derretido in 30 Seconds
- Describes something that has melted due to heat.
- Common for ice, snow, chocolate, cheese, and butter.
- Must agree in gender and number with the noun.
- Can also be used figuratively for emotional states.
- Literal Meaning
- Describes a substance that has become liquid because of heat.
- Common Applications
- You will frequently encounter "derretido" when talking about food, especially sweets like chocolate or cheese. It's also used for ice, snow, and other solid materials that change state with temperature increases. In a more figurative sense, it can describe someone who is emotionally overcome or extremely affectionate, though this is less common at the A2 level and more typical of informal speech.
O chocolate ficou derretido no sol.
A manteiga está derretida porque deixei no fogão.
- Grammatical Note
- As an adjective, "derretido" must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. So, you can have "derretido" (masculine singular), "derretida" (feminine singular), "derretidos" (masculine plural), and "derretidas" (feminine plural).
Os sorvetes ficaram derretidos no carro.
A neve estava derretida na primavera.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- The most straightforward way to use "derretido" is to place it after the noun it modifies, often with a form of the verb "ser" (to be) or "estar" (to be) connecting them. For example, "O gelo está derretido." (The ice is melted.)
O queijo está derretido sobre a pizza.
- Agreement with Nouns
- Remember that "derretido" changes its ending to match the gender and number of the noun. For a feminine singular noun like "manteiga" (butter), you use "derretida": "A manteiga está derretida." For masculine plural nouns like "doces" (sweets), you use "derretidos": "Os doces ficaram derretidos." For feminine plural nouns like "neves" (snows, though less common in this context), you would use "derretidas.".
A vela já está derretida.
- Describing Situations
- You can use "derretido" to explain why something is in a liquid state. For instance, "O gelo derreteu porque estava muito quente." (The ice melted because it was very hot.) Here, "derreteu" is the verb, but it leads to the state described by the adjective "derretido."
O chocolate ficou derretido na panela.
- In the Kitchen
- This is perhaps the most common place to hear "derretido." When cooking or preparing food, people often talk about cheese that has melted on top of a dish, chocolate that has melted for a sauce or dessert, or butter that has been melted for baking. You might hear: "O queijo está bem derretido na lasanha." (The cheese is nicely melted on the lasagna.) Or, "Eu preciso de chocolate derretido para fazer o bolo." (I need melted chocolate to make the cake.)
A manteiga está derretida e pronta para usar.
- During Warmer Weather
- When the temperature rises, especially in spring and summer, "derretido" is used to describe melting ice and snow. A child might say, "Meu sorvete derreteu no calor!" (My ice cream melted in the heat!) or someone might observe, "A neve na montanha já está derretida." (The snow on the mountain is already melted.)
O gelo do copo está derretido.
- In Casual Conversations
- Beyond specific contexts, people use "derretido" in general conversation to describe anything that has melted. For instance, if you leave a candle in a warm place, you might say, "A vela ficou derretida." (The candle became melted.)
Os carros ficaram sujos com o gelo derretido.
- Incorrect Gender/Number Agreement
- The most frequent error is failing to make "derretido" agree with the noun it describes. Forgetting to change the ending to match the gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural) of the noun leads to grammatical inaccuracies. For example, saying "O queijo está derretido" is correct, but saying "A manteiga está derretido" is incorrect; it should be "A manteiga está derretida." Similarly, for plural nouns, "Os sorvetes estão derretidos" is correct, not "derretido.".
Mistake: O gelo está derretido (when referring to feminine plural ice, if such a concept existed).
Correct: O gelo está derretido (gelo is masculine singular).
Mistake: As neves estão derretido.
Correct: As neves estão derretidas.
- Confusing Verb and Adjective
- Sometimes, learners might confuse the adjective "derretido" with the past tense verb "derreteu" (melted). While related, they function differently. "Derreteu" is an action that happened, while "derretido" describes the state resulting from that action. For instance, instead of saying "O chocolate derreteu," which is correct (the chocolate melted), they might incorrectly try to use the adjective in place of the verb, or vice-versa in a way that doesn't fit the sentence structure.
Mistake: O chocolate está derreteu.
Correct: O chocolate está derretido.
Correct: O chocolate derreteu no sol.
