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A1 verb #3,500 most common 17 min read

Divertir-se

Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Divertir-se in 30 Seconds

Explanation Divertir-se in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners encounter 'divertir-se' as one of their first reflexive verbs. The focus is on the most common and immediate use: expressing that you or someone else is having a good time. A1 learners should concentrate on the present tense and the imperative. You will learn to say 'Eu me divirto' (I have fun) and the very important social phrase 'Divirta-se!' (Have fun!). The concept of a reflexive verb—where the action comes back to the subject—is a major milestone at this level. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just remember that the 'me/se' is part of the word when you want to talk about having fun. You will use it to describe simple activities like going to the beach, a party, or playing with friends. It's a high-energy, positive word that helps you build basic social connections. At this stage, the goal is simply to recognize the word and use it in its simplest forms. You might also learn it alongside other basic verbs like 'gostar' (to like) and 'jogar' (to play). By the end of A1, you should be able to tell someone you had fun at an event using the simple past: 'Eu me diverti.' This allows you to participate in basic conversations about your day and your feelings.

As an A2 learner, you will expand your use of 'divertir-se' to include more tenses and more specific contexts. You will start using the Pretérito Imperfeito ('Eu me divertia') to talk about things you used to enjoy in the past, such as childhood hobbies or previous vacations. You will also begin to navigate the differences between Brazilian and European pronoun placement more consciously, even if you don't always get it right. At this level, you should be able to combine 'divertir-se' with other verbs, such as 'Eu quero me divertir' or 'Nós vamos nos divertir.' You will also start using the verb with prepositions like 'com' (with) to specify who you are having fun with or what you are using to have fun. Your sentences will become longer and more descriptive. For example, instead of just 'Eu me diverti,' you might say 'Eu me diverti muito com meus amigos no show de ontem.' You are also learning to use the plural imperative 'Divirtam-se!' when addressing a group. This level is about building confidence with the reflexive structure and starting to use the verb in more varied social scenarios, such as describing a weekend trip or a holiday.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'divertir-se' with greater grammatical accuracy, especially regarding the 'attraction' rules for pronouns. You should know that 'não,' 'que,' and 'quem' pull the pronoun before the verb ('Não me diverti,' 'Espero que você se divirta'). You will also begin to use the subjunctive mood with this verb to express wishes, doubts, and possibilities. For instance, 'É importante que todos se divirtam' (It is important that everyone has fun). This adds a layer of sophistication to your speech. You will also start to distinguish 'divertir-se' from its synonyms like 'aproveitar,' 'curtir,' and 'entreter-se' based on the specific context. Your vocabulary is growing, allowing you to describe not just *that* you had fun, but *how* and *why*. You might use the verb in more complex sentence structures, such as 'Apesar da chuva, nós nos divertimos imenso.' At B1, you are also becoming more aware of regional slang, such as the Brazilian 'curtir,' and you can use it appropriately in informal settings. You can now engage in longer discussions about leisure activities and the importance of having fun in life, using 'divertir-se' as a core part of your expressive toolkit.

At the B2 level, 'divertir-se' is used fluently and automatically. You no longer struggle with pronoun placement or stem changes. You can use the verb in all tenses, including the conditional ('Eu me divertiria se tivesse tempo') and the more advanced subjunctive forms. You are also comfortable using the verb in more abstract or metaphorical ways. You might describe a book or a movie as 'divertido' (the adjective form) and explain why it was effective. You can participate in debates about the balance between work and fun, using the verb to express nuanced opinions. At this stage, you are also familiar with various idioms and common phrases involving 'divertir-se.' You can switch between formal and informal registers with ease, knowing when to use 'divertir-se' and when to opt for a more colloquial term like 'dar uma farra' or a more formal one like 'recrear-se.' Your listening skills are sharp enough to catch the verb even in fast-paced, slang-heavy conversations or in different regional accents. You might also start to notice the use of the verb in literature or journalism, where it might be used to describe social trends or cultural phenomena. B2 is about mastery of the verb's mechanics and a deep understanding of its social and cultural weight.

By C1, your use of 'divertir-se' is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker. You use it with perfect precision, even in the most complex grammatical constructions. You can use it in the 'infinitivo pessoal' (personal infinitive), such as 'Para nos divertirmos, precisamos de música,' which is a hallmark of advanced Portuguese. You have a deep appreciation for the subtle differences between 'divertir-se' and its high-register synonyms like 'deleitar-se' or 'regozijar-se.' You can use the verb to discuss complex psychological or sociological topics, such as the role of amusement in human development or the commercialization of fun in modern society. Your writing is rich with varied vocabulary, and you use 'divertir-se' sparingly, opting for more specific verbs when they better suit the context. You are also fully aware of the historical etymology of the word and how its meaning has evolved over time. In conversation, you can use the verb to be sarcastic, ironic, or deeply sincere, depending on your tone and the social situation. You are a master of the reflexive system and can navigate the most subtle rules of pronoun placement without a second thought. At C1, the verb is just one small part of a vast and flexible linguistic repertoire.

