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A2 verb #5,500 most common 11 min read

comer fora

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

comer fora in 30 Seconds

  • Eat out at restaurants, cafes, etc.
  • The opposite of eating at home.
  • Very common in daily Portuguese conversation.
  • Covers lunch, dinner, or any meal outside.
Meaning
The Portuguese phrase "comer fora" literally translates to "to eat outside." However, its idiomatic meaning is much more specific: it means to eat at a restaurant, cafe, or any establishment that serves food, rather than eating at home. It signifies dining out as opposed to preparing and consuming a meal in one's own residence. This is a very common and practical expression used in everyday conversations among Portuguese speakers.
Usage Scenarios
People use "comer fora" in a variety of situations. For instance, when discussing weekend plans, someone might say, "No sábado, vamos comer fora para celebrar o aniversário da minha mãe" (On Saturday, we're going to eat out to celebrate my mother's birthday). It's also used when comparing dining habits, such as, "Eu prefiro cozinhar em casa, mas às vezes gosto de comer fora" (I prefer to cook at home, but sometimes I like to eat out). When making spontaneous decisions, one might ask, "Estamos sem comida em casa, o que achas de comer fora hoje?" (We have no food at home, what do you think about eating out today?). It's a versatile phrase that covers any meal consumed outside the home, from a quick lunch to a formal dinner.
Nuances
The phrase "comer fora" doesn't specify the type of establishment; it could be a fancy restaurant, a casual pizzeria, a street food vendor, or even a picnic in a park if food is purchased and consumed there. The key is that the act of eating is taking place outside of one's usual home environment and involves a commercial establishment or prepared food bought elsewhere. It's a broad term that encompasses the entire experience of dining out, including the social aspect and the convenience of not having to cook. It's a fundamental expression for anyone learning to navigate social situations and daily life in Portuguese-speaking countries.

Vamos comer fora para celebrar.

Não tenho vontade de cozinhar, vamos comer fora.

O que achas de comer fora no fim de semana?

Basic Structure
The phrase "comer fora" functions as a verb phrase. It typically follows the subject of the sentence or is used in imperative or interrogative forms. It can be conjugated according to the tense and subject, just like any other verb. For example, in the present tense, "Eu como fora," "Tu comes fora," "Ele/Ela/Você come fora," "Nós comemos fora," "Vós comeis fora," and "Eles/Elas/Vocês comem fora." The infinitive form "comer fora" is often used after modal verbs like "querer" (to want), "poder" (to be able to), or "gostar de" (to like).
Examples with Different Tenses
**Present Tense:** "Nós gostamos de comer fora aos domingos." (We like to eat out on Sundays.)
**Past Tense (Pretérito Perfeito):** "Ontem, eles comeram fora para celebrar." (Yesterday, they ate out to celebrate.)
**Future Tense (Futuro Simples):** "Amanhã, vou comer fora com os meus amigos." (Tomorrow, I will eat out with my friends.)
**Conditional Tense:** "Se tivéssemos mais tempo, comeríamos fora todos os dias." (If we had more time, we would eat out every day.)
Using with Other Verbs
"Comer fora" is frequently used with other verbs that express intention, desire, or possibility.
"Quero comer fora hoje à noite." (I want to eat out tonight.)
"Podemos comer fora se não quisermos cozinhar." (We can eat out if we don't want to cook.)
"Ela decidiu comer fora porque estava cansada." (She decided to eat out because she was tired.)
"Eles planeiam comer fora no novo restaurante italiano." (They plan to eat out at the new Italian restaurant.)
Questions and Invitations
It's also common to use "comer fora" when making suggestions or asking others about their dining preferences.
"Queres comer fora amanhã?" (Do you want to eat out tomorrow?)
"Onde vamos comer fora este fim de semana?" (Where are we going to eat out this weekend?)
"Que tal comer fora para almoçar?" (How about eating out for lunch?)

Eu gosto de comer fora com amigos.

Vamos comer fora para celebrar a boa notícia.

Não apetece cozinhar, vamos comer fora.

Everyday Conversations
"Comer fora" is a staple in casual conversations. You'll hear it constantly when friends are making plans for the weekend, colleagues are discussing lunch options, or families are deciding on dinner. For instance, someone might say, "Estou cansado, vamos comer fora hoje?" (I'm tired, shall we eat out today?). It's the go-to phrase when the alternative is cooking at home. It's also used when people are sharing their experiences: "Nós comemos fora ontem à noite e foi delicioso." (We ate out last night and it was delicious.)
Media and Entertainment
You'll encounter "comer fora" in Portuguese television shows, movies, and radio programs. Characters might discuss their favorite restaurants, complain about the cost of eating out, or make spontaneous decisions to "comer fora." For example, in a scene where characters are debating what to do, one might suggest, "Por que não vamos comer fora?" (Why don't we go eat out?). It's a natural part of dialogue that reflects real-life social interactions. Food blogs and travel guides in Portuguese will also frequently use this term when recommending places to dine.
Advertising and Marketing
Restaurants and food establishments often use "comer fora" in their advertising to encourage customers. Slogans might read, "Cansado de cozinhar? Venha comer fora connosco!" (Tired of cooking? Come eat out with us!). This highlights the convenience and pleasure associated with dining at their establishment. It's a direct appeal to the desire for a break from domestic chores and an invitation to enjoy a meal prepared by professionals.
Social Media and Blogs
Online, you'll see "comer fora" used in posts about dining experiences. People share photos of meals they've had at restaurants, often with captions like, "Adorei comer fora neste sítio novo!" (I loved eating out at this new place!). Food reviewers will use it to describe their visits, and influencers might use it to promote specific restaurants or dining trends. It's a common hashtag and a frequent topic of discussion in online communities related to food and lifestyle.

