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A2 noun 11 min read

catchup

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips catchup in 30 Seconds

Explanation catchup in your Level:

At the A1 level, you just need to know that 'catchup' is the word for ketchup. It is a masculine noun ('o catchup'). You will use it when ordering food at a fast-food restaurant. You should practice simple sentences like 'Eu quero catchup' (I want ketchup) or 'Onde está o catchup?' (Where is the ketchup?). It is pronounced very similarly to the English word, so it is one of the easiest words to remember. You will see it on menus and on small plastic packets (sachês). It is a very useful word because food is a common topic for beginners. You might also use it with 'batata frita' (french fries) or 'hambúrguer' (hamburger). Remember that in Portuguese, we use 'com' (with) to say 'with ketchup' ('com catchup'). If you don't want it, you say 'sem catchup'. This is a basic survival word for anyone visiting a Portuguese-speaking country who plans to eat out. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet, just the basic noun and how to ask for it.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'catchup' in more descriptive sentences. You should be able to ask for it politely using 'por favor' and understand simple questions from a waiter, like 'Vai querer catchup no seu lanche?' (Do you want ketchup on your snack?). You can also start using adjectives to describe it, such as 'catchup picante' (spicy ketchup) or 'muito catchup' (a lot of ketchup). At this level, you should also be aware of its companions: 'mostarda' (mustard) and 'maionese' (mayonnaise). You might describe your preferences, like 'Eu gosto de catchup, mas não gosto de mostarda'. You should also know the word 'sachê' (packet), as in 'Pode me dar dois sachês de catchup?'. This level involves more interaction, so being able to request or refuse the condiment in a complete sentence is key. You are also beginning to see how the word is used in Brazilian culture, such as the common sight of squeeze bottles on tables in casual eateries.

At the B1 level, you can use 'catchup' to discuss culinary habits and regional differences. You should be able to talk about the famous debate in Brazil regarding ketchup on pizza. You can explain your opinion: 'Eu acho que colocar catchup na pizza é estranho, mas no Rio de Janeiro todo mundo faz isso'. You will also encounter the word in more complex cooking contexts, such as recipes for Brazilian strogonoff. You should be able to follow a simple recipe that says 'Misture o catchup com o creme de leite'. At this level, your vocabulary expands to include containers like 'frasco' or 'vidro' (bottle). You can also use the word in the context of shopping, comparing prices or brands at the supermarket. You should be comfortable using the word with various prepositions and in different tenses, such as 'Eu esqueci de comprar o catchup ontem' (I forgot to buy the ketchup yesterday).

At the B2 level, you can use 'catchup' in more idiomatic or specialized ways. You might discuss the health implications of processed condiments, using terms like 'conservantes' (preservatives) or 'alto teor de açúcar' (high sugar content). You can understand more nuanced social cues around the word—for instance, when it's appropriate to ask for it and when it might be considered 'pouco refinado' (unsophisticated). You can also talk about the marketing and branding of catchup in Brazil, noting how international brands compete with local ones. Your ability to describe flavors becomes more sophisticated: 'Este catchup tem um toque defumado que combina bem com o bacon'. You can also use the word to describe accidental situations, like 'Manchei minha camisa com catchup durante o almoço'. At this level, you should be perfectly comfortable with the loanword's role in the Portuguese language and its phonetic adaptation.

At the C1 level, you can analyze the linguistic impact of loanwords like 'catchup' on the Portuguese language. You might discuss the orthographic variations (catchup vs. ketchup) and how the language absorbs foreign terms. You can engage in deep cultural discussions about the globalization of food and how the Brazilian 'lanchonete' culture has adapted American influences. You might read articles about the history of the condiment or its economic impact on the tomato industry. Your use of the word is fluid and natural, integrated into complex sentences about gastronomy, culture, or economics. You can also discuss the 'gourmetization' of catchup, where artisanal versions are made with local fruits like guava (ketchup de goiaba), and analyze how this reflects a broader trend in Brazilian cuisine to reclaim and innovate traditional flavors.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word and its context. You can use it in creative writing, perhaps metaphorically or in a humorous essay about Brazilian culinary quirks. You understand the deepest levels of regional slang and social connotations associated with the word. You could lead a debate on the preservation of the Portuguese language against 'anglicismos' (Anglicisms), using 'catchup' as a prime example of a word that has been fully integrated. You can navigate any social situation, from a high-end culinary critique to a casual street food encounter, with perfect linguistic and cultural agility. You might even explore the etymology of the word from its Chinese origins (kê-tsiap) to its journey through English and finally its landing in the Lusophone world, discussing how words travel and change meanings and spellings across centuries and continents.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

catchup in 30 Seconds

A popular tomato-based condiment.
Masculine noun: 'o catchup'.
Commonly used on burgers, fries, and pizza (regionally).
Spelled 'catchup' or 'ketchup' in Portuguese.