At the C2 level, you have a complete, near-native command of 'divertir-se' and the entire semantic field of fun and enjoyment. You can use the verb in any context, from the most informal slang to the most rigorous academic or literary prose. You understand the deepest cultural nuances associated with the word in different Portuguese-speaking countries—from the 'alegria' of Brazil to the 'festa' of Portugal. You can play with the language, creating puns or using the verb in creative, non-standard ways for stylistic effect. You are capable of analyzing the use of the verb in classical literature or contemporary media with a critical eye. For you, the verb is not just a tool for communication but a medium for artistic and intellectual expression. You can effortlessly switch between dialects, adopting the pronoun placement and vocabulary of a specific region if you choose. You are also a resource for other learners, able to explain the most minute details of the verb's usage and history. At this level, 'divertir-se' is fully integrated into your identity as a speaker of Portuguese, allowing you to express the full range of human joy and entertainment with absolute clarity and sophistication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Divertir-se in 30 Seconds

Divertir-se is the primary Portuguese verb for 'to have fun' or 'to enjoy oneself,' always requiring a reflexive pronoun that matches the subject.
It is a third-conjugation verb (-ir) with a stem change in the first-person singular present tense: 'eu me divirto' instead of 'deverto'.
The verb is used in almost all social contexts, and 'Divirta-se!' is the standard way to wish someone a good time.
Grammatically, the placement of the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos) varies between Brazil and Portugal, and is affected by negative words.

The Portuguese verb divertir-se is a fundamental pillar of social interaction and personal well-being in Lusophone cultures. At its core, it translates to 'to have fun' or 'to enjoy oneself.' However, unlike the English 'to have fun,' which uses a noun (fun) with a verb (have), the Portuguese equivalent is a pronominal (reflexive) verb. This means the action of 'diverting' is reflected back onto the subject. When you say 'Eu me divirto,' you are literally saying 'I amuse myself.' This linguistic structure emphasizes the personal experience of joy and entertainment. It is used in almost every social context imaginable, from a child playing with blocks to an adult attending a sophisticated gala. It captures the essence of leisure, pleasure, and the positive expenditure of time. In Brazil, you will frequently hear it with the pronoun before the verb ('se divertir'), whereas in Portugal, the pronoun often follows the verb with a hyphen ('divertir-se'). Understanding this verb is essential for any beginner because it allows you to express your emotional state during activities and ask others about their experiences.

Grammatical Essence: Divertir-se is a pronominal verb of the third conjugation (ending in -ir). The reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) must change to match the subject of the sentence.

Espero que vocês consigam divertir-se bastante durante as férias de verão na Bahia.

The word carries a vibrant energy. It is not just about a lack of boredom; it is about active engagement in something pleasurable. Whether it is a hobby, a conversation, or a physical activity, 'divertir-se' implies that the participant is deriving genuine satisfaction from the moment. It is also a very common way to wish someone well. Just as an English speaker might say 'Have a good time!', a Portuguese speaker will say 'Divirta-se!' (singular) or 'Divirtam-se!' (plural). This imperative use is ubiquitous at the start of parties, movies, or trips. The versatility of the word allows it to be used for both high-energy activities like dancing and low-energy activities like reading a good book. It is the universal label for 'good times' in the Portuguese-speaking world.

Nós vamos ao cinema para nos divertir com a nova comédia brasileira.

Social Nuance: Using this verb often implies a shared experience. While you can divertir-se alone, it is most frequently used to describe the atmosphere of a group or a social gathering.

In a cultural sense, 'divertir-se' is linked to the concept of 'alegria' (joy). In many Portuguese-speaking countries, there is a strong cultural emphasis on finding time for leisure and community. Thus, the verb is used frequently to validate the importance of taking a break from work or study. If someone asks 'Como foi a festa?' (How was the party?), a common and sufficient answer is 'Eu me diverti muito!' (I had a lot of fun!). It serves as a benchmark for the success of a social event. Furthermore, the verb is used in the negative to express boredom or disappointment: 'Não me diverti nada' (I didn't have any fun at all). This highlights the expectation that life should involve moments of amusement.

As crianças estão a divertir-se no parque com os novos brinquedos.

Regional Difference: In Brazil, the placement of the pronoun 'me/te/se' usually comes before the verb in speech. In Portugal, the standard is usually after the verb, except in specific grammatical conditions.

Você precisa sair mais e divertir-se com seus amigos da universidade.

Eu sempre me divirto quando leio as crônicas daquele autor famoso.

To conclude, 'divertir-se' is more than just a verb; it is a linguistic reflection of the value placed on happiness and social connection. It requires the speaker to navigate reflexive pronouns, which is a great exercise for intermediate learners, but its core meaning is accessible even to the absolute beginner. Whether you are dancing at Carnival in Rio or enjoying a quiet dinner in Lisbon, this verb will be your primary tool for communicating your enjoyment of life's many pleasures.

Mastering the use of divertir-se requires a solid understanding of reflexive pronouns and verb conjugation. As an -ir verb, it follows a mostly regular pattern, but it does have a stem change in certain forms of the present tense (the 'e' changes to 'i' in the 'eu' form: 'eu me divirto'). The most critical aspect for English speakers is remembering that the pronoun must always be present and must agree with the subject. You cannot simply say 'Eu diverti'; you must say 'Eu me diverti.' This 'me' indicates that you are the one receiving the benefit of the fun. This section will explore how to construct sentences across different tenses and moods to ensure you can use this word accurately in any situation.

