At the A1 beginner level, the most important thing to know about the verb 'alterar' is that it means 'to change'. It is a very common and useful word, especially when you are using computers, phones, or talking about plans. It is a regular verb ending in '-ar', which means it follows the easiest conjugation rules in Portuguese. For example, 'eu altero' (I change), 'você altera' (you change). You will see this word a lot on websites and apps. When a website asks you to 'alterar a senha', it means 'change the password'. When you want to change the time of a meeting or a flight, you use 'alterar'. It is very similar to the word 'mudar', and at this beginner level, you can often use them to mean the same thing. However, 'alterar' is usually used when you change a small part of something, like a date, a time, or a setting, while 'mudar' is used for bigger changes, like moving to a new house. Practice using 'alterar' with simple daily vocabulary: alterar a data (change the date), alterar a hora (change the time), alterar o plano (change the plan). Recognizing this word will help you navigate daily life and digital spaces in Portuguese-speaking countries much more easily.
At the A2 level, your understanding of 'alterar' should expand beyond just recognizing it on a computer screen. You should start using it actively in your daily conversations to describe modifications and adjustments. 'Alterar' is the perfect verb to use when things do not go exactly as planned and you need to make a correction. For instance, if you are traveling and need to change your hotel reservation, you would say 'Eu preciso alterar a minha reserva'. If you are cooking and decide to use less sugar than the recipe calls for, you are 'alterando a receita'. It is important to remember that 'alterar' takes a direct object, meaning you do not need a preposition right after the verb. You just say 'alterar' plus the thing you are changing: 'alterar o documento', 'alterar o voo'. You should also start noticing the noun form, 'alteração' (change/modification), which is very common in signs and notices. For example, a train station might announce an 'alteração de horário' (schedule change). By mastering 'alterar' at this level, you gain the ability to manage your schedule, express your preferences, and navigate the small, inevitable changes of daily life with confidence and grammatical accuracy.
At the B1 intermediate level, you are ready to explore the more nuanced and reflexive uses of 'alterar'. While you already know how to use it to change a password or a flight, you must now learn 'alterar-se'. This reflexive form is crucial for describing emotional states. When a person 'se altera', it means they become agitated, nervous, or angry. They lose their normal, calm state. For example, 'Ele alterou-se durante a discussão' means 'He got upset/angry during the argument'. This is a very common and slightly polite way to describe someone losing their temper without using stronger words. Additionally, at the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'alterar' in more formal and professional contexts. You will use it to talk about amending contracts, modifying project proposals, or updating official records. You should also practice using it with the preposition 'para' to indicate the result of the change: 'Vamos alterar a reunião de segunda para terça-feira' (Let's change the meeting from Monday to Tuesday). Understanding these emotional and professional dimensions of 'alterar' will significantly improve your ability to communicate complex situations and understand native speakers in a variety of contexts.
At the B2 upper-intermediate level, your use of 'alterar' should be precise and sophisticated, distinguishing it clearly from synonyms like 'mudar', 'modificar', and 'transformar'. You should understand that 'alterar' often implies a partial modification that leaves the core identity of the object intact. In academic, legal, and technical writing, 'alterar' is the standard verb for amendments and revisions. For example, 'A nova lei altera o código penal' (The new law amends the penal code). You should also be comfortable with passive constructions, such as 'Os dados foram alterados' (The data was altered), which are heavily used in formal reports and news media. Furthermore, you will encounter 'alterar' in contexts related to health and science, such as 'alterar o metabolismo' (alter the metabolism) or 'alterar o ecossistema' (alter the ecosystem). At this level, you should also be aware of the adjective 'alterado/a', used not just for things that have been changed, but to describe someone who is visibly intoxicated, deeply emotional, or acting out of character ('Ele chegou em casa muito alterado'). Mastering these subtleties allows you to read complex texts and participate in high-level discussions with native-like precision.
At the C1 advanced level, 'alterar' is a tool for expressing subtle nuances of change, disruption, and modification in highly complex or abstract contexts. You are expected to effortlessly navigate its use in literature, advanced journalism, and specialized professional fields. You will recognize how 'alterar' can imply a disruption of the natural order or a deviation from the norm. For instance, 'alterar a ordem pública' (disturb public order) or 'alterar a paz' (disturb the peace). The verb takes on a slightly negative or disruptive connotation in these contexts, implying that the baseline state was preferable. You should also master idiomatic or less common phrasing, such as 'nada se altera' (nothing changes/everything remains the same) in philosophical or reflective discourse. At this level, the distinction between 'alterar' and 'adulterar' (to adulterate/tamper with) becomes important; while 'alterar' is neutral, 'adulterar' implies a malicious or corrupting change, though both stem from similar concepts of modification. Your command of 'alterar' at C1 demonstrates your ability to manipulate Portuguese vocabulary to convey precise degrees of change, emotional volatility, and structural modification in any sophisticated setting.
At the C2 mastery level, your understanding of 'alterar' encompasses its entire etymological, cultural, and linguistic spectrum. You intuitively grasp the Latin root 'alter' (the other) and how it informs the verb's modern meaning of making something 'other' than what it was. You can deploy 'alterar' in highly stylized literary prose, legal jurisprudence, and complex sociopolitical analysis without hesitation. You understand the profound implications of 'alterações climáticas' (climate change) not just as a vocabulary item, but as a phrase where 'alteração' signifies a systemic, epochal shift. You can play with the verb in rhetorical devices, contrasting it with verbs of permanence or radical destruction. In psychological or psychiatric contexts, you understand 'estados alterados de consciência' (altered states of consciousness) and the precise clinical weight the word carries. At this pinnacle of language acquisition, 'alterar' is no longer just a translation of 'to change'; it is a multifaceted concept that you use to articulate the fluid, ever-changing nature of reality, human emotion, and societal structures with the exactitude and elegance of a highly educated native speaker.