The word catchup is the Portuguese adaptation of the English word 'ketchup'. In Brazil and other Portuguese-speaking countries, it refers to the ubiquitous tomato-based condiment that is sweet, tangy, and slightly vinegary. While the spelling with a 'K' (ketchup) is also extremely common and often preferred in branding, 'catchup' is a recognized Portuguese spelling that follows the phonetic adaptation of the loanword. It is a masculine noun, so you will always use masculine articles and adjectives with it, such as 'o catchup' or 'catchup picante'.

Common Context: The most frequent setting for this word is the 'lanchonete' (snack bar) or 'hamburgueria'. It is an essential part of the 'podrão', the affectionately named, over-stuffed street burger found across Brazil.

Usage of catchup in Brazil is a topic of significant cultural debate, particularly regarding its application on pizza. In Rio de Janeiro, it is standard practice to pour catchup over a slice of pizza, a habit that often horrifies traditionalists in São Paulo, who view it as a culinary crime against the integrity of the sauce and dough. This regional divide makes the word a great conversation starter about local customs and food etiquette.

Você prefere colocar catchup ou mostarda no seu cachorro-quente?

Beyond the fast-food scene, catchup is used in home cooking as a base for other sauces, such as 'molho rosé' (a mix of catchup and mayonnaise) or as an ingredient in the Brazilian version of 'strogonoff'. Unlike the Russian original, Brazilian strogonoff almost always includes catchup and mustard to give the cream sauce its characteristic pinkish hue and tangy flavor profile.

Linguistic Adaptation: The word is a 'loanword' (estrangeirismo). Because Portuguese phonology generally avoids ending words in hard consonants like 'p', some speakers might add a very faint 'i' sound at the end, making it sound like 'catchupi'.

O garçom esqueceu de trazer o catchup para a mesa.

In a professional culinary setting, a chef might refer to it more formally as 'molho de tomate condimentado', but in 99% of daily interactions, 'catchup' is the only term you will need. It is a staple in every Brazilian household refrigerator, often standing alongside its 'best friends'—mayonnaise and mustard. The trio is often referred to as 'os condimentos'.

Eu gosto de misturar catchup com maionese para comer com batata frita.

Regionalisms: In the South of Brazil, catchup is often paired with 'maionese caseira' (homemade mayo), which is a local delicacy. In the Northeast, it might be used more sparingly on traditional dishes but remains a king of the 'lanche'.

Não tem nada melhor do que um pastel com bastante catchup.

Por favor, você pode me passar o vidro de catchup?

Using catchup in a sentence is straightforward because it functions exactly like its English counterpart. However, you must remember its grammatical gender. Since it is masculine, you use 'o' (the), 'um' (a), 'meu' (my), and 'todo' (all/every). For example, you would say 'O catchup está na geladeira' (The ketchup is in the fridge) or 'Eu quero um pouco de catchup' (I want a bit of ketchup).

Ordering Food: When at a restaurant, you might need to ask for extra sachets or a bottle. 'Você tem sachês de catchup?' (Do you have ketchup packets?) is a very useful phrase. In many Brazilian snack bars, the condiments are left on the table in large squeeze bottles.

The word often appears in the context of likes and dislikes. Because catchup is sweet, some people find it overpowering. You might hear someone say: 'Eu não gosto de catchup na pizza' (I don't like ketchup on pizza). Note the use of the preposition 'na' (on the), which is the contraction of 'em' + 'a' (pizza being feminine).

Pode colocar catchup no meu hambúrguer, por favor.

In recipes, catchup is often a secondary ingredient. If you are reading a Brazilian recipe for strogonoff, you will see instructions like: 'Adicione duas colheres de sopa de catchup' (Add two tablespoons of ketchup). This illustrates the measurement 'colher de sopa' (tablespoon) being used with the word.

Verb Pairings: Common verbs used with catchup include 'pôr' or 'colocar' (to put), 'passar' (to spread/pass), 'querer' (to want), and 'gostar' (to like).

Cuidado para não derrubar catchup na sua camisa branca!

