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A2 verb #6,000 most common 9 min read

aposentar

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

aposentar in 30 Seconds

  • Aposentar means to retire from work, usually due to age.
  • It's most commonly used in the reflexive form: aposentar-se.
  • It signifies a permanent cessation of employment.
  • Think of it as stepping away from your career.
Core Meaning
The Portuguese verb 'aposentar' fundamentally means to retire, to permanently leave one's job, typically because of reaching a certain age or having worked for a long period. It signifies the transition from active professional life to a period of rest or leisure.
Contexts of Use
This term is commonly used when discussing an individual's career progression, particularly as they approach or reach retirement age. It can be used in formal settings, like official announcements or legal documents concerning pensions, as well as in informal conversations among friends and family discussing future plans or someone's departure from work. The act of retiring is a significant life event, and 'aposentar' is the standard verb to describe this transition. It implies a voluntary or expected cessation of work duties, often accompanied by financial benefits like a pension. For example, someone might say, "Ele vai se aposentar no próximo ano" (He is going to retire next year), indicating a future plan. It can also refer to the state of being retired, as in "Meus pais já são aposentados" (My parents are already retired). The verb can also be used reflexively, 'aposentar-se', which is very common and emphasizes the person performing the action of retiring. The decision to retire can be influenced by various factors, including health, financial security, and the desire to spend more time on personal interests or with family. In some professional fields, there might be mandatory retirement ages, making the act of 'aposentar' a formal requirement. The concept is universal, but the specific age and conditions for retirement can vary significantly between countries and professions. The verb 'aposentar' captures this universally understood life stage of stepping away from formal employment permanently.

Quando você vai se aposentar, quer viajar pelo mundo.

When you retire, you want to travel the world.

Muitos professores se aposentam depois de trinta anos de carreira.

Many teachers retire after thirty years of career.
Figurative Use
While primarily used for human retirement from work, 'aposentar' can sometimes be used figuratively to describe older objects or machinery being taken out of service permanently. For instance, one might say a very old car has been 'aposentado' (retired) from the road. This usage is less common and more informal, but it conveys the idea of something being permanently set aside due to age or obsolescence.
Social Significance
Retirement is a significant milestone in many cultures, often celebrated and anticipated. The verb 'aposentar' is central to discussions about this phase of life, touching upon themes of hard work, earned rest, and the pursuit of new interests. It's a word that evokes images of transition, reflection, and a change in lifestyle. Understanding 'aposentar' is key to comprehending conversations about careers, finances, and the future plans of individuals, especially older adults.
Basic Structure
The verb 'aposentar' can be used transitively or intransitively, but its most frequent use is reflexive ('aposentar-se').
Reflexive Use (Most Common)
This is the standard way to say someone is retiring. The reflexive pronoun ('me', 'te', 'se', 'nos', 'vos', 'se') agrees with the subject.

Eu decidi me aposentar aos sessenta anos.

I decided to retire at sixty years old.

Ela vai se aposentar no final do ano.

She is going to retire at the end of the year.

Eles já se aposentaram e estão aproveitando a vida.

They have already retired and are enjoying life.
Transitive Use (Less Common)
This implies that someone or something is causing another to retire or be retired. It's often used in relation to laws or policies.

A nova lei vai aposentar muitos trabalhadores mais cedo.

The new law will retire many workers earlier.

O governo decidiu aposentar o equipamento antigo.

The government decided to retire the old equipment.
With Auxiliary Verbs
Like most Portuguese verbs, 'aposentar' can be used with auxiliary verbs like 'ter' (to have) or 'ir' (to go) to form compound tenses or express future intentions.

Ele vai se aposentar em breve.

He is going to retire soon.

Eu já tinha pensado em me aposentar há anos.

I had already thought about retiring for years.
Everyday Conversations
You'll hear 'aposentar' frequently in discussions about life plans, especially among adults. People often talk about when they or someone they know plans to retire, or reminisce about when someone did retire. It's a common topic when discussing future financial security, hobbies, or spending more time with family. For instance, a common exchange might be: "Você já pensou em quando vai se aposentar?" (Have you thought about when you will retire?) or "Meu pai se aposentou ano passado e agora joga golfe todos os dias." (My father retired last year and now plays golf every day.). The word is deeply embedded in the cultural understanding of a career's natural conclusion.
News and Media
News reports and articles often use 'aposentar' when discussing economic trends, pension reforms, or the retirement of prominent figures like politicians, athletes, or celebrities. For example, a headline might read: "Aposentadoria de professores volta a ser debatida" (Teachers' retirement is debated again) or "Atleta famoso anuncia que vai se aposentar" (Famous athlete announces they will retire). It's also used in documentaries or features about people's lives after work.
Workplace Discussions
In professional settings, 'aposentar' might come up in conversations about career paths, retirement benefits, or succession planning. Human resources departments and colleagues might discuss when someone is eligible or planning to retire. It's a natural part of the employment lifecycle. You might hear colleagues saying, "A Maria está quase se aposentando, quem vai assumir o projeto?" (Maria is almost retiring, who will take over the project?).
Legal and Financial Contexts
Official documents, pension fund statements, and legal discussions about retirement benefits will invariably use 'aposentar' and its related forms. This includes terms like 'aposentadoria' (retirement) and 'aposentado' (retired person). For instance, a document might state, "O segurado tem direito a se aposentar após 25 anos de contribuição." (The insured has the right to retire after 25 years of contribution.).
Figurative Usage
While less frequent, you might hear 'aposentar' used metaphorically for old objects being taken out of service. For example, someone might say, "Esse carro velho finalmente foi aposentado." (This old car was finally retired.). This usage highlights the word's core meaning of permanent removal due to age or obsolescence.