- Overuse of Figurative Meaning
- At the A2 level, the primary meaning of "derretido" is literal (melted by heat). However, "derretido" can also be used informally to describe someone who is very affectionate, mushy, or emotionally overwhelmed (e.g., "Ele ficou derretido com o presente" - He melted with the gift). Learners might incorrectly apply this figurative meaning in situations where the literal meaning is intended, or vice versa, leading to confusion.
Mistake: A neve está derretida (meaning emotionally soft).
Correct: A neve está derretida (meaning it has melted).
Correct: O avô ficou derretido ao ver o neto.
- Verb "Derreter"
- The verb "derreter" itself means "to melt." While "derretido" describes the state, "derreter" describes the action. For example, "O gelo vai derreter." (The ice will melt.) This is not an adjective describing a current state but the process itself.
- "Líquido" (Liquid)
- "Líquido" is the general term for "liquid." While something "derretido" becomes "líquido," "líquido" doesn't necessarily imply it was previously solid and melted due to heat. For example, "água" (water) is always "líquida" at room temperature, but "gelo derretido" specifically refers to water that was ice. You might say, "A água está em estado líquido." (The water is in a liquid state.)
- "Fundido" (Molten)
- "Fundido" is a synonym for "derretido," often used for substances that melt at very high temperatures, like metals. While "derretido" is common for everyday items like chocolate or ice, "fundido" is more technical or industrial. For example, "metal fundido" (molten metal).
Comparisons:
O queijo está derretido.
O metal está fundido.
A água está líquida.
- Figurative Use: "Apaixonado" or "Emocionado"
- As mentioned, "derretido" can be used figuratively to mean overcome with emotion or affection. In such cases, "apaixonado" (in love) or "emocionado" (emotional, touched) might be more precise depending on the specific feeling. For instance, if someone is deeply in love, "apaixonado" is better than "derretido." If they are simply touched by a gesture, "emocionado" fits well.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
Interestingly, the Latin root *dētergere (to wipe away) shares a distant ancestor with the English word 'deterge,' meaning to cleanse or purify. The shift in meaning from 'wiping clean' to 'melting' is a fascinating example of semantic evolution, perhaps influenced by the visual of something being worn away and disappearing like a solid turning into liquid.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'rr' as a single, soft 'r' instead of a trilled 'r'.
- Pronouncing the final 'o' too strongly.
- Not stressing the correct syllable (the second one).
Difficulty Rating
At the A2 level, 'derretido' is generally encountered in simple, descriptive texts related to everyday topics like food and weather. The meaning is usually literal and straightforward, making it easy to comprehend in context. However, understanding the grammatical agreement can add a slight challenge.
Learners at this level can use 'derretido' in simple sentences, focusing on literal meanings. The main challenge is ensuring correct gender and number agreement with the noun. Figurative uses are typically avoided until higher levels.
Students can use 'derretido' in basic spoken descriptions. The key is to practice pronunciation and ensure correct agreement. Figurative uses might be understood but not actively produced.
'Derretido' is frequently heard in everyday conversations related to food and weather, making it relatively easy to recognize when spoken clearly, especially when context provides clues.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement (Gender and Number)
O queijo (masculine singular) está derretido. A manteiga (feminine singular) está derretida. Os sorvetes (masculine plural) estão derretidos. As velas (feminine plural) estão derretidas.
Use of 'Ser' and 'Estar' with Adjectives
'Estar' is commonly used to describe a temporary state resulting from an action (like melting): O gelo está derretido. 'Ser' can be used for more inherent qualities, but 'estar' is more frequent for states like 'melted'.
Past Participles as Adjectives
'Derretido' is the past participle of 'derreter' and functions as an adjective describing the result of the action of melting.
Verbs of Change of State ('Ficar')
'Ficar' can also be used to indicate a change of state: O chocolate ficou derretido.
Figurative Language
Adjectives describing physical states can be used metaphorically for emotional states: Ele ficou derretido com o gesto.
Examples by Level
O gelo derreteu.
The ice melted.
Simple past tense of 'derreter'.
Está calor.
It is hot.
Basic adjective for weather.
Chocolate bom.
Good chocolate.
Simple noun and adjective.
Sol quente.
Hot sun.
Simple noun and adjective.
Água fria.
Cold water.
Simple noun and adjective.
Neve branca.
White snow.
Simple noun and adjective.