Present Tense Construction: In the present tense, the stem change occurs in the first person singular. Example: Eu me divirto, você se diverte, nós nos divertimos, eles se divertem.

Eu me divirto muito jogando futebol aos domingos com meus vizinhos.

When using the past tense (Pretérito Perfeito), the verb is used to describe a specific instance of having fun that has already concluded. This is perfect for recounting a weekend or a specific event. For example, 'Nós nos divertimos na festa ontem' (We had fun at the party yesterday). Note that in the 'nós' form, the present and past tense of -ir verbs often look identical, so context is key. If you want to describe a continuous state of having fun in the past, you would use the Pretérito Imperfeito: 'Eu me divertia muito quando era criança' (I used to have a lot of fun when I was a child). This tense is ideal for talking about habits and long-term enjoyment.

Eles se divertiram imenso durante a viagem que fizeram para a Europa no ano passado.

The Imperative (Commands): To tell someone to have fun, use the imperative. Singular: 'Divirta-se!' Plural: 'Divirtam-se!' This is the most common way to say goodbye to someone going to an event.

The placement of the pronoun is a common point of confusion. In formal European Portuguese, the pronoun follows the verb: 'Diverti-me imenso.' In Brazilian Portuguese, the pronoun almost always precedes the verb: 'Eu me diverti muito.' However, if there is a 'negative' word like 'não' or 'nunca,' or a relative pronoun like 'que,' the pronoun is pulled before the verb in both dialects: 'Eu não me diverti' or 'Espero que você se divirta.' This 'attraction' rule is vital for sounding natural. Furthermore, when using an auxiliary verb like 'querer' (to want) or 'poder' (to be able to), you can say 'Eu quero me divertir' or 'Eu quero divertir-me,' though the former is much more common in Brazil.

Não se preocupe com o trabalho, apenas tente se divertir um pouco hoje.

Using Prepositions: We often use the preposition 'com' (with) or 'a' + infinitive (while doing) to specify the source of fun. Example: 'Divertir-se com amigos' or 'Divertir-se a jogar'.

Nós nos divertimos muito assistindo ao show de talentos da escola.

Se você for à praia, certifique-se de se divertir com responsabilidade.

Finally, the verb can be used in the reflexive passive or impersonal sense to say 'one has fun' or 'it is fun.' For example, 'Diverte-se muito nesta cidade' (One has a lot of fun in this city). While less common for beginners, this shows the depth of the verb. By practicing the conjugation and paying attention to pronoun placement, you will soon be able to express joy and entertainment as fluidly as a native speaker. Remember: the goal of learning the verb is to eventually use it while you are actually having fun!

In the real world, divertir-se is far more than a textbook conjugation; it is the soundtrack to social life. You will hear it in the bustling streets of Lisbon, the vibrant beaches of Rio de Janeiro, and the quiet cafes of Luanda. It is a word of high frequency because Lusophone cultures generally place a high value on 'convívio' (socializing) and 'lazer' (leisure). When you are invited to a 'churrasco' (barbecue) in Brazil, the host will almost certainly tell you to 'se divertir.' In the workplace, as colleagues head out for the weekend, 'Bom fim de semana, divirta-se!' is the standard polite closing. It is a word that bridges the gap between formal politeness and genuine warmth.

In Pop Culture: Brazilian music, particularly Samba and Axé, is filled with lyrics about 'se divertir.' It is the anthem of Carnival and the guiding principle of many festive songs.

O importante na vida é divertir-se e não levar tudo tão a sério o tempo todo.

You will also encounter this word frequently in media and advertising. Travel agencies will use slogans like 'Venha se divertir conosco' (Come have fun with us) to sell vacation packages. Theme parks, cinemas, and theaters use the verb to promise a good experience. On social media, you will see it in captions under photos of friends smiling: 'A gente se diverte!' (We have fun!). The use of 'a gente' (we, informally) followed by 'se diverte' (third person singular) is perhaps the most common way you will hear this expressed in casual Brazilian speech. It sounds much more natural than the more formal 'nós nos divertimos.'

A gente sempre se diverte quando saímos para dançar forró nas noites de sexta-feira.

In Family Life: Parents constantly use this verb with their children. 'Vocês se divertiram na escola?' (Did you guys have fun at school?) is a standard question at the dinner table.

In television and film, 'divertir-se' is often used in dialogue to indicate a character's state of mind. In a soap opera (telenovela), a character might complain, 'Você só pensa em se divertir!' (You only think about having fun!), implying a lack of responsibility. This shows that while generally positive, the verb can be used to critique someone for being flighty or hedonistic. Conversely, in a talk show, a guest might describe their career by saying, 'Eu me divirto trabalhando' (I have fun working), which is seen as the ultimate success. The word is deeply embedded in the emotional vocabulary of the language, used to describe everything from the smallest chuckle to the grandest celebration.

O apresentador do programa de televisão sempre se diverte com as histórias dos convidados.

In the Digital World: On YouTube or TikTok, influencers often end their videos with 'Espero que tenham se divertido!' (I hope you had fun!), creating a connection with their audience.

Eu vi as fotos da sua festa no Instagram e parece que todos se divertiram imenso.

Não há nada melhor do que se divertir com quem a gente ama em um dia de sol.

