Meaning
To take a break from a relationship or a demanding situation.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'dar um tempo' is often a euphemism for a breakup that neither person wants to admit is final yet. It's part of the 'jeitinho'—avoiding direct 'no's. Portuguese people tend to be more literal. If they say they are 'dando um tempo', they usually mean a specific, finite period of reflection. In Luanda, you might hear 'dar um mambo' or 'dar uma mambada' as slang variations for taking a break or doing something else. The phrase is used similarly to Portugal but often mixed with local expressions like 'estamos juntos' to signify that even during a break, the bond remains.
The 'Um' Rule
Always include 'um'. 'Dar tempo' is for patience; 'Dar um tempo' is for a break. This small word changes everything!
Relationship Danger
Be careful! In Brazil, 'dar um tempo' is often seen as the first step to a breakup. Use it wisely with your partner.
Meaning
To take a break from a relationship or a demanding situation.
The 'Um' Rule
Always include 'um'. 'Dar tempo' is for patience; 'Dar um tempo' is for a break. This small word changes everything!
Relationship Danger
Be careful! In Brazil, 'dar um tempo' is often seen as the first step to a breakup. Use it wisely with your partner.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'dar'.
Eu estou muito cansado. Eu vou ___ um tempo agora.
After 'vou' (future with ir), we use the infinitive 'dar'.
Which sentence is correct for a relationship break?
How do you say 'They took a break' in the past?
'Deram' is the past tense (pretérito perfeito) of 'dar'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are arguing with a friend and want to stop.
Pausing a conversation is the best way to de-escalate an argument.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesEu estou muito cansado. Eu vou ___ um tempo agora.
After 'vou' (future with ir), we use the infinitive 'dar'.
How do you say 'They took a break' in the past?
'Deram' is the past tense (pretérito perfeito) of 'dar'.
You are arguing with a friend and want to stop.
Pausing a conversation is the best way to de-escalate an argument.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, it's generally a polite way to ask for space, especially compared to 'me deixa em paz' (leave me alone).
Yes, but 'horário de almoço' or 'pausa para o almoço' is more specific. 'Dar um tempo para almoçar' is perfectly fine though.
Related Phrases
Dar uma folga
similarTo give someone a break / stop bothering someone.
Dar tempo ao tempo
builds onTo let time take its course.
Passar o tempo
contrastTo kill time / pass the time.