Another interesting use is in the plural. While 'catchups' is technically possible, Brazilians usually say 'sachês de catchup' or 'tipos de catchup' to talk about quantity or variety. If you see 'catchup picante' or 'catchup com curry', these are common flavored varieties found in gourmet burger shops.

Este catchup é muito doce para o meu paladar.

Sempre temos um frasco reserva de catchup na despensa.

Descriptive Phrases: 'Mancha de catchup' (ketchup stain), 'Vidro de catchup' (ketchup bottle), 'Gosto de catchup' (ketchup taste).

A criança espalhou catchup por toda a mesa do restaurante.

Eu prefere o catchup daquela marca famosa.

You will hear catchup in a variety of everyday situations in Portuguese-speaking countries. The most common is undoubtedly the 'praça de alimentação' (food court) of any shopping mall. Here, customers frequently ask for condiments. You'll hear phrases like 'Tem mais catchup?' or 'Pode me dar uns sachês?'. It is an essential word for navigating the Brazilian casual dining landscape.

The 'Podrão' Culture: Street food is a major part of Brazilian life. At a 'carrinho de cachorro-quente' (hot dog cart), the vendor will often ask: 'Vai querer tudo?'. If you say yes, they will douse the bun in catchup, mustard, and often 'batata palha' (potato sticks). You will hear the word as they confirm your choices.

In domestic settings, 'catchup' is a staple of the 'churrasco' (barbecue). While meat purists might stick to 'sal grosso' (coarse salt) and 'vinagrete', the younger generation and kids will often ask for catchup to eat with 'pão de alho' (garlic bread) or 'linguiça'. You'll hear it during family Sunday lunches: 'Passa o catchup para o seu primo, por favor'.

No Rio, é muito comum ouvir as pessoas pedindo catchup na pizzaria.

Television commercials for food brands are another place where the word is frequent. Brands like Heinz or Hellmann's run extensive campaigns in Brazil, and the pronunciation in these ads is usually very clear, helping you understand the local accentuation. You might also hear it on cooking shows where 'strogonoff' is being prepared, as it is a key ingredient in the Brazilian version of the dish.

Supermarket Aisles: When asking a supermarket employee for help, you would say: 'Onde fica o catchup?' (Where is the ketchup?). They will point you to the 'corredor de molhos' (sauce aisle).

O catchup está em promoção esta semana no supermercado.

In social media and memes, 'catchup' often appears in discussions about food 'crimes' or weird food combinations. Brazilians love to argue about food on Twitter/X, and the 'catchup on pizza' debate is a perennial favorite that generates thousands of mentions every year.

Vi um vídeo de alguém colocando catchup no sushi e fiquei chocado.

A gente precisa comprar mais catchup para a festa de amanhã.

Professional Usage: Nutritionists might use the word when discussing hidden sugars in processed foods, saying things like 'O catchup contém muito açúcar'.

Eu sempre olho o rótulo do catchup para ver os ingredientes.

O garçom trouxe o catchup errado, eu pedi o picante.

One of the most common mistakes for English speakers learning Portuguese is overthinking the spelling of catchup. While English uses 'ketchup', the Portuguese variation 'catchup' is phonetically grounded but can feel 'wrong' to a native English speaker. The mistake is not realizing that both 'catchup' and 'ketchup' are acceptable, but 'catchup' is the more 'lusitanized' version found in older dictionaries and some official texts.

Gender Confusion: A frequent error is assigning the wrong gender. Since many Portuguese words ending in consonants are masculine, 'catchup' follows this rule. Beginners often mistakenly use feminine articles (a catchup) because they might associate it with 'comida' (food - feminine) or 'massa' (paste - feminine). Always remember: 'O catchup'.

Another mistake is the pronunciation of the 'ch'. In Portuguese, 'ch' usually sounds like the 'sh' in 'shoe'. However, in the word 'catchup', it maintains the English 'tch' sound because it is a direct loanword. Some learners might try to say 'cash-up', which would be incorrect. It should sound like 'ketch-up' or 'catch-up'.

Errado: A catchup é gostosa. Correto: O catchup é gostoso.

Using the word in the wrong context is also a potential pitfall. While 'catchup' is common for fast food, using it in a high-end gourmet restaurant might be seen as slightly out of place unless the restaurant specifically offers a 'catchup artesanal'. In formal dining, it is better to ask for 'molhos' (sauces) generally rather than specifically for catchup unless you are sure they have it.