Whether you are listening to a podcast, watching a movie, or chatting with a neighbor, 'divertir-se' will appear constantly. It is the verbal expression of the 'joie de vivre' that is so central to Portuguese-speaking cultures. By paying attention to how and when it is used, you will not only improve your grammar but also gain a deeper understanding of the social values and everyday joys of the people who speak this beautiful language.

Learning divertir-se presents several hurdles for English speakers, primarily due to its reflexive nature and its specific conjugation. The most frequent mistake is omitting the reflexive pronoun entirely. In English, 'fun' is usually a noun or an adjective, so the jump to a reflexive verb is not intuitive. A student might say 'Eu diverti muito,' which sounds incomplete or like they were amusing someone else without saying who. You must always include 'me, te, se, nos,' or 'vos.' This error is the hallmark of a beginner, and correcting it is the first step toward sounding more like a native speaker.

The Missing Pronoun: Mistake: 'Eu diverti na festa.' Correct: 'Eu me diverti na festa.' (In Portuguese, you must specify that you amused YOURSELF).

Muitos alunos esquecem o pronome e dizem apenas 'quero divertir', o que está incorreto.

Another common error involves the stem change in the present tense. Because 'divertir' is an -ir verb, some learners forget that the 'e' changes to 'i' in the first person singular ('eu'). They might say 'Eu me diverto' correctly but then struggle with other forms or assume the change happens everywhere. Conversely, some might try to change the stem in the past tense, saying 'Eu me divirti' instead of the correct 'Eu me diverti.' While 'divirti' and 'diverti' sound similar, the latter is the correct spelling and pronunciation for the past tense. Keeping the present 'i' and the past 'e' straight in your head takes practice and exposure.

Não diga 'eu me diverto' se você estiver falando do passado; o correto é 'eu me diverti'.

Confusing with 'Aproveitar': Learners often use 'divertir-se' when they mean 'to enjoy' or 'to make the most of' (aproveitar). While related, 'aproveitar' is used for opportunities or meals, while 'divertir-se' is for entertainment.

Pronoun placement is the third major area for mistakes. As mentioned previously, the rules differ between Brazil and Portugal, and they change based on the presence of certain 'trigger' words. A student might consistently place the pronoun after the verb because that is how they learned the infinitive ('divertir-se'), but then they sound overly formal in a Brazilian context or incorrect when a negation is present. For instance, saying 'Não diverti-me' is grammatically incorrect because 'não' must pull the pronoun forward: 'Não me diverti.' This 'proclisis' (pronoun before the verb) is mandatory after negative words, certain adverbs, and relative pronouns.

É um erro comum dizer 'eu diverti-me' quando se deveria dizer 'eu não me diverti' por causa do 'não'.

Incorrect Prepositions: English speakers often try to translate 'fun' literally. They might say 'ter diversão' (to have fun). While 'diversão' is a word, 'ter diversão' is rarely used. 'Divertir-se' is the natural choice.

Muitas pessoas tentam traduzir 'have fun' literalmente, mas em português usamos o verbo reflexivo.

Cuidado para não confundir 'divertir-se' com 'distrair-se', que significa perder o foco.

Finally, be careful with the verb 'brincar.' While 'brincar' means 'to play' (like children or with a toy) or 'to joke,' 'divertir-se' is the broader term for having a good time. Using 'brincar' when you mean you enjoyed a concert or a dinner would be a mistake. By being mindful of the reflexive pronouns, the stem changes, and the specific cultural contexts of the verb, you can avoid these common pitfalls and communicate your joy more effectively in Portuguese.

While divertir-se is the most common way to express having fun, the Portuguese language offers a rich palette of synonyms and related terms that can add nuance to your speech. Depending on the intensity of the fun, the context, and the level of formality, you might choose a different word. For example, if you are not just having fun but also finding something deeply entertaining or absorbing, you might use 'entreter-se.' This verb suggests a more focused type of amusement, like being entertained by a movie or a book. Understanding these alternatives will help you move from basic fluency to a more sophisticated level of expression.

Aproveitar vs. Divertir-se: 'Aproveitar' means to enjoy, take advantage of, or make the most of something. You 'aproveita' a sunny day or a vacation, while you 'se diverte' at a party.

Nós vamos aproveitar o feriado para descansar, mas também pretendemos nos divertir.

Another important alternative is 'brincar.' As mentioned in the mistakes section, 'brincar' specifically refers to the act of playing or joking. Children 'brincam' with dolls or cars. Adults 'brincam' when they are teasing each other. If the 'fun' involves a game or a lighthearted joke, 'brincar' is very appropriate. On the other hand, 'recrear-se' is a more formal and academic term for leisure. You might see it in official documents or educational contexts ('atividades de recreação'). It lacks the emotional warmth of 'divertir-se' but is useful to know for reading and formal writing.

As crianças estão a brincar no quintal enquanto os adultos se divertem na sala.

Descontrair and Relaxar: If the goal of the fun is to de-stress, these words are excellent. 'Descontrair' means to unwind or loosen up, often in a social setting.

For moments of extreme fun or wild celebration, you might hear 'folgar' or 'farrear.' 'Folgar' can mean to have time off or to frolic, while 'farrear' (from 'farra') refers to partying hard, often with music and drinks. These are much more specific than the general 'divertir-se.' In Portugal, the expression 'dar-se ao luxo' (to give oneself the luxury) might be used when someone is enjoying something special. Additionally, the verb 'deleitar-se' (to delight oneself) is a high-register, poetic way to say you are deriving great pleasure from something, often used for art, music, or fine food.