O programa de culinária mostrou como comer fora pode ser uma experiência cultural.

O anúncio do restaurante dizia: "Venha comer fora e relaxar!"

No meu blog, escrevi sobre as vantagens de comer fora em vez de cozinhar todos os dias.

Literal Translation
A common mistake for beginners is to interpret "comer fora" too literally as "to eat outside" in any context. While "comer fora" does mean to eat outside of the home, it specifically implies dining at a restaurant or establishment that serves food. Simply eating a sandwich on a park bench, if prepared at home, would not typically be described as "comer fora." Learners might mistakenly use it when they mean eating outdoors in a picnic setting, when a more direct description of the activity would be better.
Verb Conjugation Errors
When "comer fora" is used with another verb, such as in a sentence like "Eu quero comer fora," learners might incorrectly conjugate the second verb. For example, they might say "Eu quero comi fora" or "Eu quero come fora." The correct structure is to use the infinitive form of the verb "comer fora" after the main verb (e.g., querer, poder, gostar de). The phrase "comer fora" itself remains in its infinitive form in these constructions.
Overusing "Fora"
Sometimes, learners might try to use "fora" (outside) in other contexts related to eating, which might not be idiomatic. For instance, they might say "comer na rua" (eat on the street) when they mean "comer fora" at a food stall. While "comer na rua" is understandable, "comer fora" is the standard phrase for the general act of dining out. It's important to remember that "comer fora" is a fixed expression and "fora" isn't always interchangeable with "outside" in every eating-related context.
Confusing with "Sair para comer"
While "sair para comer" (to go out to eat) is very similar and often used interchangeably, "comer fora" is more concise and generally more common in everyday speech. Learners might overthink and use the longer phrase when "comer fora" would suffice, or vice versa. It's good to be aware of both, but "comer fora" is the direct idiomatic equivalent of "to eat out." Using "sair para comer" is not wrong, but "comer fora" is often preferred for its simplicity.

Errado: Eu quero comi fora.

Certo: Eu quero comer fora.

Errado: Nós comemos na rua para o almoço.

Mais idiomático: Nós fomos comer fora para o almoço.

Sair para comer
This phrase literally means "to go out to eat." It's very similar in meaning to "comer fora" and is often used interchangeably. The emphasis here is on the act of leaving one's home with the specific intention of eating a meal elsewhere. It's slightly more descriptive than "comer fora" as it highlights the movement involved. For example, "Vamos sair para comer uma pizza" (Let's go out to eat a pizza) is perfectly natural and conveys the same idea as "Vamos comer fora uma pizza." Both are common and widely understood.
Almoçar fora / Jantar fora
These are more specific variations that indicate the meal being eaten out. "Almoçar fora" means "to have lunch out," and "Jantar fora" means "to have dinner out." They are essentially "comer fora" applied to a particular mealtime. For instance, "Hoje vou almoçar fora com colegas de trabalho" (Today I'm going to have lunch out with colleagues) or "Preferimos jantar fora no nosso aniversário" (We prefer to have dinner out on our anniversary). These are very common and useful for specifying the meal.
Ir a um restaurante
This translates to "to go to a restaurant." It's a more direct and less idiomatic way of saying you are going to eat at a specific type of establishment. While "comer fora" covers all types of dining out, "ir a um restaurante" specifically refers to visiting a restaurant. For example, "Vamos ir a um restaurante novo que abriu na cidade" (Let's go to a new restaurant that opened in the city). It's less of a general phrase and more specific about the venue.
Comer em casa
This is the direct antonym of "comer fora," meaning "to eat at home." It's useful for contrast. For example, "Prefiro comer em casa porque é mais barato" (I prefer to eat at home because it's cheaper) directly contrasts with the idea of "comer fora." Understanding this opposite helps solidify the meaning of "comer fora."
Comparison Table
Portuguese Phrase English Translation Usage/Nuance
comer fora to eat out General, idiomatic, very common. Covers any meal eaten outside the home at an establishment.
sair para comer to go out to eat Similar to 'comer fora', emphasizes the action of leaving home. Also very common.
almoçar fora to have lunch out Specific to lunch.
jantar fora to have dinner out Specific to dinner.
ir a um restaurante to go to a restaurant Specific to visiting a restaurant. Less general than 'comer fora'.
comer em casa to eat at home The direct opposite of 'comer fora'.