Queijo.
Cheese.
Basic food item.
Manteiga.
Butter.
Basic food item.
O chocolate ficou derretido no sol.
The chocolate became melted in the sun.
Past participle used as an adjective. 'Derretido' agrees with 'chocolate' (masculine singular).
A manteiga está derretida porque a deixei no fogão.
The butter is melted because I left it on the stove.
'Derretida' agrees with 'manteiga' (feminine singular).
Os sorvetes ficaram derretidos no carro.
The ice creams became melted in the car.
'Derretidos' agrees with 'sorvetes' (masculine plural).
A neve já está derretida na primavera.
The snow is already melted in spring.
'Derretida' agrees with 'neve' (feminine singular).
O queijo está derretido sobre a torrada.
The cheese is melted on the toast.
'Derretido' agrees with 'queijo' (masculine singular).
A vela ficou derretida no calor.
The candle became melted in the heat.
'Derretida' agrees with 'vela' (feminine singular).
O gelo do copo está derretido.
The ice in the glass is melted.
'Derretido' agrees with 'gelo' (masculine singular).
O pão com manteiga derretida é delicioso.
Bread with melted butter is delicious.
'Derretida' modifies 'manteiga' (feminine singular).
Deixei o chocolate na cozinha e ele ficou completamente derretido.
I left the chocolate in the kitchen and it became completely melted.
Using 'ficou' with the past participle to describe a change of state. 'Derretido' agrees with 'chocolate'.
A paisagem estava coberta de neve, mas com o sol, a neve começou a ficar derretida.
The landscape was covered in snow, but with the sun, the snow started to become melted.
Describing a process of change using 'ficar' + past participle. 'Derretida' agrees with 'neve'.
No verão, o asfalto quente pode fazer com que o plástico fique derretido.
In summer, the hot asphalt can cause plastic to become melted.
Using 'fazer com que' to indicate causation. 'Derretido' agrees with 'plástico' (masculine singular).
Ele ficou tão derretido com o presente que chorou.
He became so melted (overcome with emotion) by the gift that he cried.
Figurative use of 'derretido' to mean emotionally touched. 'Derretido' agrees with 'ele'.
A culinária italiana usa muito queijo derretido em seus pratos.
Italian cuisine uses a lot of melted cheese in its dishes.
Describing a characteristic ingredient. 'Derretido' agrees with 'queijo'.
As estátuas de gelo estavam derretidas ao final da festa.
The ice sculptures were melted by the end of the party.
'Derretidas' agrees with 'estátuas' (feminine plural).
Ele é um pai tão derretido com os filhos.
He is such a melted (doting/affectionate) father with his children.
Figurative use describing affection. 'Derretido' agrees with 'pai'.
A manteiga derretida é essencial para fazer a massa folhada.
Melted butter is essential for making puff pastry.
Describing a required ingredient. 'Derretida' agrees with 'manteiga'.
A onda de calor fez com que o gelo dos polos começasse a ficar derretido em um ritmo alarmante.
The heatwave caused the ice at the poles to start becoming melted at an alarming rate.
More complex sentence structure with 'fazer com que' and 'em um ritmo alarmante'. 'Derretido' agrees with 'gelo'.
O chef utilizou chocolate belga derretido para criar a cobertura sedosa do bolo.
The chef used melted Belgian chocolate to create the silky coating for the cake.
Describing culinary technique. 'Derretido' agrees with 'chocolate'.
Ele é conhecido por ser um romântico incurável, sempre derretido por gestos de carinho.
He is known for being an incurable romantic, always melted (overwhelmed with affection) by gestures of affection.
Figurative use to describe extreme affection/sentimentality. 'Derretido' agrees with 'ele'.
A indústria metalúrgica lida com grandes quantidades de metal fundido, um processo diferente do simples chocolate derretido.
The metallurgical industry deals with large quantities of molten metal, a different process from simple melted chocolate.
Contrasting 'fundido' (molten metal) with 'derretido' (melted chocolate). Both adjectives agree with their respective nouns.
As crianças ficaram encantadas com a visão do queijo derretido borbulhando na pizza.
The children were enchanted by the sight of the melted cheese bubbling on the pizza.
Describing a sensory experience. 'Derretido' agrees with 'queijo'.
