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A2 adjective #5,000 most common 10 min read

constipado

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips constipado in 30 Seconds

Explanation constipado in your Level:

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

constipado in 30 Seconds

Constipado means having a cold or being constipated.
Context is key to understanding which meaning is intended.
Use with the verb 'estar' and ensure gender/number agreement.
Commonly heard in everyday conversations about health.

The Portuguese word "constipado" is a versatile adjective that can describe two quite different physical states, often causing a bit of confusion for learners. Primarily, it means to have a common cold, complete with symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and feeling unwell. In this sense, it's a very common term used in everyday conversation when someone is feeling under the weather. For instance, you might hear someone say, "Não posso ir à festa, estou constipado." (I can't go to the party, I have a cold.)

However, "constipado" also carries a secondary, and perhaps less pleasant, meaning: suffering from constipation. This usage relates to digestive issues and is also frequently used in informal and semi-formal contexts. The specific meaning is usually clear from the surrounding conversation or context. If someone mentions stomach discomfort or difficulty in going to the bathroom, "constipado" in that situation refers to digestive problems.

Understanding the context is crucial. If someone is talking about feeling achy, having a sore throat, or a cough, they are almost certainly referring to having a cold. If the conversation veers towards bodily functions or discomfort in the abdomen, the meaning shifts to constipation. This dual nature makes "constipado" an interesting word to learn, as it highlights how context dictates meaning in Portuguese.

Common Cold Symptoms: Runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, fever, general malaise.
Constipation Symptoms: Difficulty passing stools, infrequent bowel movements, feeling of incomplete evacuation, abdominal discomfort.

Eu estou um pouco constipado hoje, tenho tosse e espirros.

Translation: I am a bit constipated (have a cold) today, I have a cough and sneezes.

Ele não se sente bem, parece que está constipado.

Translation: He doesn't feel well, it seems he is constipated (has a cold).

General Usage: Used in everyday conversations, health-related discussions, and when describing personal well-being.
Contextual Clues: Mentions of fever, cough, sneezing, sore throat indicate a cold. Mentions of stomach pain, bowel movements, or digestive discomfort indicate constipation.

It's also worth noting that in some very informal contexts, especially in Portugal, "estar constipado" might be used more broadly to mean feeling generally unwell or out of sorts, even if the specific symptoms aren't clearly a cold or constipation. However, for learners, sticking to the two primary meanings is the safest approach.

Mastering "constipado" involves understanding its grammatical behavior and how it fits into various sentence structures. As an adjective, it agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies, though in its common usage, it refers to a person's state, so it usually agrees with the subject pronoun (eu, tu, ele/ela, nós, vocês, eles/elas).

When referring to having a common cold, "constipado" is typically used with the verb "estar" (to be), indicating a temporary state. For example:

Subject + Estar + Constipado (masculine singular): Eu estou constipado. (I am congested/have a cold.)
Subject + Estar + Constipada (feminine singular): Ela está constipada. (She is congested/has a cold.)
Subject + Estar + Constipados (masculine plural): Nós estamos constipados. (We are congested/have a cold.)
Subject + Estar + Constipadas (feminine plural): As meninas estão constipadas. (The girls are congested/have a cold.)

When referring to constipation, the structure is identical, but the context will clarify the meaning. For instance:

O médico perguntou se eu me sentia constipado.

Translation: The doctor asked if I felt constipated (referring to digestive issues).

You can also use "constipado" in descriptive sentences:

Describing a situation: Toda a gente na minha família está constipada esta semana.
Meaning: Everyone in my family has a cold this week.

Expressing concern: Tenho receio que o meu filho esteja constipado.
Meaning: I'm afraid my son has a cold.

In informal speech, you might hear variations or related phrases:

Ele anda constipado há dias.

Translation: He's been with a cold for days.

Using "constipado" correctly with "estar" and ensuring gender/number agreement will significantly improve your fluency when discussing health or personal discomfort.

The word "constipado" is a staple in Portuguese, heard in a wide variety of everyday situations. Its dual meaning means you'll encounter it in contexts related to personal well-being, from casual chats among friends to more formal medical consultations.

1. Casual Conversations Among Friends and Family: This is where "constipado" is most frequently heard. When someone isn't feeling their best, they'll often use this word to explain why they might be less energetic, or why they're staying home. For example, a friend might text you, "Não vou sair hoje, estou constipado." (I'm not going out today, I have a cold.) Or a parent might say to a child, "Se comeres gelado, ficas constipado!" (If you eat ice cream, you'll catch a cold!), though this is a common, albeit not entirely scientifically accurate, belief.

2. Doctor's Offices and Pharmacies: When visiting a healthcare professional or speaking with a pharmacist, "constipado" is a primary term used to describe symptoms. A doctor might ask, "Há quanto tempo se sente constipado?" (How long have you been feeling congested/having a cold?) or "Está a sentir-se constipado ou tem problemas intestinais?" (Are you feeling constipated [with a cold] or are you having bowel problems?), emphasizing the need for context.

