In 15 Seconds
- Not 'tirar o nariz', but 'meter o nariz'.
- Means to meddle or be nosy.
- Implies intrusive curiosity, often negative.
- Use in informal chats with friends.
Meaning
This phrase, `tirar a nariz em algo`, isn't actually a standard Portuguese idiom. You're probably thinking of `meter o nariz em algo`, which means to meddle, interfere, or pry into someone else's affairs. It carries a negative vibe, suggesting nosiness or unwanted curiosity. It's like sticking your nose where it doesn't belong, often causing trouble or annoyance.
Key Examples
3 of 12Texting a friend about a nosy neighbor
A vizinha de novo metendo o nariz na nossa conversa!
The neighbor again sticking her nose into our conversation!
WhatsApp message to a sibling
Não meta o seu nariz na minha vida amorosa, por favor.
Don't stick your nose into my love life, please.
Instagram comment on a celebrity's post
Gente, vamos deixar eles em paz. Não metam o nariz onde não são chamados.
Guys, let's leave them alone. Don't stick your noses where you're not called.
Cultural Background
The phrase `meter o nariz` taps into a universal human tendency: curiosity. In Portuguese culture, while curiosity can be seen as a sign of interest, excessive meddling (`meter o nariz`) is frowned upon. It violates personal boundaries and can disrupt social harmony, making it a common point of mild social criticism.
Verb is Key!
Always use the verb `meter` (to put/stick). `Tirar` (to take out) means the opposite and completely changes the meaning!
Don't Be *That* Person!
Using this idiom implies someone is being intrusive. Be careful not to overuse it about yourself unless you're being self-deprecatingly funny!
In 15 Seconds
- Not 'tirar o nariz', but 'meter o nariz'.
- Means to meddle or be nosy.
- Implies intrusive curiosity, often negative.
- Use in informal chats with friends.
What It Means
This phrase isn't a real Portuguese idiom as written. The closest and most common expression is meter o nariz em algo. This means to interfere in other people's business. It's like being a busybody. You stick your nose where it's not wanted. It implies curiosity that's too intrusive. It can also mean meddling in affairs that don't concern you. The vibe is generally negative. It suggests you're being nosy or causing problems. Think of someone eavesdropping or giving unsolicited advice. That's meter o nariz. It’s a common way to describe someone who’s always in everyone’s business. It’s like they can’t mind their own! It’s a bit like saying someone is being a snoop. Or a nosy parker. It’s not a compliment, that’s for sure. It’s about crossing boundaries. It implies you’re not respecting privacy. The action is often seen as unwelcome. It can lead to awkward situations. Or even arguments. It's a colorful way to paint a picture. A picture of someone who can't help but pry. They just can't resist knowing everything. Even when it’s none of their business. It’s a very human trait, though! We’re all a little curious sometimes. But this idiom points to excessive curiosity. The kind that causes irritation. It’s like a persistent fly. Buzzing around where it shouldn't be. It's a strong image. It makes the meaning very clear. You’re sticking your nose into something. Something that’s private. Or complicated. And you’re not invited. So, remember, it's meter o nariz. Not tirar.