Mesmo em dias frios, a exposição prolongada ao sol pode deixar a superfície do carro derretida em certos materiais.
Even on cold days, prolonged sun exposure can leave the car's surface melted in certain materials.
More specific description of heat effects. 'Derretida' agrees with 'superfície' (feminine singular).
Ele tem um coração tão mole que qualquer elogio o deixa derretido.
He has such a soft heart that any compliment leaves him melted.
Idiomatic figurative use. 'Derretido' agrees with 'o' (referring to 'ele').
As esculturas de gelo para o evento foram preparadas com antecedência, mas o clima quente ameaçava deixá-las derretidas antes do tempo.
The ice sculptures for the event were prepared in advance, but the warm weather threatened to leave them melted ahead of time.
Using 'ameaçava deixá-las' to express a potential outcome. 'Derretidas' agrees with 'as' (referring to 'esculturas' - feminine plural).
A persistente onda de calor não apenas acelerou o derretimento das geleiras, mas também tornou o asfalto das estradas perigosamente derretido.
The persistent heatwave not only accelerated the melting of glaciers but also made the road asphalt dangerously melted.
Complex sentence structure, connecting environmental and infrastructural impacts. 'Derretido' agrees with 'asfalto'.
O chef argentino é famoso por sua técnica de usar chocolate temperado, que quando corretamente derretido, cria acabamentos impecáveis.
The Argentinian chef is famous for his tempering technique, which when correctly melted, creates impeccable finishes.
Referring to a specific culinary technique. 'Derretido' agrees with 'chocolate' (implied).
Ele é um pai tão protetor e carinhoso que, por vezes, sua ternura beira o excesso, deixando-o completamente derretido diante das necessidades dos filhos.
He is such a protective and caring father that, at times, his tenderness borders on excess, leaving him completely melted (overcome with emotion) by his children's needs.
Nuanced figurative use, exploring the edge of sentimentality. 'Derretido' agrees with 'deixando-o'.
A transição de um material sólido para um estado derretido ou fundido é um conceito fundamental em diversas áreas da ciência e engenharia.
The transition of a solid material to a melted or molten state is a fundamental concept in various fields of science and engineering.
Comparing 'derretido' and 'fundido' in a scientific context. Both adjectives agree with 'estado' (masculine singular).
O aroma do queijo derretido e borbulhante sobre a massa fresca evocava memórias de infância.
The aroma of the melted and bubbling cheese over the fresh pasta evoked childhood memories.
Sensory description with evocative language. 'Derretido' agrees with 'queijo'.
A arte contemporânea frequentemente explora a efemeridade, como esculturas de gelo derretidas que desaparecem com o tempo.
Contemporary art often explores ephemerality, such as melted ice sculptures that disappear over time.
Discussing art and its themes. 'Derretidas' agrees with 'esculturas'.
Sua capacidade de empatia é tão profunda que ele se sente derretido pela dor alheia, buscando sempre oferecer conforto.
His capacity for empathy is so profound that he feels melted (deeply affected) by the pain of others, always seeking to offer comfort.
Advanced figurative use describing emotional response. 'Derretido' agrees with 'ele'.
O processo de fabricação de vidro envolve aquecer areia até que ela se torne um líquido viscoso, quase derretido antes de ser moldado.
The glass manufacturing process involves heating sand until it becomes a viscous liquid, almost melted before being shaped.
Describing an industrial process. 'Derretido' agrees with 'líquido' (masculine singular).
A crise climática, com sua escalada de temperaturas, está transformando paisagens outrora imaculadas em vastos oceanos de gelo derretido, um testemunho sombrio da fragilidade do nosso planeta.
The climate crisis, with its escalating temperatures, is transforming once immaculate landscapes into vast oceans of melted ice, a grim testament to our planet's fragility.
Literary and impactful language. 'Derretido' agrees with 'gelo'.
O mestre chocolaterie, com um toque de genialidade, desmistificou a arte de trabalhar o cacau, explicando que o segredo reside em atingir a temperatura exata para que o chocolate fique perfeitamente derretido e maleável.
The master chocolatier, with a touch of genius, demystified the art of working with cocoa, explaining that the secret lies in reaching the exact temperature for the chocolate to become perfectly melted and malleable.
Highly specific and descriptive language related to a craft. 'Derretido' agrees with 'chocolate'.