Pluralization: Learners often try to pluralize it as 'catchups'. While understandable, it's more natural to say 'frascos de catchup' (bottles of ketchup) or 'sachês de catchup' (ketchup packets). The word itself rarely takes the 's' in daily conversation.

Errado: Eu comprei dois catchups. Correto: Eu comprei dois vidros de catchup.

Finally, don't confuse 'catchup' with 'molho de tomate' (tomato sauce). In Portuguese, 'molho de tomate' usually refers to the sauce used for pasta or cooking, which is savory and not sweet. Asking for 'molho de tomate' on your fries will likely get you a confused look or a bowl of pasta sauce, which is not what you want!

Lembre-se: catchup é para lanches, molho de tomate é para macarrão.

Muitos alunos confundem a escrita e escrevem quetchup, o que não existe.

Adjective Agreement: Since it's masculine, any adjectives must end in 'o'. Saying 'catchup gelada' is wrong; it must be 'catchup gelado'.

Você quer o catchup picante ou o tradicional?

Não use catchup demais, senão estraga o sabor da carne.

While catchup is the specific term for the tomato condiment, there are several related words and alternatives you should know to expand your culinary vocabulary in Portuguese. Understanding these will help you navigate menus and kitchens more effectively.

Condimentos (Condiments): This is the umbrella term. The most common companions are 'mostarda' (mustard) and 'maionese' (mayonnaise). In Brazil, 'maionese' is arguably more popular than catchup and is often served in a variety of flavors (garlic, herb, etc.).

An alternative to industrial catchup is 'molho de tomate caseiro' (homemade tomato sauce), though as mentioned before, this is usually less sweet and more herb-forward. In modern, 'gourmet' burger joints, you might find 'chutney de tomate', which is a more sophisticated, chunky alternative to smooth catchup.

Eu prefiro colocar mostarda do que catchup no meu sanduíche.

For those who like heat, 'molho de pimenta' (hot sauce) is the primary alternative. Brazilians love 'pimenta malagueta' or 'pimenta cumari'. Sometimes, people mix hot sauce with catchup to create a 'catchup picante'. Another related term is 'molho barbecue', which has become very popular in Brazil recently, especially for ribs and burgers.

Comparison: Catchup vs. Molho de Tomate: Catchup is sweet, vinegary, and used as a topping or dip. Molho de tomate is savory, usually cooked with onions and garlic, and used as a base for pasta or stews.

Você quer maionese temperada ou apenas catchup?

In some regions, you might hear the term 'extrato de tomate' (tomato paste). This is a very concentrated tomato product used strictly for cooking and should never be confused with catchup, as it is quite bitter and thick on its own. Another term is 'passata de tomate', which is strained, pureed tomatoes, also for cooking.

O molho barbecue é uma ótima alternativa ao catchup tradicional.

Para o strogonoff, usamos catchup e mostarda para dar cor e sabor.

Other Dips: 'Molho tártaro' (tartar sauce), 'Molho de alho' (garlic sauce), and 'Molho de queijo' (cheese sauce).

A lanchonete oferece uma variedade de molhos além do catchup.

O catchup de goiaba é uma especialidade da casa.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"O molho de tomate condimentado, popularmente conhecido como catchup, é rico em açúcares."

Neutral

"Por favor, você poderia me trazer o catchup?"

Informal

"Passa o catchup aí, mano."

Child friendly

"Quer um pouquinho de catchup na batatinha?"

Slang

"Taca catchup nessa porra!"

Fun Fact

The original 'ketchup' didn't even have tomatoes! It was made of fish, mushrooms, or walnuts before the tomato version became popular in the 19th century.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkɛtʃ.ʌp/

US /ˈkætʃ.ʌp/

First syllable (CATCH-up).

Rhymes With

Matchup Patch up Batch up Scratch up Latch up Snatch up Hatch up Dispatch up

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ch' as 'sh' (cash-up).
Adding an 'i' at the end (catch-u-pi).
Stress on the second syllable.
Confusing with 'molho de tomate'.
Spelling it 'quetchup'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Easy to recognize due to English origin.

Writing 2/5

Slightly tricky due to the 'catchup' vs 'ketchup' spelling.

Speaking 1/5

Pronunciation is very similar to English.

Listening 1/5

Very easy to identify in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

tomate molho comida querer ter

Learn Next

mostarda maionese hambúrguer batata frita pizza

Advanced

condimento conservante acidulante umami artesanal

Grammar to Know

Loanwords often retain their original gender or take the masculine gender in Portuguese.

O catchup, o hambúrguer, o hot-dog.