O meu vizinho vai se aposentar e começar a pescar.

My neighbor is going to retire and start fishing.
Forgetting the Reflexive Pronoun
The most common error for learners is forgetting to use the reflexive pronoun ('me', 'te', 'se', 'nos', 'vos', 'se') when 'aposentar' refers to a person retiring. It's not just 'aposentar' but 'aposentar-se'. This is because the action of retiring is performed by the subject on themselves. For example, instead of saying "Ele aposentar no próximo ano," it should be "Ele vai se aposentar no próximo ano." This mistake is similar to forgetting the reflexive pronoun with verbs like 'levantar-se' (to get up).
Using 'Aposentar' Transitively Incorrectly
While 'aposentar' can be transitive (e.g., 'aposentar um equipamento' - to retire equipment), learners might mistakenly use it transitively when referring to a person. For instance, saying "O chefe aposentou o funcionário" (The boss retired the employee) is grammatically possible but implies the boss forced the employee to retire, which is usually not the intended meaning. The reflexive 'se aposentar' is almost always preferred for individuals retiring.
Confusion with 'Aposento' (Noun)
Learners might confuse the verb 'aposentar' with the noun 'aposento', which means a room, chamber, or lodging. This confusion is usually phonetic or based on similar-looking words. Ensure you distinguish between the action of retiring (aposentar) and a place to stay (aposento).
Incorrect Verb Conjugation
As with any verb, incorrect conjugation is a potential pitfall. Forgetting to conjugate 'aposentar' according to the subject and tense will lead to errors. For example, using "Eu aposenta" instead of "Eu me aposento" or "Eu me aposentei". Pay close attention to the endings for different persons and tenses.
Overuse or Misuse in Figurative Sense
While 'aposentar' can be used figuratively for objects, overusing it or applying it to situations where it doesn't fit can sound unnatural. It's best to stick to its primary meaning of human retirement unless the context clearly supports the figurative interpretation of something being permanently set aside due to age or obsolescence.
Aposentar-se (Reflexive)
This is the most common and direct synonym for retiring. It emphasizes the individual performing the action of leaving their job permanently. It's the standard and most natural way to express retirement.
Deixar o emprego (Leave the job)
This is a more general phrase meaning 'to leave one's job'. It can be used for any reason, not just retirement. To specify retirement, you'd need to add context, like "deixar o emprego para se aposentar" (leave the job to retire). It lacks the specific connotation of retirement that 'aposentar' carries.
Reformar-se
This verb is a very close synonym, particularly in European Portuguese, and is often used interchangeably with 'aposentar-se'. It also means to retire from one's profession. In Brazil, 'aposentar' is more common, but 'reformar-se' is understood and sometimes used, especially in more formal contexts or older speech patterns.
Encerrar a carreira (End one's career)
This phrase is similar to 'deixar o emprego' but specifically refers to the end of a professional career. It's broader than retirement and could include leaving a job to pursue a different path or starting a new venture, not necessarily stopping work altogether. It's less about stopping work due to age and more about concluding a specific professional journey.
Parar de trabalhar (Stop working)
This is a very general term meaning 'to stop working'. It can refer to temporary breaks, sabbaticals, or permanent retirement. It doesn't carry the specific meaning of retirement due to age or long service that 'aposentar' does. You would need additional context to understand if it refers to retirement.
Aposentadoria (Noun)
This is the noun form, meaning 'retirement'. It's often used in phrases like "planejar a aposentadoria" (to plan retirement) or "receber a aposentadoria" (to receive a pension/retirement income). It's closely linked to the verb 'aposentar'.
Aposentado/Aposentada (Adjective/Noun)
These mean 'retired' (adjective) or 'a retired person' (noun). For example, "meus pais são aposentados" (my parents are retired). They are direct derivatives of the verb.
Dar baixa (Give discharge/release)
This phrase is more informal and can mean to dismiss someone or for someone to leave a job, but it doesn't specifically imply retirement. It can be used for termination or resignation for various reasons.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The Latin root 'ponere' (to put, place) is also the root of many other words in Portuguese and related languages, such as 'compor' (to compose), 'propor' (to propose), and 'dispor' (to arrange). The prefix 'ap-' in 'apponere' often indicates direction or addition.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɐ.pɔ.zẽˈtaɾ/
US /ɐ.pɔ.zẽˈtaɾ/
The stress falls on the last syllable: a-po-zen-TAR.
Rhymes With
cantar amar falar pensar chegar olhar lutar encontrar
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'z' as a hard 'z' sound like in 'zoo' instead of the softer 's' sound like in 'pleasure'.
  • Not nasalizing the vowel in 'zen'.
  • Omitting the final 'r' sound.
  • Incorrect stress placement.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

At CEFR A2 level, learners will encounter 'aposentar' in simple sentences describing future plans or past events. Understanding the reflexive form is key. Texts might include direct statements about retirement intentions or past retirements.