Sua compaixão, embora genuína, por vezes o torna vulnerável, um homem cuja alma parece derretida por qualquer lampejo de sofrimento humano.
His compassion, though genuine, at times makes him vulnerable, a man whose soul seems melted (deeply moved) by any flicker of human suffering.
Poetic and profound figurative use. 'Derretida' agrees with 'alma' (feminine singular).
A distinção entre o estado derretido de substâncias comuns e o estado fundido de materiais refratários é crucial na engenharia de materiais.
The distinction between the melted state of common substances and the molten state of refractory materials is crucial in materials engineering.
Precise scientific terminology. 'Derretido' agrees with 'estado' (masculine singular), 'fundido' also agrees with 'estado'.
O perfume inebriante do queijo derretido sobre a polenta cremosa criava uma sinfonia de sabores que transportava os comensais para um estado de êxtase culinário.
The intoxicating aroma of the melted cheese over the creamy polenta created a symphony of flavors that transported diners to a state of culinary ecstasy.
Highly descriptive and evocative language, aiming for sensory immersion. 'Derretido' agrees with 'queijo'.
As efêmeras esculturas de gelo, antes de sucumbirem à gravidade e ao calor, representavam um diálogo silencioso entre a arte e a impermanência, cada gota de água derretida um lembrete da transitoriedade.
The ephemeral ice sculptures, before succumbing to gravity and heat, represented a silent dialogue between art and impermanence, each drop of melted water a reminder of transience.
Philosophical and artistic interpretation. 'Derretida' agrees with 'água' (feminine singular).
Sua psique, marcada por experiências passadas, o tornava um indivíduo cuja sensibilidade extrema o fazia sentir-se derretido por qualquer manifestação de vulnerabilidade em outros.
His psyche, marked by past experiences, made him an individual whose extreme sensitivity caused him to feel melted (profoundly affected) by any manifestation of vulnerability in others.
Psychological and deeply introspective figurative use. 'Derretido' agrees with 'sentir-se' (referring to 'o').
A fabricação artesanal de vidro requer um controle meticuloso da temperatura, garantindo que o silicato atinja um ponto derretido ideal, nem tão fluido que perca a forma, nem tão viscoso que impeça a moldagem.
Artisanal glass manufacturing requires meticulous temperature control, ensuring the silicate reaches an ideal melted point, neither so fluid that it loses shape, nor so viscous that it prevents molding.
Highly technical and descriptive language for a craft. 'Derretido' agrees with 'ponto' (masculine singular).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— The ice is melted. This is a common observation when ice turns into water.
Olha, o gelo do copo já está derretido.
— The chocolate melted. This describes the action of melting.
O chocolate derreteu no sol e fez uma bagunça.
— Melted cheese. Often used to describe toppings on food.
Eu gosto de pão com queijo derretido.
— The snow melted. Used to describe the end of winter or a warm spell.
Finalmente, a neve derreteu e podemos ver a grama.
— To become melted (literally) or to be overcome with emotion/affection (figuratively).
Ele ficou derretido quando viu o filhote.
— Melted butter. Essential in many recipes.
Preciso de manteiga derretida para fazer este bolo.
— Melted ice cream. A common problem on hot days.
Não demore para comer, o sorvete está derretido.
— A heart melted (figuratively), meaning feeling very emotional or affectionate.
Aquela história me deixou com o coração derretido.
— To be melted (literally) or to be very tired/exhausted from heat (colloquially).
Hoje o calor está tão forte que estou derretido.
Often Confused With
'Fundido' is similar to 'derretido' but is typically used for substances that melt at very high temperatures, like metals. While both mean 'melted' or 'molten,' 'derretido' is more common for everyday items like ice, chocolate, or butter.
'Líquido' simply means 'liquid.' Something that is 'derretido' becomes liquid, but 'líquido' doesn't specify the origin or process. For example, water is always liquid at room temperature, but melted ice is specifically water that was once solid.
'Dissolvido' means dissolved, which is the process of a solid mixing into a liquid to form a solution. Melting is a change of state due to heat, while dissolving is about mixing into another substance.
Idioms & Expressions
— To be overcome with emotion, affection, or tenderness, often in a sweet or mushy way. It implies a strong positive emotional reaction.
Ele é tão fofo que me faz ficar derretida.