Hoje vamos comer fora para almoçar.

Amanhã, saímos para comer uma mariscada.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

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Neutral

""

Informal

""

Child friendly

""

Slang

""

Fun Fact

The concept of 'eating out' is ancient, but the specific idiomatic phrase 'comer fora' solidified over time as Portuguese culture developed distinct dining practices separate from domestic meals. The use of 'fora' implies a departure from the norm of eating at home, highlighting the social and economic aspects of patronizing food establishments.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kəˈmeɾ ˈfɔɾə/
US /koʊˈmɛɾ ˈfɔɾə/
The primary stress in 'comer' falls on the second syllable ('mer'). In 'fora', the stress falls on the first syllable ('fo'). Thus, the phrase stress would typically emphasize 'mer' and 'fo'.
Rhymes With
dormir sentir partir abrir fugir agir sorrir morrer
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'c' as in 'cat'.
  • Not opening the 'o' sound sufficiently.
  • Pronouncing the final 'a' in 'fora' too strongly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The phrase itself is simple to understand in context. Reading comprehension becomes more challenging when 'comer fora' is embedded in complex sentences discussing economics, culture, or health.

Writing 2/5

Easy to use in basic sentences. Advanced usage requires understanding of grammatical structures like using the infinitive as a noun phrase or in subordinate clauses.

Speaking 1/5

Very easy to pronounce and use in everyday conversation. The core meaning is immediately apparent.

Listening 1/5

Highly frequent and used in various contexts, making it easy to recognize when listening.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

comer fora casa restaurante almoço jantar

Learn Next

sair para comer almoçar fora jantar fora comer em casa cozinhar

Advanced

gastronomia culinária hábitos alimentares orçamento experiência social

Grammar to Know

Verb Conjugation

The verb 'comer' needs to be conjugated according to the subject and tense. For example, 'Eu como', 'Tu comes', 'Ele come', 'Nós comemos', 'Vós comeis', 'Eles comem'.

Infinitive Phrases

When 'comer fora' follows verbs like 'querer', 'poder', 'gostar de', it remains in the infinitive form: 'Eu quero comer fora'.

Prepositions with Verbs

Some verbs require a preposition before the infinitive phrase, like 'gostar de comer fora' or 'decidir comer fora'.

Future Tense with 'ir'

The near future can be expressed using 'ir' + infinitive: 'Vou comer fora amanhã'.

Conditional Tense

The conditional tense is used for hypothetical situations: 'Se tivesse dinheiro, comeria fora todos os dias'.

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Examples by Level

1

Quero comer fora.

I want to eat out.

Simple present tense with the infinitive phrase.

2

Vamos comer fora.

Let's eat out.

Imperative form with the infinitive phrase.

3

Gosto de comer fora.

I like to eat out.

Verb 'gostar de' followed by the infinitive phrase.

4

Comer fora é bom.

Eating out is good.

The infinitive phrase used as a subject.

5

Hoje vou comer fora.

Today I will eat out.

Future tense with 'ir' + infinitive.

6

Não quero comer fora.

I don't want to eat out.

Negation with the infinitive phrase.

7

Onde comer fora?

Where to eat out?

Interrogative question.

8

Comemos fora ontem.

We ate out yesterday.

Past tense conjugation of 'comer'.

1

No fim de semana, gostamos de comer fora.

On the weekend, we like to eat out.

Present tense with 'gostar de' + infinitive phrase, indicating a habit.

2

Estou cansado, vamos comer fora hoje à noite.

I'm tired, let's eat out tonight.

Using the phrase as a suggestion after stating a reason.

3

Ela decidiu comer fora porque não queria cozinhar.

She decided to eat out because she didn't want to cook.

Past tense verb 'decidiu' followed by the infinitive phrase, with a causal clause.

4

O que achas de comer fora amanhã?

What do you think about eating out tomorrow?

Using 'o que achas de' followed by the infinitive phrase to make a suggestion.

5

Eles planeiam comer fora para celebrar o aniversário.

They plan to eat out to celebrate the birthday.

Verb 'planeiam' followed by the infinitive phrase, with a purpose clause.

6

Podemos comer fora se todos concordarem.

We can eat out if everyone agrees.

Modal verb 'podemos' followed by the infinitive phrase, with a conditional clause.

7

Prefiro comer em casa, mas às vezes gosto de comer fora.

I prefer to eat at home, but sometimes I like to eat out.

Contrast between 'comer em casa' and 'comer fora'.

8

Vamos almoçar fora hoje?

Shall we have lunch out today?

Specific mealtime variation 'almoçar fora'.

1

Temos a intenção de comer fora este fim de semana para experimentar o novo restaurante.

We intend to eat out this weekend to try the new restaurant.

Using 'ter a intenção de' followed by the infinitive phrase, with a purpose clause.

2

Depois de uma longa semana de trabalho, nada melhor do que comer fora.

After a long week of work, nothing is better than eating out.

Using the infinitive phrase as a noun phrase after 'nada melhor do que'.

3

Ela costuma comer fora durante a semana, mas aos domingos prefere cozinhar.

