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A2 noun #5,500 most common 12 min read

embaraço

Top 5,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips embaraço in 30 Seconds

Explanation embaraço in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should think of 'embaraço' as the word for when you feel silly or shy. It is like the English word 'embarrassment'. Imagine you are at a party and you spill your drink on your shirt. You feel 'embaraço'. In A1, we usually use the adjective 'embaraçado' (embarrassed) more than the noun. For example, you can say 'Eu estou embaraçado' (I am embarrassed). It is a very useful word because when you are learning a new language, you might make small mistakes and feel this way often! Just remember that it is a normal feeling. You can also use it to describe a situation that is 'embaraçosa' (embarrassing). For example, 'A situação é embaraçosa'. At this level, don't worry about the complex meanings like 'legal hindrance'. Just focus on the feeling of being shy or awkward when you make a mistake. It is a masculine word, so we say 'o embaraço'. If you want to say 'a lot of embarrassment', you say 'muito embaraço'. Try to use it when you are talking about social situations with your friends or in your Portuguese class. It is a great way to express how you feel when you are practicing your new skills!

At the A2 level, you can start using 'embaraço' as a noun to describe situations. You are moving beyond just saying 'I am embarrassed' to saying 'This caused embarrassment'. This is an important step in your Portuguese journey. You will see this word in short stories or simple news articles. For example, 'O erro causou embaraço' (The error caused embarrassment). You should also learn that 'embaraço' can mean a 'problem' or 'difficulty' that stops you from doing something easily. If there is a lot of traffic, it is an 'embaraço' for your trip. At this level, you should also be careful with the 'false friend' from Spanish. Even if you don't speak Spanish, you might hear people talk about it. In Spanish, 'embarazo' means pregnancy, but in Portuguese, 'embaraço' NEVER means pregnancy. If a woman is having a baby, she is 'grávida'. This is a very common mistake, so learning it now at A2 will help you avoid awkward moments later. You can also practice using the phrase 'sem embaraço', which means 'without difficulty' or 'without being shy'. For example, 'Ele fala português sem embaraço' means he speaks Portuguese easily and confidently. This is a great goal for any A2 student!

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'embaraço' in more varied contexts, including professional and social settings. You understand that 'embaraço' is not just about feeling shy; it's about the friction in a situation. You can use it to describe a 'hitch' in a plan. For example, 'Houve um embaraço nas negociações' (There was a hitch/difficulty in the negotiations). This shows you have a more sophisticated vocabulary than just using 'problema'. You should also start using collocations like 'causar embaraço' or 'vencer o embaraço'. In B1, you are expected to handle social interactions with more grace, and knowing how to name the 'embaraço' helps you navigate them. You might also encounter the word in more formal writing, like letters or reports, where it refers to complications. For instance, 'embaraços burocráticos' is a common phrase for 'bureaucratic hurdles'. This is very common in Portuguese-speaking countries where paperwork can sometimes be slow. By using 'embaraço' instead of 'dificuldade', you sound more like a native speaker who understands the nuances of the language. You should also be comfortable with the adjective 'embaraçoso' and the verb 'embaraçar', especially when talking about things getting tangled or complicated. If your headphones are all knotted up, you can say they are 'embaraçados'. This dual meaning of 'social awkwardness' and 'physical/logical tangle' is the key to mastering the word at the B1 level.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'embaraço' with precision in both formal and informal registers. You should understand its use in legal and economic contexts. For example, in a business setting, an 'embaraço financeiro' refers to a liquidity problem or a debt issue that hinders a company's operations. In legal terms, an 'embaraço' on a property means there is a lien or a legal dispute that prevents it from being sold freely. This is a high-level usage that marks you as a proficient speaker. You should also be able to distinguish 'embaraço' from 'constrangimento'. While they are often interchangeable, 'constrangimento' can imply a more intense sense of being pressured or a more formal type of awkwardness. At B2, you should also be familiar with idiomatic expressions and the word's role in literature. You might read a novel where a character faces an 'embaraço moral', meaning a moral dilemma or a situation where their values are in conflict. You should also be able to use the word to describe complex social dynamics. For instance, 'A presença do ex-marido causou um grande embaraço na festa' (The presence of the ex-husband caused a great embarrassment at the party). Here, the word captures the invisible tension in the room. Your ability to use 'embaraço' to describe these abstract concepts of 'stuckness' and 'tension' is a hallmark of the B2 level.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'embaraço' should be deep and nuanced. You recognize it as a term that describes the disruption of a flow, whether that flow is social, financial, or physical. You can use it in academic writing to discuss 'embaraços ao desenvolvimento' (hindrances to development) or in diplomatic contexts to describe 'embaraços internacionais'. You are aware of the word's etymology—coming from the idea of a 'bar' or 'barrier'—and you can see how this root informs all its modern meanings. You should also be able to use the word in its more rare or archaic senses if you encounter them in classical literature, such as a physical blockage in the body. Furthermore, you can use 'embaraço' to describe subtle psychological states. For example, you might describe a character's 'embaraço mental' when they are unable to choose between two equally difficult paths. You also understand the stylistic value of the word; choosing 'embaraço' over 'obstáculo' or 'vergonha' can change the tone of a sentence from blunt to sophisticated. You should be able to handle the plural 'embaraços' to talk about the 'vicissitudes' or 'complications' of life in a philosophical way. At C1, you don't just know what the word means; you know the 'weight' it carries in a sentence and how it interacts with the cultural expectations of politeness and indirectness in Portuguese-speaking societies.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over 'embaraço' and can use it with the same flexibility and nuance as a highly educated native speaker. You can use it to craft sophisticated metaphors or to navigate the most delicate social and professional situations. You might use it in a legal brief to argue about 'embaraços à justiça' (hindrances to justice) or in a poetic context to describe the 'embaraço das almas' (the entanglement of souls). You are fully aware of the regional differences in usage—how it might be used more formally in Lisbon compared to a more varied usage in São Paulo. You can use the word to discuss complex economic theories, such as 'embaraços estruturais' in a market. Your command of the word allows you to use it ironically or with subtle humor to downplay a significant problem or to highlight a minor social slip-up. You understand that 'embaraço' is a key part of the 'social fabric' of the Portuguese language, representing the points where that fabric gets bunched up or caught. Whether you are analyzing a text by Camões or negotiating a high-stakes contract, you use 'embaraço' to precisely identify the points of tension, difficulty, and awkwardness. At this level, the word is a precision tool in your linguistic arsenal, allowing you to express the finest shades of meaning regarding obstruction and social discomfort.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