3. Workplace and School Settings: Colleagues might discuss who is "constipado" and therefore working from home, or a teacher might notice a student who seems "constipado" and suggest they rest. "O João não veio hoje, acho que está constipado." (João didn't come today, I think he has a cold.)

4. Public Announcements and Health Advisories: During flu season, public health campaigns might use the term. You might hear public service announcements advising people to "evitar estar constipado" (avoid catching a cold) by practicing good hygiene.

5. Discussions about Diet and Lifestyle: In conversations about health and wellness, the topic of constipation might arise. Someone might say, "Tenho andado constipado ultimamente, preciso de comer mais fibras." (I've been constipated lately, I need to eat more fiber.)

A minha avó disse que nunca apanha constipações porque bebe sempre chá quente.

Translation: My grandmother said she never catches colds because she always drinks hot tea. (Here, "constipações" is the noun form of "constipado" referring to colds.)

The key takeaway is that "constipado" is a common, everyday word. Its meaning is overwhelmingly determined by the context, making active listening and contextual awareness paramount for language learners.

Learners of Portuguese often stumble over "constipado" due to its dual meaning. The most common mistake is assuming one meaning applies universally, leading to misunderstandings.

Mistake 1: Confusing the two meanings.

Incorrect Assumption: Assuming "constipado" always means having a cold, even when the context suggests otherwise.
Example of Misunderstanding: If someone says, "Estou constipado e não consigo ir à casa de banho," and you only understand "have a cold," you might miss the crucial information that they are also suffering from constipation.

Mistake 2: Grammatical Agreement Errors.

While "constipado" is an adjective, and thus should agree in gender and number, learners sometimes forget this, especially when referring to groups or when the subject is feminine.

Incorrect Usage: Using "constipado" for a feminine subject or a plural subject without changing the ending.
Example of Error: Saying "Nós está constipado" instead of "Nós estamos constipados" (masculine plural) or "Nós estamos constipadas" (feminine plural).
Correct Usage: Nós estamos constipados. (We have a cold - masculine/mixed group); Nós estamos constipadas. (We have a cold - feminine group)

Mistake 3: Overusing "constipado" for general unwellness.

While "constipado" can sometimes imply a general feeling of being unwell, relying on it for every minor ailment can be imprecise. There are other words for feeling sick.

Imprecise Usage: Using "constipado" for a headache or a minor stomach ache without specific cold or constipation symptoms.
More Precise Alternatives: "Estou indisposto/a" (I am unwell), "Tenho dor de cabeça" (I have a headache), "Sinto-me mal" (I feel sick).

By being aware of these common pitfalls, learners can use "constipado" more accurately and confidently.

While "constipado" is a frequently used word, Portuguese offers various alternatives and related terms that can express similar meanings, sometimes with more specificity or a different nuance.

For the meaning of 'having a common cold':

Term: Gripe (noun)
Usage: Refers specifically to the flu, which is generally more severe than a common cold. You would say "Estou com gripe" (I have the flu).
Comparison: "Constipado" is for a milder cold, while "gripe" implies a more serious illness with fever, body aches, and significant fatigue.

Term: Resfriado (noun)
Usage: This is a direct translation of "cold" and is often used interchangeably with "constipado" in some regions, especially Brazil. You would say "Estou com um resfriado" (I have a cold).
Comparison: "Resfriado" is a noun meaning "cold," whereas "constipado" is an adjective describing the state of having a cold. They are very close in meaning for this context.

Term: Indisposto/a (adjective)
Usage: Means "unwell" or "indisposed." It's a more general term.
Comparison: If you are "indisposto/a," you might be "constipado/a," but "indisposto/a" doesn't necessarily mean you have a cold; it could be any general feeling of sickness.

For the meaning of 'suffering from constipation':

Term: Obstipado/a (adjective)
Usage: This term is almost exclusively used for constipation and is more specific than "constipado" in this context. You would say "Estou obstipado/a."
Comparison: "Obstipado" is a more precise medical term for constipation. While "constipado" can mean constipated, "obstipado" leaves no room for ambiguity.

Term: Prisão de ventre (noun phrase)
Usage: Literally "prison of the belly," this is a very common and direct way to refer to constipation.
Comparison: This noun phrase is widely understood and often preferred in everyday conversation over the adjective "constipado" when specifically discussing bowel issues.

Eu tenho um resfriado, não uma gripe.

Translation: I have a cold, not the flu.

O meu filho está obstipado, o que devo fazer?

Translation: My son is constipated, what should I do?