Origin Story
The origin of meter o nariz likely stems from the literal act of a nose protruding. Think about how a nose is the most prominent facial feature. It's the first thing you see. It's also used for smelling things out. It's our sensory organ for investigating smells. So, metaphorically, the nose becomes a tool for investigation. It's used to 'smell' out information. Or to 'poke' into things. This imagery is quite old. It’s found in many cultures. The idea of the nose as a symbol of curiosity is widespread. Ancient Romans even associated noses with pride. And arrogance. The idea of sticking one's nose into something suggests intrusion. It's like physically pushing your nose into a space. To see what's there. Or to sniff around. It’s a very visceral image. It makes sense why it became an idiom. It’s relatable and vivid. It’s not tied to one specific event. It’s more about folk wisdom. It evolved naturally from the physical world. The nose investigates. So, when you meter o nariz, you're investigating. You're poking around. You're trying to get involved. Or find out secrets. It’s a simple, effective metaphor. It captures the essence of meddling. It’s like a curious puppy. Sniffing around every corner. Wanting to know what’s going on. But applied to human social interactions. It's a bit like saying someone is being a detective. But a nosy one. Not a professional one. The phrase likely gained popularity organically. Through everyday speech. It’s a classic example of metaphor. Taking a physical action. And applying it to a social behavior. The nose is our primary sniffing tool. So it makes sense it became the symbol. For sniffing out gossip. Or secrets. It’s a very Portuguese way to say it. Direct and a little cheeky. It paints a clear picture in your mind. Of someone being overly involved. Like they’re trying to smell the situation. Or push their face into it. It's a fun image, really. Once you get past the negative connotation. It’s just a very descriptive phrase. It’s the nose’s job to explore. This idiom just applies it to people’s lives. And not always in a good way!
How To Use It
Use meter o nariz when someone is being nosy. Or interfering where they shouldn't. You'd say it about a friend. Or a colleague. Or even a family member. If they're prying too much. For example, if someone asks about your private finances. You might say, Não meta o seu nariz nos meus assuntos! (Don't stick your nose in my business!). It's also used when someone gives unwanted opinions. Or tries to solve your problems. Without being asked. It’s important to get the preposition right. It's always meter o nariz em algo. Or meter o nariz na vida de alguém. You can use it in the imperative. To tell someone to stop. Sai daqui! Não meta o nariz aqui! (Get out! Don't stick your nose here!). You can also use it to describe someone else's behavior. Ele adora meter o nariz onde não é chamado. (He loves sticking his nose where he's not called). It’s a very common expression. You’ll hear it often. Especially in informal conversations. It’s a great way to express annoyance. About someone’s nosiness. It’s direct. It’s clear. And it’s got that touch of humor. Because the image is so funny. Imagine someone literally pushing their nose into a conversation. Or a document! It’s a bit ridiculous. Which is why it works so well. It’s not overly aggressive. But it definitely gets the point across. You can use it in various tenses. Present, past, future. Ela meteu o nariz na minha conversa. (She stuck her nose in my conversation). Eu não vou meter o nariz. (I won't stick my nose). It’s versatile. Just remember the core meaning. It’s about unwanted interference. Or excessive curiosity. And the nose is the symbol. For that intrusive action. It’s a phrase you’ll use a lot. Once you start noticing it. It’s like a secret code. For calling someone out. For being a busybody. But in a fun, Portuguese way. So, go ahead, try it out! Just don’t meter o nariz in my explanation too much!
Real-Life Examples
- 1Your friend is gossiping about a mutual acquaintance's breakup. You might say:
Não acho legal meter o nariz na vida deles.(I don't think it's cool to stick your nose into their lives.) - 2A colleague keeps asking about your salary negotiations. You could tell them:
Por favor, não meta o nariz nos meus assuntos de trabalho.(Please, don't stick your nose into my work matters.) - 3Your neighbor is always peeking over the fence. You might complain to another neighbor:
Aquela vizinha adora meter o nariz em tudo!(That neighbor loves sticking her nose into everything!) - 4Someone is trying to give you relationship advice you didn't ask for. You can politely say:
Agradeço a preocupação, mas prefiro não meter o nariz nisso.(I appreciate the concern, but I prefer not to stick my nose into it.) — Wait, that's wrong! You'd sayAgradeço a preocupação, mas prefiro que você não meta o nariz nisso.(I appreciate the concern, but I prefer you not to stick your nose into it.) - 5On social media, someone comments rudely on a celebrity's personal life. A fan might reply:
Ninguém pediu sua opinião! Não meta o nariz onde não é chamado.(Nobody asked for your opinion! Don't stick your nose where you're not called.) - 6During a family gathering, an aunt asks intrusive questions about your dating life. You might sigh and think:
Lá vem ela meter o nariz de novo.(Here she comes sticking her nose in again.) - 7A coworker is constantly trying to get involved in office politics. You might tell a trusted colleague:
Ele vive metendo o nariz em assuntos que não são dele.(He's always sticking his nose into matters that aren't his.) - 8Someone is trying to influence a decision that doesn't concern them. You could confront them:
Com todo respeito, você não precisa meter o nariz nisso.(With all due respect, you don't need to stick your nose into this.) - 9A younger sibling keeps trying to read your private messages. You'd warn them:
Para de meter o nariz nas minhas coisas!(Stop sticking your nose in my stuff!) - 10Your boss is asking overly personal questions during a performance review. You might think:
Ele está metendo o nariz demais na minha vida pessoal.(He's sticking his nose too much into my personal life.) - 11Someone is giving unsolicited advice on how to raise your kids. You could say firmly:
Não peça para você meter o nariz na minha criação de filhos.(Don't ask me to stick my nose into my parenting.) — Oops, another mistake! It should be:Não gosto que você meta o nariz na minha criação de filhos.(I don't like you sticking your nose into my parenting.) - 12A friend is trying to mediate a fight between two other friends. You might say:
Deixa eles resolverem sozinhos, não meta o nariz.(Let them sort it out themselves, don't stick your nose in.)
When To Use It
Use meter o nariz when someone is being overly curious. Or interfering in a situation. It’s perfect for describing nosy people. Or when someone gives unwanted advice. It works well in informal settings. Like chatting with friends. Or complaining about a neighbor. You can use it to warn someone. To tell them to back off. Or to describe someone else's meddling. If someone is gossiping. Or prying into secrets. This phrase fits perfectly. It’s also good for situations. Where someone is trying to control things. That aren't theirs to control. Think of office politics. Or family drama. It’s a very common idiom. So, you’ll hear it a lot. And using it yourself. Shows you understand informal Portuguese. It adds a bit of color. To your conversations. It’s a phrase with attitude. It says, “Mind your own business!” But in a more colorful way. It’s great for expressing mild irritation. Or strong disapproval. Depending on your tone. It’s a staple of everyday Portuguese. Like saying “cool” or “awesome” in English. It’s just part of the language. So, if you see nosiness. Or interference. This is your go-to phrase. Just remember it’s meter. Not tirar.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid meter o nariz in formal situations. Like a job interview. Or a business meeting. It sounds too casual. And a bit rude. Don’t use it when you genuinely want to help. Or offer constructive feedback. If someone asks for your opinion. It’s not meter o nariz. It’s offering support. Also, don’t use it if you’re the one being nosy! That would be ironic. But probably not wise. If you’re talking to someone older. Or in a position of authority. It might be too informal. Unless the relationship is very relaxed. Don’t use it to describe yourself. Unless you’re being self-deprecating. And even then, be careful. It can sound arrogant. Or like you're justifying bad behavior. It’s best used to describe others. Or to tell someone directly. To stop interfering. If you want to be polite. Find a softer way to say it. Like, “I’ll handle this myself.” Or, “I appreciate your input, but…” It’s not a phrase for delicate situations. Where you need to be diplomatic. It’s for when you want to call out nosiness. Directly and informally. So, save it for friends. And informal chats. Not for your boss’s boss. Unless you want to risk it!
Common Mistakes
Eu quero tirar o nariz da sua vida.
✓Eu quero ficar fora da sua vida. (I want to stay out of your life.)
This mistake uses the incorrect verb tirar (to take out) instead of the correct concept of staying out. The meaning is completely lost.
Não meta o nariz na minha comida.
✓Não meta o nariz onde não é chamado. (Don't stick your nose where you're not called.)
While you can technically stick your nose into someone's food, the idiom's meaning is about interfering in affairs, not literally sniffing food. The context is wrong.
Ele tirou o nariz nos meus papéis.