alterar 30 सेकंड में

  • Means 'to change' or 'to modify' something existing.
  • Used heavily in technology (passwords, settings).
  • Used for schedules, plans, and legal documents.
  • Reflexive 'alterar-se' means to get angry or upset.
The Portuguese verb 'alterar' is a highly versatile and frequently used word that fundamentally means to change, modify, or cause a shift in the character, composition, or state of something. Understanding 'alterar' requires a deep dive into its nuanced applications across various contexts, ranging from simple everyday adjustments to complex legal or emotional transformations. When we talk about 'alterar', we are usually referring to a partial modification rather than a complete substitution. For instance, if you change your password, you are modifying an existing security parameter, hence 'alterar a senha'. This is distinctly different from 'trocar', which implies exchanging one entirely different thing for another. The concept of alteration is deeply embedded in how Portuguese speakers navigate changes in plans, documents, and even human behavior.

Precisamos alterar a data da nossa reunião para a próxima semana devido a um conflito de horários imprevisto.

In this example, the meeting itself remains, but its temporal attribute (the date) is modified. This perfectly encapsulates the essence of 'alterar'. It is about tweaking, adjusting, or revising. Furthermore, 'alterar' can be used reflexively as 'alterar-se', which introduces a fascinating psychological and emotional dimension to the word. When a person 'se altera', they are becoming agitated, upset, or losing their temper. Their emotional baseline has been disrupted.
Etymological Roots
The word originates from the Latin 'alterare', which means 'to make different', derived from 'alter', meaning 'the other'. This historical context helps learners understand that to 'alterar' is to make something 'other' than what it originally was, without necessarily destroying its core identity.

O clima pode alterar completamente o humor das pessoas durante o inverno rigoroso.

Beyond the physical and emotional, 'alterar' is a cornerstone of bureaucratic and technical Portuguese. You will constantly encounter it in software interfaces (alterar configurações) and legal documents (alterar os termos do contrato).
Physical Modification
In physical contexts, altering something might mean changing the hem of a dress, modifying the layout of a room, or adjusting the ingredients in a recipe to suit dietary needs. The physical integrity remains, but specific traits are adjusted.

O arquiteto decidiu alterar a planta da casa para incluir uma varanda maior.

The flexibility of 'alterar' makes it an indispensable verb for learners aiming for fluency. It bridges the gap between basic vocabulary like 'mudar' and highly specific technical jargon. When you use 'alterar', you sound precise and articulate. It conveys a sense of intentionality and control over the change being made.
Digital Contexts
In the digital age, 'alterar' is the standard verb for modifying user data, settings, preferences, and system configurations. It is the exact equivalent of 'edit' or 'modify' in software localization.

Por favor, não se esqueça de alterar a sua palavra-passe a cada três meses por motivos de segurança.

O medicamento pode alterar a sua capacidade de conduzir veículos com segurança.

To truly master 'alterar', one must practice recognizing these subtle boundaries. It is not about swapping items, but about evolving, adjusting, and refining what is already there. This makes it a powerful tool in your Portuguese vocabulary arsenal, allowing you to express complex ideas about transformation and modification with ease and accuracy.
Using 'alterar' correctly involves understanding its grammatical behavior, conjugation patterns, and the specific prepositions it pairs with. As a regular verb ending in '-ar', its conjugation follows the standard rules, making it relatively easy to memorize for learners at the A2 level and beyond. However, the true mastery of 'alterar' lies in its syntax and the contexts in which it is deployed. Primarily, 'alterar' is a transitive direct verb. This means it requires a direct object to complete its meaning without the need for a preposition. You alter *something*.

A empresa vai alterar o regulamento interno no próximo mês.

In this sentence, 'o regulamento interno' is the direct object. There is no preposition between the verb and the object. This is the most common and straightforward way to use the verb.
Conjugation Basics
In the present tense: eu altero, tu alteras, ele/ela/você altera, nós alteramos, eles/elas/vocês alteram. In the past perfect: eu alterei, tu alteraste, ele alterou, nós alteramos, eles alteraram. Notice the complete regularity of the paradigm.

