ajustar in 30 Seconds
- Ajustar means to make small changes for better fit, function, or comfort.
- Used for physical objects, settings, plans, and personal adaptation (ajustar-se).
- Common in daily life, workshops, tech, and work contexts.
- Be mindful of prepositions and the reflexive form 'ajustar-se'.
The Portuguese verb ajustar is a versatile word that means to adjust, to alter, or to move something slightly to achieve a desired fit, alignment, or state. It implies making small changes to make something work better, fit correctly, or be more comfortable. Think of it as fine-tuning or making a slight modification.
- Core Meaning
- Making small changes to improve fit, position, or function.
- Contexts
- Physical objects, settings, plans, finances, and even one's own body or actions.
Preciso ajustar a altura da cadeira para trabalhar confortavelmente.
You might use ajustar when you're dealing with physical items. For example, if a picture frame is slightly crooked on the wall, you would ajustar it. If your clothes feel a little tight or loose, you might need to ajustar them. This verb is also used for settings on devices, like adjusting the volume of the TV, the brightness of a screen, or the temperature of an air conditioner. Beyond the physical, ajustar can apply to more abstract concepts. You might ajustar your plans if something unexpected comes up, or ajustar your budget if your expenses are higher than anticipated. It's about making necessary modifications to reach a desired outcome or a state of equilibrium.
- Physical Adjustments
- Examples include adjusting clothes, furniture, or equipment for a better fit or position. For instance, 'ajustar a gravata' (to adjust the tie) or 'ajustar os óculos' (to adjust the glasses).
- Settings and Controls
- This applies to electronic devices and machinery. 'Ajustar o volume' (to adjust the volume), 'ajustar a temperatura' (to adjust the temperature), or 'ajustar o foco da câmera' (to adjust the camera focus).
- Abstract Modifications
- This includes adapting strategies, plans, or finances. 'Ajustar o orçamento' (to adjust the budget), 'ajustar a estratégia' (to adjust the strategy), or 'ajustar o horário' (to adjust the schedule).
O músico precisou ajustar o tom do violino antes do concerto.
It's a fundamental verb for daily life, helping us to maintain order, comfort, and efficiency in various aspects of our existence. Whether you're a tailor fitting a dress, a programmer tweaking code, or a chef balancing flavors, the concept of ajustar is universally applicable.
Using ajustar correctly involves understanding its transitive nature – it usually takes a direct object, meaning you adjust *something*. The verb conjugates like a regular -ar verb, with common forms including 'eu ajusto' (I adjust), 'você/ele/ela ajusta' (you/he/she adjusts), 'nós ajustamos' (we adjust), 'vocês/eles/elas ajustam' (you all/they adjust), and in the past, 'eu ajustei' (I adjusted).
- Subject + ajustar + Object
- This is the most common structure. The subject performs the action of adjusting on the object. For example, 'Eu ajustei a minha dieta' (I adjusted my diet).
- Ajustar + Object + para/a + Purpose/Result
- Often, you'll specify the reason or the intended outcome of the adjustment. For instance, 'Ele ajustou o assento do carro para alcançar os pedais' (He adjusted the car seat to reach the pedals).
- Reflexive Use: Ajustar-se
- The reflexive form, 'ajustar-se', means to adapt or to get used to something. For example, 'Preciso de tempo para me ajustar à nova rotina' (I need time to adjust to the new routine).
Vamos ajustar o plano de viagem de acordo com o clima.
Consider the context. If you are talking about physical objects, the sentence structure is usually straightforward. For abstract concepts like plans or schedules, the sentence might involve prepositions like 'de acordo com' (according to) or 'para' (for/to). The reflexive form 'ajustar-se' is crucial for expressing adaptation or acclimatization. For example, when moving to a new city, one might say, 'Ainda estou a me ajustar à vida aqui' (I am still adjusting to life here).
- Examples of Usage
- 'Ajustei o espelho retrovisor.' (I adjusted the rearview mirror.)
- 'O governo vai ajustar as leis fiscais.' (The government will adjust the tax laws.)
- 'A equipa teve que ajustar a sua estratégia no meio do jogo.' (The team had to adjust its strategy mid-game.)
- 'Estou a tentar ajustar o meu sono às novas horas de trabalho.' (I am trying to adjust my sleep to the new working hours.) - This uses the reflexive form.