She usually eats out during the week, but on Sundays she prefers to cook.

Using 'costuma' (usually) with the infinitive phrase to describe a habit.

4

O custo de comer fora tem aumentado consideravelmente nos últimos anos.

The cost of eating out has increased considerably in recent years.

The infinitive phrase used as a noun phrase functioning as the subject.

5

Se o tempo estiver bom, poderíamos comer fora num piquenique.

If the weather is good, we could eat out at a picnic.

Conditional sentence structure with 'poderíamos' followed by the infinitive phrase.

6

O restaurante oferece um desconto especial para quem optar por comer fora.

The restaurant offers a special discount for those who choose to eat out.

Using the infinitive phrase after 'optar por'.

7

É uma ótima oportunidade para comer fora e socializar com os amigos.

It's a great opportunity to eat out and socialize with friends.

Using the infinitive phrase after 'oportunidade para'.

8

Decidimos jantar fora para comemorar o nosso aniversário de casamento.

We decided to have dinner out to celebrate our wedding anniversary.

Specific meal variation 'jantar fora' with a purpose clause.

1

A tendência de comer fora tem vindo a crescer, refletindo mudanças nos estilos de vida.

The trend of eating out has been growing, reflecting changes in lifestyles.

Using the infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, combined with the present perfect continuous tense.

2

Embora cozinhar em casa seja mais económico, a conveniência de comer fora é muitas vezes um fator decisivo.

Although cooking at home is more economical, the convenience of eating out is often a deciding factor.

Using the infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, contrasted with another activity.

3

O debate sobre os efeitos de comer fora na saúde pública continua a ser um tópico relevante.

The debate about the effects of eating out on public health continues to be a relevant topic.

The infinitive phrase used as a noun phrase, functioning as the object of a preposition.

4

Para quem tem uma agenda preenchida, comer fora pode ser uma solução prática.

For those with a busy schedule, eating out can be a practical solution.

Using the infinitive phrase as a subject, followed by 'pode ser'.

5

As redes sociais incentivam muitas vezes as pessoas a comer fora e a partilhar as suas experiências.

Social media often encourages people to eat out and share their experiences.

Verb 'incentivam' followed by the infinitive phrase and another infinitive phrase.

6

Comer fora regularmente pode ter implicações financeiras significativas, exigindo um planeamento cuidadoso do orçamento.

Eating out regularly can have significant financial implications, requiring careful budget planning.

The infinitive phrase as a subject, followed by a verb and a participial phrase.

7

A oferta de opções para comer fora tem diversificado imenso, abrangendo culinárias de todo o mundo.

The offering of options for eating out has diversified immensely, covering cuisines from around the world.

Using the infinitive phrase after a preposition 'para'.

8

A decisão de almoçar fora foi motivada pela falta de tempo para preparar uma refeição completa.

The decision to have lunch out was motivated by the lack of time to prepare a full meal.

Specific meal variation 'almoçar fora' used as a noun phrase.

1

A proliferação de serviços de entrega de comida transformou a dinâmica de comer fora, oferecendo uma alternativa conveniente.

The proliferation of food delivery services has transformed the dynamic of eating out, offering a convenient alternative.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, discussed in the context of modern services.

2

Para mitigar o impacto financeiro de comer fora com frequência, muitos optam por menus executivos ou promoções.

To mitigate the financial impact of eating out frequently, many opt for executive menus or promotions.

Using the infinitive phrase after a preposition 'de', with a purpose clause using 'para'.

3

A experiência de comer fora transcende a mera ingestão de alimentos, englobando aspetos sociais, culturais e sensoriais.

The experience of eating out transcends the mere ingestion of food, encompassing social, cultural, and sensory aspects.

The infinitive phrase used as a noun phrase, described with complex vocabulary.

4

A regulamentação da indústria alimentar visa garantir que comer fora seja uma prática segura e saudável para o consumidor.

The regulation of the food industry aims to ensure that eating out is a safe and healthy practice for the consumer.

Using the infinitive phrase as a subject, followed by 'seja' and descriptive adjectives.

5

O declínio na frequência de comer fora em certos segmentos da população pode ser atribuído a fatores económicos e a mudanças nas prioridades.

The decline in the frequency of eating out in certain population segments can be attributed to economic factors and shifts in priorities.

The infinitive phrase used as a noun phrase, functioning as the object of a preposition.

6

O conceito de 'slow food' incentiva uma apreciação mais profunda da origem dos alimentos, contrastando com a pressa muitas vezes associada a comer fora.

The concept of 'slow food' encourages a deeper appreciation of food origins, contrasting with the haste often associated with eating out.

The infinitive phrase used as a noun phrase, contrasted with another concept.

7

A gastronomia molecular revolucionou a forma de comer fora, introduzindo técnicas e apresentações inovadoras.

Molecular gastronomy has revolutionized the way of eating out, introducing innovative techniques and presentations.

Using the infinitive phrase after 'forma de'.

8

A decisão de almoçar fora em dias de semana tornou-se uma norma para muitos profissionais urbanos.

