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A2 adverb 13分で読める

em volta

練習する例文メモとヒント em volta 30秒で

解説 em volta in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners use 'em volta' in its simplest physical sense to describe the location of objects in their immediate environment. The focus is on basic sentences like 'The chairs are around the table' or 'I look around'. At this stage, the most important thing is to remember that 'em volta' indicates a position on all sides. Learners should focus on the prepositional form 'em volta de' followed by common nouns like house (casa), table (mesa), or park (parque). The goal is to provide a sense of place. For example, 'Há árvores em volta da minha casa' (There are trees around my house). This level of usage is concrete and literal. Students are encouraged to use it with simple verbs like 'ter' (to have/there is), 'estar' (to be), and 'olhar' (to look). The concept of the 'circle' is the primary mental image. Avoiding complex abstract meanings is recommended until the physical foundation is solid. Simple contractions like 'do' and 'da' are the main grammatical hurdle here.

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At the A2 level, the learner expands their use of 'em volta' to describe more complex scenes and simple narratives. They begin to use it with verbs of motion, such as 'caminhar' (to walk) or 'correr' (to run), to describe paths. A2 students should be able to describe a town square or a park using this phrase: 'No centro da praça há uma estátua, e em volta dela há bancos para sentar.' (In the center of the square there is a statue, and around it there are benches to sit). This level also introduces the use of 'em volta' as a standalone adverb to describe general surroundings without a specific object. For example, 'O lugar era lindo, olhei em volta e sorri.' (The place was beautiful, I looked around and smiled). The distinction between 'em volta' (around) and 'de volta' (back) becomes a key learning point to prevent common errors. Learners are expected to handle the contractions of 'de' with plural articles (dos, das) and demonstrative pronouns (disso, daquilo) with increasing accuracy.

At the B1 level, 'em volta' starts to appear in more varied contexts, including descriptions of social atmospheres and general circumstances. A B1 student might say, 'Havia muita gente em volta do cantor' (There were many people around the singer), describing a social scene. They also begin to recognize the phrase in media and news, understanding its role in defining the scope of an event. B1 learners should feel comfortable using 'em volta' to describe not just physical circles, but also general proximity in a more fluid way. They start to distinguish between 'em volta' and its synonyms like 'ao redor' and 'em torno de', choosing the one that fits the rhythm of their sentence. The use of 'em volta' in the figurative sense of 'surrounding circumstances' begins to emerge: 'Toda a situação em volta do divórcio foi muito triste.' (The whole situation around the divorce was very sad). At this stage, the learner is moving from simple descriptions to more nuanced storytelling and expression of opinions.

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At the B2 level, 'em volta' is used with precision and stylistic awareness. The learner can use it to create vivid imagery in descriptions, often employing it in more complex sentence structures. They understand the subtle difference between 'em volta' (more common/casual) and 'ao redor' (more descriptive/formal). B2 speakers can use the phrase to describe abstract concepts with ease, such as 'o debate em volta da inteligência artificial' (the debate around artificial intelligence). They are also aware of regional variations, knowing that 'à volta' is a common alternative in Portugal. At this level, the learner uses 'em volta' to provide context and background in both written and spoken Portuguese. They can handle long sentences where 'em volta de' is followed by complex noun phrases: 'Em volta das antigas muralhas que protegiam a cidade medieval, agora existem belos jardins públicos.' (Around the old walls that protected the medieval city, there are now beautiful public gardens). Their usage is natural, and they rarely make the 'de volta' mistake.

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At the C1 level, 'em volta' is a tool for sophisticated expression. The speaker or writer uses it to manage the 'scenery' of their discourse, whether physical or intellectual. They can use it in literary analysis, scientific description, or high-level professional communication. A C1 learner understands the historical and etymological weight of the phrase and can use it to evoke specific moods. They might use it to describe the 'aura' of a person or the 'vibe' of a historical period: 'A mística em volta de Fernando Pessoa continua a atrair leitores.' (The mystique around Fernando Pessoa continues to attract readers). They are also adept at using 'em volta' in its most technical senses, such as describing physical phenomena in physics or geography. Their command of the 'de' contractions is perfect, even with archaic or formal pronouns. They can also play with word order for poetic effect, although they know the standard position is usually after the verb. The phrase becomes a seamless part of their high-level vocabulary, used to weave complex spatial and conceptual relationships.