O alfaiate vai ajustar as calças para que sirvam perfeitamente.
You'll encounter ajustar frequently in everyday Portuguese conversations, especially when people are talking about practical matters. It's a word that bridges the gap between the physical and the abstract, making it highly common.
- In Homes and Workshops
- People often use it when referring to furniture, appliances, or DIY projects. 'Preciso ajustar a perna da mesa que está bamba' (I need to adjust the table leg that's wobbly). 'Consegui ajustar o filtro de água' (I managed to adjust the water filter).
- Clothing and Fashion
- Tailors, seamstresses, and even shoppers will use it. 'O vestido ficou um pouco largo, vou ter que o ajustar' (The dress is a bit loose, I'll have to adjust it). 'Será que pode ajustar o comprimento destas calças?' (Can you adjust the length of these trousers?).
- Technology and Gadgets
- When talking about electronics, settings are constantly being adjusted. 'Vou ajustar o brilho da tela para não cansar os olhos' (I'm going to adjust the screen brightness so my eyes don't get tired). 'O som está muito alto, por favor, ajuste' (The sound is too loud, please adjust it).
- Work and Planning
- Discussions about schedules, budgets, and strategies often involve this verb. 'Tivemos que ajustar o cronograma do projeto devido a imprevistos' (We had to adjust the project schedule due to unforeseen events). 'Precisamos ajustar o orçamento familiar para este mês' (We need to adjust the family budget for this month).
- Personal Well-being
- The reflexive form 'ajustar-se' is common when people talk about adapting. 'Ele está a ajustar-se ao novo emprego' (He is adjusting to the new job). 'Demorou um pouco para me ajustar ao fuso horário' (It took a while to adjust to the time zone).
O mecânico vai ajustar os freios do carro.
Listen for it when people are talking about making things fit, work better, or conform to a new situation. It's a verb that implies proactive problem-solving and fine-tuning, so it pops up in contexts where precision and comfort are important.
While ajustar is a common verb, learners can sometimes make mistakes, often related to its usage with prepositions or confusing it with similar verbs. Understanding these nuances will help you use it more confidently.
- Incorrect Preposition Usage
- Mistake: Using the wrong preposition after ajustar, especially when referring to adaptation. For example, saying 'ajustar a nova situação' instead of 'ajustar-se à nova situação'.
Correction: Remember that for adaptation or getting used to something, the reflexive form ajustar-se is typically used with the preposition 'a'. So, it should be 'ajustar-se à nova situação' (to adjust to the new situation). - Confusing with 'Arrumar' or 'Organizar'
- Mistake: Using ajustar when the intended meaning is simply to tidy up or organize. For example, saying 'Vou ajustar o meu quarto' when you mean 'Vou arrumar/organizar o meu quarto'.
Correction: Ajustar implies making something fit or work better, not just putting things in order. 'Arrumar' or 'organizar' are better for tidying up. - Overuse in Abstract Contexts
- Mistake: Sometimes learners might use ajustar for minor changes where a more specific verb would be better, or for situations that don't involve fine-tuning. For instance, using 'ajustar o preço' when 'negociar o preço' (negotiate the price) or 'modificar o preço' might be more appropriate depending on the context.
Correction: Consider the exact nuance. If you are fine-tuning a price, ajustar might fit, but if you are changing it significantly or discussing it, other verbs might be more precise. - Ignoring the Reflexive Form
- Mistake: Forgetting to use the reflexive 'se' when talking about adapting oneself. For example, saying 'Eu ajusto à nova escola' instead of 'Eu ajusto-me à nova escola'.
Correction: The reflexive form ajustar-se is essential for expressing the idea of adapting or getting accustomed to something. Always remember the pronoun 'me', 'te', 'se', 'nos', 'vos', 'se' depending on the subject.
Errado: Eu ajusto o meu horário.
Correto: Eu ajusto o meu horário para caber nas novas aulas.
Correct: I adjust my schedule to fit the new classes.
While ajustar is a very common and useful verb, there are other Portuguese words that can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and help you express yourself more precisely.
- Modificar
- Meaning: To modify, to change. This is a broader term than ajustar. While ajustar implies a small, often functional change, modificar can imply a more significant alteration.