✓Ele meteu o nariz nos meus papéis. (He stuck his nose in my papers.)
This uses the incorrect verb tirar. The correct verb meter (to put in) is essential for the idiom's meaning of intrusion.
Não tire o nariz dos meus assuntos.
✓Não meta o nariz nos meus assuntos. (Don't stick your nose in my business.)
Again, the verb tirar is incorrect. The idiom requires meter to convey the sense of interfering.
Similar Expressions
Ser bisbilhoteiro/a: To be a busybody, a snoop. This describes the person.Dar palpite: To give unsolicited opinions. Similar to meddling, but more about advice.Intrometer-se: To interfere, to meddle. More formal and direct.Cuspir no prato que comeu: To bite the hand that feeds you. Related to betrayal, not nosiness.Não se meta: Don't get involved. A direct command to stay out.
Memory Trick
Imagine someone literally metering (putting) their nariz (nose) em (into) a cake. It’s a funny, slightly messy image. That’s exactly what the idiom means: putting your nose where it doesn't belong. It’s intrusive and unwelcome, just like a nose in a cake!
Quick FAQ
- Is
tirar a nariz em algoa real phrase? No, it's not a standard Portuguese idiom. You're likely thinking ofmeter o nariz em algo. - What does
meter o narizmean? It means to meddle, interfere, or be nosy in someone else's business. - Is it a positive or negative phrase? It's almost always negative, implying intrusive curiosity or unwelcome interference.
Usage Notes
This is a highly informal idiom, best reserved for casual conversations with friends or family. Using it in professional or very formal contexts could be perceived as rude or overly blunt. The core idea is unwanted interference or intrusive curiosity, so context and tone are crucial.
Verb is Key!
Always use the verb `meter` (to put/stick). `Tirar` (to take out) means the opposite and completely changes the meaning!
Don't Be *That* Person!
Using this idiom implies someone is being intrusive. Be careful not to overuse it about yourself unless you're being self-deprecatingly funny!
Context is Everything
While informal, the intensity can vary. A playful 'Não meta o nariz!' to a friend is different from a stern warning. Tone matters!
Respecting Boundaries
Portuguese culture values politeness and respecting personal space. `Meter o nariz` directly addresses the violation of these boundaries, making it a very common and understood criticism.
Examples
12A vizinha de novo metendo o nariz na nossa conversa!
The neighbor again sticking her nose into our conversation!
Expresses annoyance about the neighbor's eavesdropping or interference.
Não meta o seu nariz na minha vida amorosa, por favor.
Don't stick your nose into my love life, please.
A direct, informal request for a sibling to stop interfering.
Gente, vamos deixar eles em paz. Não metam o nariz onde não são chamados.
Guys, let's leave them alone. Don't stick your noses where you're not called.
Urging followers not to pry into the celebrity's personal life.
Ele vive metendo o nariz em tudo, até nas minhas planilhas.
He's always sticking his nose into everything, even my spreadsheets.
Describes a colleague's tendency to interfere in others' work.
Eu não pedi sua opinião! Pare de meter o nariz onde não deve.
I didn't ask for your opinion! Stop sticking your nose where you shouldn't.
A firm rejection of unwanted advice, accusing the person of meddling.
Eu não aguento mais minha tia metendo o nariz nas minhas decisões financeiras.
I can't stand my aunt sticking her nose into my financial decisions anymore.
Shows strong annoyance with constant interference in personal matters.
Meu cachorro mete o nariz em tudo que eu abro! Até na embalagem do biscoito.
My dog sticks his nose into everything I open! Even the cookie packaging.
Uses the phrase humorously for a pet's excessive sniffing and curiosity.
✗ Ele adora tirar o nariz nos assuntos dos outros. → ✓ Ele adora meter o nariz nos assuntos dos outros.
✗ He loves taking his nose into others' business. → ✓ He loves sticking his nose into others' business.
Incorrect verb choice ('tirar' - to take out) instead of the correct idiomatic verb ('meter' - to put in).
