiçadeira, por favor.

A deck chair, please.

Polite request.

A espreguiçadeira é para relaxar.

The deck chair is for relaxing.

'Para' + infinitive to express purpose.

As espreguiçadeiras são novas.

The deck chairs are new.

Plural agreement.

Quero ler um livro na espreguiçadeira.

I want to read a book on the deck chair.

'Na' is the contraction of 'em' + 'a'.

Podes pôr a toalha na espreguiçadeira?

Can you put the towel on the deck chair?

Direct object 'a toalha'.

Não há espreguiçadeiras livres na piscina.

There are no free deck chairs at the pool.

'Há' meaning 'there are'.

A espreguiçadeira de madeira é cara.

The wooden deck chair is expensive.

Adjective phrase 'de madeira'.

Vou-me deitar na espreguiçadeira agora.

I am going to lie down on the deck chair now.

Reflexive verb 'deitar-se'.

A espreguiçadeira azul é a minha favorita.

The blue deck chair is my favorite.

Feminine agreement for 'favorita'.

Precisamos de duas espreguiçadeiras para o terraço.

We need two deck chairs for the terrace.

Number agreement.

Ela está a dormir na espreguiçadeira.

She is sleeping on the deck chair.

Present continuous 'está a dormir'.

Ontem, passei a tarde toda na espreguiçadeira.

Yesterday, I spent the whole afternoon on the deck chair.

Preterite tense 'passei'.

Se estiver sol, vou para a espreguiçadeira.

If it's sunny, I'll go to the deck chair.

Future subjunctive 'estiver'.

Comprei esta espreguiçadeira porque é muito confortável.

I bought this deck chair because it is very comfortable.

Causal conjunction 'porque'.

As espreguiçadeiras de plástico partem-se facilmente.

Plastic deck chairs break easily.

Adverb 'facilmente'.

Prefiro a espreguiçadeira à rede de descanso.

I prefer the deck chair to the hammock.

'Preferir' something 'a' (to) something else.

Ela esqueceu-se do telemóvel na espreguiçadeira.

She forgot her phone on the deck chair.

Reflexive 'esquecer-se de'.

O hotel tem espreguiçadeiras suficientes para todos?

Does the hotel have enough deck chairs for everyone?

Adjective 'suficientes' after the noun.

A espreguiçadeira estava tão quente que não me pude sentar.

The deck chair was so hot that I couldn't sit down.

Imperfect 'estava' and 'tão... que' construction.

Embora estivesse frio, ele ficou na espreguiçadeira.

Although it was cold, he stayed on the deck chair.

Concessive 'embora' + subjunctive.

As espreguiçadeiras foram recolhidas devido ao vento forte.

The deck chairs were collected due to the strong wind.

Passive voice 'foram recolhidas'.

Deverias ter posto a espreguiçadeira à sombra.

You should have put the deck chair in the shade.

Compound conditional 'deverias ter posto'.

Esta espreguiçadeira reclinável tem cinco posições diferentes.

This reclining deck chair has five different positions.

Specific technical adjective 'reclinável'.

Não vale a pena alugar uma espreguiçadeira por apenas uma hora.

It's not worth renting a deck chair for just one hour.

Idiom 'valer a pena'.

A espreguiçadeira é o elemento central do meu jardim de verão.

The deck chair is the central element of my summer garden.

Nouns as subjects in a descriptive sentence.

Fiquei furioso quando vi alguém na minha espreguiçadeira reservada.

I was furious when I saw someone in my reserved deck chair.

Adjective 'furioso' and past participle 'reservada'.

As espreguiçadeiras modernas são feitas de materiais sustentáveis.

Modern deck chairs are made of sustainable materials.

Agreement of 'modernas' and 'sustentáveis'.

A espreguiçadeira, outrora um luxo, é hoje banal em qualquer praia.

The deck chair, once a luxury, is today commonplace on any beach.

Use of 'outrora' and apposition.

O design ergonómico desta espreguiçadeira previne dores lombares.

The ergonomic design of this deck chair prevents lower back pain.

Technical vocabulary like 'ergonómico' and 'lombares'.

Nada evoca melhor o ócio do que uma espreguiçadeira vazia ao sol.

Nothing evokes leisure better than an empty deck chair in the sun.

Abstract noun 'ócio'.

A durabilidade da espreguiçadeira depende da manutenção anual.

The durability of the deck chair depends on annual maintenance.

Noun 'durabilidade' and 'depender de'.

Ele contemplava o horizonte, refastelado na sua espreguiçadeira de vime.

He contemplated the horizon, reclined in his wicker deck chair.

Sophisticated verb 'refastelar-se'.

