exigente in 30 Seconds
- Exigente means demanding, strict, or having high standards.
- It describes people, tasks, or situations requiring significant effort or precision.
- Remember adjective agreement: exigente (singular), exigentes (plural).
- Use it for teachers, bosses, complex projects, or meticulous processes.
The Portuguese word exigente is an adjective that describes someone or something that makes great demands on one's skill, attention, or other resources. It implies a high standard, often to the point of being difficult to satisfy. Think of it as someone who is very particular, demanding, or meticulous.
- Meaning Breakdown
- Demanding: Requiring a lot of effort, skill, or patience. This can apply to tasks, jobs, or even people.
- High Standards: Someone who is exigente has very high expectations and is not easily pleased. They often strive for perfection.
- Meticulous/Particular: They pay close attention to detail and can be very specific about how things should be done.
You might hear this word used in various contexts. For example, a teacher might be described as exigente if they give a lot of homework and expect high-quality work. A boss could be exigente if they have very strict deadlines and expect top performance from their employees. Even a recipe can be exigente if it requires precise measurements and careful preparation.
My new boss is very exigente, but I'm learning a lot from him.
It's important to note that while 'exigente' can sometimes imply someone is difficult, it often also suggests a positive trait of high quality and dedication to excellence. It's about setting a high bar.
- Usage Scenarios
- Workplace: Describing a supervisor, a project, or a work environment that requires a lot of effort and precision.
- Education: Referring to a professor, a course, or an assignment that is challenging and demands thoroughness.
- Personal Life: Describing a hobby that requires dedication, a complex task, or even a pet with specific needs.
- Standards: Talking about the quality of food, service, or any product that adheres to very high criteria.
Using exigente correctly involves understanding its placement in a sentence and the types of nouns it modifies. As an adjective, it typically follows the noun it describes or comes after a linking verb like 'ser' (to be) or 'estar' (to be).
- Placement and Agreement
- After the Noun: This is the most common position. For example, 'O professor é exigente.' (The professor is demanding.)
- Agreement: Remember that adjectives in Portuguese must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify. So, 'exigente' remains the same for masculine and feminine singular, but for plural, it becomes 'exigentes'.
Let's look at various sentence structures:
Este trabalho é muito exigente e requer muita atenção aos detalhes.
Translation: This job is very demanding and requires a lot of attention to detail.
Ela é uma aluna exigente, sempre buscando a perfeição.
Translation: She is a demanding student, always seeking perfection.
You can also use it to describe abstract concepts or situations:
A vida em uma grande cidade pode ser bastante exigente.
Translation: Life in a big city can be quite demanding.
- More Examples
- Plural: Os pais foram muito exigentes com os horários dos filhos.
- Feminine Plural: As críticas foram exigentes em relação à qualidade da apresentação.
- Describing a task: A escalada daquela montanha é uma atividade exigente.
- Describing a process: O processo de aprovação do visto é bastante exigente.
You'll encounter the word exigente in everyday conversations, media, and formal settings in Portuguese-speaking countries. Its versatility means it pops up in many different scenarios.
- Everyday Conversations
- Talking about people: Friends might discuss a new colleague, 'Ele é bem exigente, pede relatórios detalhados toda semana.' (He's quite demanding, he asks for detailed reports every week.) Or about a teacher, 'A professora de matemática é muito exigente, mas aprendemos muito com ela.' (The math teacher is very demanding, but we learn a lot from her.)
- Discussing tasks or hobbies: Someone might say, 'Cuidar de orquídeas é um hobby bem exigente.' (Taking care of orchids is a very demanding hobby.) Or about a recipe, 'Essa receita é exigente, precisa seguir todos os passos à risca.' (This recipe is demanding; you need to follow all the steps precisely.)
O novo treinador é exigente, mas os resultados estão aparecendo.
Translation: The new coach is demanding, but the results are showing.
- Media and Formal Contexts
- News Articles: You might read about economic policies being 'exigentes' (demanding) on the budget or public services. Or about a difficult political negotiation.
- Reviews: A restaurant review could mention that the chef is 'exigente com a qualidade dos ingredientes' (demanding about the quality of ingredients).
- Documentaries: When discussing extreme sports or challenging expeditions, the term 'exigente' is frequently used to describe the physical and mental demands.