Usage: 'É preciso modificar o projeto original para atender às novas exigências.' (It's necessary to modify the original project to meet the new requirements.) vs. 'Preciso ajustar a alça da bolsa.' (I need to adjust the bag strap.) - Adaptar
- Meaning: To adapt. This is very close to the reflexive use of ajustar-se. Adaptar often implies making something suitable for a new purpose or situation.
Usage: 'O corpo humano precisa de se adaptar ao novo clima.' (The human body needs to adapt to the new climate.) This is very similar to 'O corpo humano precisa de se ajustar ao novo clima.' However, 'adaptar' can also be used transitively: 'Adaptaram o carro para funcionar com gás.' (They adapted the car to run on gas.) - Regular
- Meaning: To regulate, to set. This verb is often used for settings, controls, or rules.
Usage: 'O técnico vai regular o motor do carro.' (The technician will regulate the car's engine.) This is more about fine-tuning for optimal performance, similar to ajustar but perhaps more technical. - Calibrar
- Meaning: To calibrate. This is a more technical term, used for precise measurements and settings, especially in scientific or engineering contexts.
Usage: 'É preciso calibrar o equipamento de medição.' (It's necessary to calibrate the measuring equipment.) This is a specific type of adjustment. - Acomodar
- Meaning: To accommodate, to make fit comfortably. This verb is more about fitting something in or making space.
Usage: 'Conseguimos acomodar mais uma pessoa na sala.' (We managed to accommodate one more person in the room.) While not a direct synonym, it can relate to making things fit.
Ajustar a roupa para que sirva bem.
Modificar o design para torná-lo mais moderno.
Adaptar-se a uma nova cultura.
How Formal Is It?
"Solicitamos que Vossa Senhoria ajuste os parâmetros do sistema conforme as especificações técnicas fornecidas."
"Precisamos ajustar o nosso plano de viagem devido às previsões de chuva."
"Ajeita aí essa camisa, estás todo amarrotado!"
"Vamos ajustar os blocos para a torre ficar bem alta!"
"Ele deu um jeito de ajustar a situação a favor dele."
Fun Fact
The root 'justus' (right, just) is fascinating because it connects the idea of making something 'right' or 'correct' (like adjusting it) with the concept of fairness and justice. So, when you adjust something, you are essentially trying to make it 'right' or 'just' in its current context.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'j' as in 'jump' instead of 'judge'.
- Misplacing the stress on the first syllable.
- Not clearly pronouncing the final 't'.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR A2 level. The verb is common and its basic meaning is easily understood. Challenges might arise with idiomatic uses or complex sentence structures involving prepositions or reflexive forms.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Present Tense Conjugation of -ar Verbs
The verb 'ajustar' follows the regular pattern: eu ajusto, tu ajustas, ele/ela/você ajusta, nós ajustamos, vós ajustais, eles/elas/vocês ajustam.
Use of the Infinitive After Modal Verbs
Verbs like 'precisar de', 'querer', 'poder', 'dever' are followed by the infinitive form: 'Eu preciso ajustar...', 'Nós queremos ajustar...'
Reflexive Verbs and Pronouns
When 'ajustar' is used reflexively (to adapt oneself), reflexive pronouns are required: 'Eu ajusto-me', 'Tu ajustas-te', 'Ele ajusta-se', 'Nós ajustamo-nos', 'Vós ajustais-vos', 'Eles ajustam-se'.
Prepositions with 'Ajustar'
'Ajustar para' (to adjust for a purpose), 'Ajustar de acordo com' (to adjust according to), 'Ajustar-se a' (to adjust to).
Imperative Mood
Commands are formed using specific conjugations: 'Ajusta!' (Adjust! - informal singular), 'Ajuste!' (Adjust! - formal singular/plural), 'Ajustemos!' (Let's adjust!).
Examples by Level
Eu ajusto o meu cinto.
I adjust my belt.
Simple present tense, first person singular.
Ele ajusta a cadeira.
He adjusts the chair.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
Nós ajustamos o volume.
We adjust the volume.
Simple present tense, first person plural.
Ajuste o espelho.
Adjust the mirror.
Imperative mood, second person singular (informal).
Ela ajusta a imagem.