Using these alternatives appropriately will help you communicate more clearly and precisely about health-related matters in Portuguese.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The evolution of 'constipare' from 'crowding together' to specifically mean 'having a cold' or 'being constipated' is fascinating. It highlights how the physical sensation of being 'stuffed up' or 'blocked' could be applied metaphorically to different bodily systems – the respiratory tract and the digestive tract.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kõs.tiˈpa.du/

US /kɔ̃s.tiˈpa.du/

The stress is on the second-to-last syllable: cons-ti-PA-do.

Rhymes With

amado cansado lado morado passado pequeno-almoço sufocado tristeza

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'õ' as a regular 'o'.
Incorrect stress placement.
Not softening the 'd' sound.
Pronouncing the final 'o' too strongly.
Confusing the meaning due to similar-sounding words.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word itself is A2 level, but its dual meaning requires careful contextual understanding. Learners might initially struggle to differentiate between having a cold and being constipated, especially in written texts where tone and non-verbal cues are absent.

Writing 3/5

Applying the correct gender and number agreement with 'estar' and choosing the right meaning based on context can be challenging for learners. Overuse or misuse can lead to awkward phrasing.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation and intonation can help convey the meaning, but learners need to be confident in using the word in the correct context to avoid miscommunication. The ambiguity can lead to funny or awkward situations if not handled carefully.

Listening 3/5

Listening comprehension is crucial. Learners need to tune into the surrounding conversation to determine whether 'constipado' refers to a cold or constipation. This skill develops with exposure to spoken Portuguese.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

estar ter nariz tosse febre dores garganta trabalhar sair comer

Learn Next

gripe resfriado obstipado prissão de ventre sintomas médico farmácia saudável

Advanced

infeção respiratória doença viral distúrbio digestivo etiopatogenia sintomatologia

Grammar to Know

Conjugation of 'Estar'

Eu estou, tu estás, ele/ela está, nós estamos, vocês estão, eles/elas estão. This is essential for using 'constipado' correctly as it describes a temporary state.

Gender and Number Agreement of Adjectives

O homem está constipado. A mulher está constipada. Os homens estão constipados. As mulheres estão constipadas.

Using 'Porque' (Because)

Não vou sair porque estou constipado.

Using 'Apesar de' (Despite)

Apesar de estar constipado, ele foi trabalhar.

Conditional Sentences (Se... então)

Se não te agasalhares, vais ficar constipado.

Examples by Level

Estou constipado.

I have a cold.

Masculine singular adjective agreement with 'eu'.

Ela está constipada.

She has a cold.

Feminine singular adjective agreement with 'ela'.

Não posso ir. Estou constipado.

I can't go. I have a cold.

Simple sentence structure with 'estar'.

O meu nariz está constipado.

My nose is blocked/stuffy.

Using 'constipado' to describe a body part's condition.

Estou constipado e com tosse.

I have a cold and a cough.

Combining symptoms.

Ele está constipado.

He has a cold.

Third-person singular masculine.

Nós estamos constipados.

We have a cold.

First-person plural agreement.

A Maria está constipada.

Maria has a cold.

Proper noun subject.

Não vou sair hoje porque estou constipado.

I'm not going out today because I have a cold.

Using 'porque' to explain the reason.

O meu irmão está constipado e tem febre.

My brother has a cold and has a fever.

Listing multiple symptoms.

Ela parece constipada, está sempre a espirrar.

She seems to have a cold, she is always sneezing.

Using 'parece' (seems) and describing a symptom.

Tenho receio de ficar constipado com este frio.

I'm afraid of catching a cold in this cold weather.

Expressing fear related to weather and illness.

O médico receitou-me algo porque estou muito constipado.

The doctor prescribed me something because I have a bad cold.

Connecting illness to medical treatment.

As crianças estão constipadas e não vão à escola.

The children have colds and are not going to school.

Plural subject and consequence.

O meu colega de trabalho está constipado e a tossir muito.

My work colleague has a cold and is coughing a lot.

Describing a colleague's condition.

Quando estou constipado, gosto de beber chá quente.

When I have a cold, I like to drink hot tea.

Linking a condition to a preference.

Apesar de estar constipado, ele decidiu ir trabalhar.

Despite having a cold, he decided to go to work.

Using 'apesar de' (despite) to show contrast.

Tenho passado os últimos dias constipado, com dor de garganta e nariz entupido.

I've been having a cold for the last few days, with a sore throat and a blocked nose.

Describing duration and specific symptoms.

Se continuares a sair à chuva sem casaco, vais ficar constipado.

If you keep going out in the rain without a coat, you'll catch a cold.

Conditional sentence about getting sick.

As farmácias estão cheias de gente constipada nesta altura do ano.

Pharmacies are full of people with colds at this time of year.

Describing a common scene during cold season.

Ele sentiu-se mal e admitiu que estava constipado, o que explicava o seu mau humor.