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At the C2 level, 'em volta' is used with the effortless grace of a native speaker. The user has a total grasp of its nuances, including its rare and poetic applications. They can discuss the philosophical implications of 'surrounding' and 'center' using this vocabulary. In C2 writing, 'em volta' might be used to structure an entire descriptive passage, creating a sense of immersion for the reader. The speaker can use it to navigate highly abstract discussions with ease, such as 'as nuances em volta da ontologia moderna' (the nuances around modern ontology). They are also fully aware of the most obscure regionalisms and can switch between 'em volta' and 'ao redor' or 'à volta' depending on the desired tone or the origin of their interlocutor. At this level, the phrase is no longer a 'vocabulary item' but a fundamental part of the speaker's cognitive framework in Portuguese. They can use it to express irony, metaphor, and complex spatial logic without hesitation. Their usage is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker, showing a deep internalisation of the language's spatial logic.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

em volta 30秒で

Em volta is a Portuguese adverbial phrase meaning 'around' or 'surrounding'. It is primarily used for physical spatial descriptions in both casual and formal contexts.
When followed by an object, it requires the preposition 'de', forming 'em volta de'. Without an object, it functions as a standalone adverb meaning 'all around'.
It is a high-frequency phrase essential for A2 learners to describe their environment, furniture arrangements, and geographical locations or boundaries.
Commonly confused with 'de volta' (back/return) and 'cerca de' (approximately), 'em volta' strictly refers to the physical or metaphorical act of surrounding.

The Portuguese adverbial phrase em volta is an essential spatial marker that every learner must master to describe the world around them. At its core, it translates to "around," "surrounding," or "in the vicinity." It is used to indicate that something is positioned on all sides of a central point or is simply nearby in a non-specific circular fashion. Understanding 'em volta' requires distinguishing between its use as a pure adverb (standing alone) and its use as a prepositional phrase when followed by the particle 'de'. When you say 'olhe em volta', you are telling someone to look around their current environment. When you say 'em volta da mesa', you are specifying the object being surrounded. This distinction is vital for achieving fluency at the A2 level and beyond.

Spatial Orientation: The phrase describes a 360-degree relationship or a general proximity. It is less precise than 'circundando' but more specific than 'perto'. It implies a sense of enclosure or encirclement that is fundamental to describing physical settings like rooms, gardens, or city squares.

As crianças corriam em volta da árvore centenária no parque.

Beyond physical space, 'em volta' can also be used in more abstract contexts, though this is less common than its spatial counterpart. It can refer to the circumstances or people surrounding an individual. For instance, 'as pessoas em volta' refers to the people in one's immediate social or physical circle. In literature, it is often used to create atmosphere, describing the mist 'em volta' of a castle or the silence 'em volta' of a lonely traveler. The versatility of this phrase makes it a staple of both European and Brazilian Portuguese, with virtually no difference in meaning between the two major variants.

Common Contexts: You will hear this frequently in directions, home descriptions, and nature documentaries. It is a 'high-frequency' phrase because humans naturally organize their perception of space relative to their own position or a central landmark.

Havia um muro alto em volta da propriedade para garantir a privacidade.

In terms of register, 'em volta' is perfectly neutral. It is appropriate for a formal report on urban planning ('a área em volta do estádio') as well as a casual conversation with a friend ('olha só o que tem em volta'). It serves as a building block for more complex spatial descriptions. For example, once you master 'em volta', you can easily transition to 'ao redor' (around) or 'em torno de' (around/concerning), which are synonymous but sometimes carry different stylistic weights. 'Em volta' is arguably the most common and 'natural' feeling for daily speech.

Visualizing the Word: Imagine a circle. The point in the center is the reference. Everything on the line of that circle is 'em volta'. This geometric simplicity is why the phrase is so pervasive in the language.

Não havia nada em volta, apenas o deserto infinito e o sol escaldante.

Finally, it is important to note that 'em volta' does not imply movement by itself, but rather a state of being located. However, when combined with verbs of movement like 'girar' (to spin) or 'andar' (to walk), it describes the path taken. 'Andar em volta da casa' means to walk around the house. This flexibility allows it to function in both static descriptions and dynamic narratives, making it a powerful tool for any Portuguese speaker's vocabulary.

Using em volta correctly involves understanding the syntax of Portuguese spatial prepositions. The most important rule is the 'De' Rule. If you are identifying what is being surrounded, you must use 'em volta de'. If you are simply saying 'around' in a general sense, 'em volta' stands alone. This section will break down various sentence structures to provide a comprehensive guide for English speakers who often confuse this with 'back' (volta) or 'around' (cerca de/aproximadamente).

The Adverbial Use (Alone): When used as an adverb, it modifies the verb or the entire situation. It often appears at the end of a clause or after a verb of perception like 'olhar' (to look) or 'ver' (to see).

Quando cheguei ao topo da montanha, olhei em volta e admirei a vista.

In the example above, 'em volta' tells us the direction of the looking. It is an internal spatial reference. Another example: 'A fumaça se espalhou por tudo em volta.' (The smoke spread through everything around). Here, it qualifies 'tudo' (everything), indicating the immediate vicinity.

The Prepositional Use (with 'de'): This is the most common usage. It requires a complement. Note how 'de' merges with articles: de + o = do, de + a = da, de + os = dos, de + as = das.