embaraço in 30 Seconds

A versatile noun meaning embarrassment or awkwardness in social situations, often paired with the verb 'causar' (to cause).
It can represent a physical or metaphorical hindrance, obstacle, or complication that slows down progress in a task or project.
In legal and financial contexts, it refers specifically to liens on property or difficulties in meeting financial obligations.
It is a 'false friend' for Spanish speakers, as it never refers to pregnancy, which is 'gravidez' in Portuguese.

The Portuguese word embaraço is a multifaceted noun that primarily translates to 'embarrassment' in English, but its utility extends far beyond simple social awkwardness. At its core, it represents a state of being hindered, whether by an emotional feeling of shame or a physical or logistical obstacle. In everyday conversation, speakers use it to describe that prickly sensation of discomfort when all eyes are on them after a mistake. However, in more formal or literary contexts, it refers to an impediment or a complication that prevents smooth progress.

Social Context: When you trip in public or forget someone's name, the feeling you experience is 'embaraço'. It is the internal response to a social faux pas.
Logistical Context: In business or law, an 'embaraço' can be a 'hindrance' or 'encumbrance'. For instance, a legal 'embaraço' might prevent the sale of a property.
Physical Context: Though less common today, it can refer to a physical tangle or knot, such as hair that is 'embaraçado' (tangled).

A pergunta inesperada do jornalista causou um visível embaraço ao político durante a entrevista ao vivo.

Understanding the difference between 'embaraço' and 'vergonha' is crucial for learners. While 'vergonha' is a broader term for 'shame' or 'shyness', 'embaraço' is more specific to the 'awkwardness' or 'clumsiness' of a situation. If you feel 'vergonha', you might want to hide forever; if you feel 'embaraço', you are likely just reacting to a momentary social friction. In European Portuguese, the term is frequently used in news reports to describe financial difficulties, often phrased as 'embaraços financeiros', indicating that a company or individual is struggling with their debts or cash flow.

Houve um pequeno embaraço burocrático que atrasou a entrega dos documentos por duas semanas inteiras.

In a literary sense, authors use 'embaraço' to describe the complex emotional state of characters facing moral dilemmas. It captures the nuance of being 'tied up' by one's own thoughts or social obligations. This relates back to its Latin roots, where the concept of 'bar' (as in a physical barrier) forms the basis of the word. When you are in a state of 'embaraço', you are effectively 'barred' from moving forward easily, whether that is because your tongue is tied or your path is blocked by a metaphorical wall of social expectations.

Ela tentou disfarçar o seu embaraço com um sorriso forçado, mas as suas bochechas vermelhas denunciaram tudo.

O excesso de bagagem revelou-se um grande embaraço para os viajantes que precisavam de apanhar o comboio rápido.

Não quero ser um embaraço para os meus pais durante a festa de gala da empresa.