She adjusts the image.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
O relógio precisa de um ajuste.
The watch needs an adjustment.
Noun form 'ajuste' (adjustment).
Ajustei a porta.
I adjusted the door.
Simple past tense, first person singular.
Ajustam a luz.
They adjust the light.
Simple present tense, third person plural.
Preciso ajustar a altura do assento.
I need to adjust the seat height.
Infinitive verb after 'precisar de'.
O alfaiate ajustou as calças.
The tailor adjusted the trousers.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
Vamos ajustar o nosso plano para amanhã.
Let's adjust our plan for tomorrow.
Subjunctive mood (imperative of 'vamos').
Ele ajustou os óculos no nariz.
He adjusted his glasses on his nose.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
Ajustei o foco da câmera.
I adjusted the camera focus.
Simple past tense, first person singular.
Eles ajustaram o orçamento familiar.
They adjusted the family budget.
Simple past tense, third person plural.
Consegui ajustar o nó da gravata.
I managed to adjust the tie knot.
Verb 'conseguir' + infinitive.
Ajuste a temperatura do ar condicionado.
Adjust the air conditioning temperature.
Imperative mood, second person singular (informal).
O músico precisa ajustar o som do instrumento.
The musician needs to adjust the instrument's sound.
Infinitive verb after 'precisar de'.
A empresa teve que ajustar os seus preços devido à inflação.
The company had to adjust its prices due to inflation.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
Temos que ajustar a nossa estratégia de marketing.
We have to adjust our marketing strategy.
Infinitive verb after 'ter que'.
Ele ajustou o assento do carro para mais conforto.
He adjusted the car seat for more comfort.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
Ajustei a receita para fazer menos porções.
I adjusted the recipe to make fewer portions.
Simple past tense, first person singular.
Eles estão a ajustar os últimos detalhes do projeto.
They are adjusting the final details of the project.
Present continuous tense.
É importante ajustar o foco para obter uma boa fotografia.
It's important to adjust the focus to get a good photograph.
Infinitive verb after 'é importante'.
Ajustei o volume da música para não incomodar os vizinhos.
I adjusted the music volume so as not to disturb the neighbors.
Simple past tense, first person singular, with purpose clause.
O governo anunciou que irá ajustar as políticas económicas.
The government announced that it will adjust economic policies.
Future tense with 'ir'.
Precisamos ajustar o nosso cronograma de produção para cumprir o prazo.
We need to adjust our production schedule to meet the deadline.
Infinitive verb after 'precisar de'.
A equipa de desenvolvimento teve que ajustar o código para corrigir um bug.
The development team had to adjust the code to fix a bug.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
É fundamental ajustar o ritmo de estudo de acordo com a dificuldade da matéria.
It is fundamental to adjust the study pace according to the difficulty of the subject matter.
Infinitive verb after 'é fundamental'.
O piloto ajustou a rota do avião devido ao mau tempo.
The pilot adjusted the plane's route due to bad weather.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
Ajustei as expectativas após analisar os resultados preliminares.
I adjusted my expectations after analyzing the preliminary results.
Simple past tense, first person singular.
O sistema de irrigação foi ajustado para otimizar o uso da água.
The irrigation system was adjusted to optimize water usage.
Passive voice, past participle.
Os pesquisadores estão a ajustar os parâmetros do experimento.
The researchers are adjusting the experiment's parameters.
Present continuous tense.
O diplomata procurou ajustar as relações entre os dois países.
The diplomat sought to adjust relations between the two countries.
Infinitive verb after 'procurou'.
A empresa teve de ajustar a sua estratégia de expansão face à concorrência acirrada.
The company had to adjust its expansion strategy in the face of fierce competition.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
É crucial ajustar o discurso para que seja compreendido por todos os públicos.
It is crucial to adjust the speech so that it is understood by all audiences.
Infinitive verb after 'é crucial'.
O artista ajustou a iluminação do palco para criar a atmosfera desejada.
The artist adjusted the stage lighting to create the desired atmosphere.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
Após a análise de dados, foi necessário ajustar as previsões financeiras.
After data analysis, it was necessary to adjust the financial forecasts.
Passive voice, past participle.
Os responsáveis estão a ajustar os protocolos de segurança em resposta às novas ameaças.