Nós nos sentamos em volta da fogueira para contar histórias de terror.

Notice that 'em volta da fogueira' (around the campfire) uses 'da' because 'fogueira' is feminine. If it were a fire (fogo), it would be 'em volta do fogo'. This structure is used for physical objects, people, and even abstract concepts. For instance, 'Os problemas em volta do projeto' (The problems surrounding the project) uses the phrase to describe context.

Using with Verbs of Motion: When paired with verbs like 'correr' (run), 'girar' (rotate), or 'circular' (circulate), it defines the path. It answers the question 'How?' or 'Where?'.

A Terra gira em volta do Sol em um movimento chamado translação.

In scientific or descriptive texts, this is the standard way to describe orbits and rotations. It provides a clear, geometric image of the action. Even in casual speech, you might say 'Pare de andar em volta de mim!' (Stop walking around me!) if someone is pacing and making you nervous. The phrase is incredibly versatile and scales from simple A1 sentences to complex scientific observations.

Finally, consider the plural usage. While 'em volta' itself doesn't change, the objects it describes do. 'Em volta das cidades' (Around the cities). The stability of the adverbial phrase makes it one of the easier structures for learners to memorize. Once you have the 'em volta de' pattern down, you have unlocked the ability to describe the physical layout of almost any scene.

To truly master em volta, you need to recognize its presence in the wild—in the streets of Lisbon, the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, and the daily media of the Lusophone world. This phrase is not just a textbook example; it is a living part of the language used to navigate reality. You will hear it in news reports, weather forecasts, interior design shows, and family gatherings. Its frequency is high because human beings are naturally preoccupied with their immediate surroundings.

In the News and Media: Journalists use 'em volta' to describe the area affected by an event. For example, 'A polícia isolou a área em volta do banco' (The police cordoned off the area around the bank). It provides a necessary spatial boundary for the report.

O clima de tensão em volta da eleição aumentou consideravelmente esta semana.

In this context, 'em volta' is slightly abstract, referring to the atmosphere or the collection of events surrounding the election. This usage is very common in political commentary and social analysis. It allows the speaker to group disparate events into a single thematic 'vicinity'.

Daily Social Life: In a domestic setting, 'em volta' is the language of organization and gathering. You'll hear it when setting a table, arranging furniture, or looking for lost keys. 'Onde estão as chaves? Procure em volta do sofá!' (Where are the keys? Look around the sofa!).

Sempre nos reunimos em volta da mesa de jantar para discutir o nosso dia.

This sentence evokes a classic Lusophone cultural value: the importance of the family meal. The 'mesa' is the center, and 'em volta' describes the community gathered there. In Portuguese culture, the concept of 'convívio' (living together/socializing) often happens 'em volta de uma mesa'.

Nature and Travel: Travel guides and nature documentaries are rich with this phrase. It is used to describe landscapes, ecosystems, and architectural wonders. 'A vegetação em volta do lago é exuberante' (The vegetation around the lake is lush).

Vimos muitos golfinhos nadando em volta do nosso barco durante o passeio.

Whether you are listening to a podcast about the Amazon or reading a blog about the historic center of Porto, 'em volta' will be there to orient you. It is a word that helps paint a picture, providing the frame for the central subject of any description. By listening for it, you will start to see how Portuguese speakers construct their mental maps of the world.

Learning em volta seems straightforward, but English speakers frequently stumble over a few specific hurdles. The most common errors involve confusing 'volta' (the noun for 'turn' or 'return') with the adverbial phrase, omitting the required preposition 'de', or using it where 'cerca de' (approximately) would be more appropriate. This section will help you avoid these pitfalls and speak more like a native.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Em Volta' with 'De Volta': This is the 'number one' error. 'Em volta' means 'around' (location). 'De volta' means 'back' (return). English uses 'back' and 'around' very differently, but because 'volta' is in both Portuguese phrases, learners mix them up.

Incorrect: Eu estou em volta de casa. (I am around of house - sounds like you are surrounding your own house).
Correct: Eu estou de volta a casa. (I am back at home).

To fix this, remember that 'Em' is for location (In/At) and 'De' in 'De volta' indicates the state of having returned. If you are describing a circle, use 'Em'. If you are describing a return trip, use 'De'.

Mistake 2: Forgetting the 'De': In English, we say 'around the table'. In Portuguese, you cannot just say 'em volta a mesa'. You MUST include the 'de'. It acts as the bridge between the adverb and the noun.

Incorrect: Há flores em volta a casa.
Correct: Há flores em volta da casa.

Think of 'em volta de' as a single unit when an object follows. Never separate them. This is a rule that applies to many Portuguese prepositions (perto de, longe de, dentro de, etc.), so mastering it here will help you across the entire language.