Using embaraço correctly requires an understanding of its typical verbal pairings. It most frequently appears with the verbs 'causar' (to cause), 'sentir' (to feel), and 'evitar' (to avoid). Each of these pairings creates a different semantic field, ranging from external actions to internal emotions. When you use 'causar embaraço', you are describing an action or situation that makes others feel awkward. Conversely, 'sentir embaraço' is a personal admission of one's own state of mind.

With 'Causar': Used when an event or person triggers awkwardness. Example: 'A tua atitude pode causar um embaraço desnecessário à família.'
With 'Sentir': Focuses on the internal emotion. Example: 'Senti um profundo embaraço quando percebi que estava a usar sapatos de cores diferentes.'
With 'Sem': Used to describe ease or lack of obstacles. Example: 'Ele falou sobre o seu passado difícil sem qualquer embaraço.'

O silêncio que se seguiu à piada sem graça foi um momento de puro embaraço para todos os presentes.

In grammatical terms, 'embaraço' is a masculine singular noun. It can be pluralized to 'embaraços', which is common when referring to multiple difficulties or complications. For example, 'os embaraços da vida moderna' refers to the various hassles and obstacles one faces today. In this plural form, the meaning often leans more toward 'complications' than 'shame'. It is also important to note the adjectival form 'embaraçoso' (embarrassing), which modifies nouns directly. While 'embaraço' is the thing you feel or cause, 'embaraçoso' is the quality of the situation itself.

Para evitar o embaraço de chegar atrasado, ele decidiu sair de casa com uma hora de antecedência.

Another sophisticated use of 'embaraço' is in the phrase 'livrar-se de um embaraço'. This means to extricate oneself from a difficult or awkward situation. It suggests a level of cleverness or relief. For instance, if you are stuck in a boring conversation and your phone rings, you might say the call 'me livrou de um embaraço'. Here, the word acts as a synonym for a 'tight spot' or 'predicament'. This versatility makes 'embaraço' a higher-level vocabulary choice than 'problema' or 'vergonha', as it carries more specific connotations of entanglement and social friction.

A falta de fundos para o projeto é um embaraço que não podemos ignorar por mais tempo.

O diretor expressou o seu embaraço perante os erros cometidos pela sua equipa técnica.

Não há embaraço nenhum em pedir ajuda quando não sabemos como resolver um problema matemático.

You will encounter embaraço in a variety of real-world settings, from the evening news to classic literature. In journalistic Portuguese, especially in Portugal, the word is a staple for describing diplomatic tensions or economic hurdles. If a prime minister makes a statement that contradicts their previous policy, news anchors will likely discuss the 'embaraço político' (political embarrassment) that follows. It is a more dignified way of saying 'awkward situation' in a professional broadcast.

News & Politics: Often used to describe public scandals or policy failures that make leadership look incompetent or conflicted.
Legal & Real Estate: Used in contracts to specify that an asset is free of 'embaraços ou ónus' (hindrances or liens).
Literature & Film: Characters often experience 'embaraço' in romantic comedies or dramas involving social class differences.

O jornal de hoje destaca o embaraço diplomático causado pelo cancelamento da visita de estado.

In everyday Brazilian Portuguese, you might hear people use the adjective 'embaraçado' more frequently to describe someone who is confused or whose hair is messy. However, the noun 'embaraço' remains the standard for describing a state of awkwardness. In a workplace, a manager might say, 'Quero evitar qualquer embaraço entre os departamentos,' meaning they want to prevent any friction or awkward misunderstandings between teams. This usage highlights the word's role in maintaining social harmony and professional decorum.

Ao entrar na sala errada, o aluno sentiu um embaraço tão grande que nem conseguiu pedir desculpa.

In academic or medical texts, you might even see 'embaraço' used to describe a physical obstruction. For example, 'embaraço gástrico' is a somewhat old-fashioned term for indigestion or a 'stomach upset'—literally a hindrance in the digestive process. While this is less common in modern clinical settings, it illustrates the word's fundamental meaning of 'being blocked'. Whether it is a block in the gut, a block in a legal process, or a block in social flow, 'embaraço' is the go-to term for that specific type of stuckness.

A propriedade foi vendida livre de quaisquer embaraços judiciais, o que facilitou o negócio.

O silêncio na mesa de jantar era um sinal claro do embaraço causado pela discussão anterior.

A falta de preparação do palestrante resultou num momento de embaraço perante a audiência.

The most significant mistake English and Spanish speakers make with embaraço is the 'false friend' trap. For English speakers, while 'embaraço' does mean 'embarrassment', it is often used where English would prefer 'awkwardness' or 'hindrance'. However, the real danger lies for those familiar with Spanish. In Spanish, 'embarazo' means 'pregnancy'. If you tell a Portuguese speaker that a woman is with 'embaraço', they will think she is in an awkward situation or has a legal problem, not that she is expecting a baby.