Those responsible are adjusting security protocols in response to new threats.
Present continuous tense.
Ajustei o tom da minha comunicação para ser mais persuasivo.
I adjusted the tone of my communication to be more persuasive.
Simple past tense, first person singular.
O legislador propôs ajustar a lei para contemplar novas realidades sociais.
The legislator proposed adjusting the law to include new social realities.
Infinitive verb after 'propôs'.
O estratega militar ajustou os planos de contingência à luz das últimas informações de inteligência.
The military strategist adjusted the contingency plans in light of the latest intelligence.
Simple past tense, third person singular.
É imperativo que o sistema regulatório se ajuste rapidamente às inovações tecnológicas disruptivas.
It is imperative that the regulatory system adjusts rapidly to disruptive technological innovations.
Subjunctive mood after 'imperativo que'.
O compositor procurou ajustar a harmonia para evocar um sentimento de melancolia.
The composer sought to adjust the harmony to evoke a feeling of melancholy.
Infinitive verb after 'procurou'.
A diplomacia exige a capacidade de ajustar constantemente as abordagens diplomáticas.
Diplomacy requires the ability to constantly adjust diplomatic approaches.
Gerund used as a noun after 'capacidade de'.
Os economistas debatem se será necessário ajustar as taxas de juro para controlar a inflação.
Economists debate whether it will be necessary to adjust interest rates to control inflation.
Infinitive verb after 'necessário'.
A política externa do país foi ajustada para refletir as mudanças no cenário geopolítico global.
The country's foreign policy was adjusted to reflect changes in the global geopolitical landscape.
Passive voice, past participle.
O escritor revisitou a narrativa para ajustar o fluxo e a coesão dos capítulos.
The writer revisited the narrative to adjust the flow and cohesion of the chapters.
Infinitive verb after 'para'.
A sociedade deve continuamente ajustar os seus valores às novas realidades éticas.
Society must continuously adjust its values to new ethical realities.
Infinitive verb after 'deve'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I need to adjust. This is a very common way to express a need for adjustment.
Preciso ajustar a minha dieta para perder peso.
— Let's adjust. Used when suggesting a joint action of adjustment.
Vamos ajustar o plano de viagem para incluir mais tempo na praia.
— To adjust for/to. Indicates the purpose or the target of the adjustment.
Ajustei o preço para ser mais competitivo.
— To adjust to. This is the reflexive form, used for adapting to a new situation.
Ele está a ajustar-se à nova cidade.
— To adjust according to. Used when the adjustment is based on external factors.
Ajustaremos o cronograma de acordo com as suas recomendações.
— Adjustment made. A confirmation that an adjustment has been completed.
O técnico confirmou: 'Ajuste feito, tudo a funcionar corretamente.'
— To make an adjustment. Similar to 'ajustar', but uses the noun form.
Precisamos fazer um pequeno ajuste no motor.
— To settle accounts, to balance the books. Can be literal or figurative.
No final do ano, é preciso ajustar as contas da empresa.
— To adjust one's pace. To match one's speed or rhythm to something or someone else.
Tive que ajustar o meu passo para acompanhar o grupo.
— To adjust the tone. To modify the way one speaks or writes to suit the audience or situation.
Ele ajustou o tom da sua voz para soar mais amigável.
Often Confused With
'Arrumar' means to tidy up, to put things in order. 'Ajustar' means to make something fit or work better. You 'arrumar' your room, but you 'ajustar' the height of a chair.
'Modificar' implies a more significant change than 'ajustar', which usually refers to small, precise alterations for better fit or function.
'Consertar' means to repair something that is broken. 'Ajustar' is done when something is working but needs fine-tuning, not when it's broken.
Idioms & Expressions
— To settle a score with someone, often in a negative or vengeful way. It implies seeking retribution or balancing a past wrong.
Depois da traição, ele jurou que iria ajustar as contas com ela.
Informal/Figurative— Literally, to adjust one's tie knot. Figuratively, it can imply preparing oneself for something important or making a final small touch before an event.
Antes da reunião importante, ele parou para ajustar o nó da gravata.
Literal/Figurative— To match one's pace or rhythm to that of others, or to a situation. It implies synchronization or adaptation to external tempo.
Os novos membros da equipa tiveram que ajustar o passo para acompanhar os mais experientes.
