Meaning
If you actively look for something, you are likely to find it.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, this is often used in a very informal, friendly way to encourage someone who is feeling discouraged about a job hunt or a personal goal. In Portugal, it is also used, but perhaps with a slightly more stoic tone, emphasizing the value of hard work and diligence. In countries like Angola or Mozambique, the proverb is understood and used in similar contexts, often as a piece of advice from elders to youth. It is a universal proverb across all Portuguese-speaking regions, making it a safe and effective phrase to use anywhere.
Use it as a mantra
When you feel stuck, say this to yourself to stay motivated.
Don't change the words
Proverbs are fixed. Changing them makes you sound less like a native speaker.
Meaning
If you actively look for something, you are likely to find it.
Use it as a mantra
When you feel stuck, say this to yourself to stay motivated.
Don't change the words
Proverbs are fixed. Changing them makes you sound less like a native speaker.
It's a universal truth
You can use this in almost any Portuguese-speaking country.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
Quem procura, ____.
The proverb is a fixed expression using 'acha'.
Which situation is appropriate for this proverb?
A friend is looking for a lost item. What do you say?
It is an encouraging phrase for someone searching for something.
Match the proverb to its meaning.
Quem procura, acha.
The proverb emphasizes that active searching leads to finding.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Não consigo achar o erro. B: ____.
It encourages the person to keep looking for the error.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesQuem procura, ____.
The proverb is a fixed expression using 'acha'.
A friend is looking for a lost item. What do you say?
It is an encouraging phrase for someone searching for something.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The proverb emphasizes that active searching leads to finding.
A: Não consigo achar o erro. B: ____.
It encourages the person to keep looking for the error.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, but use it carefully. It's better to say it when talking about your research process.
No, it's generally very encouraging.
Grammatically yes, but it's not the traditional proverb.
Yes, it is common in both.
Then you keep looking! That's the point of the proverb.
It's neutral. It works in almost any setting.
No, it's meant for positive outcomes.
It's pronounced 'AH-sha'.
No, it's very short and easy to remember.
It depends on your relationship, but it's generally okay.
No, it's secular.
Yes, it's perfect for texting.
Related Phrases
Quem não arrisca, não petisca
similarNothing ventured, nothing gained.
A união faz a força
contrastUnity is strength.
Devagar se vai ao longe
similarSlow and steady wins the race.
Quem tem boca vai a Roma
similarIf you ask, you'll get there.