Writing 3/5

Learners at A2 level can start using 'aposentar' in simple sentences, particularly the future tense with 'ir' and the past tense. Mastering the reflexive pronoun 'se' is essential for correct usage.

Speaking 3/5

Pronouncing 'aposentar' correctly and using the reflexive pronoun 'se' in spoken sentences about retirement plans or past events can be challenging but is achievable at A2.

Listening 3/5

Recognizing 'aposentar' and 'aposentar-se' in spoken Portuguese, especially in simple contexts like personal plans or news about individuals, is a key listening skill for A2 learners.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

trabalhar emprego carreira idade ano decidir querer agora depois futuro

Learn Next

aposentadoria aposentado pensão planejar descansar viajar reforma previdenciária tempo livre

Advanced

reformar-se jubilar cessar atividades licença remunerada benefícios sociais longevidade envelhecimento populacional

Grammar to Know

Reflexive Verbs

Verbs like 'aposentar' often become reflexive ('aposentar-se') when the subject performs the action on themselves. This requires using reflexive pronouns (me, te, se, nos, vos, se).

Future Tense with 'ir'

The structure 'ir + infinitive' is commonly used to express the future. For reflexive verbs, it becomes 'ir + reflexive pronoun + infinitive', e.g., 'Eu vou me aposentar'.

Pretérito Perfeito (Simple Past)

To talk about a completed action in the past, use the simple past tense. For 'aposentar', it's 'aposentei', 'aposentou', 'aposentamos', 'aposentaram'.

Subjunctive Mood after 'quando'

When referring to a future event with 'quando' (when), the subjunctive mood is technically required, though in spoken Portuguese, the simple present or future indicative is often used colloquially. For example, 'Quando eu me aposentar...' (When I retire...).

Prepositions with Verbs

Some verbs require specific prepositions. For example, 'aposentar-se de' (to retire from a profession) or 'aposentar-se para' (to retire in order to do something).

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Examples by Level

1

O vovô vai aposentar.

The grandpa will retire.

Simple future tense with 'ir' + infinitive. Basic sentence structure.

2

Ela quer aposentar logo.

She wants to retire soon.

Expressing desire with 'querer' + infinitive.

3

Quando aposentar, vou viajar.

When I retire, I will travel.

Using 'quando' with the future subjunctive (implied by context, often simplified to present tense for beginners) followed by simple future.

4

Ele aposentou no ano passado.

He retired last year.

Simple past tense (pretérito perfeito) of 'aposentar'.

5

Meus pais aposentaram.

My parents retired.

Plural subject requires plural verb conjugation in the past tense.

6

Quero aposentar e descansar.

I want to retire and rest.

Using 'e' (and) to connect two infinitives after 'querer'.

7

O trabalho é cansativo, quero aposentar.

Work is tiring, I want to retire.

Expressing a reason before stating a desire.

8

Aposentar é bom.

Retiring is good.

Using the infinitive as a noun.

1

Eu decidi me aposentar aos 65 anos.

I decided to retire at 65 years old.

Use of reflexive pronoun 'me' with 'decidir'. Age is expressed with 'aos'.

2

Ela vai se aposentar no próximo ano.

She is going to retire next year.

Future with 'ir' + reflexive infinitive. Use of 'no próximo ano'.

3

Muitos professores se aposentam depois de muitos anos.

Many teachers retire after many years.

Present tense used for general truths or habitual actions. Plural reflexive pronoun 'se'.

4

Ele já se aposentou e agora viaja.

He already retired and now travels.

Pretérito Perfeito (past simple) 'aposentou' followed by present tense 'viaja'.

5

Quando você se aposentar, o que fará?

When you retire, what will you do?

Future intention with 'quando' + future subjunctive (implied by context) followed by future tense question.

6

Meus pais se aposentaram e compram uma casa na praia.

My parents retired and bought a house on the beach.

Consecutive past actions. Use of plural reflexive pronoun 'se'.

7

Ele trabalhou muito para poder se aposentar.

He worked hard to be able to retire.

Expressing purpose with 'para' + infinitive. Use of 'poder' (to be able to).

8

Aposentar-se é um momento importante.

Retiring is an important moment.

Using the reflexive infinitive as a noun phrase.

1

Aos 60 anos, ele decidiu se aposentar e abrir um pequeno negócio.

At 60 years old, he decided to retire and open a small business.

Using 'aos' for age, followed by 'decidir' + reflexive infinitive and another infinitive.