Informal— A heart melted; used to describe someone feeling deeply touched, sentimental, or full of love and affection.
Aquela cena do filme me deixou com o coração derretido.
Informal— Literally 'melted from heat,' this idiom describes someone who is extremely hot and uncomfortable due to high temperatures, feeling weak or languid.
Não aguento mais esse calor, estou derretido!
Informal— To melt into tears; to start crying profusely, often due to sadness, joy, or being overwhelmed.
Ao receber a notícia, ela começou a derreter em lágrimas.
Informal/Literary— Literally 'to melt the face,' this is a very informal and often humorous expression to describe extreme heat making someone feel like their face is melting or they are losing composure due to the temperature.
Nossa, que sol! Estou sentindo a cara derretendo.
Very informal/Slang— To melt the ice; figuratively, it means to break the tension or awkwardness in a social situation, to make people feel more comfortable and friendly.
Ele contou uma piada para derreter o gelo na reunião.
Informal— To melt one's patience; to severely test someone's patience to the point of exhaustion.
As constantes interrupções estavam derretendo minha paciência.
Informal— Melted like wax; used to describe something that has completely liquefied due to heat, or figuratively, someone who is very weak or easily swayed.
Depois da maratona, ele estava derretido como cera.
Informal— To melt someone's heart; to make someone feel very tender, sympathetic, or loving towards you.
Aquele gesto de bondade conseguiu derreter o coração dela.
Informal— To melt resistance; to overcome opposition or reluctance through persuasion, charm, or by changing circumstances.
Com seus argumentos, ele conseguiu derreter a resistência do comitê.
InformalEasily Confused
Both describe a state of matter resulting from heat, transitioning from solid to liquid.
'Derretido' is generally used for everyday substances like ice, chocolate, butter, or cheese that melt at relatively low temperatures. 'Fundido' is typically used for materials that melt at much higher temperatures, such as metals, glass, or rock. Think of 'derretido' for your ice cream and 'fundido' for molten steel.
O sorvete ficou <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark> no sol, mas o metal na fábrica estava <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>fundido</mark>.
Something that is 'derretido' is in a liquid state.
'Líquido' is a general term for the state of matter. 'Derretido' specifically implies that the substance *was* solid and *became* liquid due to heat. For example, water is a 'líquido', but if it was ice and melted, it's 'gelo derretido'. You wouldn't say 'água derretida' unless you specifically meant water that used to be ice.
A água está <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>líquida</mark>, mas o gelo que derreteu está <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>.
Both describe a softening or change from a solid state.
'Amolecido' means softened. This is a state before or during the process of melting. 'Derretido' means it has fully transitioned into a liquid. Butter can be 'amolecida' at room temperature, but it's only 'derretida' when it becomes liquid. A hard candy might become 'amolecido' but not 'derretido'.
A manteiga estava <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>amolecida</mark>, mas ainda não estava <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretida</mark>.
Both describe states related to temperature changes.
'Congelado' means frozen, which is the transition from liquid to solid due to cold. 'Derretido' means melted, the transition from solid to liquid due to heat. They are opposite processes and states.
O sorvete estava <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>congelado</mark> quando comprei, mas ficou <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark> no caminho para casa.
Both involve solids changing form in relation to liquids.
'Derretido' refers to a change of state from solid to liquid caused by heat. 'Dissolvido' refers to a solid substance dispersing evenly into a liquid to form a solution, where the solid particles are no longer visible. Sugar 'dissolve' in water, while ice 'derrete' into water.
O sal <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>dissolveu</mark> na água, mas o gelo <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derreteu</mark> na mesa.
Sentence Patterns
Noun + está/ficou + derretido/a.
O gelo está <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>.
Adjective + Noun + está/ficou + derretido/a.
O <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark> chocolate estava delicioso.
Noun + derretido/a + está/ficou.
O queijo <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark> na pizza é bom.
Figurative: Ele/Ela ficou + derretido/a + com/por + Noun.
Ela ficou <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretida</mark> com o presente.
Noun + (verb) + derretido/a + em/por.
Ele é <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark> por animais.
Complex sentence with 'fazer com que' + Noun + fique + derretido/a.
O calor fez com que o sorvete ficasse <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>.
Figurative: Noun + ser + derretido/a + por.
Sua gentileza é capaz de derreter até o coração mais <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>.