He felt unwell and admitted he had a cold, which explained his bad mood.

Connecting illness to mood and providing an explanation.

Toda a família apanhou uma constipação forte, todos estamos constipados.

The whole family caught a bad cold, we are all unwell.

Using the noun 'constipação' and adjective 'constipados'.

O médico perguntou se eu me sentia constipado ou se era algo mais sério.

The doctor asked if I felt congested/had a cold or if it was something more serious.

Doctor's inquiry distinguishing cold from other illnesses.

A minha avó costuma dizer que um chá forte resolve qualquer constipação.

My grandmother usually says that a strong tea cures any cold.

Proverbial or traditional remedy advice.

Apesar de se sentir constipado, ele insistiu em participar na reunião online.

Despite feeling unwell with a cold, he insisted on participating in the online meeting.

Using the reflexive 'sentir-se' and specifying 'online meeting'.

Os sintomas de constipação incluem geralmente congestão nasal, tosse e, por vezes, uma ligeira febre.

Symptoms of a cold generally include nasal congestion, cough, and sometimes a slight fever.

Listing typical symptoms in a descriptive manner.

É importante diferenciar uma constipação comum de uma gripe, pois os tratamentos podem variar.

It is important to differentiate a common cold from the flu, as treatments can vary.

Highlighting the importance of diagnosis.

Ele queixou-se de estar constipado e com dores no corpo, o que o impediu de dormir bem.

He complained of having a cold and body aches, which prevented him from sleeping well.

Using 'queixar-se' (to complain) and describing the impact on sleep.

As crianças que frequentam a creche têm maior probabilidade de ficar constipadas devido ao contacto próximo.

Children who attend daycare are more likely to catch colds due to close contact.

Discussing likelihood and contributing factors.

O médico recomendou repouso e muitos líquidos para quem se encontra constipado.

The doctor recommended rest and plenty of fluids for those who are feeling unwell with a cold.

Medical advice for a common cold.

A minha tia, que é muito preocupada com a saúde, evita locais com muita gente quando se sente constipada.

My aunt, who is very health-conscious, avoids crowded places when she feels she's catching a cold.

Describing preventative behavior.

Apesar de ter tomado medicação, ele continuava constipado e a sentir-se fraco.

Despite taking medication, he continued to have a cold and feel weak.

Showing the persistence of illness despite treatment.

Apesar de não apresentar febre alta, o doente queixava-se de estar persistentemente constipado, com uma tosse seca e irritante.

Although not presenting a high fever, the patient complained of being persistently congested, with a dry and irritating cough.

Using adverbs like 'persistentemente' and detailed symptom description.

É fundamental distinguir entre uma simples constipação e uma infeção respiratória mais grave, que pode exigir intervenção médica especializada.

It is fundamental to distinguish between a simple cold and a more serious respiratory infection, which may require specialized medical intervention.

Formal language, complex sentence structure, medical terminology.

O aumento da incidência de constipações durante o inverno é frequentemente atribuído à maior permanência em ambientes fechados e ao contacto mais próximo entre indivíduos.

The increase in the incidence of colds during winter is often attributed to spending more time indoors and closer contact between individuals.

Academic tone, discussing causes and trends.

O meu avô, um homem de hábitos rigorosos, acreditava firmemente que uma constipação podia ser combatida com uma dieta rica em vitaminas e repouso absoluto.

My grandfather, a man of strict habits, firmly believed that a cold could be fought with a diet rich in vitamins and absolute rest.

Describing beliefs and habits, formal vocabulary.

Mesmo sentindo-se constipado, ele recusou-se a faltar ao compromisso profissional, optando por trabalhar remotamente.

Even feeling unwell with a cold, he refused to miss the professional commitment, opting to work remotely.

Expressing refusal and alternative solutions.

As recomendações gerais para quem está constipado incluem manter-se hidratado, descansar o máximo possível e evitar a automedicação com antibióticos.

General recommendations for those with a cold include staying hydrated, resting as much as possible, and avoiding self-medication with antibiotics.

Formal recommendations, explicit warning against antibiotics.

A prevalência de sintomas semelhantes aos de uma constipação em algumas fases iniciais de doenças mais graves exige atenção médica cuidadosa.

The prevalence of cold-like symptoms in some early stages of more serious illnesses requires careful medical attention.

Discussing diagnostic challenges and the need for professional assessment.

Apesar de ter sido vacinado contra a gripe, ele contraiu uma constipação vulgar, o que o deixou frustrado.

Despite having been vaccinated against the flu, he caught a common cold, which left him frustrated.

Contrasting vaccination with catching a common cold.

A sintomatologia persistente, caracterizada por uma tosse seca e a sensação de estar perpetuamente constipado, levou à investigação de causas subjacentes menos comuns.

The persistent symptomatology, characterized by a dry cough and the feeling of being perpetually congested, led to the investigation of less common underlying causes.