2

Ela planeja se aposentar em cinco anos e dedicar-se à jardinagem.

She plans to retire in five years and dedicate herself to gardening.

Expressing future plans with 'planejar' + reflexive infinitive. Use of 'dedicar-se a'.

3

Muitos funcionários públicos se aposentam com bons benefícios.

Many public servants retire with good benefits.

Present tense for general situations. Use of 'com' to indicate accompanying circumstances.

4

Depois de se aposentar, ele descobriu novas paixões.

After retiring, he discovered new passions.

Using 'depois de' + reflexive infinitive. Pretérito Perfeito 'descobriu'.

5

Será que eles já se aposentaram ou ainda trabalham?

Have they retired yet or do they still work?

Using the future tense 'Será que' to pose a question about a past or present situation. Use of 'ainda' (still).

6

A empresa incentivou alguns funcionários a se aposentarem mais cedo.

The company encouraged some employees to retire earlier.

Using 'incentivar' + object + 'a' + infinitive. Use of 'mais cedo' (earlier).

7

Ele se aposentou e agora escreve um livro sobre suas memórias.

He retired and now writes a book about his memories.

Sequence of actions: past retirement, present activity.

8

A ideia de se aposentar me dá tranquilidade.

The idea of retiring gives me peace of mind.

Using the reflexive infinitive as the subject of the sentence.

1

A decisão de se aposentar antecipadamente foi motivada por questões de saúde.

The decision to retire early was motivated by health issues.

Using the noun phrase 'A decisão de se aposentar'. 'Antecipadamente' (early) and 'motivada por' (motivated by).

2

Ela se aposentou recentemente e está aproveitando cada momento de lazer.

She retired recently and is enjoying every moment of leisure.

Using 'recentemente' (recently). Present continuous 'está aproveitando' to describe current activity.

3

O governo está estudando medidas para incentivar as pessoas a não se aposentarem tão cedo.

The government is studying measures to encourage people not to retire so early.

Using 'não se aposentarem' (negative reflexive infinitive). 'Tão cedo' (so early).

4

Após se aposentar, ele se dedicou a projetos sociais na comunidade.

After retiring, he dedicated himself to social projects in the community.

'Após' + reflexive infinitive. 'Dedicou-se a' (dedicated himself to).

5

Haverá um evento para celebrar a aposentadoria dos colegas que estão se aposentando este ano.

There will be an event to celebrate the retirement of the colleagues who are retiring this year.

Using the noun 'aposentadoria' and the present continuous 'estão se aposentando'.

6

Ele sempre sonhou em se aposentar e viver em contato com a natureza.

He always dreamed of retiring and living in contact with nature.

Using 'sonhar em' + infinitive. Expressing a long-held desire.

7

A reforma previdenciária pode afetar a idade em que as pessoas poderão se aposentar.

The pension reform may affect the age at which people will be able to retire.

Using 'poderão se aposentar' (will be able to retire). 'Reforma previdenciária' (pension reform).

8

A perspectiva de se aposentar traz um misto de alívio e apreensão.

The prospect of retiring brings a mix of relief and apprehension.

Using the noun phrase 'A perspectiva de se aposentar'. 'Misto de' (mix of).

1

A transição para a aposentadoria exige um planejamento cuidadoso, tanto financeiro quanto psicológico.

The transition to retirement requires careful planning, both financial and psychological.

Using the noun 'aposentadoria'. 'Exige' (requires). 'Tanto... quanto...' (both... and...).

2

Muitos profissionais buscam se aposentar de forma ativa, engajando-se em novas atividades ou voluntariado.

Many professionals seek to retire actively, engaging in new activities or volunteering.

'Buscar' + reflexive infinitive. 'De forma ativa' (actively). 'Engajando-se em' (engaging in).

3

A legislação atual permite que alguns servidores se aposentem voluntariamente antes da idade mínima.

Current legislation allows some civil servants to retire voluntarily before the minimum age.

'Legislação atual' (current legislation). 'Permite que' + subjunctive. 'Voluntariamente' (voluntarily).

4

O período pós-aposentadoria pode ser desafiador, mas também repleto de oportunidades de autodescoberta.

The post-retirement period can be challenging, but also full of opportunities for self-discovery.

'Pós-aposentadoria' (post-retirement). 'Repleto de' (full of). 'Autodescoberta' (self-discovery).

5

A decisão de se aposentar não deve ser tomada levianamente, considerando as implicações a longo prazo.

The decision to retire should not be taken lightly, considering the long-term implications.

'Não deve ser tomada levianamente' (should not be taken lightly). 'Considerando' (considering). 'Implicações a longo prazo' (long-term implications).

6

Ele se aposentou da carreira militar e agora dedica seu tempo à filantropia.

He retired from his military career and now dedicates his time to philanthropy.

'Aposentar-se da carreira' (to retire from a career). 'Filantropia' (philanthropy).

7

O sistema de previdência social visa garantir que todos possam se aposentar com dignidade.