✗ Não meta o nariz na minha comida. → ✓ Não meta o nariz onde não é chamado.
✗ Don't stick your nose in my food. → ✓ Don't stick your nose where you're not called.
The phrase is about interfering in affairs, not literally sniffing food. The context and common usage are key.
Eu prefiro focar nas minhas responsabilidades e evitar intromissões desnecessárias.
I prefer to focus on my responsibilities and avoid unnecessary interference.
Uses a more formal synonym ('intromissões') instead of the informal idiom.
Solicitamos que a parte contrária não se intrometa em assuntos administrativos.
We request that the opposing party not interfere in administrative matters.
Uses the formal verb 'intrometer-se' which is the formal equivalent.
Muita gente meteu o nariz na minha história, mas eu segui em frente.
Many people stuck their noses into my story, but I moved forward.
Reflecting on past interference and personal resilience.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb 'meter' or 'tirar' to complete the idiom.
The correct idiom is `meter o nariz` (to stick one's nose in), meaning to meddle.
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the idiom.
Which sentence correctly expresses the idea of meddling?
The idiom is `meter o nariz` (to stick one's nose in), meaning to interfere or meddle. The other options use the incorrect verb 'tirar' or misuse the phrase.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
While you could literally stick your nose in food, the idiom `meter o nariz` refers to interfering in people's affairs, not literal sniffing. The common expression is 'meter o nariz onde não é chamado' (stick your nose where you're not called).
Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the idiom.
The phrase `meter o nariz` means to meddle or be nosy. The sentence describes someone who habitually interferes in office gossip.
Translate this sentence into Portuguese.
The direct translation uses the idiom `meter o nariz` (to stick one's nose) and the imperative 'Pare de...' (Stop...). 'Nos meus assuntos' means 'in my business'.
Choose the correct phrase to complete the sentence.
You want to tell someone not to interfere. You say: 'Não ______ seu nariz aqui!'
The idiom for interfering or being nosy is `meter o nariz` (to put/stick the nose in). 'Tire' (take out) is the opposite.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The idiom for investigating or meddling in affairs is `meter o nariz` (to put/stick the nose in), not `tirar o nariz` (to take out the nose).
Translate this sentence into Portuguese.
This translates the idea of habitual interference using the idiom `meter o nariz` in the present tense, referring to 'problemas dos outros' (other people's problems).
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This forms the imperative command 'Don't stick your nose in.', a common way to tell someone to mind their own business.
Match the Portuguese phrase with its English meaning.
These phrases all relate to interfering or being overly curious, but `meter o nariz` is the most common informal idiom.
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the idiom.
The idiom means to interfere. The correct verb is 'meter' (to put/stick), used here in the form 'meta' for the subjunctive/imperative mood.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This sentence is grammatically incorrect. The correct idiom would be 'Não meta o nariz na sua vida' (Don't stick your nose in your life - which is nonsensical) or more likely 'Não meta o nariz na MINHA vida' (Don't stick your nose in MY life).
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum for 'Meter o Nariz'
Used among close friends, often with humor or mild annoyance.
Para de meter o nariz onde não é chamado!
Common in everyday conversations, casual settings.
Ele vive metendo o nariz nos assuntos dos outros.
Can be used, but might sound slightly blunt depending on context.
Não meta o nariz nisso, por favor.
Generally avoided. More formal synonyms like 'intrometer-se' are preferred.
Solicito que não se intrometa.
Situations for 'Meter o Nariz'
Gossip session
Ela adora meter o nariz nas fofocas.
Neighborly disputes
Meu vizinho mete o nariz na minha vida.
Unsolicited advice
Não meta o nariz nos meus problemas.
Office politics
Ele mete o nariz em tudo no trabalho.
Family interference
Minha tia mete o nariz nas minhas finanças.
Social media comments
Gente, não metam o nariz aqui!