Highly formal, complex vocabulary, abstract concepts.

A distinção nosológica entre uma constipação comum e quadros virais mais complexos, como a influenza, é crucial para a adequação terapêutica e a prevenção de complicações.

The nosological distinction between a common cold and more complex viral conditions, such as influenza, is crucial for therapeutic appropriateness and complication prevention.

Advanced medical terminology, abstract reasoning.

O fenómeno de sazonalidade das infeções respiratórias, incluindo as constipações, é multifacetado, envolvendo fatores ambientais, comportamentais e imunológicos.

The phenomenon of seasonality in respiratory infections, including colds, is multifaceted, involving environmental, behavioral, and immunological factors.

Scientific discourse, complex causal relationships.

Embora a perceção popular associe o frio a constipações, a etiopatogenia reside primariamente na exposição a agentes virais específicos, exacerbada por certas condições climáticas.

Although popular perception associates cold weather with catching colds, the etiopathogenesis lies primarily in exposure to specific viral agents, exacerbated by certain climatic conditions.

Discussing scientific etiology and popular misconceptions.

A recusa em admitir o estado de debilidade, mesmo sentindo-se visivelmente constipado, refletia uma determinação férrea em cumprir com as suas obrigações profissionais.

The refusal to admit a state of debility, even feeling visibly unwell with a cold, reflected an iron determination to fulfill his professional obligations.

Analyzing psychological aspects and motivations.

As diretrizes clínicas enfatizam a importância de não prescrever antibióticos para constipações, uma vez que estas são de origem viral e não bacteriana.

Clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of not prescribing antibiotics for colds, as these are viral in origin and not bacterial.

Formal clinical guidelines, scientific reasoning.

A comorbidade de outras patologias pode mascarar a sintomatologia típica de uma constipação, dificultando o diagnóstico diferencial e a gestão terapêutica.

The comorbidity of other pathologies can mask the typical symptomatology of a cold, complicating differential diagnosis and therapeutic management.

Complex medical concepts, advanced vocabulary.

O estudo comparativo da eficácia de diferentes antivirais no tratamento de constipações comuns revelou resultados inconclusivos, sugerindo a necessidade de mais investigação.

The comparative study of the efficacy of different antivirals in treating common colds revealed inconclusive results, suggesting the need for further investigation.

Scientific research reporting, nuanced conclusions.

Common Collocations

estar constipado

ficar constipado

sentir-se constipado

aparentar estar constipado

constipado e com tosse

nariz constipado

garganta constipada

estar constipado com febre

tratar a constipação

evitar ficar constipado

Common Phrases

Estou constipado.

— I have a cold. / I am constipated.

Estou constipado e não vou trabalhar hoje.

Fiquei constipado.

— I caught a cold. / I became constipated.

Fiquei constipado depois de me molhar na chuva.

Ele está constipado.

— He has a cold. / He is constipated.

Ele está constipado e a tossir muito.

Ela está constipada.

— She has a cold. / She is constipated.

Ela está constipada e com dor de garganta.

Estamos constipados.

— We have a cold. / We are constipated.

Estamos constipados e precisamos de descansar.

Nariz constipado.

— Stuffy nose / Blocked nose.

O meu nariz está constipado e não consigo respirar bem.

Dor de garganta e constipado.

— Sore throat and cold.

Tenho dor de garganta e estou constipado.

Constipado mas a ir trabalhar.

— Having a cold but going to work.

Ele está constipado mas a ir trabalhar porque é importante.

Parece constipado.

— Looks like he/she has a cold. / Looks like he/she is constipated.

Ele parece constipado, está pálido.

Não quero ficar constipado.

— I don't want to catch a cold. / I don't want to become constipated.

Não quero ficar constipado, vou vestir um casaco.

Often Confused With

constipado vs Gripe

'Gripe' specifically refers to the flu, which is generally more severe than a common cold. While 'constipado' can describe cold symptoms, 'gripe' implies a more serious illness with fever and body aches.

constipado vs Resfriado

'Resfriado' is a noun meaning 'cold' (illness) and is often used interchangeably with 'constipado' when referring to a common cold. 'Constipado' is the adjective form describing the state of having a cold.

constipado vs Obstipado

'Obstipado' is a more precise term for constipation. While 'constipado' can mean constipated, 'obstipado' leaves no room for ambiguity in digestive contexts.

Idioms & Expressions

"Estar constipado como um peixe"

— This idiom is not standard. While 'constipado' means having a cold, 'como um peixe' (like a fish) usually refers to swimming or being in water. The combination doesn't form a recognized idiom. It might be a misunderstanding or a very localized, non-standard expression.

Não há um uso idiomático comum para 'estar constipado como um peixe'.

non-standard

"Ter o nariz constipado"

— This is a direct way of saying 'to have a blocked nose' due to a cold. It's not idiomatic but a common descriptive phrase.