Nós vamos curtir o show de rock até o final da noite em São Paulo.

Gozar and Desfrutar: 'Desfrutar' is a beautiful, slightly more formal word for 'to enjoy.' 'Gozar' also means to enjoy, but be careful: in some contexts, it can have sexual overtones or mean 'to make fun of' someone.

É importante desfrutar de cada momento de felicidade que a vida nos oferece.

Eles passaram a noite inteira a entreter-se com jogos de tabuleiro e conversas boas.

By expanding your vocabulary with these synonyms, you can describe your experiences with much more precision. Whether you are 'curtindo' a casual hang-out or 'deleitando-se' with a masterpiece, you will have the right word for every level of joy. However, when in doubt, 'divertir-se' remains your most reliable and versatile friend in the Portuguese language.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The original Latin sense of 'turning aside' led to the idea of 'turning aside from work' to enjoy oneself, which is how we got the modern meaning of 'fun'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /d͡ʒi.veʁ.ˈt͡ʃiʁ.si/

US /di.veɾ.ˈtiɾ.si/

The primary stress is on the last syllable of the verb root: 'tir'.

Rhymes With

Mentir Sentir Partir Abrir Sorrir Subir Cair Sair

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'di' as a hard English 'd' instead of the Brazilian 'dj' sound.
Forgetting to pronounce the 'i' in 'divirto' (present tense).
Making the final 'e' in 'se' sound like a long English 'ay'. It should be a short 'ee' or almost silent 'i'.
Over-emphasizing the reflexive pronoun instead of the verb.
Using an English 'r' instead of a Portuguese tap or guttural 'r'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text due to its distinct reflexive ending.

Writing 4/5

Challenging for beginners due to pronoun placement and stem changes.

Speaking 3/5

Requires practice to get the reflexive pronoun and 'di' sound correct.

Listening 2/5

Generally easy to hear, though pronouns can be muffled in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Eu Você Muito Festa Praia

Learn Next

Aproveitar Entreter-se Divertido Lazer Férias

Advanced

Regozijar-se Deleitar-se Abstrair-se Recreação Ludicidade

Grammar to Know

Reflexive Pronoun Agreement

Eu **me** divirto, nós **nos** divertimos.

Stem Change (e -> i)

Eu me d**i**virto (Present), but Ele se d**e**verte.

Proclisis with Negation

Não **me** divirto (correct) vs Diverto-me não (incorrect).

Imperative Formation

Divirta-se (singular), Divirtam-se (plural).

Prepositional Use

Divertir-se **com** algo/alguém.

Examples by Level

Eu me divirto na praia.

I have fun at the beach.

Simple present tense with reflexive pronoun 'me'.

Você se diverte com o gato?

Do you have fun with the cat?

Question form with reflexive pronoun 'se'.

Divirta-se na festa!

Have fun at the party!

Imperative mood (command) for 'você'.

Nós nos divertimos muito hoje.

We had a lot of fun today.

Past tense (Pretérito Perfeito) with 'nós nos'.

Eles se divertem no parque.

They have fun in the park.

Present tense for 'eles'.

Ela se diverte a ler.

She has fun reading.

European style: divertir-se + a + infinitive.

Eu não me divirto aqui.

I don't have fun here.

Negative sentence: 'não' attracts the pronoun.

Divirtam-se, crianças!

Have fun, children!

Plural imperative for 'vocês'.

Eu me divertia muito na casa da minha avó.

I used to have a lot of fun at my grandmother's house.

Imperfect tense for habitual past actions.

Nós queremos nos divertir no fim de semana.

We want to have fun on the weekend.

Infinitive after the auxiliary verb 'querer'.

Eles se divertiram imenso no concerto.

They had a great time at the concert.

Use of 'imenso' as an adverb of intensity (common in Portugal).

Você se divertiu na sua viagem para o Brasil?

Did you have fun on your trip to Brazil?

Past tense question.

Eu me divirto a cozinhar para os meus amigos.

I have fun cooking for my friends.

Reflexive verb followed by a prepositional phrase.

Ela nunca se diverte em reuniões de trabalho.

She never has fun in work meetings.

Negative adverb 'nunca' attracts the pronoun.

Vocês vão se divertir muito no Carnaval.

You all are going to have a lot of fun at Carnival.

Future construction with 'ir' + infinitive.

Meu pai se diverte a pescar no rio.

My father has fun fishing in the river.

Third person singular present tense.

Espero que vocês se divirtam muito na festa de hoje.

I hope you all have a lot of fun at tonight's party.

Present subjunctive after 'Espero que'.

Se eu tivesse dinheiro, me divertiria viajando pelo mundo.

If I had money, I would have fun traveling the world.

Conditional mood.

É importante que a gente se divirta, apesar dos problemas.

It is important that we have fun, despite the problems.

Subjunctive mood with 'a gente'.

Quem se diverte por último, se diverte melhor.

He who laughs last, laughs best (variation).

Proverbial use with relative pronoun 'Quem'.

Nós nos divertimos tanto que nem vimos o tempo passar.