The social security system aims to ensure that everyone can retire with dignity.

'Visa garantir que' + subjunctive. 'Com dignidade' (with dignity).

8

A possibilidade de se aposentar mais cedo tem sido um tema recorrente nas negociações sindicais.

The possibility of retiring earlier has been a recurring theme in union negotiations.

'Possibilidade de se aposentar'. 'Tema recorrente' (recurring theme). 'Negociações sindicais' (union negotiations).

1

A paradigmática transição do mercado de trabalho para a aposentadoria, outrora vista como um fim, é hoje compreendida como um novo capítulo.

The paradigmatic transition from the job market to retirement, once seen as an end, is today understood as a new chapter.

Sophisticated vocabulary: 'paradigmática', 'outrora', 'compreendida'. Use of noun 'aposentadoria'.

2

A antecipação da aposentadoria, embora atraente para alguns, pode acarretar consequências financeiras e sociais imprevistas.

Early retirement, though attractive to some, can entail unforeseen financial and social consequences.

'Antecipação da aposentadoria' (early retirement). 'Acarretar' (entail/bring about). 'Imprevistas' (unforeseen).

3

A longevidade crescente tem levado a debates acirrados sobre a sustentabilidade de sistemas que permitem aposentar-se em idades cada vez mais tenras.

Increasing longevity has led to heated debates about the sustainability of systems that allow retiring at ever younger ages.

'Longevidade crescente' (increasing longevity). 'Debates acirrados' (heated debates). 'Sustentabilidade'. 'Idades cada vez mais tenras' (ever younger ages).

4

O direito de se aposentar, conquistado a duras penas por gerações anteriores, é um pilar fundamental do estado de bem-estar social.

The right to retire, hard-won by previous generations, is a fundamental pillar of the welfare state.

'Conquistado a duras penas' (hard-won). 'Pilar fundamental' (fundamental pillar). 'Estado de bem-estar social' (welfare state).

5

A ressignificação do papel do idoso na sociedade pós-moderna implica repensar o conceito de quando e como se deve aposentar.

The redefinition of the elderly's role in postmodern society implies rethinking the concept of when and how one should retire.

'Ressignificação' (redefinition). 'Sociedade pós-moderna' (postmodern society). 'Implica repensar' (implies rethinking).

6

A autonomia para decidir quando se aposentar é um fator crucial para a satisfação e o bem-estar na terceira idade.

The autonomy to decide when to retire is a crucial factor for satisfaction and well-being in old age.

'Autonomia para decidir'. 'Crucial' (crucial). 'Terceira idade' (old age/third age).

7

A obsolescência programada de tecnologias tem levado a um ciclo de substituição que, metaforicamente, pode ser visto como uma forma de 'aposentar' bens de consumo.

The planned obsolescence of technologies has led to a cycle of replacement that, metaphorically, can be seen as a way of 'retiring' consumer goods.

Figurative use of 'aposentar' with quotation marks. 'Obsolescência programada' (planned obsolescence). 'Metaforicamente' (metaphorically).

8

A previdência complementar surge como um complemento essencial para aqueles que desejam complementar os rendimentos ao se aposentarem.

Supplementary pension arises as an essential complement for those who wish to supplement their income upon retiring.

'Previdência complementar' (supplementary pension). 'Complementar os rendimentos' (supplement income). 'Ao se aposentarem' (upon retiring).

Common Collocations

aposentar-se cedo
aposentar-se tarde
aposentar-se por idade
aposentar-se por tempo de serviço
aposentar-se voluntariamente
aposentar-se compulsoriamente
aposentar-se e viajar
aposentar-se e descansar
planejar a aposentadoria
direito de se aposentar

Common Phrases

Vou me aposentar.

— I am going to retire.

Depois de tantos anos, decidi que vou me aposentar no próximo ano.

Ele já se aposentou.

— He has already retired.

Meu pai já se aposentou e agora tem muito tempo livre.

Quando você vai se aposentar?

— When are you going to retire?

Essa é uma pergunta comum que as pessoas fazem quando se aproximam da idade de aposentadoria.

Quero me aposentar cedo.

— I want to retire early.

Muitos jovens trabalhadores sonham em poder se aposentar cedo.

Planejar a aposentadoria.

— To plan retirement.

É fundamental planejar a aposentadoria para garantir segurança financeira.

A idade de se aposentar.

— The retirement age.

A idade de se aposentar varia de país para país.

Se aposentar e viajar.

— To retire and travel.

O grande sonho dela era se aposentar e viajar pelo mundo.

Se aposentar e descansar.

— To retire and rest.

Ele trabalhou tanto que agora só quer se aposentar e descansar.

Aposentar-se por tempo de serviço.

— To retire due to years of service.

Ela conseguiu se aposentar por tempo de serviço depois de 30 anos de trabalho.

Aposentar-se por idade.

— To retire due to age.

A maioria das pessoas se aposenta por idade, quando atingem o limite legal.