Tenho o nariz constipado e não consigo sentir o cheiro da comida.

neutral

"Constipação de verão"

— This refers to a cold-like illness that occurs during summer, often due to air conditioning or sudden temperature changes. It's a specific type of cold.

Ele apanhou uma constipação de verão por causa do ar condicionado.

informal

"Constipado até às orelhas"

— This phrase is not a standard idiom. It might be a creative or mistaken attempt to emphasize the severity of a cold, but it's not commonly recognized.

Não existe um uso idiomático comum para 'constipado até às orelhas'.

non-standard

"Ficar constipado de frio"

— To catch a cold due to being cold or exposed to cold temperatures. This is a common colloquial belief and expression.

Se não vestires o casaco, vais ficar constipado de frio.

informal

"Tratar a constipação com remédios da avó"

— To treat a cold using traditional home remedies passed down through generations.

Ela prefere tratar a constipação com remédios da avó, como chás e sopas.

informal

"Constipação e mau tempo"

— This phrase links the common occurrence of colds with bad weather, often implying that bad weather contributes to people catching colds.

Com este mau tempo, é normal que apareçam muitas constipações.

neutral

"Resolver uma constipação"

— To get over a cold, to recover from it.

Preciso de descansar para resolver esta constipação rapidamente.

neutral

"Apanhar uma constipação"

— To catch a cold. This is a very common way to express getting sick with a cold.

Ele apanhou uma constipação e teve que ficar em casa.

neutral

"Constipado até aos ossos"

— Similar to 'constipado até às orelhas', this is not a standard idiom and is likely a non-standard way to emphasize being very sick with a cold.

Não existe um uso idiomático comum para 'constipado até aos ossos'.

non-standard

Easily Confused

constipado vs Gripe

Both 'constipado' (referring to a cold) and 'gripe' refer to illnesses that make you feel unwell.

'Constipado' typically describes a milder common cold with symptoms like a runny nose and cough. 'Gripe' (flu) is usually more severe, often accompanied by high fever, body aches, and significant fatigue. You are 'constipado' when you have a cold, but you have 'gripe' when you have the flu.

Ele está constipado, mas a irmã dele tem gripe e está muito doente.

constipado vs Obstipado

Both 'constipado' and 'obstipado' can refer to constipation.

'Constipado' has a dual meaning: it can mean having a cold or being constipated. 'Obstipado' is a more specific and formal term that exclusively means constipated. If you want to be absolutely clear about digestive issues, 'obstipado' or the phrase 'prisão de ventre' are preferred over 'constipado'.

Estou constipado (tengo un resfriado). / Estou constipado (estoy estreñido) - this last one is less precise. It's better to say: Estou obstipado.

constipado vs Resfriado

'Resfriado' is a noun meaning 'cold' (illness), and 'constipado' is the adjective describing someone with a cold. They are closely related in meaning when referring to the common cold.

'Resfriado' is the noun for the illness itself (a cold), while 'constipado' is the adjective describing the person who has that cold. You can say 'Estou com um resfriado' (I have a cold) or 'Estou constipado' (I am congested/have a cold). They are often used interchangeably in the context of a cold.

Ele apanhou um resfriado e agora está constipado.

constipado vs Indisposto

Both 'constipado' (when referring to a cold) and 'indisposto' describe feeling unwell.

'Constipado' specifically refers to the symptoms of a common cold or constipation. 'Indisposto' is a more general term meaning 'unwell' or 'indisposed', which could encompass a cold, but also other ailments like fatigue, mild nausea, or a general feeling of being off.

Sinto-me indisposto hoje, talvez esteja a ficar constipado.

constipado vs Congestionado

'Congestionado' means 'congested', which is a primary symptom of having a cold.

'Congestionado' specifically describes the state of being blocked or filled up, usually referring to nasal passages ('nariz congestionado'). 'Constipado' is a broader term that encompasses congestion but also other cold symptoms like coughing and sneezing, or the entirely different meaning of constipation.

O meu nariz está muito congestionado por causa da constipação.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + Estar + Constipado/a.

Eu estou constipado.

Subject + Estar + Constipado/a + e + Symptom.

Ela está constipada e com tosse.

Subject + Ficar + Constipado/a.

Se não te agasalhares, vais ficar constipado.

Subject + Estar + Constipado/a + porque + Reason.

Não saio porque estou constipado.

Apesar de + Estar + Constipado/a, + Consequence.

Apesar de estar constipado, ele foi trabalhar.

Subject + Queixar-se + de + Estar + Constipado/a.

Ele queixa-se de estar constipado.

Subject + Continuar + Constipado/a + Despite + Action.

Continuou constipado apesar de tomar remédio.