The decision to have lunch out on weekdays has become the norm for many urban professionals.

Specific meal variation 'almoçar fora' used as a noun phrase, indicating a common practice.

1

A reconfiguração do panorama urbano, com a proliferação de espaços gastronómicos, tem intensificado a prática de comer fora como um pilar da economia de lazer.

The reconfiguration of the urban landscape, with the proliferation of gastronomic spaces, has intensified the practice of eating out as a pillar of the leisure economy.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, integrated into a complex sentence discussing urban development and economy.

2

A substituição da culinária doméstica pela conveniência de comer fora levanta questões sobre a preservação de tradições alimentares e a identidade cultural.

The substitution of home cooking with the convenience of eating out raises questions about the preservation of food traditions and cultural identity.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, discussed in the context of cultural impact.

3

A indústria da restauração, ao fomentar a cultura de comer fora, desempenha um papel crucial na coesão social e na dinamização das comunidades.

The restaurant industry, by fostering the culture of eating out, plays a crucial role in social cohesion and community revitalization.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, analyzed for its societal role.

4

O imperativo de comer fora, impulsionado pela urbanização e pela evolução dos hábitos de consumo, exige uma reflexão sobre os seus impactos ambientais e nutricionais.

The imperative to eat out, driven by urbanization and the evolution of consumption habits, demands reflection on its environmental and nutritional impacts.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, discussed in relation to global trends and impacts.

5

A democratização do acesso a experiências gastronómicas, outrora reservadas a elites, tornou o ato de comer fora uma prática mais ubíqua e diversificada.

The democratization of access to gastronomic experiences, once reserved for elites, has made the act of eating out a more ubiquitous and diverse practice.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, discussed in terms of historical and social change.

6

O paradoxo de comer fora reside na dualidade entre a busca por prazer e conveniência e a potencial perda de controlo sobre a qualidade nutricional e o custo.

The paradox of eating out lies in the duality between the pursuit of pleasure and convenience and the potential loss of control over nutritional quality and cost.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, analyzed for its inherent contradictions.

7

A globalização da culinária transformou a paisagem do comer fora, introduzindo uma miríade de sabores e estilos que antes eram inacessíveis.

The globalization of cuisine has transformed the landscape of eating out, introducing a myriad of flavors and styles that were previously inaccessible.

The infinitive phrase as a noun phrase, discussed in the context of globalization.

8

A contínua evolução das plataformas digitais redefiniu a experiência de almoçar fora, desde a reserva até à partilha pós-refeição.

The continuous evolution of digital platforms has redefined the experience of having lunch out, from booking to post-meal sharing.

Specific meal variation 'almoçar fora' used as a noun phrase, analyzed in the context of technological impact.

Common Collocations

gosto de comer fora
quero comer fora
vamos comer fora
decidir comer fora
ter que comer fora
costumar comer fora
preferir comer fora
planejar comer fora
custo de comer fora
oportunidade de comer fora

Common Phrases

Vamos comer fora?

— This is a common way to suggest eating out. It's a direct and friendly invitation.

Está a chover e não apetece cozinhar. Vamos comer fora?

Gosto de comer fora.

— This expresses a liking or enjoyment of dining out. It's a simple statement of preference.

Gosto de comer fora para relaxar e experimentar novos pratos.

Tenho que comer fora hoje.

— This indicates a necessity or obligation to eat out, often due to circumstances like travel or lack of time to cook.

Viajo amanhã de manhã, por isso tenho que comer fora hoje à noite.

Não quero comer fora.

— This is the direct opposite, expressing a lack of desire to eat out, usually implying a preference for staying home and eating.

Estou muito cansado, não quero comer fora, prefiro comer em casa.

Onde vamos comer fora?

— This question is used when deciding where to go for a meal out. It implies that the decision to eat out has already been made.

Já decidimos comer fora, agora a questão é: onde vamos comer fora?

É caro comer fora.

— This phrase expresses the opinion that dining out is expensive.

É caro comer fora todos os dias, por isso cozinho mais em casa.

Amo comer fora!

— This is an enthusiastic expression of enjoyment for dining out.

Amo comer fora, especialmente quando há boa companhia e comida deliciosa!

Decidimos comer fora.

— This is a statement confirming that a decision has been made to eat out.

Estávamos indecisos, mas no final decidimos comer fora.

O que achas de comer fora?

— This is a polite way to suggest eating out and ask for someone's opinion.

O que achas de comer fora este fim de semana para mudar de ares?

Comer fora é uma delícia.

— This is a simple statement highlighting the pleasure of eating out.

Para mim, comer fora é uma delícia, especialmente quando não tenho que lavar a loiça!

Often Confused With

comer fora vs comer na rua

While 'comer fora' generally means eating out at an establishment, 'comer na rua' specifically refers to eating food purchased from street vendors or on the street itself. It's a more specific type of 'comer fora'.

comer fora vs comer em casa

This is the direct opposite of 'comer fora'. It means to eat at home, contrasting with the act of dining out.

comer fora vs comer à beira-mar

This means 'to eat by the sea'. It describes the location of eating, which could be at a seaside restaurant ('comer fora') or a picnic on the beach.