A espreguiçadeira serviu de refúgio para as suas leituras filosóficas.

The deck chair served as a refuge for his philosophical readings.

Metaphorical use of 'refúgio'.

As espreguiçadeiras estavam dispostas de forma simétrica em redor da fonte.

The deck chairs were arranged symmetrically around the fountain.

Adverbial phrase 'de forma simétrica'.

A cor desbotada da espreguiçadeira denunciava anos de exposição solar.

The faded color of the deck chair revealed years of sun exposure.

Verb 'denunciar' meaning 'to reveal'.

A espreguiçadeira é o epítome da inércia estival nas sociedades modernas.

The deck chair is the epitome of summer inertia in modern societies.

High-level vocabulary like 'epítome' and 'estival'.

Sob a égide do descanso, a espreguiçadeira acolhe corpos exaustos.

Under the aegis of rest, the deck chair welcomes exhausted bodies.

Literary phrase 'sob a égide de'.

A obsolescência programada afeta até a robustez de uma espreguiçadeira.

Planned obsolescence affects even the robustness of a deck chair.

Complex concept 'obsolescência programada'.

A espreguiçadeira tornou-se um objeto de culto no design de exteriores.

The deck chair has become a cult object in outdoor design.

Phrase 'objeto de culto'.

Reclinado na espreguiçadeira, ele tecia loas à vida contemplativa.

Reclined on the deck chair, he sang praises to the contemplative life.

Archaic/literary expression 'tecer loas'.

A espreguiçadeira desdobra-se num convite irrecusável à procrastinação.

The deck chair unfolds into an irresistible invitation to procrastination.

Personification of the object.

A estética minimalista daquela espreguiçadeira contrastava com o barroco do jardim.

The minimalist aesthetic of that deck chair contrasted with the baroque nature of the garden.

Artistic contrast 'minimalista' vs 'barroco'.

A espreguiçadeira jazia abandonada, testemunha muda de verões passados.

The deck chair lay abandoned, a silent witness to past summers.

Poetic use of 'jazer' and 'testemunha muda'.

Collocations courantes

espreguiçadeira de madeira

espreguiçadeira de plástico

espreguiçadeira reclinável

espreguiçadeira dobrável

alugar uma espreguiçadeira

deitar-se na espreguiçadeira

espreguiçadeira acolchoada

espreguiçadeira de vime

reservar uma espreguiçadeira

espreguiçadeira junto à piscina

Phrases Courantes

estar na espreguiçadeira

— To be relaxing or sunbathing.

Estou na espreguiçadeira, não me incomodes.

ficar na espreguiçadeira

— To stay and relax for a while.

Vou ficar na espreguiçadeira o dia todo.

pôr-se na espreguiçadeira

— To get onto the chair.

Põe-te na espreguiçadeira antes que alguém a tire.

tirar a espreguiçadeira

— To remove or move the chair.

Tira a espreguiçadeira do sol, por favor.

limpar a espreguiçadeira

— To clean the chair.

Tens de limpar a espreguiçadeira antes de a usares.

montar a espreguiçadeira

— To set up or assemble the chair.

Ajuda-me a montar a espreguiçadeira nova.

guardar a espreguiçadeira

— To put the chair away.

Guarda a espreguiçadeira na garagem porque vai chover.

uma espreguiçadeira livre

— An available chair.

Vês alguma espreguiçadeira livre por ali?

conforto da espreguiçadeira

— The comfort provided by the chair.

Nada bate o conforto da espreguiçadeira ao fim do dia.

venda de espreguiçadeiras

— The sale of deck chairs.

A loja tem uma promoção na venda de espreguiçadeiras.

Souvent confondu avec

espreguiçadeira vs cadeira

A general chair, usually for sitting upright.

espreguiçadeira vs esteira

A mat used on the sand, not a piece of furniture.

espreguiçadeira vs sofá

Indoor seating, usually for multiple people.

Expressions idiomatiques

"fazer espreguiçadeira"

— To act lazily or spend too much time doing nothing.

Pára de fazer espreguiçadeira e vem ajudar!

informal

"vida de espreguiçadeira"

— A life of extreme leisure or ease.

Ele agora tem uma vida de espreguiçadeira desde que se reformou.

informal

"guerra das espreguiçadeiras"

— The competition to get a chair at a resort.

A guerra das espreguiçadeiras começa às sete da manhã no hotel.

informal

"colado à espreguiçadeira"

— Someone who refuses to move from their spot.

O João está colado à espreguiçadeira desde as nove.

informal

"espreguiçadeira VIP"

— The best or most exclusive spot.

