Meaning
To pretend to be ignorant or incapable to avoid responsibility.
Cultural Background
It is a very common expression in everyday life, often used with a wink or a smile. The phrase is understood but less common than in Brazil; Portuguese speakers might prefer 'fazer-se de parvo'.
Use it with a smile
Because it's informal, using it with a smile makes it sound like a joke rather than an insult.
Meaning
To pretend to be ignorant or incapable to avoid responsibility.
Use it with a smile
Because it's informal, using it with a smile makes it sound like a joke rather than an insult.
Test Yourself
Complete the phrase.
Ele sempre __________ de João sem braço quando precisa trabalhar.
The correct idiom is 'dar uma de'.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesEle sempre __________ de João sem braço quando precisa trabalhar.
The correct idiom is 'dar uma de'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it's too informal and can be seen as disrespectful.
Related Phrases
Fazer-se de desentendido
synonymTo act like you don't understand.
Empurrar com a barriga
similarTo procrastinate.