Mistake 3: 'Em volta' vs 'Ao redor' vs 'Cerca de': English uses 'around' for both physical location and numerical approximation. Portuguese does not. Using 'em volta' for numbers is a major 'gringo' mistake.

Incorrect: Eu tenho em volta de dez euros.
Correct: Eu tenho cerca de dez euros.

Additionally, while 'em volta' and 'ao redor' are often interchangeable, 'ao redor' is slightly more formal and 'em volta' is more common in speech. However, using 'em volta' for 'approximately' will confuse listeners as they will be looking for a physical circle where none exists. Stick to 'em volta' for space and 'cerca de' for numbers.

By keeping these three points in mind—distinguishing from 'de volta', always using 'de' with objects, and avoiding numerical approximations—you will eliminate 90% of the common errors associated with this phrase. Practice by describing your room right now: what is 'em volta' of your computer?

Portuguese is a rich language with several ways to express the concept of 'around'. While em volta is your 'go-to' phrase, knowing the alternatives will help you understand different registers of speech and literature. This section compares 'em volta' with its closest cousins: 'ao redor', 'em torno', and 'circundante'.

Ao Redor (de): This is the closest synonym to 'em volta'. It literally means 'at the circle' (redor comes from the same root as round). It is slightly more formal and very common in Brazil. In many contexts, they are 100% interchangeable.

Os planetas giram ao redor do Sol.

While 'em volta' feels more immediate and physical, 'ao redor' can feel a bit more descriptive. However, in everyday conversation, you can use either without any loss of meaning. The choice is often a matter of personal rhythm or regional preference.

Em Torno (de): 'Em torno' is often used for abstract 'aroundness'. It is very common when discussing topics, themes, or debates. 'A discussão em torno da lei' (The discussion around/concerning the law).

Tudo em torno deste assunto é muito polêmico e difícil de resolver.

While you can use 'em volta' for abstract things, 'em torno' is the preferred academic and journalistic choice for thematic 'aroundness'. If you are talking about a physical fence, use 'em volta'. If you are talking about a political controversy, 'em torno' sounds more sophisticated.

Circundante: This is an adjective meaning 'surrounding'. It is much more formal and usually appears in technical or literary writing. 'A área circundante' (The surrounding area). It is not an adverbial phrase like the others.

As montanhas circundantes protegem o vale dos ventos fortes do norte.

Finally, remember 'Cerca de'. As mentioned in the common mistakes section, this is the word for numerical 'around' (approximately). 'Cerca de vinte pessoas' (Around twenty people). Using 'em volta' here would be incorrect. By choosing the right 'around' for the right context, you demonstrate a high level of linguistic control and nuance.

Quick Reference Table

Em volta: Physical space, common, neutral.
Ao redor: Physical space, slightly formal, very common in Brazil.
Em torno: Abstract topics, themes, or physical orbits.
Cerca de: Numbers and approximations ONLY.

Mastering these synonyms allows you to vary your speech and avoid repetition, which is a key marker of moving from an intermediate to an advanced speaker. Try swapping 'em volta' for 'ao redor' in your next conversation to see how it feels!

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The root 'volvere' is the same ancestor for English words like 'revolve', 'evolution', and 'volume' (which originally meant a rolled scroll).

発音ガイド

UK /ẽ ˈvɔw.tɐ/

US /ẽ ˈvɔl.tə/

The stress is on the first syllable of the second word: VOL-ta.

韻が合う語

solta revolta escolta desenvolta envolta reviravolta pousa-e-volta muda-e-volta

よくある間違い

Pronouncing 'em' like the English letter M (it should be nasal).
Using a closed 'o' (like 'boat') instead of an open 'o' (like 'pot').
Pronouncing the final 'a' too strongly like 'ay'.
In Brazil, not vocalizing the 'l' (it should sound almost like 'vow-ta').
Forgetting to link the nasal 'em' to the following word.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize in text as a spatial marker.

ライティング 3/5

Requires remembering the 'de' and its contractions.

スピーキング 3/5

Nasal 'em' and open 'o' require practice for good accent.

リスニング 2/5

Clear and distinct, though 'de' can be swallowed in fast speech.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

em de casa mesa olhar

次に学ぶ

ao redor em torno de cerca de dentro de fora de

上級

circundante adjacente periférico limítrofe confinante

知っておくべき文法

Contractions of 'de'

de + o = do; de + a = da; de + os = dos; de + as = das.

Adverbial Locutions

'Em volta' is a locution because it's a fixed group of words acting as an adverb.

Prepositional Phrases

'Em volta de' is a prepositional phrase because it ends in a preposition.

Nasal Vowels

The 'em' in 'em volta' must be nasalized, not pronounced like 'em' in 'them'.

Open Vowels

The 'o' in 'volta' is open (/ɔ/), like the 'o' in 'office'.

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レベル別の例文

Eu olho em volta.