Contrast with synonyms: Estado <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark> vs. estado <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>fundido</mark>.
O metal atingiu um estado <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>fundido</mark>, diferente do gelo <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High. Very common in everyday Portuguese.
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Incorrect adjective agreement.
→
O queijo está <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>. A manteiga está <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretida</mark>.
Forgetting to change the ending of 'derretido' to match the gender and number of the noun is a very common error. Always check the noun!
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Confusing 'derretido' (adjective) with 'derreteu' (verb).
→
O chocolate está <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>. (The chocolate is melted). O chocolate <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derreteu</mark>. (The chocolate melted).
'Derretido' describes the state, while 'derreteu' describes the action that happened in the past. They are not interchangeable in all sentence structures.
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Using 'derretido' for 'dissolved'.
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O sal <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>dissolveu</mark> na água. O gelo <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derreteu</mark>.
'Derretido' is specifically about melting due to heat. Dissolving is a different process where a solid breaks down and disperses in a liquid.
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Overusing the figurative meaning at a beginner level.
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O gelo está <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark>. (Literal). Ele ficou <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>derretido</mark> com o gesto. (Figurative).
For beginners, it's best to focus on the literal meaning. Applying the figurative sense of being emotionally touched too early can lead to confusion.
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Incorrect pronunciation of 'rr'.
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Pronounce the 'rr' in 'derretido' as a trilled 'r' (like in Spanish 'perro').
Pronouncing the 'rr' as a single, soft 'r' can change the word or make it sound unnatural. Focus on practicing the trilled 'r' sound.
Tips
Master Agreement
The most crucial aspect of using 'derretido' correctly is ensuring it agrees in gender and number with the noun. Always ask yourself: Is the noun masculine or feminine? Singular or plural? Then choose the correct ending: -o, -a, -os, or -as.
Think Literal First
At the A2 level, focus on the literal meaning of 'derretido' (melted by heat). Think of common things that melt: ice cream, butter, chocolate, snow. This will help you build a strong foundation before exploring figurative uses.
Roll Your R's!
The 'rr' in 'derretido' is a trilled 'r'. Practice this sound! It's important for clear pronunciation. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate the sound.
Visual Associations
Create vivid mental images. Imagine a chocolate bar melting into a puddle under a hot sun. The stronger the visual, the easier it will be to recall the word 'derretido'.
Sentence Building
Write your own sentences using 'derretido' with different nouns. Describe your breakfast, the weather, or a favorite dessert. This active recall is essential for learning.
Food Glorious Food
Portuguese cuisine often features melted ingredients. Think about dishes like pizza, fondue, or pastries. Understanding these culinary contexts will help you appreciate and use 'derretido' more naturally.
Derretido vs. Fundido
Remember that 'derretido' is for common melting (ice, chocolate), while 'fundido' is for high-temperature melting (metals). This distinction will help you choose the right word.
Emotional Nuances
When you encounter the figurative use ('ficar derretido'), understand it as being deeply touched, affectionate, or overcome with positive emotion. It's like your heart 'melts'.
Regular Revision
Revisit the word 'derretido' and its uses regularly. Use flashcards, review example sentences, and try to use it in conversation whenever possible to solidify your understanding.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'de-RRE-ti-do' sounding like 'de-RED-e-do'. Imagine a red object, like a red crayon, being 'red-e-do' (melted) under the sun. The strong 'rr' sound can also remind you of the intense heat causing the melting.
Visual Association
Picture a bright yellow sun with rays pointing down at a chocolate bar, causing it to ooze and become a puddle. The word "derretido" is written in the puddle.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe five different things you see in your kitchen that could become 'derretido' if left out or heated. Write a simple sentence for each, ensuring correct agreement.
Word Origin
The word "derretido" comes from the Portuguese verb "derreter," which means "to melt." This verb, in turn, has Latin origins. It traces back to the Vulgar Latin verb *dēretere, which itself is derived from the classical Latin verb *dētergere, meaning "to wipe away" or "to clean off." Over time, the meaning shifted from 'wiping away' to 'dissolving' or 'melting,' likely through the idea of something being worn away or disappearing.