Consegui a espreguiçadeira VIP hoje!

slang

"dormir na espreguiçadeira"

— To miss out on something because one was too relaxed.

Não durmas na espreguiçadeira, senão perdes o autocarro!

metaphorical

"ser uma espreguiçadeira"

— To be someone very lazy (rare).

Aquele rapaz é uma espreguiçadeira autêntica.

informal

"espreguiçadeira de ouro"

— Something very expensive and useless.

Aquele móvel novo é uma espreguiçadeira de ouro.

sarcastic

"saltar de espreguiçadeira em espreguiçadeira"

— To move from one leisure activity to another without purpose.

Ela passa o verão a saltar de espreguiçadeira em espreguiçadeira.

informal

"donos da espreguiçadeira"

— People who act like they own public spaces.

Eles acham que são os donos da espreguiçadeira aqui no clube.

informal

Facile à confondre

espreguiçadeira vs estendal

Sounds vaguely similar and both are outdoor items.

An 'estendal' is for drying clothes; an 'espreguiçadeira' is for people to lie on.

Põe a roupa no estendal e vem para a espreguiçadeira.

espreguiçadeira vs escada

Starts with 'es'.

An 'escada' is a ladder or stairs.

Usa a escada para chegar ao terraço das espreguiçadeiras.

espreguiçadeira vs esponja

Starts with 'es'.

An 'esponja' is a sponge.

Limpa a espreguiçadeira com uma esponja húmida.

espreguiçadeira vs poltrona

Both are comfortable chairs.

A 'poltrona' is an armchair, usually for indoors.

Prefiro a poltrona da sala no inverno e a espreguiçadeira no verão.

espreguiçadeira vs rede

Both are for relaxing.

A 'rede' is a hammock.

A rede balança, mas a espreguiçadeira é estável.

Structures de phrases

A espreguiçadeira é [adjetivo].

A espreguiçadeira é confortável.

Eu estou na espreguiçadeira.

Eu estou na espreguiçadeira azul.

Eu gosto de [verbo] na espreguiçadeira.

Eu gosto de ler na espreguiçadeira.

Ontem eu [verbo no passado] na espreguiçadeira.

Ontem eu dormi na espreguiçadeira.

Se eu tivesse uma espreguiçadeira, eu [condicional].

Se eu tivesse uma espreguiçadeira, eu relaxaria mais.

A espreguiçadeira que eu comprei é [descrição].

A espreguiçadeira que eu comprei é de alumínio.

Não há nada como o [substantivo] de uma espreguiçadeira.

Não há nada como o conforto de uma espreguiçadeira.

A espreguiçadeira serve de [metáfora].

A espreguiçadeira serve de refúgio para a alma.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common during summer; rare in winter.

Erreurs courantes

O espreguiçadeira → A espreguiçadeira
The word is feminine, so it must take the feminine article.
Espreguicadeira (missing cedilla) → Espreguiçadeira
The 'ç' is necessary for the 's' sound. Without it, the 'c' would sound like 'k' before 'a'.
Espreguicadeira (missing 'u') → Espreguiçadeira
The 'u' is needed after 'g' to keep the 'g' hard before 'i'.
Sentar na cadeira (when meaning lounger) → Sentar na espreguiçadeira
'Cadeira' is too generic and might lead to getting the wrong type of chair at a beach.
Espreguiçadera (missing 'i') → Espreguiçadeira
The diphthong 'ei' is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

Astuces

Master the hard G

Practice the 'gui' syllable separately. Think of the word 'geese'. If you get this right, the whole word sounds much more natural.

Remember the Gender

Associate 'espreguiçadeira' with 'água' (water) or 'piscina' (pool)—all are feminine. This helps you remember to use 'a' and 'uma'.

The Sloth Link

Remember that 'preguiça' means laziness or sloth. An espreguiçadeira is the 'lazy chair'. This connection makes the word easier to recall.

The Towel Rule

In hotels, don't be 'that person' who puts a towel on an espreguiçadeira at 6 AM. It's a common cultural trope but often frowned upon!

The Diphthong 'ei'

Always include the 'i' in 'deira'. It's the same ending as 'cadeira' (chair), 'madeira' (wood), and 'beira' (edge).

Ask for Rent

When at a beach club, ask: 'Quanto é o aluguer da espreguiçadeira?' It's a very useful phrase for travelers.

Imagine the Shape

The word is long, just like the chair. Visualize the length of the word matching the length of the lounger.

Context Clues

If you hear 'sol' and 'piscina', and then a long word starting with 'es', it's almost certainly 'espreguiçadeira'.

Use Adjectives

Make your writing richer by adding 'de plástico' or 'de madeira' to describe the chair.