Idioms & Expressions

"Comer fora de pé"

— This idiom refers to eating quickly or standing up, often implying a rushed or informal meal, perhaps at a counter or while on the go. It's not about dining out in a restaurant, but about the manner of eating.

Ele estava com tanta pressa que teve de comer fora de pé na cozinha.

Informal
"Comer o pão que o diabo amassou"

— This idiom means to suffer greatly or go through a lot of hardship. It has no relation to 'comer fora' (eating out) but shares the verb 'comer'.

Depois de perder o emprego, ele teve de comer o pão que o diabo amassou.

Informal
"Comer com os olhos"

— This idiom means to appreciate the visual appeal of food, to find food very attractive to look at. It's about the presentation, not the act of eating out itself.

Aquele prato estava tão bem decorado que dava vontade de comer com os olhos.

Informal
"Comer e calar"

— This idiom means to accept something unpleasant or unfair without complaining, often implying that one should just endure it. It's about acceptance, not dining.

O chefe deu-nos mais trabalho sem aumentar o salário, tivemos de comer e calar.

Informal
"Comer areia"

— This idiom means to be deceived or tricked. It implies being fooled or misled.

Ele prometeu-me ajuda, mas no fim só me fez comer areia.

Informal
"Comer com a colher"

— This idiom means to eat a lot, to be very greedy or to consume something excessively. It focuses on the quantity consumed.

Aquele bolo estava tão bom que comi com a colher.

Informal
"Comer terreno"

— This idiom means to gain ground or make progress, often in a subtle or persistent way. It's used in contexts of competition or development.

O novo partido político está a comer terreno nas sondagens.

Informal
"Comer o tempo"

— This idiom means to waste time or for time to pass quickly. It's about the perception of time.

Quando estou a divertir-me, o tempo parece comer o tempo.

Informal
"Comer a paciência"

— This idiom means to lose patience or to become very annoyed. It describes a state of frustration.

As constantes interrupções estavam a comer a minha paciência.

Informal
"Comer a vida"

— This idiom means to live life to the fullest, to enjoy life intensely, or sometimes to consume resources rapidly.

Depois de se reformar, ele decidiu comer a vida e viajar pelo mundo.

Informal

Easily Confused

comer fora vs sair

'Sair' means 'to go out'. It's often used in conjunction with eating out, as in 'sair para comer'. However, 'comer fora' is a more direct and idiomatic phrase for the act of eating out itself.

'Sair' is a general verb for leaving a place. 'Comer fora' is specific to the activity of dining at an external establishment. You can 'sair' for many reasons, but you 'comer fora' specifically to eat.

Eu vou sair para ir ao cinema. (I'm going out to go to the cinema.) vs. Eu vou comer fora hoje à noite. (I'm going to eat out tonight.)

comer fora vs restaurante

'Restaurante' is a place where one 'come fora'. Learners might sometimes use the place name instead of the action, or confuse the general act of eating out with the specific venue.

'Restaurante' refers to the establishment itself, while 'comer fora' refers to the action of dining at such an establishment (or any other place that serves food outside the home).

Vamos a um restaurante. (Let's go to a restaurant.) vs. Vamos comer fora num restaurante. (Let's eat out at a restaurant.)

comer fora vs comida

'Comida' means 'food'. It's the object of eating, whether 'comer fora' or 'comer em casa'. Learners might misuse it in sentences about dining out.

'Comida' is the noun for food. 'Comer fora' is a verb phrase describing the action of eating outside the home. You eat 'comida' when you 'comer fora'.

Gosto da comida deste restaurante. (I like the food of this restaurant.) vs. Gosto de comer fora neste restaurante. (I like to eat out at this restaurant.)

comer fora vs forno

This is a phonetic confusion. 'Forno' means 'oven'. It sounds somewhat similar to 'fora' but has a completely different meaning and function.

'Fora' means 'outside' and is part of the idiomatic phrase 'comer fora'. 'Forno' means 'oven' and is used in contexts related to cooking or baking.

O pão está no forno. (The bread is in the oven.) vs. Vamos comer fora hoje. (Let's eat out today.)

comer fora vs almoçar / jantar

These verbs mean 'to have lunch' and 'to have dinner'. They are often combined with 'fora' ('almoçar fora', 'jantar fora'), making them very similar to the general phrase 'comer fora'.

'Comer fora' is a general term for eating out at any time of day. 'Almoçar fora' and 'jantar fora' specifically refer to having lunch or dinner out, respectively. They are more specific instances of 'comer fora'.

Vamos comer fora. (Let's eat out - could be lunch or dinner.) vs. Vamos almoçar fora. (Let's have lunch out.) vs. Vamos jantar fora. (Let's have dinner out.)

Sentence Patterns

A1

Eu + [verbo] + comer fora.

Eu quero comer fora.

A1

Vamos + comer fora.

Vamos comer fora hoje?

A2

[Sujeito] + [verbo no passado] + comer fora.

Nós comemos fora ontem.