The 'Pregnancy' Error: Never use 'embaraço' to mean 'pregnancy'. Use 'gravidez'. Never say 'ela está embaraçada' to mean 'she is pregnant'. Use 'ela está grávida'.
Overusing for 'Shame': Don't use 'embaraço' for deep moral shame. That is 'vergonha'. 'Embaraço' is for social clumsiness or light awkwardness.
Confusing with 'Confusão': While 'embaraço' can imply confusion, 'confusão' is the better word for a chaotic or messy situation.

Dizer que uma mulher tem um embaraço quando se quer dizer que ela está grávida é um erro comum de tradução.

Another common error is failing to use the correct preposition. Usually, you feel 'embaraço' *perante* (before/in the face of) a situation or *com* (with) someone. For example, 'Sinto embaraço com o teu comportamento' (I feel embarrassed by your behavior). Using 'de' (of) is possible, but 'com' and 'perante' are often more natural in describing the source of the awkwardness. Additionally, learners sometimes forget that 'embaraço' can be an 'obstacle'. In a professional setting, saying 'temos um embaraço' might be misunderstood if you only know the 'embarrassment' definition. You are saying there is a 'hitch' or 'blockage'.

Não confunda o embaraço social com a vergonha profunda de ter cometido um crime.

Finally, watch out for the pronunciation. The 'ç' (cedilla) is always pronounced like a soft 's' (as in 'snake'). Some learners mistakenly try to pronounce it like a 'k' or a 'ch' because of the related English word 'embarrass'. In Portuguese, it is 'em-ba-RA-su'. Getting the stress on the penultimate syllable 'RA' is key to sounding natural. If you mispronounce it, you might cause a bit of 'embaraço' for yourself!

Muitos alunos usam a palavra 'vergonha' quando o termo mais preciso seria embaraço.

O uso incorreto de embaraço em contextos médicos pode levar a mal-entendidos sobre a saúde do paciente.

Evite dizer 'estou com embaraço' se o que você quer dizer é que está com medo; as emoções são diferentes.

To truly master Portuguese, you need to know when to use embaraço and when to reach for a synonym. The most common alternative is 'vergonha', but as discussed, 'vergonha' is more intense. If you feel 'vergonha', it’s a matter of character or deep regret. If you feel 'embaraço', it's a matter of social friction. Another great word is 'constrangimento', which is very close to 'embaraço' but often implies a sense of being forced or constrained by the situation.

Embaraço vs. Vergonha: 'Embaraço' is awkwardness/hitch. 'Vergonha' is shame/shyness. Example: 'Senti embaraço ao tropeçar, mas sinto vergonha do que disse.'
Embaraço vs. Constrangimento: 'Constrangimento' is often used in legal or very formal social contexts to mean 'embarrassment' or 'coercion'.
Embaraço vs. Obstáculo: When 'embaraço' means 'hindrance', 'obstáculo' is a more direct and physical synonym.

O constrangimento era palpável na sala depois daquela revelação chocante.

For the 'hindrance' meaning, you can also use 'impedimento' or 'estorvo'. 'Estorvo' is a more informal and slightly negative way to say someone or something is in the way. If a person is being an 'estorvo', they are being a nuisance. 'Embaraço' in this context is more neutral and often relates to processes or legalities. In Brazil, 'saia justa' is a wonderful idiomatic expression for an 'embaraço social'. Literally meaning a 'tight skirt', it describes a situation where you are 'squeezed' or put on the spot and don't know how to react.

A burocracia excessiva é o maior impedimento ao crescimento das pequenas empresas.

If you want to describe a physical tangle, like wires behind a TV, use 'emaranhado' or 'confusão'. While 'embaraço' works for hair, 'emaranhado' is more descriptive for complex physical knots. Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the word that fits the 'vibe' of your sentence. 'Embaraço' is the sophisticated, versatile choice that bridges the gap between emotional states and external difficulties, making it an essential tool for intermediate and advanced Portuguese speakers.

Ela lidou com a situação de saia justa com muita elegância e rapidez de espírito.

Não quero ser um estorvo, por isso vou embora se estiverem ocupados.

O embaraço de fios atrás da secretária era um perigo constante de incêndio.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word is a cognate of the English 'embarrass', which also comes from the same 'bar' root via French, reflecting the idea of being 'blocked' by social shame.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ẽ.ba.ˈɾa.su/

US /ẽ.ba.ˈɾa.su/

Penultimate syllable: em-ba-RA-ço.

Rhymes With

passo braço espaço traço laço aço cansaço abraço

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ç' as 'k' (like the English 'embarrass').
Over-stressing the final 'o' instead of reducing it to 'u'.
Pronouncing the 'r' as a guttural French/German 'r' instead of a tap 'r'.
Missing the nasal quality of the first syllable 'em'.
Confusing the stress and putting it on the first syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is easy to recognize but its multiple meanings (shame vs. hindrance) require context clues.