Daily Routine

Try to use the word whenever you see a photo of a beach or a pool. Label it in your mind.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'ES-PREGUI-ÇADEIRA' as 'ESSential for PREGnancy-like relaxation (stretching) and CHAIR (cadeira)'. Or focus on 'preguiça' (laziness) + 'cadeira' (chair) = lazy chair.

Association visuelle

Imagine a sloth (preguiça) wearing sunglasses and reclining on a long white chair by a pool.

Word Web

lazer sol piscina praia descanso conforto verão férias

Défi

Try to say 'espreguiçadeira' five times fast without tripping over the 'gui' and 'dei' syllables.

Origine du mot

From the Portuguese verb 'espreguiçar' (to stretch), which comes from 'preguiça' (laziness), ultimately from the Latin 'pigritia'.

Sens originel : A place or object used for stretching one's body.

Romance (Indo-European).

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, though 'preguiça' can sometimes have a negative connotation of laziness, in this context, it is purely about relaxation.

In English, we use 'sun lounger' (UK) or 'deck chair/chaise' (US). The Portuguese word is more specific than 'chair' but more common than 'chaise longue' in outdoor settings.

Often seen in Portuguese tourism advertisements for the Algarve. A common prop in Brazilian 'novelas' to show a character's wealth. Featured in poems about the sea and summer by modern Portuguese authors.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At the beach

Quanto custa a espreguiçadeira?
Pode abrir o chapéu de sol?
A espreguiçadeira está molhada.
Quero uma na primeira fila.

At a hotel pool

Posso levar a toalha para a espreguiçadeira?
Estão todas ocupadas.
Há serviço de bar na espreguiçadeira?
Onde estão as espreguiçadeiras?

Shopping for furniture

É resistente à chuva?
Qual é o peso máximo?
É fácil de dobrar?
Têm em outras cores?

In the garden

Põe a espreguiçadeira à sombra.
Vou ler na espreguiçadeira.
A espreguiçadeira está suja.
Precisamos de almofadas.

In a story/novel

Ele repousava na espreguiçadeira.
A espreguiçadeira rangia.
Sob o sol forte, a espreguiçadeira ardia.
Ela abandonou a espreguiçadeira.

Amorces de conversation

"Gostas mais de relaxar numa espreguiçadeira ou de nadar na piscina?"

"Qual é o teu material favorito para uma espreguiçadeira: madeira ou plástico?"

"Já alguma vez tiveste de lutar por uma espreguiçadeira num hotel?"

"Preferes ler ou dormir quando estás numa espreguiçadeira?"

"O que não pode faltar ao lado da tua espreguiçadeira num dia de calor?"

Sujets d'écriture

Descreve a tua tarde perfeita numa espreguiçadeira à beira-mar.

Se pudesses desenhar a espreguiçadeira mais confortável do mundo, como seria?

Escreve sobre uma memória de férias que envolva uma espreguiçadeira.

Quais são as vantagens e desvantagens de ter uma espreguiçadeira no jardim?

Faz um diálogo entre duas pessoas que querem a mesma espreguiçadeira na piscina.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is a feminine noun. You should always say 'a espreguiçadeira' or 'uma espreguiçadeira'. Using the masculine 'o' or 'um' is a common mistake for learners.

The 'gui' is pronounced with a hard 'g' followed by an 'ee' sound, like in the English word 'guitar' or 'geese'. The 'u' is silent. Do not pronounce it as 'gwee'.

An 'espreguiçadeira' is a lounger that allows you to lie down or recline significantly. A 'cadeira de praia' is usually a smaller, folding chair for sitting upright, which you carry to the beach.

Yes, 'espreguiçadeira' is the standard word in both Portugal and Brazil for a sun lounger. While some regional variations exist, this word is universally understood.

Primarily, yes. It is almost always associated with the beach, pool, or garden. For indoor reclining chairs, 'chaise longue' or 'poltrona reclinável' are more common.

The plural is 'espreguiçadeiras'. You simply add an 's' to the end, and the stress remains on the 'dei' syllable.

Not really. While you can call it a 'cadeira' (chair) in a general sense, 'espreguiçadeira' is the only specific term. Some people might use 'lounger' in very touristy areas, but it's not Portuguese.

It's a compound-like noun derived from the verb 'espreguiçar' (to stretch) plus the suffix '-eira', which denotes an object. Many Portuguese nouns for furniture or tools are quite long.

You say 'Estou deitado na espreguiçadeira' (if you are male) or 'Estou deitada na espreguiçadeira' (if you are female).

It depends on the material. Plastic ones can be found for 30-50 euros, while high-quality wooden or metal ones can cost several hundred euros.

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