O + Noun + (e.g., aumento) + de + Constipações + é + Adjective.

O aumento de constipações no inverno é comum.

Word Family

Nouns

constipação

Verbs

constipar

Adjectives

constipado/a/os/as

resfriado

gripe

obstipado

indisposto

mal-estar

How to Use It

frequency

Very high, used daily in relevant contexts.

Common Mistakes

Assuming 'constipado' always means 'having a cold'. → Always check the context. It can also mean 'constipated'.
Learners often fixate on the more common meaning of 'cold' and miss the second meaning of 'constipation', leading to misunderstandings.
Incorrect gender/number agreement. → Ensure the adjective matches the subject: 'constipado' (m.sg.), 'constipada' (f.sg.), 'constipados' (m.pl.), 'constipadas' (f.pl.).
Forgetting to change the ending of the adjective based on the subject is a common grammatical error for learners.
Using 'constipado' when 'gripe' is more appropriate. → Use 'gripe' for the flu, which is more severe than a common cold.
While 'constipado' can mean having a cold, 'gripe' specifically denotes influenza, a distinct and often more serious illness.
Using 'constipado' for general malaise instead of specific symptoms. → Use 'indisposto/a' for general unwellness; reserve 'constipado' for cold symptoms or constipation.
'Constipado' has specific meanings. Using it for any feeling of being unwell can be imprecise.
Confusing 'constipado' with 'obstipado' for constipation. → While 'constipado' can mean constipated, 'obstipado' is more specific and formal for this meaning.
To avoid ambiguity when discussing digestive issues, it's often better to use the more precise term 'obstipado' or the phrase 'prisão de ventre'.

Tips

Listen for Context

Always pay attention to the surrounding conversation. If symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or fever are mentioned, 'constipado' means having a cold. If the topic is digestion or bowel movements, it refers to constipation.

Agreement is Key

Remember that 'constipado' is an adjective. It must agree in gender and number with the subject. Use 'constipado' (m.sg.), 'constipada' (f.sg.), 'constipados' (m.pl.), 'constipadas' (f.pl.).

Know Your Synonyms

For a cold, 'resfriado' (noun) or 'gripe' (flu) are related. For constipation, 'obstipado' or 'prisão de ventre' are more specific alternatives.

Master the Nasal 'õ'

The 'õ' sound in the first syllable is important. Practice saying 'cons-ti-PA-do' with the stress on the 'pa' and a nasal sound at the beginning.

Don't Overgeneralize

While 'constipado' can imply general unwellness, it's best to use it for its specific meanings (cold or constipation) to avoid confusion. Use 'indisposto/a' for general malaise.

Visual Association

Imagine your nose 'stuffed up' like it's being 'pressed' (constipado) for a cold, and your bowels feeling 'tightly packed' (constipado) for constipation. The core idea is 'pressed together' or 'stuffed'.

Active Recall

When you encounter 'constipado', pause and actively try to determine its meaning based on context before checking. This reinforces learning.

Open Discussion

Discussing health issues like colds and constipation is common in Portuguese-speaking cultures. Don't be afraid to use the word, but ensure clarity through context.

Be Specific When Needed

In formal or medical settings, if you mean constipation, using 'obstipado' or 'prisão de ventre' is clearer than relying solely on 'constipado'.

Use it in Sentences

Try creating your own sentences using both meanings of 'constipado' and practice saying them aloud to build confidence.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

To remember the two meanings of 'constipado', think of two scenarios: 1) Your nose is 'stuffed up' like it's being 'pressed together' (constipado) with a cold. 2) Your bowels feel 'tightly packed' or 'pressed together' (constipado) when you're constipated. The core idea is 'pressed together' or 'stuffed up'.

Visual Association

Imagine a person with a very stuffy nose, looking like their head is 'pressed in' or 'stuffed full'. Then, imagine the same person looking uncomfortable because their stomach feels 'tightly packed'. The visual of 'pressed together' or 'stuffed' can link to both meanings.

Word Web

constipado cold stuffy nose cough sneezing constipation bowel movement digestive issue estar adjective symptoms health

Challenge

For the next week, whenever you hear or read the word 'constipado', pause and try to identify whether it refers to a cold or constipation. Write down the sentence and your guess, then verify it. This active listening will solidify the meaning and its contextual cues.

Word Origin

The word 'constipado' originates from the Latin word 'constipatus', which is the past participle of 'constipare'. 'Constipare' means 'to crowd together', 'to press tightly', or 'to cram'. This Latin root is related to both the idea of being 'crowded' or 'stuffed up' (like a blocked nose) and 'compressed' or 'tightened' (referring to a constricted bowel movement).