Writing 4/5

Spelling with 'ç' and nasal 'em' is tricky for beginners.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once you master the soft 'ç' and penultimate stress.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and formal speech, usually clear but can be fast.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

vergonha problema sentir causar obstáculo

Learn Next

constrangimento impedimento desembaraçar saia justa desenrascar

Advanced

ónus gravame estorvo vicissitude perplexidade

Grammar to Know

Nouns ending in 'o' are usually masculine.

O embaraço (masculine).

The suffix '-oso' creates adjectives from nouns.

Embaraço -> Embaraçoso (embarrassing).

Nasal vowels are formed by 'm' or 'n' after a vowel.

'Em' in embaraço is a nasal vowel sound.

The 'ç' (cedilla) is only used before 'a', 'o', and 'u'.

Embaraço (followed by 'o').

Verbs like 'sentir' take a direct object.

Sinto embaraço.

Examples by Level

Eu sinto um pouco de embaraço.

I feel a bit of embarrassment.

'Embaraço' is the noun object of the verb 'sentir'.

O meu embaraço é grande.

My embarrassment is great.

'O meu' is the possessive adjective matching the masculine 'embaraço'.

Não tenha embaraço em falar.

Don't be shy/embarrassed to speak.

'Tenha' is the imperative form of 'ter'.

É um momento de embaraço.

It is a moment of embarrassment.

'De' links the noun 'momento' to 'embaraço'.

O menino sente embaraço.

The boy feels embarrassment.

Subject-verb-object structure.

Ela fala sem embaraço.

She speaks without embarrassment/hesitation.

'Sem' means 'without'.

O erro deu muito embaraço.

The mistake caused a lot of embarrassment.

'Deu' is used here colloquially for 'caused'.

Por que tanto embaraço?

Why so much embarrassment?

'Tanto' modifies the noun 'embaraço'.

O meu cabelo tem muito embaraço hoje.

My hair has many tangles today.

Uses the 'tangle' meaning of the word.

A situação causou embaraço à família.

The situation caused embarrassment to the family.

'Causar' is a common verb paired with 'embaraço'.

Ele explicou tudo sem nenhum embaraço.

He explained everything without any embarrassment.

'Nenhum' emphasizes the total lack of awkwardness.

Foi um embaraço total para o diretor.

It was a total embarrassment for the director.

'Total' is an adjective modifying 'embaraço'.

Temos um pequeno embaraço técnico.

We have a small technical hitch/difficulty.

Uses the 'hindrance' meaning in a technical context.

Senti um embaraço quando vi o preço.

I felt embarrassed when I saw the price.

'Quando' introduces a temporal clause.

Não quero causar embaraço a ninguém.

I don't want to cause embarrassment to anyone.

'Ninguém' is the indirect object.

O embaraço dele era visível.

His embarrassment was visible.

'Visível' is the predicate adjective.

Houve um embaraço nas comunicações.

There was a hitch in the communications.

'Houve' is the past tense of 'haver' (there was).

Ela superou o seu embaraço inicial.

She overcame her initial embarrassment.

'Superar' means to overcome.

Os embaraços burocráticos atrasaram a obra.

Bureaucratic hurdles delayed the construction.

Plural use of 'embaraço' meaning hurdles.

Ele agiu com um certo embaraço.

He acted with a certain embarrassment.

'Um certo' adds nuance to the noun.

O excesso de regras cria embaraços.

Too many rules create hindrances.

Present tense indicating a general truth.

A pergunta foi um embaraço para o autor.

The question was an embarrassment for the author.

'Para' indicates who is affected.

Eles resolveram o embaraço financeiro.

They resolved the financial difficulty.

'Financeiro' is the specific adjective here.

O silêncio aumentou o meu embaraço.

The silence increased my embarrassment.

'Aumentar' means to increase.

A empresa enfrenta graves embaraços financeiros.

The company is facing serious financial difficulties.

'Enfrentar' is a formal verb for 'facing' problems.

O imóvel está livre de qualquer embaraço.

The property is free of any legal hindrance/lien.

Technical legal usage of the word.

A sua presença é um embaraço para o governo.

His presence is an embarrassment for the government.

Abstract social/political usage.

O processo sofreu um embaraço judicial.

The process suffered a legal hitch/obstruction.

'Sofrer' is often used with negative nouns like 'embaraço'.

Ela disfarçou o embaraço com um riso nervoso.

She hid the embarrassment with a nervous laugh.

'Disfarçar' means to disguise or hide.

Não permitiremos embaraços ao livre comércio.

We will not allow hindrances to free trade.

Future tense, very formal register.

O nó górdio é um símbolo de grande embaraço.