Eu já alterei o documento conforme as suas instruções.

Another crucial aspect of using 'alterar' is its pronominal or reflexive form: 'alterar-se'. When used reflexively, the meaning shifts slightly. It can mean that something changes by itself (or due to external, unstated factors), or, when applied to people, it means to become emotionally disturbed, angry, or agitated.
Reflexive Usage for Emotions
When a person 'se altera', they lose their calm. It is a polite but clear way of saying someone got mad, raised their voice, or lost their temper during a discussion or stressful situation.

Durante o debate político, o candidato alterou-se e começou a gritar.

Furthermore, 'alterar' can be followed by specific prepositions depending on the context of the change. If you are changing something *to* something else, you use the preposition 'para'.
Preposition 'Para'
Use 'alterar [algo] para [outra coisa]' when specifying the end result of the modification. This is frequently seen in scheduling, settings, and status updates.

Eles decidiram alterar o voo de manhã para a noite.

O professor pediu para alterar o título do meu projeto final.

Understanding these structural nuances—direct transitivity, reflexive emotional states, and prepositional pairings—will allow you to use 'alterar' naturally and confidently across a wide spectrum of Portuguese conversations and written texts. It is a verb that rewards careful attention to context and syntax, elevating your language proficiency significantly.
The verb 'alterar' is ubiquitous in the Portuguese-speaking world, echoing through various domains of daily life, professional environments, and media. Its versatility ensures that you will encounter it whether you are navigating a smartphone menu, signing a lease, or listening to a weather forecast. One of the most common places you will see and hear 'alterar' is in the realm of technology and digital interfaces. Every time you need to update your profile, change a setting, or reset a password, the prompt will almost certainly use this verb.

Para alterar a sua foto de perfil, clique no ícone da câmera.

This digital ubiquity makes it an essential word for anyone interacting with Portuguese software or websites. Beyond the digital screen, 'alterar' is a heavyweight in legal, bureaucratic, and corporate contexts. Contracts, laws, regulations, and official schedules are rarely 'mudados' (changed) in formal text; they are 'alterados' (altered/amended).
Legal and Formal Contexts
In jurisprudence and business, 'alterar' carries the weight of official modification. An amendment to a law is an 'alteração'. Changing the terms of a contract requires the parties to 'alterar as cláusulas'.

O governo propôs alterar a lei de trânsito para aumentar a segurança nas estradas.

In everyday social interactions, 'alterar' frequently pops up when discussing plans, reservations, or schedules. Life is unpredictable, and when things need to be adjusted, 'alterar' is the verb of choice.
Scheduling and Travel
Whether you are calling an airline, a restaurant, or a clinic, you will use this verb to modify an existing booking. It is polite, clear, and universally understood in the service industry.

Gostaria de alterar a minha reserva de hotel para o dia seguinte, por favor.

Another fascinating area where 'alterar' is commonly heard is in discussions about health, biology, and the environment. Medical professionals talk about altering dosages, while scientists discuss altering ecosystems.
Health and Environment
Substances can 'alterar' blood pressure, and pollution can 'alterar' the climate. In these contexts, the verb implies a significant, measurable impact on a complex system.

O consumo excessivo de sal pode alterar a pressão arterial significativamente.

Ele chegou em casa com a voz alterada depois da festa.

From the sterile environment of a digital settings menu to the heated atmosphere of a political debate, 'alterar' is a linguistic chameleon. It adapts to the formality of the situation while maintaining its core meaning of modification and adjustment. Recognizing these diverse contexts will dramatically improve your listening comprehension and reading skills in Portuguese.
While 'alterar' is a straightforward verb in many respects, learners of Portuguese often stumble over a few common pitfalls, primarily due to false equivalence with English or confusion with similar Portuguese verbs. The most frequent mistake is using 'alterar' when 'mudar' or 'trocar' would be more appropriate. English speakers often translate the word 'change' directly to 'alterar' in all contexts, which leads to unnatural phrasing. For example, if you are moving to a new house, you do not 'alterar de casa'; you 'mudar de casa'.

Vou alterar a cor da parede da sala para azul.

In the sentence above, 'alterar' is acceptable because you are modifying an attribute of the room. However, if you are exchanging a defective shirt at a store, you must use 'trocar'.
Alterar vs. Trocar
'Trocar' means to exchange or swap (A for B). 'Alterar' means to modify the existing thing (A becomes A+). You 'troca' a broken phone for a new one, but you 'altera' the settings on your current phone.

Não posso alterar o pneu furado, preciso trocá-lo.

Another common error involves the reflexive pronoun. Learners often forget to use 'se' when describing someone getting angry or upset. Saying 'Ele alterou' implies he altered *something else* (which is missing from the sentence). To say 'He got upset', you must say 'Ele alterou-se' (or 'Ele se alterou' in Brazil).
Missing the Reflexive
Failing to use the reflexive pronoun changes the meaning from an internal emotional shift to an incomplete transitive action. Always remember the 'se' for emotional states.