We had so much fun that we didn't even see the time go by.

Consecutive clause with 'tanto que'.

Ela se diverte imenso a aprender novas línguas.

She has a lot of fun learning new languages.

European Portuguese structure with 'a' + infinitive.

Duvido que ele se divirta naquele lugar tão barulhento.

I doubt that he has fun in such a noisy place.

Subjunctive after 'Duvido que'.

Vocês se divertiram com a peça de teatro ontem à noite?

Did you enjoy the play last night?

Past tense with specific time reference.

Não creio que eles tenham se divertido tanto quanto dizem.

I don't believe they had as much fun as they say.

Compound past subjunctive.

Sempre que saímos, acabamos por nos divertir imenso.

Whenever we go out, we end up having a great time.

Idiomatic use of 'acabar por'.

Caso você se divirta demais, me mande uma mensagem.

In case you have too much fun, send me a message.

Future subjunctive after 'Caso'.

Eles se divertiam a valer naquelas noites de verão no Algarve.

They used to have fun to the fullest on those summer nights in Algarve.

Expression 'a valer' for intensity.

Embora estivesse cansado, tentei me divertir com meus colegas.

Although I was tired, I tried to have fun with my colleagues.

Concessive clause with 'Embora'.

Divertir-se é um direito fundamental de qualquer ser humano.

Having fun is a fundamental right of any human being.

Infinitive used as a noun/subject.

O autor se diverte a criar situações absurdas em seus livros.

The author has fun creating absurd situations in his books.

Describing a creative process.

Seria bom se todos pudessem se divertir sem gastar muito dinheiro.

It would be good if everyone could have fun without spending much money.

Hypothetical construction.

Para nos divertirmos plenamente, devemos esquecer as obrigações.

To fully enjoy ourselves, we must forget our obligations.

Personal infinitive 'divertirmos'.

A criança parecia deleitar-se e divertir-se com as bolhas de sabão.

The child seemed to delight and amuse herself with the soap bubbles.

Using synonyms for stylistic variety.

Raramente me divirto com esse tipo de humor sarcástico.

I rarely find amusement in that kind of sarcastic humor.

Negative adverbial attraction.

O segredo de uma vida longa é divertir-se com as pequenas coisas.

The secret to a long life is to enjoy the little things.

Philosophical usage.

Divertir-se-ão eles quando souberem da surpresa que preparamos?

Will they have fun when they find out about the surprise we prepared?

Mesoclisis (very formal European Portuguese future).

Não há quem não se divirta com as trapalhadas daquele ator.

There is no one who doesn't have fun with that actor's blunders.

Double negation and relative pronoun attraction.

Ele se diverte à custa dos outros, o que é muito deselegante.

He has fun at the expense of others, which is very inelegant.

Idiomatic expression 'à custa de'.

Por mais que eu tente, não consigo me divertir em ambientes fechados.

No matter how much I try, I can't have fun in enclosed spaces.

Concessive construction 'Por mais que'.

A capacidade de divertir-se em meio ao caos é uma virtude rara.

The ability to enjoy oneself amidst chaos is a rare virtue.

Abstract philosophical subject.

Divertir-se-ia o público se a peça fosse menos hermética?

Would the audience have fun if the play were less hermetic?

Mesoclisis in the conditional mood.

O filósofo argumenta que o homem só é verdadeiramente homem quando se diverte.

The philosopher argues that man is only truly man when he plays/has fun.

Indirect speech in a formal context.

Oxalá todos nos divirtamos nesta jornada que hoje se inicia.

May we all have fun on this journey that begins today.

Use of 'Oxalá' with the subjunctive.

Não obstante o rigor do clima, os exploradores divertiam-se com as adversidades.

Notwithstanding the harshness of the climate, the explorers enjoyed the adversities.

High-register concessive 'Não obstante'.

A trama permite que o espectador se divirta sem abdicar da reflexão crítica.

The plot allows the viewer to have fun without giving up critical reflection.

Complex subjunctive construction.

Haveriam de se divertir se soubessem o quão efêmera é a glória.

They would have fun if they knew how ephemeral glory is.

Advanced auxiliary 'haver de' in the conditional.

Divertir-se por divertir-se, sem segundas intenções, é a forma mais pura de lazer.

Having fun for the sake of having fun, without ulterior motives, is the purest form of leisure.

Reduplicative structure for emphasis.

Common Collocations

Divertir-se muito

Divertir-se imenso

Divertir-se com amigos

Divertir-se à beça

Divertir-se a valer

Divertir-se à custa de

Divertir-se para valer

Divertir-se na festa

Divertir-se jogando

Divertir-se lendo

Common Phrases

Divirta-se!

— Have fun! (singular/informal).

Tchau! Divirta-se no cinema!

Divirtam-se!

— Have fun! (plural).

Boa viagem e divirtam-se muito!

Só quer se divertir.

— Only wants to have fun (often implying lack of seriousness).

Ele não trabalha, só quer se divertir.

A gente se diverte.

— We have fun (very common informal Brazilian way).

Não temos dinheiro, mas a gente se diverte.

Divertir-se como uma criança.

— To have fun like a child (pure, uninhibited joy).

No parque, ele se divertiu como uma criança.

Espero que se divirta.

— I hope you have fun.

Vai sair? Espero que se divirta!