The Gordian knot is a symbol of great entanglement/difficulty.

Metaphorical/literary usage.

A lei visa remover embaraços desnecessários.

The law aims to remove unnecessary hindrances.

'Visa' means 'aims at'.

A diplomacia exige evitar embaraços públicos.

Diplomacy requires avoiding public embarrassments.

'Exigir' followed by an infinitive phrase.

O texto é pleno de embaraços sintáticos.

The text is full of syntactic complications/tangles.

'Pleno de' is a sophisticated way to say 'full of'.

A herança trouxe vários embaraços à família.

The inheritance brought several complications to the family.

'Trazer' used to indicate resulting consequences.

O orador lidou bem com o embaraço da plateia.

The speaker handled the audience's awkwardness well.

'Lidar com' means 'to deal with'.

A burocracia é um embaraço à inovação.

Bureaucracy is a hindrance to innovation.

Abstract noun used as a predicate nominative.

Houve um embaraço de ordens no quartel.

There was a confusion/clash of orders at the barracks.

'Embaraço de ordens' implies conflicting instructions.

O seu silêncio foi interpretado como embaraço.

His silence was interpreted as embarrassment.

Passive voice construction.

O projeto deparou-se com um embaraço imprevisto.

The project encountered an unforeseen hitch.

'Deparar-se com' is a formal way to say 'to encounter'.

A narrativa explora o embaraço existencial do herói.

The narrative explores the hero's existential predicament/tangle.

High-level literary and philosophical usage.

O embaraço das contas públicas é alarmante.

The entanglement/mess of public accounts is alarming.

Metaphorical use in economic analysis.

O autor descreve o embaraço das almas solitárias.

The author describes the awkwardness/entanglement of lonely souls.

Poetic usage of the noun.

A medida visa sanar o embaraço das exportações.

The measure aims to remedy the hindrance to exports.

'Sanar' is a formal verb for 'to cure' or 'to fix'.

O embaraço de pernas na dança foi fatal.

The tangling of legs in the dance was fatal (disastrous).

Physical meaning used for dramatic effect.

A retórica dele carece de embaraço.

His rhetoric lacks hesitation/awkwardness (it is too smooth).

'Carecer de' means 'to lack'.

O embaraço ético da situação é profundo.

The ethical entanglement of the situation is profound.

Adjective 'ético' specifies the type of 'embaraço'.

Eles vivem num constante embaraço de interesses.

They live in a constant conflict/entanglement of interests.

'Embaraço de interesses' is a professional idiom.

Common Collocations

causar embaraço

sentir embaraço

sem embaraço

embaraço financeiro

embaraço judicial

vencer o embaraço

grande embaraço

embaraço gástrico

livrar-se de um embaraço

puro embaraço

Common Phrases

Com muito embaraço

— Doing something while feeling very awkward or shy.

Ele pediu desculpa com muito embaraço.

Sem qualquer embaraço

— Doing something with total confidence and ease.

Ela dançou sem qualquer embaraço no palco.

O principal embaraço

— The main difficulty or hurdle in a situation.

O principal embaraço é a falta de tempo.

Embaraço de meios

— A lack of resources or tools to complete a task.

O projeto parou por embaraço de meios.

Sinto um certo embaraço

— I feel a bit of awkwardness.

Sinto um certo embaraço em pedir dinheiro emprestado.

Para evitar embaraços

— In order to prevent awkward situations.

Para evitar embaraços, não falaremos disso.

Embaraço de línguas

— A confusion of languages or inability to communicate.

Houve um embaraço de línguas na reunião internacional.

Um embaraço para a nação

— Something that makes the whole country look bad.

Este escândalo é um embaraço para a nação.

Embaraço na garganta

— A lump in the throat or difficulty speaking due to emotion.

Sentiu um embaraço na garganta ao ver o pai.

Livre de embaraços

— Free of problems, hitches, or legal claims.

O caminho está livre de embaraços.

Often Confused With

embaraço vs vergonha

Vergonha is deeper shame; embaraço is more about awkwardness or a hitch.

embaraço vs embarazo (Spanish)

In Spanish, this means pregnancy; in Portuguese, it never does.

embaraço vs embaraçado

This is the adjective; make sure to use the noun 'embaraço' after verbs like 'sentir'.

Idioms & Expressions

"Tirar alguém de um embaraço"

— To help someone out of a difficult or awkward situation.

A tua chegada tirou-me de um grande embaraço.

neutral

"Estar num embaraço"

— To be in a 'tight spot' or a difficult predicament.

Estou num embaraço porque perdi a minha carteira.

neutral

"Causar um embaraço de morte"

— To cause extreme, 'deadly' embarrassment.