Quando ouviu a notícia ruim, ela alterou-se imediatamente.

Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'alterar' with the English word 'alter' in religious contexts (like an altar in a church). The Portuguese word for the religious table is 'altar' (noun), not 'alterar' (verb). This is a classic false friend in spelling, though pronunciation differs.
False Cognates and Spelling
Do not confuse the verb 'alterar' (to modify) with the noun 'altar' (religious structure). They are completely unrelated in modern usage despite the visual similarity to English speakers.

O padre ficou perto do altar, mas não quis alterar a liturgia.

Tivemos que alterar os planos devido à chuva forte.

By being mindful of these distinctions—especially the difference between modifying (alterar), exchanging (trocar), and moving/changing completely (mudar)—you can avoid the most common traps and speak Portuguese with much greater precision and natural flow.
The Portuguese language is rich in vocabulary related to change and transformation, and 'alterar' exists within a complex web of synonyms and related terms. Understanding the subtle differences between these words is key to achieving fluency and expressing yourself with precision. The most immediate synonym that comes to mind is 'mudar'. While 'mudar' is the most general word for 'to change', 'alterar' is more specific. 'Mudar' can mean to move to a new house, to change clothes, or to change one's mind entirely. 'Alterar', as we have seen, implies a modification of an existing state or object without entirely replacing it.

Você pode alterar o volume do rádio, por favor?

In this case, 'mudar o volume' is also perfectly acceptable and commonly used, but 'alterar' sounds slightly more formal or technical. Another very close synonym is 'modificar'. In many contexts, 'alterar' and 'modificar' are completely interchangeable.
Alterar vs. Modificar
Both mean to modify or change the characteristics of something. 'Modificar' often implies a more structural or profound change in form, while 'alterar' can be used for more superficial or parameter-based changes (like a password or a date).

O cientista conseguiu alterar a estrutura genética da planta.

'Transformar' is another related verb, but it carries a much stronger connotation. To 'transformar' is to change the nature, appearance, or character of something completely, often into something else entirely. You might 'alterar' a recipe by adding less sugar, but you 'transformar' raw ingredients into a cake.
Transformar and Converter
'Transformar' implies a radical metamorphosis. 'Converter' implies changing the function or format of something (e.g., converting a file format, or converting to a religion). 'Alterar' is much milder than both.

A nova gestão decidiu alterar as regras, mas não quis transformar a cultura da empresa.

We must also consider 'variar', which means to vary or fluctuate. While the weather can 'alterar' (change from good to bad), it can also 'variar' (fluctuate constantly throughout the day). 'Variar' implies a continuous or multiple state of change, whereas 'alterar' usually points to a specific instance of modification.
Ajustar and Adaptar
'Ajustar' means to adjust or fine-tune something to make it fit or work better. 'Adaptar' means to adapt something for a new purpose. Both involve altering, but with specific goals in mind.

Foi necessário alterar o roteiro para adaptar a peça ao público infantil.

O autor precisou alterar o final do livro antes da publicação.

By mapping out these similar words, you build a more robust and nuanced vocabulary, allowing you to choose the exact right verb for the specific type of change you wish to describe.

How Formal Is It?

कठिनाई स्तर

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

Regular -AR verb conjugation in the Present Tense.

Reflexive pronouns (se, me, te) with pronominal verbs.

Direct object pronouns (o, a, os, as) replacing the object of 'alterar'.

Passive voice construction (ser + particípio: foi alterado).

Preposition 'para' indicating destination or result of a change.

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

1

Eu quero alterar a minha senha.

I want to change my password.

Regular -ar verb in the infinitive form after 'quero'.

2

Você pode alterar a data?

Can you change the date?

Used with the modal verb 'pode'.

3

Nós vamos alterar o plano.

We are going to change the plan.

Future tense construction: ir + infinitive.

4

Ele precisa alterar o horário.

He needs to change the time.

Direct object 'o horário' follows the verb.

5

Como eu altero o meu nome?

How do I change my name?

First person singular present tense: 'altero'.

6

Ela altera a cor da foto.

She changes the color of the photo.

Third person singular present tense: 'altera'.

7

Eles querem alterar o menu.

They want to change the menu.

Infinitive used after 'querem'.

8

Por favor, não alterar nada.

Please, do not change anything.

Infinitive used as an imperative in a general instruction.

1

Preciso alterar a minha reserva de hotel para amanhã.

I need to change my hotel reservation to tomorrow.

Using 'para' to indicate the new target of the change.

2

O professor alterou a data do exame final.

The teacher changed the date of the final exam.

Preterite perfect tense (past): 'alterou'.

3

Você sabe como alterar as configurações do celular?

Do you know how to change the cell phone settings?

Common digital vocabulary context.