A produção cinematográfica foi extremamente exigente em termos de logística.
Translation: The film production was extremely demanding in terms of logistics.
While exigente is a straightforward adjective, learners might sometimes misuse it or confuse it with similar-sounding words. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Mistake 1: Gender and Number Agreement
- Error: Using 'exigente' when the noun is plural or feminine plural, or vice-versa.
- Correct Usage: 'Exigente' is the singular form (masculine and feminine). For plural nouns, it becomes 'exigentes'.
- Example: Instead of 'Os alunos são exigente', say 'Os alunos são exigentes.' (The students are demanding.) Instead of 'A crítica foi exigentes', say 'A crítica foi exigente.' (The critique was demanding.)
Os projetos da empresa são muito exigentes.
- Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Exibir' (to exhibit/show)
- Error: Mistaking 'exigente' for a verb form related to 'exibir'.
- Correct Usage: 'Exigente' is an adjective meaning demanding. 'Exibir' is a verb meaning to show, display, or exhibit.
- Example: You wouldn't say 'Ele está exigindo o trabalho' (meaning 'he is showing the work') if you mean 'He is demanding the work'. The correct verb for demanding is 'exigir'.
O artista exibe suas obras em uma galeria.
Translation: The artist exhibits his works in a gallery.
- Mistake 3: Overusing 'Exigente' for Simple Difficulty
- Error: Using 'exigente' for any task that is merely difficult, when a simpler adjective might suffice.
- Correct Usage: 'Exigente' implies a high standard or a demand on resources (skill, time, attention). For general difficulty, words like 'difícil' (difficult) or 'complicado' (complicated) might be more appropriate.
- Example: While a complex math problem is difficult ('difícil'), if it requires extremely precise calculations and deep understanding, it can be described as 'exigente'. If it's just a standard challenging problem, 'difícil' is better.
While exigente is a precise term, Portuguese offers a range of words that convey similar meanings, sometimes with subtle differences in nuance or register. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary.
- Synonyms and Near-Synonyms
- Rigoroso: (Rigorous) Similar to 'exigente', often used for rules, standards, or methods that are strict and precise. It emphasizes adherence to strict principles.
- Exemplo: 'O treinamento foi muito rigoroso.' (The training was very rigorous.)
- Severo: (Severe, strict) Can be used for people who are very strict, often in a way that might seem harsh. It carries a stronger connotation of sternness than 'exigente'.
- Exemplo: 'O juiz foi severo na sua sentença.' (The judge was severe in his sentence.)
- Duro: (Hard, tough) Can mean difficult or demanding. When applied to people, it can imply they are tough to please or strict.
- Exemplo: 'Ele é um chefe duro, mas justo.' (He is a tough boss, but fair.)
- Preciso: (Precise) Often used to describe tasks or requirements that need exactness, which is a component of being 'exigente'.
- Exemplo: 'A medida deve ser precisa.' (The measurement must be precise.)
O padrão de qualidade é exigente.
- Antonyms and Contrasting Words
- Complacente: (Complacent, easy-going) Someone who is not demanding and is easily satisfied.
- Exemplo: 'Ele não é muito complacente com erros.' (He is not very lenient with mistakes - this is closer to exigente, but 'complacente' can also mean easy-going, so it depends on context. A better antonym might be needed.)
- Tolerante: (Tolerant) Willing to accept behavior and beliefs that are different from one's own. Less strict.
- Exemplo: 'O professor é tolerante com atrasos.' (The professor is tolerant of lateness.)
- Flexível: (Flexible) Able to change or be changed easily according to the situation. Not rigid or demanding.
- Exemplo: 'O horário de trabalho é flexível.' (The work schedule is flexible.)
- Relaxado: (Relaxed) Not worried or tense; easy-going.
- Exemplo: 'Ele tem uma atitude relaxada em relação ao trabalho.' (He has a relaxed attitude towards work.)
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
The root 'exigere' also gave rise to words like 'exact' and 'exige' in English. The idea of 'measuring' or 'weighing' is central, implying a standard that must be met, hence the demanding nature.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'x' as 'ks' (like in 'exist') instead of 'zh'.
- Misplacing the stress on a different syllable.