Figurative— To adapt one's strategy or actions according to changing circumstances; to be flexible and opportunistic.
Num mercado em constante mudança, é preciso saber ajustar a vela ao vento.
Figurative— Literally, to adjust the aim of a firearm. Figuratively, it means to correct one's approach or strategy after an initial attempt or mistake.
O treinador pediu aos jogadores para ajustarem o tiro e focarem mais no ataque.
Figurative— To adjust one's perspective or viewpoint; to see things differently.
Depois da conversa, ele começou a ajustar a visão sobre o problema.
Figurative— To modify one's way of speaking or communicating to suit the audience or context, often implying persuasion or careful wording.
O político teve que ajustar o discurso para agradar a diferentes grupos de eleitores.
Figurative— To change course to avoid a conflict or negative outcome.
A empresa decidiu ajustar a rota de colisão e negociar um acordo.
Figurative— Literally, to adjust weight. Figuratively, it can mean to balance or modulate something, like the importance given to certain factors.
É preciso ajustar o peso das evidências ao tomar uma decisão.
Figurative— To set the pace or rhythm; to align one's actions with a particular tempo or standard.
O maestro ajudou a orquestra a ajustar o compasso.
FigurativeEasily Confused
Its broad meaning can sometimes overlap with other verbs.
'Ajustar' specifically implies making small changes for better fit, alignment, or function. It's about fine-tuning rather than a complete overhaul or repair.
Eu ajustei a imagem para que ficasse centralizada. (I adjusted the image to make it centered.)
Both involve change.
'Modificar' suggests a more substantial alteration or change in form or nature. 'Ajustar' is typically for minor corrections or optimizations.
O designer modificou o protótipo completamente. (The designer modified the prototype completely.)
Very similar to the reflexive 'ajustar-se'.
'Adaptar' often implies making something suitable for a new purpose or environment. 'Ajustar-se' is more about getting accustomed or fitting into a new situation.
Precisamos adaptar o software para o novo sistema operativo. (We need to adapt the software for the new operating system.)
Both relate to settings and controls.
'Regular' is often used for setting or controlling specific parameters, like temperature or speed, to achieve a desired level. 'Ajustar' is a broader term for making changes to achieve a better state.
O técnico vai regular o motor do carro para otimizar o desempenho. (The technician will regulate the car's engine to optimize performance.)
Both can relate to making things 'right'.
'Arrumar' means to tidy up, organize, or put things away. 'Ajustar' is about making something fit or function correctly. You 'arrumar' your desk, but 'ajustar' the height of your chair.
Vou arrumar a casa antes dos convidados chegarem. (I'm going to tidy up the house before the guests arrive.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + ajustar + Object
Eu ajusto a minha camisa.
Preciso de + ajustar + Object
Preciso de ajustar o volume do rádio.
Imperative + Object
Ajuste os espelhos do carro.
Subject + ajustar + Object + para + Purpose
Ajustei a receita para fazer um bolo menor.
Subject + ajustar-se + a + Noun
Eles estão a ajustar-se à nova escola.
Ter que + ajustar + Object
Tivemos que ajustar o nosso orçamento devido aos imprevistos.
Subject + ajustar + Object + de acordo com + Factor
Ajustaremos o plano de acordo com o feedback recebido.
É importante/crucial + ajustar + Object
É crucial ajustar as prioridades para o sucesso do projeto.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very High
-
Confusing 'ajustar' (to adjust) with 'arrumar' (to tidy up).
→
Ajustar a altura da cadeira / Arrumar o quarto.
'Ajustar' implies making something fit or function correctly. 'Arrumar' means to put things in order or tidy up. You adjust the chair's height, but you tidy up your room.
-
Forgetting the reflexive pronoun with 'ajustar-se'.
→
Eu preciso de me ajustar à nova cidade.
When talking about adapting oneself or getting used to something, the reflexive form is required. 'Ajustar-se' needs the pronouns me, te, se, nos, vos, se.
-
Using 'ajustar' for major repairs.
→
O mecânico vai consertar o motor / O alfaiate vai ajustar a manga.
'Ajustar' is for fine-tuning or making slight changes. If something is broken, you 'consertar' (repair) it. If it's just a bit too long, you 'ajustar' it.