Preposition contraction 'em' + 'a' = 'na' for feminine nouns.

Catchup na pizza.

Adjective agreement with masculine nouns.

Catchup gostoso (not gostosa).

Using 'de' to indicate content or type.

Vidro de catchup, sachê de catchup.

The use of 'com' and 'sem' for toppings.

Com catchup, sem catchup.

Examples by Level

Eu quero catchup, por favor.

I want ketchup, please.

Simple 'Subject + Verb + Object' structure.

Você tem catchup?

Do you have ketchup?

Basic question using the verb 'ter'.

O catchup é vermelho.

The ketchup is red.

Identifying a property with the verb 'ser'.

Gosto de batata frita com catchup.

I like french fries with ketchup.

Using 'gostar de' + 'com'.

Não gosto de catchup.

I don't like ketchup.

Negation using 'não' before the verb.

Onde está o catchup?

Where is the ketchup?

Question word 'onde' with 'estar'.

Um sachê de catchup, por favor.

A ketchup packet, please.

Using 'um' as an indefinite article.

O catchup está na mesa.

The ketchup is on the table.

Preposition 'na' (em + a).

Pode colocar catchup no meu hambúrguer?

Can you put ketchup on my burger?

Using 'pode' (can) to make a request.

Eu prefiro catchup do que mostarda.

I prefer ketchup to mustard.

Comparative structure 'preferir... do que'.

Este catchup é muito doce.

This ketchup is very sweet.

Demonstrative 'este' and intensifier 'muito'.

Nós precisamos comprar catchup no supermercado.

We need to buy ketchup at the supermarket.

Verb 'precisar' followed by an infinitive.

Você quer catchup ou maionese?

Do you want ketchup or mayonnaise?

Conjunction 'ou' (or) for choices.

O catchup acabou.

The ketchup is finished / ran out.

Verb 'acabar' in the past tense.

Eu sempre coloco catchup na pizza.

I always put ketchup on pizza.

Adverb of frequency 'sempre'.

O garçom trouxe o catchup.

The waiter brought the ketchup.

Past tense of 'trazer' (irregular).

Se você for ao Rio, vai ver pessoas usando catchup na pizza.

If you go to Rio, you will see people using ketchup on pizza.

Conditional 'se' with future subjunctive.

O catchup é um ingrediente essencial para o strogonoff brasileiro.

Ketchup is an essential ingredient for Brazilian strogonoff.

Adjective 'essencial' modifying 'ingrediente'.

Eu acho que esse catchup caseiro é melhor que o industrial.

I think this homemade ketchup is better than the industrial one.

Comparison 'melhor que'.

Ela manchou o vestido novo com um pouco de catchup.

She stained her new dress with a bit of ketchup.

Verb 'manchar' with the instrument 'com'.

Antigamente, as pessoas não usavam tanto catchup como hoje.

In the past, people didn't use as much ketchup as today.

Imperfect tense 'usavam' for past habits.

Passe o catchup para mim, por favor.

Pass the ketchup to me, please.

Imperative 'passe' for a request.

Eu misturo catchup e maionese para fazer molho rosé.

I mix ketchup and mayonnaise to make rosé sauce.

Verb 'misturar' (to mix).

O vidro de catchup está quase vazio.

The ketchup bottle is almost empty.

Adverb 'quase' (almost).

Apesar de ser popular, o catchup tem muito açúcar e sódio.

Despite being popular, ketchup has a lot of sugar and sodium.

Concessive 'apesar de' with infinitive.

O mercado de condimentos, especialmente o de catchup, cresceu muito.

The condiments market, especially the ketchup one, has grown a lot.

Appositive phrase 'especialmente o de catchup'.

Muitos chefs criticam o uso excessivo de catchup em pratos elaborados.

Many chefs criticize the excessive use of ketchup in elaborate dishes.

Adjective 'excessivo' and 'elaborados'.

Duvido que ele consiga comer esse hambúrguer sem catchup.

I doubt that he can eat this burger without ketchup.

Subjunctive 'consiga' after 'duvido que'.

A embalagem do catchup foi desenhada para ser mais prática.

The ketchup packaging was designed to be more practical.

Passive voice 'foi desenhada'.

O catchup artesanal está se tornando uma tendência nas capitais.

Artisanal ketchup is becoming a trend in the capitals.

Present continuous 'está se tornando'.

É difícil imaginar um hot-dog brasileiro sem uma generosa dose de catchup.

It's hard to imagine a Brazilian hot dog without a generous dose of ketchup.