- Pronouncing the final 'e' too strongly.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'exigente' is relatively common and its meaning is usually clear from context. Understanding its nuances with synonyms and antonyms enhances reading comprehension, especially in more complex texts discussing standards or work ethics.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement in Portuguese
The adjective 'exigente' must agree in number with the noun it modifies. Singular: 'O professor é exigente.' Plural: 'Os professores são exigentes.'
Use of 'Ser' vs. 'Estar' with Adjectives
'Exigente' typically describes a characteristic, so 'ser' is used: 'Ele é exigente.' (He is demanding - a trait). 'Estar' might be used for a temporary state, but it's less common with 'exigente'.
Prepositions with Adjectives
'Exigente' is often followed by 'com' (with) or 'em' (in/on) when specifying what the demands are directed towards: 'Ele é exigente com os detalhes.' (He is demanding about the details.) 'Ela é exigente em sua pontualidade.' (She is demanding in her punctuality.)
Adjective Placement
While adjectives typically follow the noun in Portuguese, 'exigente' often follows the verb 'ser' or the noun it describes: 'Um curso exigente.' or 'O curso é exigente.'
Comparatives and Superlatives
To compare: 'Ele é mais exigente do que eu.' (He is more demanding than me.) To form a superlative: 'Ele é o professor mais exigente da escola.' (He is the most demanding professor in the school.)
Examples by Level
O meu cão é muito exigente com a comida.
My dog is very picky about food.
Exigente agrees with 'cão' (masculine singular).
Ela é exigente com a limpeza da casa.
She is demanding about the cleanliness of the house.
Exigente agrees with 'Ela' (feminine singular).
Este brinquedo é exigente para montar.
This toy is demanding to assemble.
Exigente agrees with 'brinquedo' (masculine singular).
O professor é exigente nas provas.
The professor is demanding on tests.
Exigente agrees with 'professor' (masculine singular).
A tarefa foi exigente.
The task was demanding.
Exigente agrees with 'tarefa' (feminine singular).
O treino é exigente.
The training is demanding.
Exigente agrees with 'treino' (masculine singular).
Ele é exigente com os amigos.
He is demanding with his friends.
Exigente agrees with 'Ele' (masculine singular).
A dieta dela é muito exigente.
Her diet is very demanding.
Exigente agrees with 'dieta' (feminine singular).
Meu pai é um chefe muito exigente, mas justo.
My father is a very demanding but fair boss.
Exigente agrees with 'chefe' (masculine singular).
Ela tem padrões exigentes para a sua casa.
She has demanding standards for her house.
Exigentes agrees with 'padrões' (masculine plural).
O curso de medicina é conhecido por ser exigente.
The medicine course is known for being demanding.
Exigente agrees with 'curso' (masculine singular).
Nós precisamos ser exigentes com a qualidade do produto.
We need to be demanding about the quality of the product.
Exigentes agrees with 'Nós' (plural).
O artista é muito exigente com os detalhes da pintura.
The artist is very demanding about the details of the painting.
Exigente agrees with 'artista' (masculine singular).
Esta receita de bolo é bastante exigente.
This cake recipe is quite demanding.
Exigente agrees with 'receita' (feminine singular).
Os pais são exigentes quanto ao desempenho escolar dos filhos.
The parents are demanding regarding their children's school performance.
Exigentes agrees with 'pais' (masculine plural).
A viagem foi longa e exigente.
The journey was long and demanding.
Exigente agrees with 'viagem' (feminine singular).
O mercado de trabalho atual é muito exigente e competitivo.
The current job market is very demanding and competitive.
Exigente agrees with 'mercado de trabalho' (masculine singular).
Ela se tornou uma crítica de cinema bastante exigente.
She became a rather demanding film critic.
Exigente agrees with 'crítica' (feminine singular).
A construção daquela ponte exigiu engenheiros muito exigentes.
The construction of that bridge required very demanding engineers.
Exigentes agrees with 'engenheiros' (masculine plural).
Os padrões de segurança alimentar são cada vez mais exigentes.
Food safety standards are increasingly demanding.
Exigentes agrees with 'padrões' (masculine plural).
Ele é conhecido por ser um cliente exigente em hotéis de luxo.
He is known for being a demanding client in luxury hotels.
Exigente agrees with 'cliente' (masculine singular).