4

Eles alteraram o trajeto do ônibus por causa da chuva.

They altered the bus route because of the rain.

Third person plural past tense: 'alteraram'.

5

Vou alterar a receita e colocar menos açúcar.

I will alter the recipe and put less sugar.

Using 'alterar' for modifying instructions or ingredients.

6

A loja alterou o horário de funcionamento no feriado.

The store changed its opening hours on the holiday.

Direct object 'o horário de funcionamento'.

7

Nós alteramos os nossos planos para o fim de semana.

We changed our plans for the weekend.

First person plural past tense: 'alteramos'.

8

É fácil alterar a foto do perfil no aplicativo.

It is easy to change the profile picture in the app.

Infinitive used as the subject of the sentence.

1

Durante a reunião, o cliente alterou-se e começou a gritar.

During the meeting, the client got upset and started shouting.

Reflexive use 'alterou-se' indicating emotional agitation.

2

O governo decidiu alterar a lei de trânsito este ano.

The government decided to amend the traffic law this year.

Formal context: amending laws or rules.

3

Se chover, teremos que alterar o local do evento.

If it rains, we will have to change the location of the event.

Future subjunctive context implied by 'Se chover'.

4

O medicamento pode alterar a sua capacidade de concentração.

The medication may alter your ability to concentrate.

Medical/scientific context of modifying a state.

5

Eles pediram para alterar o contrato antes de assinar.

They asked to alter the contract before signing.

Business context: modifying terms.

6

A paisagem altera-se muito durante o outono.

The landscape changes a lot during autumn.

Reflexive use indicating a natural transformation.

7

Não tente alterar a verdade dos fatos.

Do not try to alter the truth of the facts.

Abstract use: manipulating or changing information.

8

Fiquei surpreso quando vi que ela tinha alterado o cabelo.

I was surprised when I saw that she had altered her hair.

Pluperfect tense: 'tinha alterado'.

1

A constante exposição ao sol pode alterar a pigmentação da pele.

Constant exposure to the sun can alter skin pigmentation.

Scientific/biological context.

2

Qualquer tentativa de alterar o documento original será considerada fraude.

Any attempt to alter the original document will be considered fraud.

Legal context: tampering or unauthorized modification.

3

O fuso horário alterou completamente o meu ciclo de sono.

The time zone completely altered my sleep cycle.

Expressing significant disruption to a system.

4

Ele estava visivelmente alterado quando foi parado pela polícia.

He was visibly altered (intoxicated/agitated) when he was stopped by the police.

Adjective use 'alterado' meaning intoxicated or emotionally disturbed.

5

As alterações climáticas estão a alterar os padrões de migração das aves.

Climate change is altering the migration patterns of birds.

Environmental context; note the use of the noun 'alterações' and verb 'alterar'.

6

O arquiteto propôs alterar a fachada do edifício para modernizá-lo.

The architect proposed altering the building's facade to modernize it.

Professional context: structural modification.

7

Não me parece que gritar vá alterar a situação atual.

It doesn't seem to me that shouting is going to alter the current situation.

Abstract use: changing an outcome or state of affairs.

8

A empresa reserva-se o direito de alterar os preços sem aviso prévio.

The company reserves the right to alter prices without prior notice.

Standard formal disclaimer language.

1

A introdução de novas tecnologias alterou irremediavelmente o paradigma do mercado de trabalho.

The introduction of new technologies has irretrievably altered the paradigm of the labor market.

Advanced vocabulary pairing: 'alterou irremediavelmente o paradigma'.

2

O réu tentou alterar a cena do crime para despistar os investigadores.

The defendant tried to alter the crime scene to mislead the investigators.

Criminal justice context: tampering with evidence.

3

A sua voz soou ligeiramente alterada, denunciando o nervosismo que tentava ocultar.

His voice sounded slightly altered, betraying the nervousness he was trying to hide.

Nuanced description of subtle emotional cues.

4

A emenda constitucional visa alterar a forma como os fundos públicos são distribuídos.

The constitutional amendment aims to alter the way public funds are distributed.

High-level political and legal discourse.

5

O autor alterou o desfecho da narrativa na segunda edição para apaziguar os críticos.

The author altered the ending of the narrative in the second edition to appease the critics.

Literary context: revising a creative work.

6

A medicação psiquiátrica tem como objetivo alterar a química cerebral para estabilizar o humor.

Psychiatric medication aims to alter brain chemistry to stabilize mood.

Advanced medical/psychiatric terminology.

7

Qualquer fator externo pode alterar o delicado equilíbrio deste ecossistema fechado.

Any external factor can alter the delicate balance of this closed ecosystem.

Scientific context emphasizing fragility and balance.

8

Ele tem um temperamento volátil e altera-se com a mais ínfima provocação.

He has a volatile temperament and gets upset at the slightest provocation.

Advanced psychological description using reflexive 'altera-se'.