I look around.

Simple adverbial use of 'em volta' at the end of a sentence.

Há flores em volta da casa.

There are flowers around the house.

Use of 'em volta da' (de + a) to specify the object.

As cadeiras estão em volta da mesa.

The chairs are around the table.

Describing the position of multiple objects relative to a center.

O gato corre em volta do sofá.

The cat runs around the sofa.

Using 'em volta do' (de + o) with a masculine noun.

Nós andamos em volta do parque.

We walk around the park.

Verb of motion 'andar' paired with 'em volta do'.

O que tem em volta?

What is around?

A common question asking for a description of the environment.

Eu vejo árvores em volta.

I see trees around.

'Em volta' used as a general adverb without 'de'.

O muro está em volta do jardim.

The wall is around the garden.

Indicating a physical boundary or enclosure.

As crianças brincam em volta da árvore.

The children play around the tree.

A2 level focuses on common social activities in specific locations.

Não tem nada em volta desta cidade.

There is nothing around this city.

Using 'em volta desta' (de + esta) for specific demonstratives.

O carro deu uma volta em volta do quarteirão.

The car took a turn around the block.

Note the difference between 'uma volta' (a turn/trip) and 'em volta' (around).

Procure em volta da sua cama.

Look around your bed.

Giving a command (imperative) with a spatial preposition.

Havia muita fumaça em volta.

There was a lot of smoke around.

Describing atmospheric conditions using the adverbial form.

Sente-se em volta da fogueira.

Sit around the campfire.

Common social invitation using 'em volta de'.

O cachorro gira em volta do próprio rabo.

The dog spins around its own tail.

Using 'em volta do' to describe a circular self-contained motion.

Eles moram em volta do lago.

They live around the lake.

Describing a residential location relative to a landmark.

O mistério em volta do desaparecimento continua.

The mystery around the disappearance continues.

Abstract use of 'em volta' to describe a situation.

Sempre há muitos seguranças em volta do presidente.

There are always many security guards around the president.

Describing a protective or social perimeter.

Ela gosta de ter amigos em volta dela.

She likes to have friends around her.

Using 'em volta dela' (de + ela) to refer to a person.

A poeira em volta dos móveis antigos era muita.

The dust around the old furniture was a lot.

Using the plural 'dos' (de + os).

O debate em volta da nova lei foi intenso.

The debate around the new law was intense.

B1 level introduces academic or civic topics.

Tudo em volta parecia estar em silêncio.

Everything around seemed to be in silence.

Using 'em volta' to modify the subject 'tudo'.

O artista pintou um círculo em volta do rosto.

The artist painted a circle around the face.

Describing a specific artistic or geometric action.

Eles construíram uma cerca em volta da fazenda.

They built a fence around the farm.

Standard use for describing property boundaries.

A polêmica em volta do filme aumentou as vendas.

The controversy around the movie increased sales.

Analyzing the effect of an abstract 'surrounding' situation.

A atmosfera em volta do estádio era elétrica.

The atmosphere around the stadium was electric.

Describing the 'vibe' of a location.

A Terra viaja em volta do Sol a uma velocidade incrível.

The Earth travels around the Sun at an incredible speed.

Scientific description of orbital motion.

Existem muitas lendas em volta daquele castelo abandonado.

There are many legends around that abandoned castle.

Using 'em volta' to describe folklore and cultural context.

O projeto foi estruturado em volta das necessidades dos clientes.

The project was structured around the clients' needs.

Abstract metaphorical use indicating a central focus.

A vida em volta dos recifes de coral é muito diversa.

Life around coral reefs is very diverse.

Biological context describing an ecosystem.

Ele olhou em volta, procurando uma saída de emergência.

He looked around, looking for an emergency exit.

Describing intent and action in a narrative.

O muro de Berlim ficava em volta de Berlim Ocidental.

The Berlin Wall was around West Berlin.

Historical description of a political boundary.

A aura de mistério em volta da autora atraía a imprensa.

The aura of mystery around the author attracted the press.

Using 'em volta' to describe a personal quality or public perception.

O discurso orbitava em volta de temas como liberdade e justiça.

The speech orbited around themes such as freedom and justice.

Metaphorical use with the verb 'orbitar'.

As transformações sociais em volta da revolução industrial foram vastas.

The social transformations around the industrial revolution were vast.

Historical analysis of a period's context.

A densidade populacional em volta da metrópole é preocupante.

The population density around the metropolis is worrying.

Technical/Sociological context.

Tudo o que acontece em volta de nós influencia o nosso humor.

Everything that happens around us influences our mood.

Philosophical/Psychological observation.

A narrativa se desenrola em volta de um único evento traumático.

The narrative unfolds around a single traumatic event.

Literary analysis of plot structure.

Havia uma certa hesitação em volta da aceitação do novo tratado.