Often Confused With

aposentar vs Aposento

'Aposento' is a noun meaning a room or lodging, completely unrelated to the verb 'aposentar' (to retire). The similarity in sound is purely coincidental.

aposentar vs Aposentar (transitive)

While 'aposentar' can be transitive (e.g., 'aposentar um equipamento'), using it transitively for a person ('O chefe aposentou o empregado') is rare and implies forcing retirement, which is usually not the intended meaning. The reflexive form is standard for individuals.

aposentar vs Reformar

'Reformar' can mean to reform or renovate. When used reflexively ('reformar-se'), it is a synonym for 'aposentar-se', especially in European Portuguese. However, without the reflexive pronoun, it has a different meaning.

Idioms & Expressions

"Pendurar as chuteiras"

— Literally 'to hang up the cleats/boots'. This idiom is used primarily for athletes who retire from their sport, but can sometimes be used informally for anyone retiring from a demanding profession.

Depois de tantos anos jogando futebol, o craque decidiu pendurar as chuteiras.

Informal
"Dar um tempo"

— Literally 'to give a time'. This means to take a break or a hiatus. While not strictly retirement, it can be used informally to describe a period of stopping work, which might lead to retirement.

Ele disse que vai dar um tempo do trabalho, talvez para pensar se quer se aposentar.

Informal
"Virar a página"

— Literally 'to turn the page'. This idiom signifies starting a new phase of life. Retirement is often seen as turning a new page after the chapter of working life.

Com a aposentadoria, ele sentiu que era hora de virar a página e focar em seus hobbies.

Neutral
"Descansar os ossos"

— Literally 'to rest one's bones'. This is an informal and somewhat affectionate way to say someone is retiring and going to relax.

Agora que se aposentou, ele vai poder descansar os ossos e curtir a vida.

Informal
"Entrar para a estatística"

— Literally 'to enter the statistics'. This is a more cynical or humorous way to refer to someone joining the ranks of the retired population.

Com 65 anos, ele finalmente entrou para a estatística dos aposentados.

Informal/Humorous
"Tirar o chapéu"

— Literally 'to take off the hat'. This idiom means to show respect or admiration. It can be used when someone retires after a long and distinguished career.

Tirar o chapéu para quem trabalhou tanto e agora pode se aposentar.

Neutral
"Ficar de pernas para o ar"

— Literally 'to be with legs in the air'. This idiom means to be idle or relaxed, doing nothing. It's often associated with the leisure time enjoyed after retirement.

Depois de se aposentar, ele passa os dias de pernas para o ar na varanda.

Informal
"Aproveitar a vida"

— To enjoy life. This is a common sentiment expressed by people who are retiring; they look forward to having more time to enjoy life.

Seu maior desejo ao se aposentar era ter tempo para aproveitar a vida e viajar.

Neutral
"Fazer jus ao nome"

— Literally 'to live up to the name'. This idiom can be used humorously for someone retiring, implying they are finally going to 'rest' as their name might suggest (if it had a related meaning) or simply that they have earned their rest.

Ele trabalhou duro por 40 anos, agora ele vai se aposentar e fazer jus ao nome de 'descansado'.

Humorous/Informal
"Dar um novo rumo"

— To give a new direction. Retirement often involves giving one's life a new direction, focusing on new interests or activities.

Ao se aposentar, ela decidiu dar um novo rumo à sua vida, aprendendo a pintar.

Neutral

Easily Confused

aposentar vs Aposentar

The primary confusion arises from the reflexive nature of the verb when referring to people.

'Aposentar' on its own can sometimes mean to put something aside or retire an object. However, when referring to a person retiring from work, the reflexive form 'aposentar-se' is almost always used. For example, 'O carro foi aposentado' (The car was retired), but 'Ele vai se aposentar' (He is going to retire).

Ele decidiu aposentar-se aos 60 anos.

aposentar vs Aposentadoria

This is the noun form, closely related to the verb.

'Aposentar' is the action (the verb), while 'aposentadoria' is the state or concept of retirement (the noun). You 'aposentar-se' to achieve 'aposentadoria'. For example, 'Ele vai se aposentar' (He will retire) leads to 'Ele terá uma boa aposentadoria' (He will have a good retirement).

O planejamento da aposentadoria é essencial.

aposentar vs Reformar-se

It's a synonym for 'aposentar-se', particularly in European Portuguese.

While both mean to retire, 'aposentar-se' is more universally used across Portuguese-speaking countries. 'Reformar-se' might sometimes carry a slightly more formal or older connotation, but they are largely interchangeable in the context of retirement.

Ela se reformou e agora dedica-se à pintura.

aposentar vs Aposento

Phonetic similarity.

'Aposentar' is a verb meaning to retire. 'Aposento' is a noun meaning a room, chamber, or lodging. They are completely different words with unrelated meanings.

Ele se aposentou e comprou um novo aposento na praia.

aposentar vs Trabalhar

It's the direct opposite action.

'Trabalhar' means to work, to be employed. 'Aposentar-se' means to stop working permanently. They represent opposing states in one's professional life.