-
Incorrect preposition usage after 'ajustar-se'.
→
Ele está a ajustar-se ao novo emprego.
The reflexive verb 'ajustar-se' is typically followed by the preposition 'a' (or its contracted forms like 'ao', 'à').
-
Using 'ajustar' when a more specific verb like 'regular' or 'calibrar' would be better.
→
O técnico vai regular a temperatura / O cientista vai calibrar o equipamento.
While 'ajustar' is a general term, 'regular' is often used for settings and controls, and 'calibrar' for precise technical measurements. Choose the most specific verb when appropriate.
Tips
Distinguish Between 'Ajustar' and 'Ajustar-se'
Remember that 'ajustar' means to adjust something external, while 'ajustar-se' means to adapt or get used to something yourself. Pay attention to the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se).
Learn Related Words
Expand your vocabulary by learning words like 'ajuste' (adjustment), 'ajustável' (adjustable), and 'ajustado' (adjusted/fitting). Understanding these related terms reinforces the core meaning.
Practice Pronunciation
Focus on the stress on the second syllable ('a-JUST-ar') and the clear pronunciation of the 'j' sound, similar to the English 'judge'. This will help you sound more natural.
Master Prepositional Usage
Be aware of the prepositions that often follow 'ajustar' or 'ajustar-se', such as 'para' (for/to), 'de acordo com' (according to), and 'a' (with 'ajustar-se').
Use Mnemonics
Connect 'ajustar' to the English word 'adjust'. Visualize yourself making a small, precise change to something to make it 'just right'.
Active Practice
Try to use 'ajustar' in your own sentences daily. Describe things you adjust around your house, your schedule, or even your mood.
Compare with Synonyms
Understand the subtle differences between 'ajustar', 'modificar', and 'adaptar'. This will allow you to choose the most precise verb for your intended meaning.
Explore Idiomatic Uses
Familiarize yourself with idiomatic expressions like 'ajustar as contas' or 'ajustar a vela ao vento' to understand figurative language and cultural nuances.
Active Listening
When listening to Portuguese, pay attention to instances of 'ajustar'. Try to guess the meaning from the context before looking it up. This improves comprehension skills.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you are trying to 'just' fit a piece of clothing. You have to 'adjust' it to make it 'just' right. Think of the 'just' sound in 'adjust' sounding like 'just right'.
Visual Association
Picture someone carefully adjusting a picture frame on a wall, trying to get it perfectly straight – 'just' in the middle. Or imagine a tailor adjusting a suit to make it 'just' fit the client.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find five different objects in your home or office that you might need to 'ajustar' today. Verbally describe why each one needs adjustment using the word 'ajustar'.
Word Origin
The Portuguese verb 'ajustar' comes from the Latin verb 'adiustare', which means 'to bring near', 'to add', or 'to make conform'. This Latin verb itself is derived from 'justus', meaning 'right' or 'just'.
Original meaning: To make conform, to bring into agreement or harmony.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseCultural Context
The verb itself is neutral. However, the context in which it is used can carry cultural weight. For instance, 'ajustar o orçamento' might be a sensitive topic in discussions about financial hardship.
The English word 'adjust' is a very close cognate and shares much of its meaning, making it easier for English speakers to grasp.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Home and DIY
- Ajustar um móvel
- Ajustar a torneira
- Ajustar a prateleira
Technology and Electronics
- Ajustar o brilho
- Ajustar o som
- Ajustar as configurações
Clothing and Personal Appearance
- Ajustar a barra da calça
- Ajustar o cinto
- Ajustar o cabelo
Work and Planning
- Ajustar o cronograma
- Ajustar o orçamento
- Ajustar a estratégia
Personal Adaptation
- Ajustar-se ao novo emprego
- Ajustar-se à rotina
- Ajustar-se ao clima
Conversation Starters
"What's something you recently had to adjust in your daily routine?"
"Can you think of a time you adjusted something physical, like furniture or clothing?"
"How do you typically adjust your plans when unexpected things happen?"
"When you travel, what settings do you usually need to adjust first?"
"Have you ever had to adjust your expectations about something? What happened?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a situation where you had to 'ajustar' something in your home to make it more functional or comfortable. What was it, and what did you do?