Original meaning: Originally related to 'wiping away' or 'cleaning off' from Latin *dētergere.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Portuguese.Cultural Context
The literal meaning of 'derretido' is neutral. The figurative use of 'derretido' for emotional states can be positive (affection, tenderness) or sometimes slightly negative if it implies being overly sentimental or losing composure. Context is key.
In English, we use 'melted' for similar contexts. The concept is universal, but the grammatical agreement in Portuguese adds an extra layer of complexity for learners.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Kitchen/Food preparation
- chocolate derretido
- queijo derretido
- manteiga derretida
- o queijo está derretido
- a manteiga derreteu
Weather/Seasons
- gelo derretido
- neve derretida
- o sol faz derreter
- está derretido de calor
Everyday objects
- vela derretida
- plástico derretido
Figurative/Emotional
- coração derretido
- ficar derretido
- derretido de amor
Industrial/Scientific (less common at A2)
- metal derretido
- substância derretida
Conversation Starters
"What's your favorite food with melted cheese?"
"Have you ever left chocolate in the sun and had it melt?"
"What's the weather like today? Is anything melting?"
"Do you like hot or cold drinks better? Why?"
"Tell me about a time you felt very emotional or 'melted' by something."
Journal Prompts
Describe a delicious meal where a key ingredient was melted.
Imagine a world where everything melts easily. What would it be like?
Write about a time you felt very hot and uncomfortable. How did you feel?
What does it mean to have a 'melted heart' or 'derretido' in an emotional sense?
Describe the process of ice melting into water. Use the word 'derretido'.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe literal meaning of 'derretido' is 'melted.' It describes something that has changed from a solid state to a liquid state because of heat. Common examples include melted ice, chocolate, cheese, or butter.
Yes, as an adjective, 'derretido' must agree in gender and number with the noun it describes. So, you have 'derretido' (masculine singular), 'derretida' (feminine singular), 'derretidos' (masculine plural), and 'derretidas' (feminine plural).
Yes. It can be used for snow, candles, certain plastics exposed to heat, and even metals in industrial contexts (though 'fundido' is more common for metals). It can also be used figuratively to describe emotional states.
'Derretido' is generally used for everyday items that melt at lower temperatures (like chocolate or ice). 'Fundido' is typically used for materials that melt at very high temperatures, like metals or glass.
Yes, in informal contexts, 'derretido' can describe someone who is overcome with emotion, affection, or tenderness, like 'ficar derretido com um gesto' (to be touched by a gesture).
The verb is 'derreter.' So, 'o gelo derreteu' means 'the ice melted.' 'Derretido' is the adjective form describing the state of being melted.
No, 'derretido' specifically refers to melting due to heat. For sugar dissolving in water, you would use the verb 'dissolver' (to dissolve), and the adjective would be 'dissolvido'.
You might say 'A neve já está derretida' (The snow is already melted) in the spring, or 'O gelo do copo está derretido' (The ice in the glass is melted).
Yes, 'derretido' is a very common word in Portuguese, used frequently in everyday conversations about food, weather, and sometimes emotions.
Practice by describing foods that are served melted (like pizza or fondue), things that melt in the sun, or by using it figuratively in simple sentences about feelings. Focus on getting the adjective agreement correct.
Test Yourself 10 questions
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Summary
"Derretido" means melted and describes the state of something that has turned from solid to liquid due to heat. Remember to match its ending to the noun it describes (derretido, derretida, derretidos, derretidas).
- Describes something that has melted due to heat.
- Common for ice, snow, chocolate, cheese, and butter.
- Must agree in gender and number with the noun.
- Can also be used figuratively for emotional states.
Master Agreement
The most crucial aspect of using 'derretido' correctly is ensuring it agrees in gender and number with the noun. Always ask yourself: Is the noun masculine or feminine? Singular or plural? Then choose the correct ending: -o, -a, -os, or -as.
Think Literal First
At the A2 level, focus on the literal meaning of 'derretido' (melted by heat). Think of common things that melt: ice cream, butter, chocolate, snow. This will help you build a strong foundation before exploring figurative uses.
Roll Your R's!
The 'rr' in 'derretido' is a trilled 'r'. Practice this sound! It's important for clear pronunciation. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate the sound.
Context is Key
While 'derretido' can be used figuratively, its primary use is literal. Pay attention to the context to understand if someone is talking about actual melting or an emotional state. For A2 learners, stick to literal examples first.
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