Original meaning: In Latin, 'constipatus' referred to something that was pressed together, packed tightly, or condensed. This physical sense of being 'stuffed' or 'blocked' is the root of its dual meaning in Portuguese.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Portuguese

Cultural Context

When discussing 'constipado' in the context of constipation, be mindful of the audience. While it's a common topic, some people might prefer more discreet language. However, in medical settings or among close acquaintances, directness is usually acceptable.

In English, we use 'cold' for the respiratory illness and 'constipated' for the digestive issue. The Portuguese word 'constipado' uniquely covers both, making context essential. English speakers might initially find this ambiguity confusing.

The common cold is a universally recognized ailment, often depicted in media as a nuisance that prevents people from participating in activities. Constipation is also a common health concern, discussed in medical contexts and sometimes humorously in popular culture. The phrase 'estar constipado' is frequently used in everyday Portuguese dialogue, making it a fundamental part of casual conversation about health.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Discussing personal health and well-being.

Estou constipado.
Fiquei constipado.
Como te sentes?
Estou um pouco indisposto/a.

Talking about symptoms and illnesses.

Tenho tosse e febre.
O meu nariz está constipado.
Estou constipado e com dor de garganta.
Quais são os sintomas?

Making plans or explaining absence.

Não posso ir hoje, estou constipado.
Vou ficar em casa porque estou constipado.
Talvez amanhã me sinta melhor.
Espero recuperar rápido.

Seeking or giving advice about health.

Devias descansar.
Bebe muita água.
Vai ao médico se piorar.
Tens de tomar este remédio.

Describing digestive issues (less common for 'constipado' alone, often with context or other words).

Estou com prisão de ventre.
Sinto-me constipado (digestively).
Preciso de ir à casa de banho.
O meu estômago dói.

Conversation Starters

"O tempo está a mudar, espero não ficar constipado."

"Ouvi dizer que há muitas constipações nesta altura do ano, estás bem?"

"O meu filho apanhou uma constipação, está em casa a descansar."

"Estou a sentir-me um pouco constipado, achas que é melhor ir ao médico?"

"Tenho andado com o nariz constipado, não consigo sentir os cheiros."

Journal Prompts

Descreve como te sentiste hoje. Usaste a palavra 'constipado'? Se sim, em que contexto?

Pensa numa vez em que ficaste constipado. Quais foram os teus sintomas e o que fizeste para melhorar?

Escreve um pequeno diálogo entre duas pessoas onde uma delas está constipada e a outra tenta adivinhar se é uma constipação ou um problema digestivo.

Imagina que és um médico a falar com um paciente que se queixa de estar constipado. Que perguntas farias para distinguir entre os dois significados?

Reflete sobre a importância do contexto na língua. Dá exemplos de outras palavras em português (ou na tua língua materna) que tenham múltiplos significados.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Constipado' generally refers to a common cold, which is usually milder and characterized by symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough. 'Gripe' (flu) is typically more severe, often involving high fever, body aches, significant fatigue, and sometimes respiratory complications. While both make you feel unwell, 'gripe' is a more serious illness.

No, 'constipado' has a dual meaning. It can mean having a cold or being constipated. The context of the conversation is crucial for determining the correct meaning. If the discussion is about illness symptoms like coughing or sneezing, it's a cold. If it's about digestion or bowel movements, it refers to constipation.

Pay close attention to the surrounding words and the overall topic. If the speaker mentions 'tosse' (cough), 'nariz a pingar' (runny nose), or 'febre' (fever), they likely mean 'cold'. If they talk about 'barriga' (belly), 'ir à casa de banho' (go to the bathroom), or 'dificuldade' (difficulty), they probably mean 'constipated'.

Yes, while 'constipado' can be used for constipation, the word 'obstipado' is more specific and often used in medical contexts. The noun phrase 'prisão de ventre' is also very common and clearly means constipation.

Yes, 'constipado' is an adjective and must agree in gender and number with the subject. If the subject is masculine singular, use 'constipado'. For feminine singular, use 'constipada'. For masculine or mixed plural, use 'constipados'. For feminine plural, use 'constipadas'.

Common symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, mild body aches, and sometimes a slight fever. The nose often feels 'constipado' (blocked or congested).

Symptoms include difficulty passing stools, infrequent bowel movements, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and abdominal discomfort or bloating. The digestive system feels 'constipado' (blocked or tight).

Yes, children can have colds ('estar constipado') and also experience constipation ('estar constipado' or more precisely 'estar obstipado' or 'ter prisão de ventre'). The context will indicate which meaning is intended.

Yes, 'constipado' is used in both Brazil and Portugal. While the specific nuances or frequency of use for each meaning might vary slightly, the dual meaning is understood in both countries. In Brazil, 'resfriado' is also very common for a cold.

Connect 'constipado' to the idea of being 'pressed together' or 'stuffed up'. A cold 'stuffs up' your nose and head, and constipation makes your bowels feel 'pressed together' or 'tightly packed'. Focus on the context to differentiate.