1

A exegese do texto antigo revela que copistas medievais alteraram passagens cruciais para alinhar com a doutrina vigente.

The exegesis of the ancient text reveals that medieval copyists altered crucial passages to align with prevailing doctrine.

Academic/historical context involving textual criticism.

2

A substância induz estados alterados de consciência, propiciando alucinações vívidas e distorções temporais.

The substance induces altered states of consciousness, facilitating vivid hallucinations and temporal distortions.

Clinical/psychological terminology: 'estados alterados de consciência'.

3

O tratado de paz foi ratificado sem que se alterasse uma única vírgula do rascunho original.

The peace treaty was ratified without a single comma of the original draft being altered.

Idiomatic emphasis on absolute preservation of text using subjunctive 'alterasse'.

4

A ontologia da obra de arte altera-se substancialmente na era da sua reprodutibilidade técnica.

The ontology of the work of art is substantially altered in the age of its mechanical reproduction.

Philosophical/art theory discourse (referencing Walter Benjamin).

5

A testemunha incorreu em perjúrio ao alterar deliberadamente a cronologia dos eventos fatídicos.

The witness committed perjury by deliberately altering the chronology of the fateful events.

Highly formal legal jargon.

6

A intervenção macroeconômica visa alterar a propensão marginal a consumir da população.

The macroeconomic intervention aims to alter the population's marginal propensity to consume.

Advanced economic theory terminology.

7

O silêncio sepulcral da sala apenas se alterava pelo tique-taque monótono do relógio de pêndulo.

The sepulchral silence of the room was only altered by the monotonous ticking of the grandfather clock.

Literary, atmospheric description using the reflexive for subtle environmental shifts.

8

A mutação genética altera a conformação espacial da proteína, inviabilizando a sua função catalítica.

The genetic mutation alters the spatial conformation of the protein, rendering its catalytic function unviable.

Highly specialized molecular biology context.

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

alterar a senha
alterar a data
alterar o horário
alterar o plano
alterar a lei
alterar o contrato
alterar o voo
alterar a rota
alterar o humor
alterar a voz

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

alterar vs mudar

alterar vs trocar

alterar vs adulterar

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

alterar vs

alterar vs

alterar vs

alterar vs

alterar vs

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

note

While 'alterar' and 'mudar' overlap, 'alterar' is preferred for partial modifications (settings, dates, rules), whereas 'mudar' is used for complete changes (moving house, changing clothes).

सामान्य गलतियाँ
  • Using 'alterar' instead of 'mudar' when talking about moving to a new house (e.g., saying 'alterar de casa' instead of 'mudar de casa').
  • Using 'alterar' instead of 'trocar' when exchanging an item at a store (e.g., saying 'alterar a camisa' instead of 'trocar a camisa').
  • Forgetting the reflexive pronoun 'se' when describing someone getting angry (e.g., saying 'ele alterou' instead of 'ele se alterou').
  • Adding an unnecessary preposition after the verb (e.g., saying 'alterar no documento' instead of 'alterar o documento').
  • Confusing the spelling or meaning with the noun 'altar' (religious table).

सुझाव

Direct Object Rule

Always remember that 'alterar' takes a direct object. You do not say 'alterar no plano', you say 'alterar o plano'. This is a common mistake for English speakers who want to add unnecessary prepositions.

Reflexive for Emotions

If you want to say someone got mad, use 'alterar-se'. It is a great vocabulary upgrade from just saying 'ficar bravo'. It sounds more mature and descriptive.

Tech Vocabulary

Whenever you are using a device in Portuguese, look for 'alterar'. It is the key to modifying your settings, profile, and security preferences.

Trocar vs Alterar

Never use 'alterar' when you mean 'to swap'. If you are giving something back to get a new one, use 'trocar'. Only use 'alterar' if you are keeping the original thing but modifying it.

Stress the Last Syllable

Because it is an infinitive verb ending in '-ar', the stress must fall heavily on the final 'rar'. Practicing this will make you sound much more natural.

Formal Writing

In essays or business emails, prefer 'alterar' over 'mudar' when discussing adjustments to projects or documents. It elevates the formality of your text.

Listen for 'Alteração'

Train your ears to catch the noun 'alteração' in train stations or airports. It usually means your schedule has changed, and you need to pay attention!

Voz Alterada

If you read a book in Portuguese, you might see 'com a voz alterada'. This means the person is speaking differently because of strong emotion, usually anger or panic.

Alterar a Data

Memorize the chunk 'alterar a data' (change the date). It is one of the most frequent combinations you will need when making plans with Portuguese speakers.

Partial Change

Keep the concept of 'partial change' in mind. If the core identity of the object remains, 'alterar' is usually the right verb to choose.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

To ALTER a ARticle is to ALTERAR it.

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

Latin

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

Standard usage applies, heavily influenced by Portuguese administrative terminology.

In Brazil, 'alterar a senha' is the standard phrase for changing a password.

In Portugal, you will often hear 'alterar a palavra-passe' for changing a password.

