Meaning
To activate a light fixture.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'ligar a luz' is extremely common in casual speech, often more so than 'acender'. However, 'acender' is preferred in written or slightly more formal contexts. In Portugal, 'acender' is the dominant term for lights. Using 'ligar' for a light might sound slightly mechanical or technical to a Portuguese ear. Similar to Portugal, 'acender' is standard, but you may hear regional variations influenced by local languages regarding the concept of 'opening' or 'starting' light.
The 'Fire' Rule
If it produces a glow like fire (lamps, candles, matches), use 'acender'.
The 'Abrir' Trap
Never say 'abrir a luz'. It sounds very strange to native speakers.
Meaning
To activate a light fixture.
The 'Fire' Rule
If it produces a glow like fire (lamps, candles, matches), use 'acender'.
The 'Abrir' Trap
Never say 'abrir a luz'. It sounds very strange to native speakers.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'acender'.
Está muito escuro. Eu vou _______ a luz.
'Acender' is the most precise verb for light sources.
Which sentence is correct for turning on a computer?
Como se diz 'turn on the computer'?
We use 'ligar' for electronics and 'acender' for lights.
Match the verb with the object.
Match the following:
These are the standard collocations.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Não consigo ler nada aqui. B: _________ a luz, então!
The imperative 'Acenda' is used for giving a suggestion or command.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Acender vs. Ligar
Acender
- • Lâmpada
- • Vela
- • Fogueira
- • Farol
Ligar
- • Computador
- • Televisão
- • Rádio
- • Celular
Practice Bank
4 exercisesEstá muito escuro. Eu vou _______ a luz.
'Acender' is the most precise verb for light sources.
Como se diz 'turn on the computer'?
We use 'ligar' for electronics and 'acender' for lights.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the standard collocations.
A: Não consigo ler nada aqui. B: _________ a luz, então!
The imperative 'Acenda' is used for giving a suggestion or command.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes! You say 'acender os faróis'.
No, it's very common in Brazil, but 'acender' is more traditional for light.
Related Phrases
Apagar a luz
contrastTo turn off the light
Ligar a luz
synonymTo turn on the light (informal/Brazil)
Luz de presença
specialized formNight light