Ele trabalhou por 40 anos antes de se aposentar.

Sentence Patterns

A1

Subject + aposentar (past)

Ele aposentou.

A2

Subject + ir + se + aposentar

Eu vou me aposentar.

A2

Subject + se + aposentar (present)

Nós nos aposentamos.

B1

Depois de + se + aposentar

Depois de se aposentar, ele leu mais.

B1

Querer + se + aposentar

Ela quer se aposentar.

B2

Decidir + se + aposentar

Eles decidiram se aposentar.

B2

Aposentar-se + (reason/activity)

Ele se aposentou para viajar.

C1

Ter o direito de + se + aposentar

Ele tem o direito de se aposentar.

Word Family

Nouns

aposentadoria
aposentado
aposentada

Verbs

aposentar

Adjectives

aposentado
aposentada

Related

aposentadoria
aposentado/a
aposentil
aposentista
aposentamento
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How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in discussions about life stages, careers, and aging.

Common Mistakes
  • Forgetting the reflexive pronoun 'se'. → Ele vai se aposentar.

    The action of retiring is performed by the subject on themselves, so the reflexive pronoun is essential when referring to people. Saying 'Ele vai aposentar' is incorrect in this context.

  • Using 'aposentar' transitively for people. → Ele decidiu se aposentar.

    Saying 'O chefe aposentou o funcionário' implies the boss forced the employee to retire. The standard and neutral way to say an employee is retiring is 'O funcionário vai se aposentar'.

  • Confusing 'aposentar' with 'aposento'. → Ele vai se aposentar e comprar um novo aposento.

    'Aposentar' is a verb meaning to retire. 'Aposento' is a noun meaning a room or lodging. They sound similar but have completely different meanings.

  • Incorrect conjugation in the past tense. → Eles se aposentaram.

    Forgetting the plural ending '-aram' for 'eles/elas/vocês' in the Pretérito Perfeito. Saying 'Eles se aposentou' is incorrect.

  • Using the infinitive 'aposentar' instead of the conjugated form. → Eu quero me aposentar.

    When expressing a desire or intention, the verb following 'querer' should be in the infinitive, but the main verb of the sentence needs conjugation. Here, 'quero' is conjugated, and 'aposentar' is the infinitive (with the reflexive pronoun).

Tips

Master the Reflexive Pronoun

The most crucial aspect of using 'aposentar' correctly for people is the reflexive pronoun ('me', 'te', 'se', 'nos', 'vos', 'se'). Always remember to include it when talking about someone retiring: 'Eu me aposento', 'Ela vai se aposentar', 'Eles se aposentaram'.

Learn Related Nouns

Expand your understanding by learning related words like 'aposentadoria' (retirement/pension) and 'aposentado/a' (retired person). This will help you grasp the full context of discussions about retirement.

Listen for Context

Pay attention to how native speakers use 'aposentar'. Listen for clues that indicate whether they are talking about a person retiring, an object being retired, or discussing retirement plans in general.

Focus on Nasal Vowels and Stress

The word 'aposentar' has a nasal vowel sound in the 'zen' syllable and the stress is on the final syllable ('tar'). Practice pronouncing it clearly: a-po-zen-TAR.

Understand Retirement's Significance

Retirement is a significant life event in Portuguese-speaking cultures, often viewed as a time for earned rest and new beginnings. Understanding this cultural context will help you interpret conversations and texts more effectively.

Create Your Own Sentences

Actively try to form your own sentences using 'aposentar' and its related forms. Write about hypothetical retirement plans or describe someone you know who has retired. This active recall is key to solidifying your knowledge.

Distinguish from Similar Words

Be aware of words like 'aposento' (room) which sound similar but have different meanings. Also, differentiate between 'aposentar-se' (to retire) and 'reformar' (to reform/renovate) unless it's the reflexive 'reformar-se'.

Recognize Figurative Meanings

While less common, 'aposentar' can be used figuratively for objects. Recognize this informal usage and don't overuse it, sticking to the primary meaning for people.

Identify Common Patterns

Learn common sentence structures like 'ir se aposentar' (going to retire), 'depois de se aposentar' (after retiring), and 'decidir se aposentar' (decide to retire) to build fluency.

Review Regularly

Periodically review the meaning, usage, and conjugations of 'aposentar'. Consistent revision helps embed the word firmly in your active vocabulary.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine someone 'applying' (ap-) to 'settle down' (like 'sentar' - to sit) after a long career. They are applying to settle down and stop working. So, 'ap-osentar' sounds like 'applying to settle down'.

Visual Association

Picture an elderly person sitting comfortably in a rocking chair, perhaps with a newspaper or a cup of tea, looking content and relaxed. This visual represents the state of being retired, which is the result of 'aposentar'.

Word Web

Aposentar Aposentadoria Aposentado Trabalhar Descanso Idade Carreira Pensão Viajar Reformar-se

Challenge

Try to explain to a friend in Portuguese why you or someone you know decided to 'aposentar'. Use at least three different sentences and mention the reason for retirement.