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"Você costuma alterar a sua senha com frequência?"

"Alguma vez você teve que alterar os seus planos de viagem de última hora?"

"O que pode alterar o seu humor rapidamente?"

"Você acha que a tecnologia alterou a forma como nos comunicamos?"

"Se pudesse alterar uma lei no seu país, qual seria?"

डायरी विषय

Escreva sobre uma vez em que você teve que alterar os seus planos. Como você se sentiu?

Descreva algo na sua rotina que você gostaria de alterar e por quê.

Como o clima altera o seu humor e a sua produtividade?

Pense em uma regra ou lei que foi alterada recentemente. Qual a sua opinião sobre isso?

Relate uma situação em que alguém se alterou (ficou nervoso) perto de você.

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

'Mudar' is a general word for 'to change' and can mean to move completely, like moving to a new house ('mudar de casa'). 'Alterar' means to modify something that already exists, like changing a password ('alterar a senha') or a date. You use 'alterar' when the core thing remains but a detail is adjusted. Think of 'alterar' as 'to alter' or 'to modify'.

No, that is a very common mistake. When you exchange one physical item for another, you must use the verb 'trocar'. You 'troca' a shirt that doesn't fit for a new one. You would only 'alterar' the shirt if you took it to a tailor to have the hem shortened or the sleeves adjusted.

When 'alterar' is used reflexively with a person as the subject ('alterar-se'), it means to become emotionally agitated, upset, or angry. 'Ele se alterou' means 'He got upset' or 'He lost his temper'. It is a polite way of describing someone who is no longer calm.

Yes, 'alterar' is a completely regular verb ending in '-ar'. It follows the standard conjugation rules for all tenses. For example, in the present: eu altero, tu alteras, ele altera, nós alteramos, eles alteram. This makes it very easy for learners to memorize and use.

The most common and correct way to say this is 'alterar a senha' (in Brazil) or 'alterar a palavra-passe' (in Portugal). You will see this exact phrasing on almost every website and app in the Portuguese language. Sometimes you might also see 'mudar a senha', but 'alterar' is the standard technical term.

'Alterar' is a transitive direct verb, so it does not need a preposition before the object you are changing (e.g., 'alterar o plano'). However, if you want to state what you are changing it *to*, you use the preposition 'para'. For example, 'alterar a reunião para sexta-feira' (change the meeting to Friday).

Yes, the adjective form 'alterado' is frequently used as a euphemism for someone who is intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. If someone says 'Ele chegou em casa muito alterado', it usually implies they were drunk or under the influence, affecting their normal behavior.

The noun form is 'alteração' (plural: alterações). It means a change, modification, or amendment. You will see this word often in formal contexts, such as 'alterações climáticas' (climate change) or 'alteração de horário' (schedule change).

Absolutely. 'Alterar' is the standard verb used in legal and bureaucratic Portuguese to describe amending laws, modifying contracts, or updating official records. It carries a formal weight that makes it appropriate for official documentation.

In Brazilian Portuguese, the 'l' often sounds like a 'w', so it sounds like 'aw-te-RAR'. The stress is on the final syllable. In European Portuguese, the 'l' is pronounced more fully, and the 'r' sounds might be slightly different, but the stress remains on the last syllable: 'al-te-RAR'.

खुद को परखो 200 सवाल

writing

Write a sentence saying you want to change your password.

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

Uses 'quero' + infinitive 'alterar'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Uses 'quero' + infinitive 'alterar'.

writing

Write a sentence asking to change the date.

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

Uses modal verb 'podemos' + infinitive.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Uses modal verb 'podemos' + infinitive.

writing

Write a sentence saying you changed the hotel reservation.

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

Uses first person past tense 'alterei'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Uses first person past tense 'alterei'.

writing

Write a sentence saying they altered the plan.

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

Uses third person plural past tense 'alteraram'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Uses third person plural past tense 'alteraram'.

writing

Write a sentence saying he got upset during the meeting.

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

Uses the reflexive 'alterou-se'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Uses the reflexive 'alterou-se'.

writing

Write a sentence saying we need to alter the contract.

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

Formal business context.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Formal business context.

writing

Write a sentence using the passive voice to say the document was altered.

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

Passive construction 'foi alterado'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Passive construction 'foi alterado'.

writing

Write a sentence mentioning climate change (alterações climáticas).

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

Uses the plural noun form.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Uses the plural noun form.

writing

Write a sentence describing someone with an altered voice due to nervousness.

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

Uses the adjective 'alterada'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Uses the adjective 'alterada'.

writing

Write a sentence stating that the new law alters the penal code.

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

Formal legal context.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Formal legal context.

writing

Translate: 'I change the time.'

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

First person present tense.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

First person present tense.

writing

Translate: 'She altered the recipe.'