Aquela queda causou-me um embaraço de morte.

informal

"Sem embaraço de"

— Without prejudice to or regardless of (legal/formal).

Sem embaraço do que foi dito, continuaremos.

formal

"Embaraço de palavras"

— Being tongue-tied or unable to express oneself.

O medo causou-lhe um embaraço de palavras.

literary

"Criar embaraços"

— To intentionally make things difficult for someone.

O meu chefe adora criar embaraços ao meu trabalho.

neutral

"Um embaraço de fios"

— A messy tangle of cables or strings.

Que embaraço de fios tens atrás da televisão!

neutral

"Ficar num embaraço"

— To find oneself suddenly in an awkward position.

Fiquei num embaraço quando me pediram para cantar.

neutral

"Embaraço de família"

— A family scandal or awkward domestic situation.

Eles tentam esconder aquele embaraço de família.

neutral

"Sair de um embaraço"

— To successfully escape an awkward or difficult situation.

Consegui sair do embaraço com uma mentira piedosa.

neutral

Easily Confused

embaraço vs Embaraçoso

Adjective vs Noun.

Embaraçoso is the quality of the thing (an embarrassing joke). Embaraço is the feeling or the problem itself.

A situação foi embaraçosa, senti muito embaraço.

embaraço vs Grávida

False friend with Spanish 'embarazada'.

Grávida means pregnant. Embaraçada means embarrassed or tangled.

Ela não está embaraçada, ela está grávida!

embaraço vs Obstáculo

Synonyms for hindrance.

Obstáculo is more physical and direct. Embaraço is more about a complication or social friction.

A pedra é um obstáculo; a burocracia é um embaraço.

embaraço vs Timidez

Feeling shy vs embarrassment.

Timidez is a personality trait. Embaraço is a temporary state or situation.

A sua timidez faz com que sinta embaraço facilmente.

embaraço vs Confusão

Mental state vs social state.

Confusão is chaos or not understanding. Embaraço is awkwardness or being stuck.

Houve uma confusão de nomes, o que causou embaraço.

Sentence Patterns

Eu sinto [noun].

Eu sinto embaraço.

A situação é [adjective].

A situação é embaraçosa.

O [noun] causou [noun].

O erro causou embaraço.

Ele fala sem [noun].

Ele fala sem embaraço.

A empresa tem [adjective] [noun].

A empresa tem embaraços financeiros.

O imóvel está livre de [noun].

O imóvel está livre de embaraços.

Lidar com o [noun] de [noun].

Lidar com o embaraço da plateia.

Um [noun] de [noun].

Um embaraço de interesses.

Word Family

Nouns

embaraço (embarrassment/hindrance)

desembaraço (resourcefulness/ease)

Verbs

embaraçar (to embarrass/to tangle)

desembaraçar (to untangle/to clear)

Adjectives

embaraçado (embarrassed/tangled)

embaraçoso (embarrassing)

desembaraçado (resourceful/quick)

barra (bar)

barreira (barrier)

embarcação (vessel - distantly related via 'barca')

embaraçador (something that embarrasses)

embaraçante (embarrassing - less common)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in both spoken and written Portuguese, though more formal in Portugal than in Brazil.

Common Mistakes

Using 'embaraço' for pregnancy. → Use 'gravidez' or 'grávida'.
This is a classic false friend from Spanish. In Portuguese, 'embaraço' has nothing to do with babies.
Pronouncing 'ç' as 'k'. → Pronounce 'ç' as 's'.
Because of the English word 'embarrass', many learners want to say 'embarako'. It is always 'embarasu'.
Using 'embaraço' as an adjective. → Use 'embaraçoso' or 'embaraçada'.
'Embaraço' is a noun. You cannot say 'A situação é embaraço'. You must say 'A situação é embaraçosa'.
Using 'embaraço' for deep moral guilt. → Use 'remorso' or 'vergonha'.
'Embaraço' is for social awkwardness, not for feeling guilty about a serious crime or moral failing.
Missing the nasal 'em' sound. → Pronounce the 'e' nasally.
The first syllable is 'em', not 'e'. It sounds a bit like the 'en' in 'enter' but more closed.

Tips

Learn the family

Learn 'embaraçar' (verb) and 'embaraçoso' (adjective) at the same time to triple your vocabulary power. Knowing the whole family helps you recognize the root in different contexts.

Avoid the false friend

Always remember: Portuguese 'embaraço' is NOT Spanish 'embarazo'. If you remember this one rule, you will avoid the biggest mistake learners make with this word.

Focus on stress

When speaking, make sure the stress is on the 'RA'. Say 'em-ba-RA-ço'. If you put the stress elsewhere, it will be hard for native speakers to understand you.

Use in business

Use 'embaraço' in business emails to describe a delay or a complication. It sounds professional and polite, showing a high level of language mastery.