There was a certain hesitation around the acceptance of the new treaty.

Describing collective sentiment.

O campo magnético em volta do planeta protege-nos da radiação.

The magnetic field around the planet protects us from radiation.

Advanced scientific/physical description.

A exegese em volta dos textos sagrados exige anos de estudo.

The exegesis around the sacred texts requires years of study.

Highly academic/theological context.

A efemeridade da vida em volta de nós é um tema recorrente na poesia.

The ephemerality of life around us is a recurring theme in poetry.

Philosophical/Literary discourse.

O escrutínio público em volta da vida privada das celebridades é implacável.

Public scrutiny around the private lives of celebrities is relentless.

Social criticism with sophisticated vocabulary.

As conjecturas em volta do futuro da economia global são divergentes.

The conjectures around the future of the global economy are divergent.

Advanced economic discussion.

O silêncio sepulcral que se instalou em volta do túmulo era arrepiante.

The sepulchral silence that settled around the tomb was chilling.

Literary description with high-level adjectives.

A complexidade em volta da gestão de recursos hídricos é imensa.

The complexity around water resource management is immense.

Professional/Technical management context.

Pairava uma dúvida persistente em volta da veracidade do depoimento.

A persistent doubt hovered around the truthfulness of the testimony.

Legal/Narrative nuance.

A reconfiguração geopolítica em volta das novas rotas comerciais é evidente.

The geopolitical reconfiguration around new trade routes is evident.

High-level political science context.

よく使う組み合わせ

olhar em volta

em volta da mesa

em volta da fogueira

em volta do mundo

girar em volta

em volta de tudo

área em volta

muro em volta

pessoas em volta

tudo em volta

よく使うフレーズ

dar a volta

— To go around something or to turn around. Can also mean to overcome a difficult situation.

Tivemos que dar a volta no quarteirão.

por todo o lado em volta

— Everywhere around. Emphasizes that something is completely surrounding you.

Havia lixo por todo o lado em volta.

em volta de si

— Around oneself. Used to describe a person's immediate personal space.

Ele criou um muro em volta de si.

ao virar em volta

— Upon turning around. Used in narratives to describe a sudden change in view.

Ao virar em volta, ele viu o mar.

em volta de nada

— Around nothing. Used to describe a void or total emptiness.

O espaço vazio em volta de nada nos assustava.

correr em volta

— To run around. Common in sports or describing children playing.

Eles adoram correr em volta do jardim.

sentar em volta

— To sit around. Used for meetings, meals, or gatherings.

Vamos sentar em volta da lareira.

olhar para tudo em volta

— To look at everything around. A more comprehensive version of 'look around'.

Ela olhou para tudo em volta com curiosidade.

estar em volta

— To be around. Simple state of being in the vicinity.

Os pássaros estão em volta da fonte.

focar em volta

— To focus around. Used metaphorically in planning or photography.

O fotógrafo focou em volta do objeto principal.

よく混同される語

em volta vs de volta

Means 'back' or 'returned'. 'Estou de volta' vs 'Estou em volta'.

em volta vs cerca de

Means 'approximately' for numbers. 'Cerca de 10' vs 'Em volta de 10' (incorrect).

em volta vs em vez de

Means 'instead of'. Sounds slightly similar but totally different meaning.

慣用句と表現

"dar a volta por cima"

— To recover from a setback and succeed. A very common Brazilian idiom.

Depois da falência, ele deu a volta por cima.

Informal/Common

"andar às voltas"

— To be confused or to keep going in circles without a solution.

Estou às voltas com este problema há horas.

Informal

"estar de volta"

— To be back or to have returned. (Contrast with 'em volta').

O campeão está de volta!

General

"dar voltas à cabeça"

— To think intensely about something, often to the point of worry.

Isso me dá voltas à cabeça.

Informal

"em volta de um umbigo"

— To be self-centered (literally 'around one's navel').

O mundo não gira em volta do seu umbigo.

Informal/Sarcastic

"na volta"

— On the way back. Also used as 'maybe' or 'likely' in some dialects.

Na volta, compramos o pão.

Informal

"dar uma volta"

— To go for a walk or a short trip.

Vamos dar uma volta no shopping?

Informal

"trocar as voltas"

— To confuse someone or to mess up an order.

Ele me trocou as voltas com aquela pergunta.

Informal

"em volta de nada"

— Describing something pointless or lacking substance.

A conversa foi em volta de nada.

Informal

"dar a volta ao texto"

— To find a creative way to explain or change a situation.

Ele soube dar a volta ao texto para convencer o chefe.

Informal

間違えやすい

em volta vs volta

It's the core of the phrase but has many meanings.

'Volta' can be a noun (turn), while 'em volta' is a spatial adverb.

Dei uma volta no parque.

em volta vs ao redor

Direct synonym.

'Ao redor' is slightly more formal and more common in Brazil than in Portugal.