A interpretação desta peça de teatro é muito exigente para os atores.
The interpretation of this play is very demanding for the actors.
Exigente agrees with 'interpretação' (feminine singular).
As condições climáticas na Antártida são extremamente exigentes.
The climatic conditions in Antarctica are extremely demanding.
Exigentes agrees with 'condições' (feminine plural).
Ser um bom músico requer disciplina e um ouvido exigente.
Being a good musician requires discipline and a demanding ear.
Exigente agrees with 'ouvido' (masculine singular).
O diretor do museu é notoriamente exigente quanto à curadoria das exposições.
The museum director is notoriously demanding regarding the curation of exhibitions.
Exigente agrees with 'diretor' (masculine singular).
A evolução tecnológica tem imposto exigências cada vez mais exigentes às empresas.
Technological evolution has imposed increasingly demanding requirements on companies.
Exigentes agrees with 'exigências' (feminine plural).
Os críticos de arte foram unânimes em descrever a performance como tecnicamente exigente.
The art critics were unanimous in describing the performance as technically demanding.
Exigente agrees with 'performance' (feminine singular).
Para alcançar a maestria em qualquer arte, é preciso um nível exigente de dedicação.
To achieve mastery in any art, a demanding level of dedication is needed.
Exigente agrees with 'nível' (masculine singular).
A manutenção de um jardim botânico requer uma equipe altamente exigente e conhecedora.
The maintenance of a botanical garden requires a highly demanding and knowledgeable team.
Exigente agrees with 'equipe' (feminine singular).
Os regulamentos ambientais tornaram-se mais exigentes nos últimos anos.
Environmental regulations have become more demanding in recent years.
Exigentes agrees with 'regulamentos' (masculine plural).
Ele é um gourmet exigente, sempre buscando o prato perfeito.
He is a demanding gourmet, always seeking the perfect dish.
Exigente agrees with 'gourmet' (masculine singular).
A preparação para a maratona foi uma experiência física e mentalmente exigente.
The preparation for the marathon was a physically and mentally demanding experience.
Exigente agrees with 'experiência' (feminine singular).
A arquitetura moderna frequentemente apresenta desafios de engenharia exigentes.
Modern architecture frequently presents demanding engineering challenges.
Exigentes agrees with 'desafios' (masculine plural).
O desenvolvimento de inteligência artificial requer um compromisso exigente com a ética e a segurança.
The development of artificial intelligence requires a demanding commitment to ethics and safety.
Exigente agrees with 'compromisso' (masculine singular).
Os padrões estéticos do período barroco eram notoriamente exigentes.
The aesthetic standards of the Baroque period were notoriously demanding.
Exigentes agrees with 'padrões' (masculine plural).
A diplomacia internacional exige uma navegação cuidadosa e um discernimento exigente.
International diplomacy requires careful navigation and demanding discernment.
Exigente agrees with 'discernimento' (masculine singular).
A pesquisa científica de ponta é um empreendimento intrinsecamente exigente.
Cutting-edge scientific research is an intrinsically demanding undertaking.
Exigente agrees with 'empreendimento' (masculine singular).
A análise literária profunda exige uma leitura atenta e um intelecto exigente.
Deep literary analysis demands attentive reading and a demanding intellect.
Exigente agrees with 'intelecto' (masculine singular).
Os investidores institucionais tendem a ser particularmente exigentes quanto ao retorno e ao risco.
Institutional investors tend to be particularly demanding regarding return and risk.
Exigentes agrees with 'investidores' (masculine plural).
A gestão de crises em larga escala impõe protocolos de resposta exigentes.
Large-scale crisis management imposes demanding response protocols.
Exigentes agrees with 'protocolos' (masculine plural).
A busca pela perfeição artística implica um diálogo constante com um padrão estético exigente.
The pursuit of artistic perfection implies a constant dialogue with a demanding aesthetic standard.
Exigente agrees with 'padrão' (masculine singular).
A complexidade intrínseca do universo quântico desafia até mesmo os físicos mais exigentes.
The intrinsic complexity of the quantum universe challenges even the most demanding physicists.
Exigentes agrees with 'físicos' (masculine plural).
A arte da alta-costura é um testemunho da capacidade humana de atender a demandas estéticas extremamente exigentes.