Impersonal expression 'É difícil'.

O sabor do catchup domina o paladar se você colocar demais.

The flavor of the ketchup dominates the palate if you put too much.

Verb 'dominar' and conditional 'se'.

A onipresença do catchup na culinária rápida reflete a globalização cultural.

The omnipresence of ketchup in fast food reflects cultural globalization.

Abstract noun 'onipresença' as subject.

Embora o termo 'catchup' seja aceito, a grafia 'ketchup' predomina no comércio.

Although the term 'catchup' is accepted, the spelling 'ketchup' predominates in commerce.

Concessive 'embora' with subjunctive 'seja'.

A polêmica sobre o catchup na pizza revela tensões regionais profundas no Brasil.

The controversy about ketchup on pizza reveals deep regional tensions in Brazil.

Noun 'polêmica' and 'tensões'.

Nutricionistas alertam para o fato de o catchup ser um ultraprocessado.

Nutritionists warn about the fact that ketchup is an ultra-processed food.

Prepositional contraction 'de o' before an infinitive.

A versatilidade do catchup permite que ele seja usado até em marinadas.

The versatility of ketchup allows it to be used even in marinades.

Subjunctive 'seja usado' in a result clause.

O catchup de goiaba é uma releitura criativa de um clássico estrangeiro.

Guava ketchup is a creative reinterpretation of a foreign classic.

Noun 'releitura' (reinterpretation).

Não se pode ignorar a influência americana na popularização do catchup por aqui.

One cannot ignore the American influence on the popularization of ketchup around here.

Impersonal 'se' with 'poder'.

A acidez do catchup é o que equilibra a gordura de certos alimentos fritos.

The acidity of the ketchup is what balances the fat of certain fried foods.

Relative clause 'o que equilibra'.

A trajetória semântica do catchup, desde suas raízes orientais, é fascinante.

The semantic trajectory of ketchup, from its oriental roots, is fascinating.

Complex subject with multiple modifiers.

O catchup atua como um equalizador de sabores em paladares menos sofisticados.

Ketchup acts as a flavor equalizer for less sophisticated palates.

Metaphorical use of 'equalizador'.

Discutir a legitimidade do catchup na gastronomia beira o debate filosófico sobre o gosto.

Discussing the legitimacy of ketchup in gastronomy borders on a philosophical debate about taste.

Verb 'beirar' (to border on).

A indústria alimentícia refinou a fórmula do catchup para maximizar o apelo ao 'umami'.

The food industry has refined the ketchup formula to maximize the appeal to 'umami'.

Infinitive of purpose 'para maximizar'.

O purismo culinário muitas vezes colide com a praticidade popular representada pelo catchup.

Culinary purism often collides with the popular practicality represented by ketchup.

Abstract nouns 'purismo' and 'praticidade'.

Subjacente ao uso do catchup, reside uma complexa rede de trocas culturais e econômicas.

Underlying the use of ketchup lies a complex network of cultural and economic exchanges.

Inverted sentence structure for emphasis.

A onomatopéia do som de um frasco de catchup sendo apertado é universalmente reconhecível.

The onomatopoeia of the sound of a ketchup bottle being squeezed is universally recognizable.

Gerund 'sendo apertado' in a passive sense.

O catchup transcendeu seu papel de mero condimento para se tornar um ícone pop.

Ketchup has transcended its role as a mere condiment to become a pop icon.

Verb 'transcender' and 'tornar-se'.

Common Collocations

vidro de catchup

sachê de catchup

mancha de catchup

catchup picante

colocar catchup

pedir catchup

gosto de catchup

catchup caseiro

marca de catchup

frasco de catchup

Common Phrases

Com ou sem catchup?

— The standard question asked by food vendors.

O atendente perguntou: 'Com ou sem catchup?'

Taca catchup!

— Slang for 'Put a lot of ketchup on it!'

A pizza está sem gosto, taca catchup!

Banho de catchup

— Metaphor for putting too much sauce on something.

Ele deu um banho de catchup no lanche.

Cadê o catchup?

— Where is the ketchup? (informal).

Cadê o catchup que estava aqui?

Só o catchup

— Just the ketchup (as a response).

- O que você quer na batata? - Só o catchup.

Mistura com catchup

— Mix it with ketchup.

Se você não gostar, mistura com catchup.

Sobrou catchup

— There is ketchup left over.

Sobrou muito catchup no prato.

Viciado em catchup

— Addicted to ketchup.