Word Origin

The word 'aposentar' comes from the Latin word 'apponere', meaning 'to put to', 'to add', or 'to place near'. Over time, its meaning evolved, particularly in Portuguese, to signify placing oneself aside from active work, hence retiring.

Original meaning: To place near, to add, to put to.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Portuguese

Cultural Context

When discussing retirement, be mindful that not everyone retires by choice. Some may be forced to retire due to health issues, economic downturns, or company policies. It's also important to respect individual decisions about when and how to retire, as it's a very personal journey.

In English-speaking countries, retirement is also a major life event, often anticipated with a mix of excitement for freedom and apprehension about financial security or loss of identity tied to work. The concept of a 'pension' or 'retirement fund' is central. Similar to Portuguese culture, there's a growing trend towards active retirement, with many seniors pursuing new interests, volunteering, or even starting second careers.

Many famous athletes, artists, and politicians in Portuguese-speaking countries announce their decision to 'aposentar' at the end of their careers. The national pension systems and debates surrounding their sustainability are frequently in the news, often using the term 'aposentadoria'. Literature and cinema often feature characters who are 'aposentados', exploring themes of reflection, legacy, and the search for new meaning in life after work.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Discussing future life plans.

  • Quando você vai se aposentar?
  • Eu quero me aposentar cedo.
  • Ele decidiu se aposentar.

Talking about family members or friends who have retired.

  • Meu pai já se aposentou.
  • Ela se aposentou no ano passado.
  • Eles se aposentaram e agora viajam.

News reports about retirement age or pension reforms.

  • A idade para se aposentar pode aumentar.
  • Debate sobre a aposentadoria dos professores.
  • Novas regras para se aposentar.

Workplace conversations about career end.

  • Faltam poucos anos para eu me aposentar.
  • Ele está planejando se aposentar.
  • Quem vai substituí-lo quando ele se aposentar?

Figurative use for old objects.

  • Esse carro foi aposentado.
  • A máquina antiga foi aposentada.
  • Vamos aposentar este equipamento.

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever thought about when you would like to retire?"

"What do you imagine people do when they retire in Brazil/Portugal?"

"If you could retire tomorrow, what would be the first thing you'd do?"

"What are some common retirement dreams people have?"

"Do you think it's better to retire early or work longer?"

Journal Prompts

Write about your ideal retirement. Where would you live? What hobbies would you pursue?

Describe a time you saw someone retire. How did they feel? How did others react?

Imagine you are advising someone on how to prepare for retirement. What key advice would you give?

Reflect on the concept of 'work' versus 'leisure'. How does retirement change this balance?

If you could retire from something right now (not necessarily a job), what would it be and why?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The verb 'aposentar' can be used transitively, meaning to retire something (like equipment) or to cause someone to retire. However, when referring to a person retiring from their job, the reflexive form 'aposentar-se' is almost always used. This means 'to retire oneself'. For example, 'Ele vai se aposentar' (He is going to retire himself).

The typical retirement age can vary, but it's often around 60-65 years old for men and slightly younger for women in some systems. However, there are also possibilities for early retirement based on years of contribution or specific professional categories. Recent reforms in some countries aim to adjust these ages.

Yes, sometimes. In a figurative or informal sense, 'aposentar' can be used to mean taking an old object or machine out of service permanently, much like retiring it. For example, 'O carro antigo foi aposentado' (The old car was retired). However, its primary and most common use is for people retiring from work.

The noun form is 'aposentadoria', which means 'retirement' or 'pension'. You can 'planejar a aposentadoria' (plan retirement) or 'receber a aposentadoria' (receive a pension).

Yes, 'reformar-se' is a very close synonym, especially in European Portuguese, and is often used interchangeably with 'aposentar-se'. Both mean to retire from one's profession.

Retiring early ('aposentar-se cedo' or 'aposentar-se antecipadamente') usually means leaving work before the official retirement age, which might affect pension amounts. Retiring at the standard age ('aposentar-se na idade certa') typically ensures full benefits. The decision often depends on personal finances, health, and desire.

You can use 'aposentado' for a retired man or 'aposentada' for a retired woman. These can function as adjectives (e.g., 'um homem aposentado') or as nouns (e.g., 'ele é um aposentado').

After they retire ('depois de se aposentar'), people often engage in activities like traveling ('viajar'), spending time with family ('passar tempo com a família'), pursuing hobbies ('dedicar-se a hobbies'), volunteering ('fazer voluntariado'), or simply resting ('descansar').

Yes, the core meaning of 'aposentar' (especially 'aposentar-se') implies a permanent cessation of employment due to retirement. While someone might take a break ('dar um tempo'), 'aposentar' signifies the end of a professional career.

The simple past (Pretérito Perfeito) conjugation for 'aposentar' is: eu aposentei, tu aposentaste, ele/ela/você aposentou, nós aposentamos, vós aposentastes, eles/elas/vocês aposentaram. Remember to add the reflexive pronoun if needed: 'Eu me aposentei', 'Ele se aposentou'.

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