The art of haute couture is a testament to the human capacity to meet extremely demanding aesthetic demands.
Exigentes agrees with 'demandas' (feminine plural).
Um paladar verdadeiramente exigente é capaz de discernir as nuances mais sutis de um prato complexo.
A truly demanding palate is capable of discerning the most subtle nuances of a complex dish.
Exigente agrees with 'paladar' (masculine singular).
A consolidação de uma democracia robusta requer um compromisso público exigente com os princípios de justiça e equidade.
The consolidation of a robust democracy requires a demanding public commitment to the principles of justice and equity.
Exigente agrees with 'compromisso' (masculine singular).
A engenharia aeroespacial opera sob requisitos de segurança e desempenho extraordinariamente exigentes.
Aerospace engineering operates under extraordinarily demanding safety and performance requirements.
Exigentes agrees with 'requisitos' (masculine plural).
O estudo da filosofia exige uma mente inquisitiva e um rigor intelectual exigente.
The study of philosophy demands an inquisitive mind and demanding intellectual rigor.
Exigente agrees with 'rigor' (masculine singular).
A preservação de ecossistemas frágeis impõe diretrizes de intervenção humana altamente exigentes.
The preservation of fragile ecosystems imposes highly demanding human intervention guidelines.
Exigentes agrees with 'diretrizes' (feminine plural).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To be very demanding. This phrase emphasizes the high level of demands placed.
A nova diretora é muito <strong>exigente</strong> com os prazos. (The new director is very demanding with deadlines.)
— To have high standards. This focuses on the criteria or expectations set.
Ela sempre teve <strong>padrões exigentes</strong> para o seu trabalho. (She always had demanding standards for her work.)
— A demanding job. This describes the nature of the work itself.
Ser cirurgião é <strong>um trabalho exigente</strong> que requer anos de estudo. (Being a surgeon is a demanding job that requires years of study.)
— A demanding process. Used for procedures or sequences of actions that are difficult.
A aprovação do projeto foi <strong>um processo exigente</strong>. (The project approval was a demanding process.)
— To become demanding. Indicates a change in behavior or attitude towards higher standards.
Com o tempo, ele <strong>tornou-se mais exigente</strong> com a qualidade do café. (Over time, he became more demanding about coffee quality.)
— To not be demanding; to be easy-going or accepting.
Felizmente, o meu professor <strong>não é exigente</strong> com os rascunhos. (Fortunately, my professor is not demanding with drafts.)
— A demanding environment. Refers to the atmosphere or conditions of a place.
Trabalhar no hospital pode ser <strong>um ambiente exigente</strong>. (Working in the hospital can be a demanding environment.)
— A demanding lifestyle. Describes the challenges and requirements of a particular way of living.
Ser atleta olímpico envolve <strong>um estilo de vida exigente</strong>. (Being an Olympic athlete involves a demanding lifestyle.)
— To be demanding of oneself; to have high self-expectations.
Ela é muito <strong>exigente consigo mesma</strong>, sempre buscando melhorar. (She is very demanding of herself, always seeking to improve.)
— Demanding quality control. Highlights the strictness of the inspection process.
A fábrica implementou <strong>um controle de qualidade exigente</strong>. (The factory implemented demanding quality control.)
Often Confused With
While someone 'exigente' might seem 'exagerado' (exaggerated or over the top) to some, 'exigente' specifically refers to high demands and standards, whereas 'exagerado' implies going beyond reasonable limits.
'Perfeccionista' (perfectionist) is very close to 'exigente', often overlapping. However, 'exigente' can apply to external standards or tasks, while 'perfeccionista' more strongly implies an internal drive for flawlessness.
'Precioso' can sometimes imply being overly fussy or difficult to please, similar to a negative connotation of 'exigente', but it more commonly means valuable or precious.
Idioms & Expressions
— To have a discerning eye; to be critical and observant of details, often in art, fashion, or quality assessment.
O designer tem um olho exigente e só usa os melhores tecidos. (The designer has a discerning eye and only uses the best fabrics.)
neutral— To not have overly formal or complicated requirements; to be straightforward or simple.
Para este jantar, não teremos cerimônias exigentes, apenas boa comida e amigos. (For this dinner, we won't have demanding ceremonies; just good food and friends.)
informal— To be extremely demanding, like royalty with high expectations.