Meu filho é viciado em catchup.

Cheiro de catchup

— Smell of ketchup.

A cozinha está com cheiro de catchup.

Pingo de catchup

— A drop of ketchup.

Caiu um pingo de catchup na minha calça.

Often Confused With

catchup vs molho de tomate

Catchup is a sweet condiment; molho de tomate is for cooking pasta.

catchup vs extrato de tomate

Extrato is concentrated paste for cooking, not a table sauce.

catchup vs mostarda

Yellow and bitter/spicy, whereas catchup is red and sweet.

Idioms & Expressions

"Sangue de catchup"

— Used to describe fake blood in low-budget movies or jokes.

O filme de terror era tão ruim que o sangue parecia sangue de catchup.

informal

"Mão de catchup"

— Someone who is messy when eating.

Lave as mãos, você está com mão de catchup.

colloquial

"Catchup na pizza"

— A symbol of regional cultural disagreement in Brazil.

Isso é tão polêmico quanto catchup na pizza.

cultural

"Cara de catchup"

— Someone who is very red in the face (rare).

Ele ficou com cara de catchup de tanta vergonha.

slang

"Virar catchup"

— To be crushed or flattened (slang/violent imagery).

Se o carro bater, a gente vira catchup.

slang

"Mais catchup que hambúrguer"

— Describing a burger with too much sauce.

Esse lanche tem mais catchup que hambúrguer.

informal

"Guerra de catchup"

— Food fight using condiment bottles.

As crianças fizeram uma guerra de catchup na festa.

informal

"Cor de catchup"

— A specific shade of bright red.

Ela pintou a parede de uma cor de catchup horrorosa.

informal

"Catchup da vida"

— Something that makes a bad situation better (metaphorical).

O humor é o catchup da vida.

poetic/rare

"Puxar o catchup"

— To wait for something slow to come out (like the sauce).

Estamos aqui puxando o catchup nessa fila.

slang/invented

Easily Confused

catchup vs Ketchup

Same word, different spelling.

'Ketchup' is the international spelling; 'Catchup' is the lusitanized version. Both are used.

Eu comprei o ketchup da Heinz.

catchup vs Catch up

English phrasal verb.

In Portuguese, 'catchup' only refers to the sauce, never to 'catching up' with someone.

Não usamos 'catchup' para falar com amigos.

catchup vs Cachorro-quente

Often served with catchup.

One is the food (hot dog), the other is the sauce.

O cachorro-quente tem muito catchup.

catchup vs Sachê

The container.

'Sachê' is the packet, 'catchup' is the liquid inside.

Abra o sachê de catchup.

catchup vs Maionese

Commonly served together.

Maionese is white/creamy; catchup is red/sweet.

Misture a maionese com o catchup.

Sentence Patterns

Eu quero [noun].

Eu quero catchup.

Você tem [noun]?

Você tem catchup?

Pode me dar [quantity] de [noun]?

Pode me dar um pouco de catchup?

[Noun] é [adjective].

O catchup é bom.

Eu gosto de [noun] com [noun].

Eu gosto de pizza com catchup.

Se eu [verb], eu [verb].

Se eu comer batata, eu uso catchup.

Apesar de [verb], [subject] [verb].

Apesar de ser doce, o catchup é ácido.

A [noun] do [noun] é [adjective].

A popularidade do catchup é imensa.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very High

Common Mistakes

Using 'a catchup'. → O catchup.
Loanwords like this are masculine in Portuguese.
Saying 'cash-up'. → Catch-up.
The 'ch' in this loanword follows the English 'tch' sound, not the Portuguese 'sh' sound.
Confusing catchup with tomato paste. → Extrato de tomate.
Extrato is for cooking; catchup is a condiment.
Pluralizing as 'catchups'. → Sachês de catchup.
While not strictly wrong, it's much more natural to pluralize the container.
Writing 'quetchup'. → Catchup or Ketchup.
There is no 'q' in the spelling of this word in Portuguese.

Tips

Phonetic Spelling

If you see 'catchup' in a book, don't worry, it's just the Portuguese way of writing it. It's the same sauce!

The Pizza Rule

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in Rio, put catchup on your pizza. When in São Paulo, maybe skip it!

Always Masculine

Remember 'O catchup'. Even though 'comida' is feminine, this loanword is masculine.

Check the Brand

Heinz is the most popular premium brand, but 'Cepera' and 'Hellmann's' are also very common in Brazil.