Os pássaros voam ao redor.

em volta vs em torno

Direct synonym.

'Em torno' is often used for abstract themes or orbits.

A discussão em torno do projeto.

em volta vs cerca de

Both translate to 'around' in English.

'Cerca de' is for numbers; 'em volta' is for physical space.

Cerca de vinte pessoas.

em volta vs dentro

Opposite spatial concept.

'Dentro' is inside; 'em volta' is surrounding the outside.

Dentro da caixa.

文型パターン

Há [object] em volta de [reference].

Há flores em volta da casa.

[Subject] [verb of motion] em volta de [reference].

O cachorro corre em volta da árvore.

O [abstract noun] em volta de [topic] é [adjective].

O mistério em volta do caso é grande.

Tudo em volta de [person/thing] parecia [verb/adjective].

Tudo em volta de nós parecia calmo.

A narrativa gravita em volta de [theme].

A narrativa gravita em volta de um conflito familiar.

O escrutínio em volta de [complex topic] revela [insight].

O escrutínio em volta da ética revela novas perspectivas.

Olhe em volta.

Eu olho em volta no shopping.

Não há nada em volta.

No deserto, não há nada em volta.

語族

名詞

volta (turn/return)

redondeza (vicinity)

contorno (outline)

circunferência (circumference)

動詞

voltar (to return)

revoltar (to revolt)

contornar (to go around)

circundar (to surround)

形容詞

volúvel (changeable)

envolto (wrapped)

desenvolto (nimble)

circundante (surrounding)

使い方

frequency

Extremely high in daily speech and descriptive writing.

よくある間違い

Eu estou em volta. → Eu estou de volta.
You said 'I am around (surrounding something)' when you meant 'I am back'. Use 'de volta' for returns.
Em volta a mesa. → Em volta da mesa.
You forgot the preposition 'de' and its contraction with the article 'a'.
Em volta de dez pessoas. → Cerca de dez pessoas.
You used a spatial term for a numerical approximation. Use 'cerca de' or 'aproximadamente' for numbers.
Olhe em volta de. → Olhe em volta.
You added 'de' when there was no object. If you stop the sentence there, just use 'em volta'.
O sol gira em volta da terra. → A terra gira em volta do sol.
This is a factual mistake, but grammatically, ensure you use 'do' for masculine 'sol'.

ヒント

The De Rule

Always remember that 'em volta' needs 'de' when an object follows. This is the most common mistake for English speakers. Think of it as 'around of' in your head to remember the 'de', but never translate it that way in English!

Open your O

The 'o' in 'volta' is open, like in the English word 'door' (but shorter) or 'pot'. If you close it like 'boat', it sounds like a different word or just a heavy accent. Practice saying 'v-AWL-ta'.

Abstract Use

Don't be afraid to use 'em volta' for abstract things like 'the atmosphere around the event'. It makes your Portuguese sound more sophisticated and less literal. It's a great way to move from A2 to B1.

Portugal vs Brazil

If you are in Portugal, try using 'à volta'. It's the local favorite. In Brazil, 'em volta' or 'ao redor' are the kings. Knowing both makes you a more versatile Lusophone speaker.

Avoid Repetition

If you use 'em volta' in one sentence, try 'ao redor' in the next. Varying your spatial adverbs makes your descriptions more engaging and shows off your vocabulary range.

Listen for Contractions

Native speakers say 'em volta do' very quickly. It might sound like 'em-vow-tu'. Train your ear to recognize the 'vow' sound followed by a quick 'du' or 'da'.

The Circle Image

Always associate 'em volta' with a physical circle. This will help you distinguish it from 'cerca de' (numbers) and 'de volta' (return). Circle = Em volta.

Don't Overthink

In most cases, 'em volta' is just the direct translation of 'around'. If you're describing where something is, it's usually the right choice. Trust your instincts!

Describe Your Room

A great exercise is to sit in a chair and name everything 'em volta' of you. 'Em volta de mim há uma cama, uma mesa, e uma lâmpada'. This builds immediate practical fluency.

No Numbers!

Never use 'em volta' for time or quantity. If you say 'em volta de 5 horas', a Portuguese speaker will think you are physically surrounding a clock. Use 'por volta de' instead.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Imagine a 'VOLT' of electricity circling 'EM' (in) a wire. 'Em volta' is the circle.

視覚的連想

Visualize a hula-hoop. The hoop is 'em volta' of your waist. The 'V' in 'volta' looks like a valley you have to go around.

Word Web

Círculo Espaço Redor Ambiente Contexto Mesa Fogueira Mundo

チャレンジ

Describe five things currently 'em volta' of you in Portuguese. Use the 'de' rule for each one.

語源

Derived from the Portuguese preposition 'em' (in/at) and the noun 'volta' (turn/curve). The word 'volta' comes from the Latin 'volvere', meaning 'to roll' or 'to turn'.