Comparing 'Meter o Nariz' with Similar Phrases
Usage Scenarios for 'Meter o Nariz'
Direct Command
- • Não meta o nariz!
- • Pare de meter o nariz!
Describing Others
- • Ele mete o nariz em tudo.
- • Ela vive metendo o nariz.
Expressing Annoyance
- • Que saco ela meter o nariz aqui!
- • Detesto quando metem o nariz.
Humorous Context
- • Até o gato mete o nariz na comida.
- • Meu cachorro mete o nariz em tudo.
Practice Bank
12 exercisesEle adora ______ o nariz em assuntos que não são dele.
The correct idiom is `meter o nariz` (to stick one's nose in), meaning to meddle.
Which sentence correctly expresses the idea of meddling?
The idiom is `meter o nariz` (to stick one's nose in), meaning to interfere or meddle. The other options use the incorrect verb 'tirar' or misuse the phrase.
Find and fix the mistake:
Por favor, não meta o seu nariz na minha comida.
While you could literally stick your nose in food, the idiom `meter o nariz` refers to interfering in people's affairs, not literal sniffing. The common expression is 'meter o nariz onde não é chamado' (stick your nose where you're not called).
Ela sempre ______ o nariz nas fofocas do escritório.
The phrase `meter o nariz` means to meddle or be nosy. The sentence describes someone who habitually interferes in office gossip.
Stop sticking your nose into my business!
Hints: Use the verb 'meter'., Remember the preposition 'em' or 'nos'.
The direct translation uses the idiom `meter o nariz` (to stick one's nose) and the imperative 'Pare de...' (Stop...). 'Nos meus assuntos' means 'in my business'.
You want to tell someone not to interfere. You say: 'Não ______ seu nariz aqui!'
The idiom for interfering or being nosy is `meter o nariz` (to put/stick the nose in). 'Tire' (take out) is the opposite.
Find and fix the mistake:
Aquele jornalista adora tirar o nariz em todos os escândalos.
The idiom for investigating or meddling in affairs is `meter o nariz` (to put/stick the nose in), not `tirar o nariz` (to take out the nose).
He always sticks his nose into other people's problems.
Hints: Use 'sempre' for 'always'., The idiom is 'meter o nariz em'.
This translates the idea of habitual interference using the idiom `meter o nariz` in the present tense, referring to 'problemas dos outros' (other people's problems).
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This forms the imperative command 'Don't stick your nose in.', a common way to tell someone to mind their own business.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These phrases all relate to interfering or being overly curious, but `meter o nariz` is the most common informal idiom.
Eu não quero que você ______ seu nariz nos meus planos.
The idiom means to interfere. The correct verb is 'meter' (to put/stick), used here in the form 'meta' for the subjunctive/imperative mood.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This sentence is grammatically incorrect. The correct idiom would be 'Não meta o nariz na sua vida' (Don't stick your nose in your life - which is nonsensical) or more likely 'Não meta o nariz na MINHA vida' (Don't stick your nose in MY life).
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
18 questionsIt means to interfere in other people's business or to be excessively curious about things that don't concern you. It's like physically sticking your nose into a situation where it's not wanted or needed. Think of it as being a 'busybody'.
No, tirar a nariz em algo is not a standard Portuguese idiom. You are likely confusing it with the very common idiom meter o nariz em algo, which has the opposite meaning of meddling or interfering.
The nose is our primary organ for smelling and investigating the environment. Metaphorically, it represents curiosity and the act of 'sniffing out' information or intruding into situations, much like a literal nose might poke into a small space.
It's best to avoid meter o nariz in formal settings like job interviews or official meetings. It's considered quite informal and can sound rude. For formal situations, use synonyms like intrometer-se (to interfere) or intervir (to intervene).
Meter o nariz is about meddling or interfering, often involving curiosity or trying to get involved in someone's affairs. Dar palpite specifically means giving unsolicited advice or opinions, which is a form of interference but more focused on talking rather than general meddling.