Strogonoff Secret

If you want to make authentic Brazilian strogonoff, don't forget the catchup. It's what makes it 'Brazilian'!

Sharing is Caring

In casual Brazilian spots, large bottles of catchup are shared on the table. It's okay to reach for it!

Stain Alert

Catchup stains are tough. In Portuguese, a stain is 'uma mancha'. 'Tirar a mancha' means to remove the stain.

Packets

Learn the word 'sachê'. You'll need it every time you go to a fast-food drive-thru.

Artisanal Trend

Look for 'catchup artesanal' in big cities for a more natural, less sweet experience.

First Syllable

Keep the stress on the first part: CATCH-up. Don't stress the end of the word.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

CATCH up with the tomato! It's the sauce that's always running to your burger.

Visual Association

Imagine a tomato wearing a baseball glove, 'catching' a burger.

Word Web

Tomate Hambúrguer Batata Frita Mostarda Maionese Açúcar Vinagre Vermelho

Challenge

Go to a restaurant and ask: 'Você tem catchup?' even if you don't need it, just to practice the pronunciation.

Word Origin

Derived from the English 'ketchup', which itself comes from the Hokkien Chinese word 'kê-tsiap', a fermented fish sauce.

Original meaning: Fermented fish sauce (Chinese).

Sino-Tibetan (original root) via Germanic (English) to Romance (Portuguese).

Cultural Context

Be careful when criticizing someone's use of catchup in Rio; it's a point of local pride!

In the US/UK, ketchup is rarely put on pizza, making the Brazilian habit seem very unusual to English speakers.

The brand Heinz is synonymous with catchup in Brazil. The song 'The Ketchup Song' (Aserejé) by Las Ketchup was a massive hit in Brazil.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Fast Food Restaurant

Um sachê de catchup, por favor.
Tem catchup picante?
Pode colocar catchup no lanche?
Onde fica o catchup?

Cooking at Home

Preciso de catchup para o strogonoff.
Acabou o catchup.
Mistura o catchup com a maionese.
O catchup está na geladeira.

Supermarket

Qual o preço do catchup?
Onde estão os molhos?
Vou levar esse catchup de um quilo.
Tem catchup sem açúcar?

Barbecue (Churrasco)

Alguém quer catchup?
O catchup está na mesa de saladas.
Cuidado com o catchup na toalha.
Passa o catchup para cá.

Laundry/Cleaning

Como limpar mancha de catchup?
Caiu catchup na minha blusa.
O catchup não sai com água.
Use detergente na mancha de catchup.

Conversation Starters

"Você gosta de colocar catchup na pizza?"

"Qual é a melhor marca de catchup para você?"

"Você prefere catchup, mostarda ou maionese?"

"O que você acha do catchup de goiaba?"

"Você acha que catchup combina com sushi?"

Journal Prompts

Descreva o seu hambúrguer perfeito e todos os molhos que você usaria.

Escreva sobre a sua opinião na polêmica do catchup na pizza.

Você já manchou uma roupa importante com catchup? O que aconteceu?

Quais condimentos são essenciais na sua geladeira e por quê?

Como o catchup é visto na sua cultura em comparação com o Brasil?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Both are used! 'Ketchup' is more common on labels and in modern branding, while 'catchup' is a phonetic Portuguese spelling often found in dictionaries and older texts. You will be understood with either.

In Rio de Janeiro and parts of the North/Northeast, yes, it's very common! In São Paulo, however, it's often considered a culinary faux pas. It's a fun cultural divide to explore.

It's a very popular Brazilian sauce made by mixing catchup and mayonnaise. Sometimes a bit of mustard or lemon is added. It's often served with snacks or shrimp.

It is masculine. You say 'o catchup' and 'um catchup'. Adjectives must also be masculine, like 'catchup picante'.

Almost exactly like in English: 'Ketch-up'. Some Brazilians might add a tiny 'i' sound at the end, making it 'catch-u-pi'.

Yes! Unlike the Russian original, the Brazilian version almost always uses catchup and mustard to give the sauce its distinct pink color and tangy taste.

Look for the 'corredor de molhos e condimentos' (sauce and condiment aisle). It's usually near the mayonnaise and mustard.

It's a creative Brazilian variation that uses guava (goiaba) instead of tomatoes. It's sweet and savory, often served in gourmet burger shops.

Like elsewhere, it's considered a processed food with high sugar content. Nutritionists often advise using it in moderation.

You can, but it might not be available unless they serve burgers or fries. In high-end 'gastronomia', it's less common than in 'lanchonetes'.