Listen for the 's'

The 'ç' is a soft 's'. In fast speech, 'embaraço' can sound like 'embarasu'. Train your ear to catch that soft ending.

Masculine noun

Always use 'o' or 'um' with 'embaraço'. For example, 'O embaraço que senti foi enorme'. Don't accidentally use 'a' just because it ends in 'o' (though rare, some learners do).

Context is king

If you hear 'embaraço' in a bank, it's about money. If you hear it at a party, it's about shyness. Use the setting to help you pick the right meaning.

Use 'sem embaraço'

Use the phrase 'sem embaraço' to compliment someone's skills. 'Tu falas português sem embaraço!' is a great way to tell someone they are fluent.

Read news

Read the 'Economia' section of a Portuguese newspaper. You will see 'embaraço' used for financial hitches all the time. It's a great way to see the word in action.

The Bar Mnemonic

Remember: An 'embaraço' is like a 'BAR' in your way. Whether it's a bar of shame or a bar of bureaucracy, it stops you from moving.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'BAR' (barra) in your path. An 'em-BAR-aço' is like an emotional or physical BAR that stops you from moving smoothly.

Visual Association

Imagine someone trying to walk through a doorway, but a giant wooden BAR is stuck across it, making them look awkward and stuck.

Word Web

vergonha nó obstáculo timidez burocracia dívida awkward tangle

Challenge

Try to use 'embaraço' in three different ways today: once for a feeling, once for a physical mess, and once for a delay.

Word Origin

Derived from the Portuguese verb 'embaraçar', which comes from the combination of the prefix 'em-' (in) and 'barra' (bar/barrier).

Original meaning: To put a bar in the way; to block or hinder movement.

Romance (Latin root 'barra' meaning bar or rod).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'embaraço' in a medical context; it is better to be specific about the physical symptom.

English speakers often use 'embarrassment' only for feelings, so they must learn to use 'embaraço' for logistical hitches too.

The phrase 'sem embaraço' appears in various Portuguese legal codes. Literary works by Eça de Queirós often feature characters in states of social 'embaraço'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Social Faux Pas

Que embaraço!
Peço desculpa pelo embaraço.
Senti um grande embaraço.
Não foi por mal.

Business/Finance

Embaraço financeiro.
Resolver o embaraço.
Evitar embaraços contratuais.
Livre de embaraços.

Physical Mess

Embaraço de fios.
Cabelo com embaraço.
Tirar o embaraço.
Nó e embaraço.

Legal Issues

Embaraço judicial.
Sem embaraço de terceiros.
Propriedade com embaraço.
Remover o embaraço.

Learning/Speaking

Falar sem embaraço.
Vencer o embaraço.
Perguntar sem embaraço.
O embaraço da língua.

Conversation Starters

"Já alguma vez passaste por um grande embaraço em público?"

"Como é que costumas lidar com o embaraço de esquecer o nome de alguém?"

"Achaste que o discurso dele causou algum embaraço aos convidados?"

"Qual é o maior embaraço burocrático que já enfrentaste?"

"Consegues falar português sem sentir nenhum embaraço agora?"

Journal Prompts

Descreve um momento de embaraço que viveste recentemente e como reagiste.

Quais são os principais embaraços que encontras ao aprender uma nova língua?

Escreve sobre uma situação em que um embaraço financeiro mudou os teus planos.

Como podemos ajudar alguém a vencer o seu embaraço em situações sociais?

O que significa para ti viver uma vida 'livre de embaraços'?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, absolutely not. This is a common mistake for Spanish speakers. In Portuguese, 'embaraço' means embarrassment or hindrance. To say 'pregnant', you must use 'grávida' or 'gestante'.

It is neutral. You can use it with friends ('Que embaraço!') or in a legal contract ('Livre de embaraços'). The context determines the register.

'Vergonha' is a broader, often stronger word for shame or shyness. 'Embaraço' is more specific to social awkwardness or a logistical complication.

Yes! In Portuguese, you can say your hair has 'embaraço' if it is tangled. The verb 'embaraçar' is very common for this: 'O vento embaraçou o meu cabelo'.

It is always pronounced like a soft 's', as in the English word 'sun'. Never like a 'k' or 'ch'.

It is a masculine noun. You should use masculine articles and adjectives with it: 'o embaraço', 'um grande embaraço'.

It refers to financial difficulties, such as not having enough cash to pay bills or being in debt. It's a formal way to describe money problems.

Yes, exactly. When something goes wrong in a plan or process, you can call it an 'embaraço'.

Depending on the meaning, it could be 'desenvoltura' (social ease) or 'facilidade' (lack of obstacles).

It is used in both, but in Portugal, the noun is very common in formal news and legal contexts, while in Brazil, the adjective 'embaraçado' is very frequent in daily life.