Não me divirto nada.

— I'm not having any fun at all.

A música está ruim, não me divirto nada.

Divertir-se um bocado.

— To have quite a bit of fun.

Ontem nos divertimos um bocado.

Vá se divertir!

— Go have fun! (encouraging someone to relax).

Esqueça os problemas e vá se divertir!

Divertir-se em família.

— To have fun with family.

É importante reservar um tempo para se divertir em família.

Often Confused With

Divertir-se vs Distrair-se

Distrair-se means to get distracted or lose focus, while divertir-se means to have fun.

Divertir-se vs Divergir

Divergir means to disagree or diverge in opinion, though it sounds similar to divertir.

Divertir-se vs Aproveitar

Aproveitar is 'to enjoy' an opportunity, while divertir-se is specifically 'to have fun'.

Idioms & Expressions

"Divertir-se a dar com um pau"

— To have an enormous amount of fun (very informal Brazil).

Naquela festa, nos divertimos a dar com um pau.

Slang

"Fazer a festa"

— To have a great time or to take advantage of a situation joyfully.

Os jogadores fizeram a festa após a vitória.

Informal

"Pintar o sete"

— To have wild fun, often causing a bit of trouble or mess (usually children).

As crianças pintaram o sete na ausência dos pais.

Informal

"Estar numa boa"

— To be having a good, relaxed time.

Eu estava numa boa, me divertindo com meus amigos.

Informal

"Rir à beça"

— To laugh a lot (a key part of having fun).

Nós rimos à beça com as piadas dele.

Informal

"Tirar o pé do chão"

— To dance and have fun intensely (common in Carnival).

O cantor pediu para todos tirarem o pé do chão e se divertirem.

Popular

"Matar o tempo"

— To kill time, often by finding something to amuse oneself.

Para matar o tempo, ele se divertia jogando no celular.

Neutral

"Fazer farra"

— To party or engage in noisy, boisterous fun.

Os jovens adoram fazer farra nos fins de semana.

Informal

"Cair na gandaia"

— To go out and have fun, usually at night.

Depois dos exames, os estudantes caíram na gandaia.

Slang

"Soltar a franga"

— To let loose and have fun without inhibitions.

Na hora da dança, ela soltou a franga e se divertiu muito.

Informal

Easily Confused

Divertir-se vs Brincar

Both involve positive activities.

Brincar is for playing (games/toys) or joking. Divertir-se is the general feeling of having fun in any context.

As crianças brincam (play) e se divertem (have fun).

Divertir-se vs Gozar

Both can mean to enjoy.

Gozar is more formal for 'to enjoy' (rights/health) or informal for 'teasing'. Divertir-se is safer for 'having fun'.

Ele goza de privilégios, mas não se diverte.

Divertir-se vs Entreter

Related to entertainment.

Entreter is usually what a show does to you. Divertir-se is what you do for yourself.

O filme me entreteve e eu me diverti.

Divertir-se vs Curtir

Synonyms in informal settings.

Curtir is slangy and broad (to like/enjoy). Divertir-se is the standard verb for the action of having fun.

Curti o post, mas me diverti na festa.

Divertir-se vs Engraçado

Related to humor.

Engraçado is an adjective (funny). Divertir-se is the verb (to have fun).

O palhaço é engraçado, por isso me divirto.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + [Reflexive Pronoun] + divertir (present).

Eu me divirto.

Divirta-se + [Prepositional Phrase]!

Divirta-se na festa!

[Subject] + [Reflexive Pronoun] + divertir (past).

Nós nos divertimos ontem.

[Subject] + querer/ir + [Reflexive Pronoun] + divertir.

Eu quero me divertir.

Espero que + [Subject] + [Reflexive Pronoun] + divertir (subjunctive).

Espero que você se divirta.

Não + [Reflexive Pronoun] + divertir.

Ela não se diverte.

[Subject] + [Reflexive Pronoun] + divertir + [Gerund/Preposition].

Eles se divertem dançando.

Para + [Reflexive Pronoun] + divertirmos (Personal Infinitive).

Para nos divertirmos, saímos cedo.

Word Family

Nouns

Diversão (fun/amusement)

Divertimento (entertainment/pastime)

Verbs

Divertir (to amuse someone else)

Entreter (to entertain)

Adjectives

Divertido (fun/funny)

Divertida (fun/funny - feminine)

Lazer

Alegria

Festa

Brincadeira

Passatempo

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation, social media, and travel contexts.

Common Mistakes

Eu diverti muito. → Eu me diverti muito.
You forgot the reflexive pronoun 'me'. In Portuguese, you amuse yourself.
Divirta-te! → Divirta-se! (or Diverte-te!)
Mixing the 'você' imperative (divirta) with the 'tu' pronoun (te). Keep them consistent.
Eu me diverto no passado. → Eu me diverti.
Confusing the present stem-change 'divirto' with the past tense 'diverti'.
Não diverti-me. → Não me diverti.
The word 'não' must pull the pronoun before the verb.
Espero que você se diverte. → Espero que você se divirta.
The phrase 'Espero que' requires the subjunctive mood ('divirta').

Tips

Pronoun Match

Always ensure your pronoun matches the subject. Eu me, Tu te, Ele se, Nós nos, Vocês se. This is the most important rule for this verb.