Politely, you might say: 'Agradeço a sua preocupação, mas prefiro resolver isso sozinho(a)' (I appreciate your concern, but I prefer to resolve this myself) or 'Eu cuido disso, obrigado(a)' (I'll take care of it, thank you). Using the idiom meter o nariz is usually reserved for informal contexts or direct confrontation.
This is a very common and emphatic version of the idiom. It literally translates to 'sticking your nose where you are not called/invited.' It strongly implies that the person is interfering in matters that absolutely do not concern them and where their presence or opinion is unwelcome.
Yes, absolutely! It's often used humorously, especially when talking about pets being curious or in lighthearted situations among friends. The image of a nose poking into things is inherently a bit funny, so the tone can easily shift from critical to playful.
There isn't a single direct idiomatic opposite. However, phrases like 'manter distância' (to keep distance), 'não se intrometer' (not to interfere), or 'cuidar da sua vida' (mind your own business - said to someone else) convey the idea of staying out of things, which is the opposite behavior.
Yes, meter o nariz is widely understood and used in both European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese. While there might be slight regional variations in frequency or specific contexts, the core meaning remains the same across both major variants.
The most frequent mistake is using the verb tirar (to take out) instead of meter (to put/stick in). Learners might say 'tirar o nariz' thinking it means 'to remove oneself from the situation,' but it completely negates the idiomatic meaning and often sounds nonsensical.
You can, but it's usually done with self-deprecation or humor. For example, 'Desculpe, eu sei que estou metendo o nariz, mas fiquei preocupado' (Sorry, I know I'm sticking my nose in, but I was worried). Directly stating 'Eu meto o nariz em tudo' might sound arrogant unless the context is clearly joking.
They both involve the nose but have very different meanings. Meter o nariz is about meddling or being nosy. Dar com o nariz na porta means to fail completely, to be rejected bluntly, or to hit a dead end. It's about encountering failure, not interference.
The idiom is fundamentally about violating someone's privacy or personal boundaries. When someone mete o nariz, they are intruding into private matters, information, or situations that the owner considers personal and not for public or external scrutiny.
The core idiom meter o nariz is standard. However, related expressions might vary. For instance, in Brazil, you might hear 'enxerido' or 'curioso' to describe a nosy person, while in Portugal, 'bisbilhoteiro' is also common. The action itself is consistently described by meter o nariz.
No, if someone explicitly asks for your opinion or advice, it's not considered meter o nariz. That phrase applies when the involvement or curiosity is unsolicited and unwelcome. Asking for input turns it into a requested interaction.
Yes, humorously! You might say something like 'Meu gato mete o nariz em qualquer pacote que eu abro' (My cat sticks its nose into any package I open). It anthropomorphizes the animal's curiosity, applying the human idiom to their behavior.
It can be used in almost any tense! Common forms include the present indicative ('ele mete'), the gerund ('metendo'), the past participle ('metido'), and the imperative ('meta!'). The tense depends on whether you're describing a habit, an ongoing action, a completed action, or giving a command.
Related Phrases
Ser bisbilhoteiro
related topicTo be a busybody or snoop
This phrase describes the person who habitually 'mete o nariz' into others' affairs.
Dar palpite
related topicTo give unsolicited opinions or advice
This is a specific type of interference, focusing on offering unwanted advice rather than general meddling.
Intrometer-se
formal versionTo interfere or meddle
This is a more formal and less colorful verb that conveys a similar meaning of interfering in matters that don't concern you.
Não se meta
related topicDon't get involved / Mind your own business
This is a direct command related to the concept of not 'meter o nariz', telling someone to stay out of a situation.
Dar com o nariz na porta
related topicTo fail miserably; to get a blunt refusal
Although it uses 'nariz', this idiom is completely different, referring to failure or rejection, not interference.
Cheirar algo
related topicTo smell something
This is the literal action associated with the nose, providing the basis for the metaphorical idiom 'meter o nariz'.