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

Third person past tense.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Third person past tense.

writing

Translate: 'Do not get upset!' (using reflexive alterar)

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

Negative imperative with reflexive pronoun.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Negative imperative with reflexive pronoun.

writing

Translate: 'The prices were altered without notice.'

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

Passive voice and formal vocabulary.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Passive voice and formal vocabulary.

writing

Write a complex sentence about altering the course of history.

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

Advanced vocabulary and syntax.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Advanced vocabulary and syntax.

writing

Write a sentence: 'We change the plan.'

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

First person plural present.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

First person plural present.

writing

Write a sentence: 'He changed his profile picture.'

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

Digital context vocabulary.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Digital context vocabulary.

writing

Write a sentence: 'If you alter the date, tell me.'

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

Future subjunctive 'alterar'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Future subjunctive 'alterar'.

writing

Write a sentence: 'He arrived home very altered (drunk).'

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

Euphemistic use of the adjective.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Euphemistic use of the adjective.

writing

Write a sentence: 'The medication alters brain chemistry.'

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

Scientific context.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Scientific context.

speaking

Say 'I want to change the password' in Portuguese.

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Basic sentence structure.

speaking

Ask 'Can you change the date?'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Question format with modal verb.

speaking

Say 'I changed the hotel reservation.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Past tense first person.

speaking

Say 'They altered the plan.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Past tense third person plural.

speaking

Say 'He got upset during the meeting.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Using the reflexive form.

speaking

Say 'We need to alter the contract.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Formal vocabulary.

speaking

Say 'The document was altered.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Passive voice.

speaking

Say 'Climate change is a problem.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Using the noun form.

speaking

Say 'He spoke with an altered voice.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Using the adjective form.

speaking

Say 'The law alters the penal code.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Legal context.

speaking

Say 'We change the time.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Present tense plural.

speaking

Say 'She altered the recipe.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Past tense singular.

speaking

Tell someone 'Do not get upset!'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Negative imperative reflexive.

speaking

Say 'The prices were altered.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Passive voice plural.

speaking

Say 'The medication alters brain chemistry.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Scientific context.

speaking

Say 'I change the plan.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

First person present.

speaking

Say 'He changed his profile picture.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Digital context.

speaking

Say 'If you alter the date, tell me.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Future subjunctive.

speaking

Say 'He arrived home very altered.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Euphemism for intoxicated.

speaking

Say 'The amendment aims to alter the constitution.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Formal political context.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Eu altero a senha.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

First person present tense.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Eles alteraram a data.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Third person plural past tense.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Ele alterou-se muito.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Reflexive use for emotion.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Houve uma alteração de horário.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Noun form used in announcements.

listening

Listen and translate: 'O réu tentou alterar as provas.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Legal context.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Nós alteramos o plano.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

First person plural present.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Ela alterou a receita.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Third person singular past.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Não se altere.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Negative imperative reflexive.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Os dados foram alterados.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Passive voice.

listening

Listen and translate: 'A medicação altera a química cerebral.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Scientific context.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Você altera a cor?'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Question in present tense.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Eu alterei a reserva.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

First person past tense.

listening

Listen and translate: 'O clima altera o humor.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

General statement.

listening

Listen and translate: 'Ele estava muito alterado.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Adjective use.

listening

Listen and translate: 'A lei altera o código.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:

Formal legal statement.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

संबंधित सामग्री

यह शब्द अन्य भाषाओं में

business के और शब्द

A seguir

A2

अगला; निम्नलिखित। मैं खाऊंगा और उसके बाद सोऊंगा। निम्नलिखित पाठ पढ़ें।

ação

A2

शेयर एक कंपनी में स्वामित्व का प्रतिनिधित्व करने वाला हिस्सा है।

acionista

B1

एक शेयरधारक वह व्यक्ति होता है जिसके पास किसी कंपनी के शेयर होते हैं।

Ações

A2

किसी कंपनी के शेयर जो स्वामित्व का प्रतिनिधित्व करते हैं। शेयरधारकों को आमतौर पर कंपनी की संपत्ति और लाभ का एक हिस्सा उनके होल्डिंग के अनुपात में मिलता है।

Adaptável

A2

वह नई परिस्थितियों के लिए बहुत अनुकूलनीय है।

adiantamento

B2

नियत समय से पहले किया गया भुगतान; अग्रिम राशि।

adiantar

A2

समय को आगे बढ़ाना या नियत समय से पहले काम में प्रगति करना।

administrador

A2

एक प्रशासक वह व्यक्ति होता है जो किसी व्यवसाय या संगठन को चलाने के लिए जिम्मेदार होता है।

Administrativamente

A2

प्रशासनिक रूप से। उदाहरण के लिए: 'मामले को प्रशासनिक रूप से सुलझा लिया गया था।'

Adquirido

A2

यह संपत्ति कानूनी रूप से अधिग्रहित की गई थी।

क्या यह मददगार था?
अभी तक कोई टिप्पणी नहीं। अपने विचार साझा करने वाले पहले व्यक्ति बनें!