Wish Others Well

Use 'Divirta-se!' frequently. It is a very polite and warm way to end a conversation when someone is going somewhere.

Brazilian 'A Gente'

Use 'A gente se diverte' instead of 'Nós nos divertimos' to sound more like a local in Brazil. It's much easier to say and very common.

Avoid Literal Translation

Don't try to translate 'have fun' literally as 'ter diversão'. Stick to the reflexive verb 'divertir-se' for natural-sounding Portuguese.

Catch the 'Se'

In fast speech, the 'se' can sound like a tiny 's' sound. Train your ear to hear that small reflexive marker before or after the verb.

Use 'Divertido'

If you want to say 'It was fun!', use 'Foi divertido!'. It's the most common way to describe an event using the adjective form.

Negation Rule

Remember that 'não', 'nunca', and 'jamais' always pull the pronoun to the front. 'Nunca me divirto' is the correct order.

The Soft 'Di'

In Brazil, pronounce the 'di' like the 'j' in 'jeep'. In Portugal, it's more like the 'de' in 'deep'. Both are correct in their regions.

Not Just for Parties

You can 'divertir-se' reading, studying, or even working. It's a broad verb for any activity that brings you joy.

Ask Questions

Asking 'Você se divertiu?' is a great way to show interest in someone's life and keep a conversation going.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Divertir' as 'Diverting' your attention from boring work to something fun. 'Me divirto' = 'I divert myself' to joy.

Visual Association

Imagine a 'Diver' jumping into a pool of 'Joy'. The 'Diver' is 'Divertindo-se'.

Word Web

Diversão Festa Praia Amigos Riso Jogo Música Viagem

Challenge

Try to use 'divertir-se' in three different tenses (present, past, and imperative) while describing your favorite hobby to a friend.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin verb 'divertere'.

Original meaning: In Latin, 'divertere' meant 'to turn aside' or 'to separate'.

Romance (Indo-European).

Cultural Context

Be aware that in some very conservative or religious contexts, 'divertir-se' might be associated with 'farra' (excessive partying), but generally, it is a very positive and safe word.

English speakers often use the noun 'fun' ('That was fun'), while Portuguese speakers prefer the verb or the adjective 'divertido'.

The song 'A Gente se Diverte' is a common sentiment in Brazilian pop. Many children's shows in Portugal use 'Vamos nos divertir!' as a catchphrase. The phrase 'O importante é se divertir' is a common sports mantra in Brazil.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Parties and Social Events

Divirta-se na festa!
Você se divertiu ontem?
A gente se diverte muito dançando.
Espero que todos se divirtam.

Travel and Vacations

Divirtam-se na viagem!
Nós nos divertimos muito na praia.
É bom se divertir nas férias.
Onde você mais se divertiu?

Hobbies and Leisure

Eu me divirto lendo.
Ele se diverte jogando bola.
Ela se diverte pintando.
Nós nos divertimos com jogos de tabuleiro.

Family and Children

As crianças estão se divertindo.
Vão se divertir lá fora!
Nós nos divertimos em família.
Você se divertiu na escola?

Work (Leisure context)

Bom fim de semana, divirta-se!
Vamos nos divertir no happy hour?
Eu me divirto trabalhando aqui.
É importante se divertir um pouco.

Conversation Starters

"O que você faz para se divertir no seu tempo livre?"

"Você se divertiu no fim de semana passado?"

"Qual é o lugar onde você mais se diverte nesta cidade?"

"Você prefere se divertir sozinho ou com muitos amigos?"

"Você se divertia mais quando era criança ou agora?"

Journal Prompts

Descreva um dia em que você se divertiu muito. O que você fez e com quem estava?

Por que é importante para os adultos continuarem a se divertir como crianças?

Quais são as atividades que fazem você se divertir sem gastar dinheiro?

Escreva sobre uma festa onde você não se divertiu. O que aconteceu?

Como a forma como as pessoas se divertem mudou com a tecnologia?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, when you mean 'to have fun'. If you use it without the reflexive pronoun ('divertir'), it means 'to amuse someone else' (e.g., 'O palhaço diverte as crianças').

Use the imperative: 'Divirta-se!' for one person or 'Divirtam-se!' for more than one person.

'Me divirto' is for 'I' (Eu), and 'se diverte' is for 'he/she/you' (Ele/Ela/Você). The pronoun must match the person.

This is a common stem change for many -ir verbs in the first-person singular of the present tense to aid pronunciation.

It is grammatically possible but very unnatural. Native speakers almost always use the verb 'divertir-se' or say 'foi divertido'.

The meaning is the same, but the pronoun placement differs. Brazil: 'se divertir'. Portugal: 'divertir-se'. Also, Portugal uses 'a + infinitive' while Brazil uses the gerund.

'Curtir' is very common and cool in Brazil, but 'divertir-se' is never wrong and works in all situations, formal or informal.

The 'não' comes before the pronoun: 'Eu não me diverti'. The 'não' attracts the pronoun to the front.

For 'I', it is 'Eu me diverti'. For 'We', it is 'Nós nos divertimos'. Note the spelling in the 'Eu' form uses 'i'.

Yes! If you enjoy your job, you can say 'Eu me divirto trabalhando'. It shows you have a great attitude toward your tasks.