A2

O que achas de + comer fora?

O que achas de comer fora no fim de semana?

B1

[Sujeito] + gostar de + comer fora.

Eles gostam de comer fora.

B1

[Sujeito] + ter que + comer fora.

Eu tenho que comer fora por causa do trabalho.

B2

A conveniência de + comer fora + [verbo].

A conveniência de comer fora é um grande atrativo.

C1

[Verbo] + a + comer fora.

A tendência de comer fora tem vindo a crescer.

Word Family

Nouns

comida food
comensal diner, guest

Verbs

comer to eat

Adjectives

comestível edible

Related

comer em casa to eat at home
comer na rua to eat on the street (often implies street food)
comer uma sanduíche to eat a sandwich
comer uma maçã to eat an apple
comer uma refeição to eat a meal
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How to Use It

frequency

Very High

Common Mistakes
  • Incorrectly conjugating 'comer' when 'comer fora' follows another verb. → Eu quero comer fora.

    When 'comer fora' follows verbs like 'querer', 'poder', 'gostar de', 'decidir', etc., the verb 'comer' stays in its infinitive form. The incorrect form would be 'Eu quero comi fora' or 'Eu quero come fora'.

  • Using 'comer fora' too literally for any outdoor eating. → Vamos fazer um piquenique no parque.

    'Comer fora' specifically implies eating at a commercial establishment (restaurant, cafe, etc.). Eating a sandwich you made at home on a park bench is not typically described as 'comer fora'. Use more descriptive phrases for such situations.

  • Confusing 'fora' with 'forno'. → Vamos comer fora hoje. O pão está no forno.

    These words sound similar but have entirely different meanings. 'Fora' means 'outside' and is part of the phrase 'comer fora'. 'Forno' means 'oven' and is related to cooking.

  • Overusing 'sair para comer' when 'comer fora' is more concise. → Vamos comer fora hoje à noite.

    While 'sair para comer' is correct and common, 'comer fora' is often more direct and idiomatic for the general act of eating out. Using the shorter phrase can make your speech sound more natural.

  • Not specifying the meal when it's important. → Vamos almoçar fora hoje.

    While 'comer fora' is general, using 'almoçar fora' (to have lunch out) or 'jantar fora' (to have dinner out) provides more specific information and sounds more natural when referring to a particular meal.

Tips

Think 'Outside the Home'

Remember that 'fora' means 'outside'. So, 'comer fora' is literally 'to eat outside', implying outside of your usual eating place, which is typically home. This helps solidify the core meaning.

Infinitive Always

When 'comer fora' follows another verb like 'querer', 'poder', 'gostar de', or 'decidir', it always stays in the infinitive form. Don't conjugate 'comer' in these cases. For example: 'Eu quero comer fora', not 'Eu quero comi fora'.

Social Aspect

Recognize that 'comer fora' often implies a social activity. People 'comem fora' not just for convenience but also to socialize, celebrate, or experience different environments.

Meal Specifics

While 'comer fora' is general, learn 'almoçar fora' (lunch out) and 'jantar fora' (dinner out) for more specific contexts. They are very common and add precision to your speech.

Open 'o' Sound

Pay attention to the open 'o' sound in both 'comer' and 'fora'. It's similar to the 'o' in the English word 'hot' or 'lot', not the 'o' in 'go'.

Daily Use

Try to use 'comer fora' in your daily Portuguese practice. Even if it's just to yourself, think about when you would 'comer fora' and form sentences. This active recall is key.

Home vs. Out

Always contrast 'comer fora' with its opposite, 'comer em casa' (to eat at home). This contrast helps reinforce the meaning and provides a useful pair of expressions.

Beyond Restaurants

Remember that 'comer fora' isn't limited to formal restaurants. It includes cafes, bistros, food stalls, and any place you purchase and consume food outside your residence.

'Sair para comer'

Be aware of 'sair para comer' (to go out to eat). It's a very common alternative and often used interchangeably with 'comer fora'.

Social Importance

Understand that dining out ('comer fora') is a significant social and cultural activity in Portuguese-speaking countries, often associated with celebrations and gatherings.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine you are 'eating' ('comer') your meal 'outside' ('fora') your house, perhaps in a park or at a restaurant patio. The word 'fora' sounds a bit like 'for our' - so you are eating 'for our' enjoyment, outside the home. Or, picture yourself 'coming' ('comer' sounds a bit like 'come') 'for' ('fora') a nice meal at a restaurant.

Visual Association

Picture a person happily leaving their house with a picnic basket, heading towards a bright, inviting restaurant. The contrast between the cozy house and the lively restaurant symbolizes the shift from eating at home to 'comer fora'. Alternatively, imagine a fork and knife placed outside a house symbol.

Word Web

Restaurant Cafe Lunch Dinner Meal Enjoyment Convenience Socializing

Challenge

Try to use 'comer fora' in at least three different sentences today, describing different scenarios: one where you want to eat out, one where you have to eat out, and one where you are suggesting it to someone else. Make sure to conjugate the verb 'comer' correctly if needed.