Reflect on a time you had to 'ajustar-se' to a new environment or situation. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?
Think about a personal goal you have. What adjustments might you need to make to your current habits or plans to achieve it?
Consider a common electronic device you use. List at least three settings you might 'ajustar' on it and explain why.
Write about a time you helped someone else 'ajustar' something. What was the situation, and what was your role?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Ajustar' is a transitive verb, meaning you adjust something else (e.g., 'ajustar a cadeira' - to adjust the chair). 'Ajustar-se' is a reflexive verb, meaning to adapt oneself or get used to something (e.g., 'Eu preciso de me ajustar à nova rotina' - I need to adjust to the new routine).
Use 'ajustar' for making small, precise changes to improve fit, alignment, or function. Use 'modificar' for more significant changes or alterations to the form or nature of something. For example, you 'ajustar' a tie, but you 'modificar' a building's structure.
'Ajeitar' is a more informal synonym, often used for physical adjustments or making something neat or tidy. While it can overlap with 'ajustar', 'ajustar' is more versatile and can be used in more formal or abstract contexts.
Yes, absolutely. 'Ajustar' is commonly used for plans, budgets, strategies, schedules, and even expectations. For example, 'Precisamos ajustar o nosso plano de viagem.' (We need to adjust our travel plan.)
This phrase can have two meanings: literally, to settle accounts or balance financial records ('ajustar as contas da empresa' - to adjust the company's accounts). Figuratively, it means to settle a score or get revenge on someone ('Ele vai ajustar as contas com o traidor' - He will settle the score with the traitor).
It follows the regular -ar verb conjugation. For the simple past (pretérito perfeito), it's: eu ajustei, tu ajustaste, ele/ela/você ajustou, nós ajustámos, vós ajustastes, eles/elas/vocês ajustaram.
Yes, 'ajustável' is the adjective meaning 'adjustable'. It describes something that can be adjusted, like an 'cadeira ajustável' (adjustable chair).
The most common noun form is 'ajuste', meaning 'adjustment'. For example, 'O ajuste do preço foi necessário.' (The price adjustment was necessary.) 'Ajustamento' is also a noun but less common.
While 'ajustar' itself doesn't typically take 'em' or 'sobre' directly, you might see phrases like 'ajustar em relação a' (to adjust in relation to) or 'fazer um ajuste sobre' (to make an adjustment regarding). The most common prepositions are 'para' and 'a' (with 'ajustar-se').
While 'ajustar' can mean fine-tune, more specific verbs might be 'afinar' (especially for instruments or sound) or 'regular' (for settings). However, 'ajustar' is often sufficient and understood in context.
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Summary
Ajustar is the verb for making fine-tuning changes to achieve a desired fit, alignment, or state, applicable to both concrete objects and abstract plans, with its reflexive form 'ajustar-se' meaning to adapt.
- Ajustar means to make small changes for better fit, function, or comfort.
- Used for physical objects, settings, plans, and personal adaptation (ajustar-se).
- Common in daily life, workshops, tech, and work contexts.
- Be mindful of prepositions and the reflexive form 'ajustar-se'.
Distinguish Between 'Ajustar' and 'Ajustar-se'
Remember that 'ajustar' means to adjust something external, while 'ajustar-se' means to adapt or get used to something yourself. Pay attention to the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se).
Learn Related Words
Expand your vocabulary by learning words like 'ajuste' (adjustment), 'ajustável' (adjustable), and 'ajustado' (adjusted/fitting). Understanding these related terms reinforces the core meaning.
Context is Key
The meaning of 'ajustar' can vary slightly depending on the context. Listen to how native speakers use it in different situations – from adjusting clothes to adjusting plans – to grasp its full range.
Practice Pronunciation
Focus on the stress on the second syllable ('a-JUST-ar') and the clear pronunciation of the 'j' sound, similar to the English 'judge'. This will help you sound more natural.
Example
Pode ajustar o volume da música?
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More general words
a cerca de
B1About; approximately.
à direita
A2To the right side.
à esquerda
A2To the left side.
a fim de
A2in order to
à frente
A2In front of.
a frente
A2At or toward the front.
À frente de
A2In front of
a tempo
A2on time, punctually
à volta de
A2Around.
abaixo
A1At a lower level or layer than; below.