元の意味： The phrase originally referred to the space contained within a turn or a curve.

Romance (Latin root).

文化的な背景

No specific sensitivities. It is a neutral spatial term.

English speakers often use 'around' for time (around 5 PM). Portuguese speakers use 'por volta de' or 'cerca de' for time, but 'em volta' is strictly spatial.

A Volta ao Mundo em 80 Dias (Around the World in 80 Days) - Jules Verne title in PT. The song 'Volta' by various Brazilian artists often plays on the double meaning of return and surrounding. Scientific diagrams of the solar system in Portuguese schools always use 'em volta do Sol'.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Home Description

em volta da casa
em volta do jardim
em volta da piscina
muro em volta

Social Gatherings

em volta da mesa
em volta da fogueira
pessoas em volta
sentar em volta

Nature/Science

em volta do sol
em volta do planeta
em volta do lago
girar em volta

Searching for things

olhar em volta
procurar em volta
em volta de você
em volta daqui

Abstract discussion

em volta do tema
em volta da polêmica
em volta do mistério
clima em volta

会話のきっかけ

"O que você costuma ver em volta da sua casa quando acorda?"

"Quais são os melhores restaurantes em volta da praça principal?"

"Você prefere sentar em volta de uma mesa ou em um sofá?"

"Como é a natureza em volta da cidade onde você nasceu?"

"O que você faria se visse muitos golfinhos nadando em volta do seu barco?"

日記のテーマ

Descreva detalhadamente o que você vê em volta de você agora mesmo.

Escreva sobre uma memória de infância que aconteceu em volta de uma mesa.

Imagine que você está no espaço. O que você vê em volta da Terra?

Quais são as principais preocupações em volta do meio ambiente hoje?

Descreva o clima e a atmosfera em volta do seu feriado favorito.

よくある質問

10 問

No, this is a common mistake. In English, we say 'around 5 o'clock', but in Portuguese, you must use 'por volta de' or 'cerca de'. 'Em volta' is strictly for physical or metaphorical surrounding. For example, 'por volta das cinco horas' is correct, while 'em volta das cinco horas' sounds like you are literally standing in a circle around the number five.

They are very similar and often interchangeable. 'Em volta' is slightly more common in everyday spoken Portuguese, while 'ao redor' can sound a bit more descriptive or formal. In Brazil, 'ao redor' is used very frequently. In Portugal, you might hear 'à volta' more often than 'em volta'. Choose 'em volta' for a safe, natural-sounding option in any context.

Only if you are mentioning a specific object or person that is being surrounded. If you are just saying 'look around' or 'everything around', you use 'em volta' alone. Example: 'Olhe em volta' (Look around) vs 'Olhe em volta da mesa' (Look around the table). If there is a noun following, the 'de' is mandatory.

Yes, it is understood and used in Portugal, but the phrase 'à volta' is much more common there. If you want to sound specifically like someone from Lisbon, use 'à volta'. If you want to sound more like someone from São Paulo, 'em volta' or 'ao redor' are your best bets. Both are perfectly correct in both countries.

It is a nasal vowel. Do not pronounce the 'm' with your lips. Instead, make the 'e' sound and let the air escape through your nose. It sounds similar to the English word 'aim' but without the 'm' sound at the end and much more nasal. If you pronounce it like the English 'em' (as in 'them'), native speakers will still understand you, but it will sound very foreign.

Yes, absolutely. You can say 'as pessoas em volta' (the people around) or 'em volta dele' (around him). It is often used to describe social circles or the people present in a specific situation. 'Ela gosta de ter a família em volta' is a very common way to say she likes having her family near her.

Depending on the context, the opposite could be 'no centro' (in the center) or 'longe' (far). If 'em volta' describes the perimeter, 'no centro' describes the heart. If 'em volta' describes proximity, 'longe' or 'distante' describes the lack thereof. There isn't one single word that serves as a perfect antonym in every case.

It is neutral. You can use it in a casual chat with friends, in a business meeting, or in a formal piece of writing. It is a 'utility' phrase that fits almost any register. For extremely formal or academic writing, you might swap it for 'em torno de' or 'circundante', but 'em volta' is never 'wrong' or 'too casual'.

Yes, and it is very common. It means 'around me'. You can use any prepositional pronoun after 'de': de mim, de você, dele, dela, de nós, de vocês, deles, delas. 'Tudo em volta de nós está mudando' (Everything around us is changing) is a perfectly natural sentence.

In Portuguese, we usually use definite articles with specific nouns. 'The table' is 'a mesa'. So, 'de' + 'a' becomes 'da'. If you were talking about tables in general (around tables), you might say 'em volta de mesas', but in 99% of cases, you are talking about a specific thing, so you need the contraction (do, da, dos, das).

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