Word Origin

The Portuguese phrase 'comer fora' originates from the combination of the verb 'comer' (to eat) and the adverb 'fora' (outside). Unlike English 'eat out', which is a phrasal verb, 'comer fora' functions more as a set phrase or idiomatic expression in Portuguese, where 'fora' signifies an external location relative to the usual or default place of eating, which is typically home.

Original meaning: Literally: to eat outside.

Indo-European -> Italic -> Romance -> West Iberian -> Portuguese

Cultural Context

There are no particular sensitivities associated with the phrase 'comer fora'. It is a neutral and widely used expression. However, discussions about the cost of living might touch upon the expense of 'comer fora' versus 'comer em casa'.

In English-speaking cultures, 'eating out' also carries strong social and celebratory connotations, similar to 'comer fora' in Portuguese. The frequency and types of establishments may vary, but the core idea of dining outside the home for pleasure or convenience is universal.

Portuguese Fado houses often offer dinner ('jantar fora') along with traditional music, making 'comer fora' a cultural experience. The concept of 'tascas' (traditional, often small and informal Portuguese taverns) are prime examples of places where people 'comem fora' for authentic local dishes. Many Portuguese festivals and holidays involve communal meals, often including opportunities to 'comer fora' at temporary food stalls or local restaurants.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Making weekend plans

  • Vamos comer fora no sábado?
  • O que achas de comer fora?
  • Gosto de comer fora quando não tenho que cozinhar.

Discussing daily routines

  • Tenho que comer fora hoje porque estou em viagem.
  • Ela costuma comer fora durante a semana.
  • Prefiro comer em casa, mas às vezes gosto de comer fora.

Deciding on meals

  • Não quero comer fora, vamos pedir comida para casa.
  • Onde vamos comer fora?
  • Vamos almoçar fora hoje?

Talking about finances

  • É caro comer fora todos os dias.
  • O custo de comer fora tem aumentado.
  • Para poupar dinheiro, tento não comer fora muito frequentemente.

Expressing preferences

  • Amo comer fora!
  • Não gosto muito de comer fora.
  • Gosto mais de comer em casa, mas comer fora é uma boa opção às vezes.

Conversation Starters

"What's your favorite type of restaurant to 'comer fora' at?"

"Do you prefer to 'comer fora' during the week or on weekends?"

"If you could 'comer fora' anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?"

"What's the best meal you've ever had when you decided to 'comer fora'?"

"How often do you typically 'comer fora' in a month?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a memorable experience you had when you decided to 'comer fora'. What made it special?

Compare and contrast the benefits and drawbacks of 'comer fora' versus 'comer em casa'. Which do you prefer and why?

Imagine you have a friend visiting from another country. How would you explain the concept of 'comer fora' and suggest a place to go?

Reflect on your current habits. How often do you 'comer fora', and how does it impact your budget and your well-being?

Write a short story about a character who loves to 'comer fora' and discovers a hidden gem of a restaurant.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'comer fora' is a general term that includes any establishment serving food outside your home. This could be a cafe, a bistro, a food truck, or even a picnic where you buy food from a vendor. The key is that you are eating outside of your usual home environment.

Yes, absolutely. While 'almoçar fora' (to have lunch out) and 'jantar fora' (to have dinner out) are more common, 'comer fora' can encompass breakfast too. If you go to a cafe for breakfast, you are 'comendo fora'.

'Comer fora' is a more concise and idiomatic way to say 'to eat out'. 'Sair para comer' literally means 'to go out to eat' and emphasizes the action of leaving home with the intention of eating. They are often used interchangeably, but 'comer fora' is generally more common in everyday speech.

'Comer fora' is a neutral expression, widely used in both informal and semi-formal contexts. It's a fundamental phrase for daily conversation. More formal alternatives might exist, but 'comer fora' is the most common and natural choice for most situations.

'Comer fora' is a verb phrase. The verb 'comer' is conjugated according to the subject and tense (e.g., 'eu como', 'eles comeram'). The word 'fora' remains unchanged. When 'comer fora' follows another verb like 'querer' or 'gostar de', it stays in its infinitive form: 'Eu quero comer fora'.

The most direct opposite is 'comer em casa', which means 'to eat at home'. Another related opposite is 'cozinhar em casa' (to cook at home), which represents the alternative activity to eating out.

Yes, 'fora' is used with specific meal times like 'almoçar fora' (to have lunch out) and 'jantar fora' (to have dinner out). It signifies eating that specific meal outside the home.

The meaning of 'comer fora' is the same in both Portugal and Brazil. However, in Brazil, you might hear more informal variations or slang like 'bora comer fora!' which is a very casual invitation.

Common collocations include 'gosto de comer fora' (I like to eat out), 'quero comer fora' (I want to eat out), 'vamos comer fora' (let's eat out), 'decidir comer fora' (to decide to eat out), and 'ter que comer fora' (to have to eat out).

Try to incorporate it into your daily conversations. Make plans with friends to 'comer fora', describe your meals when you 'comer fora', or simply state your preference for 'comer fora' or 'comer em casa'.

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