O cliente era exigente como um rei, pedindo mudanças constantes. (The client was demanding like a king, asking for constant changes.)
informal— To make very difficult or unreasonable demands. This is a bit redundant but emphasizes the severity.
O sindicato estava fazendo exigências exigentes que a empresa não podia atender. (The union was making demanding demands that the company could not meet.)
neutral— A job that demands the utmost effort and skill. This is a descriptive phrase rather than a strict idiom, highlighting the demanding nature.
Ser piloto de caça é um trabalho que exige o máximo do piloto. (Being a fighter pilot is a job that demands the utmost from the pilot.)
neutral— To have a refined or particular taste, often in food, art, or music.
Ela viaja pelo mundo para satisfazer um gosto exigente por alta gastronomia. (She travels the world to satisfy a demanding taste for haute cuisine.)
neutral— To be meticulous and particular about small aspects.
O arquiteto é exigente com os detalhes do projeto. (The architect is demanding about the project's details.)
neutral— The demanding challenge. A phrase used to describe a difficult task or situation.
A equipe enfrentou o desafio exigente de construir a ponte em tempo recorde. (The team faced the demanding challenge of building the bridge in record time.)
neutral— A standard of demand; a level of rigor.
O novo chefe estabeleceu um padrão de exigência mais elevado para todos. (The new boss established a higher standard of demand for everyone.)
neutral— A demanding being. Can refer to a person, an animal, or even a concept that is difficult.
O seu gato é um ser exigente quando se trata de comida. (Your cat is a demanding being when it comes to food.)
neutralEasily Confused
Both 'exigir' and 'exigente' share the same root and relate to demands.
'Exigir' is a verb meaning 'to demand' or 'to require'. It's an action. 'Exigente' is an adjective describing someone or something that makes demands or has high standards. For example, 'Ele <strong>exige</strong> pontualidade' (He demands punctuality) vs. 'Ele é <strong>exigente</strong> com a pontualidade' (He is demanding about punctuality).
O professor <strong>exige</strong> que os alunos entreguem o trabalho a tempo. (The professor demands that students submit the work on time.) O professor é <strong>exigente</strong> com os prazos. (The professor is demanding about deadlines.)
Both relate to what is needed or expected.
'Requisito' is a noun meaning a requirement or a necessary condition. 'Exigente' is an adjective describing something or someone that sets or meets high requirements. For instance, a job might have 'requisitos' (requirements), and the person hiring might be 'exigente' about who they hire.
O <strong>requisito</strong> principal para a vaga é experiência. (The main requirement for the vacancy is experience.) A empresa tem um processo de seleção <strong>exigente</strong>. (The company has a demanding selection process.)
Both words stem from a similar concept of asking for something.
'Demanda' is a noun that can mean 'demand' (as in market demand or a request) or 'lawsuit'. While related to 'exigir', 'exigente' describes the quality of being demanding. A company might face a high 'demanda' (demand) for its products, and its production process might be 'exigente' (demanding) to meet that demand.
A <strong>demanda</strong> por carros elétricos aumentou. (The demand for electric cars increased.) A produção desses carros é <strong>exigente</strong>. (The production of these cars is demanding.)
Both can imply something beyond the ordinary.
'Especial' means special or particular. 'Exigente' means demanding or having high standards. Something can be 'especial' without being 'exigente', and vice versa. For example, a 'prato especial' (special dish) might just be a unique offering, while a chef might have 'padrões exigentes' (demanding standards) for all dishes, even common ones.
Hoje temos um prato <strong>especial</strong> no menu. (Today we have a special dish on the menu.) O chef é <strong>exigente</strong> com a apresentação de todos os pratos. (The chef is demanding about the presentation of all dishes.)
Both 'difícil' and 'exigente' describe something challenging.
'Difícil' is a general term for difficult or hard. 'Exigente' is more specific, implying that the difficulty comes from high standards, skill requirements, or meticulousness. A math problem can be 'difícil' (difficult), but a complex scientific experiment requiring extreme precision is 'exigente' (demanding).
Este teste é muito <strong>difícil</strong>. (This test is very difficult.) O trabalho de pesquisa é <strong>exigente</strong> e requer precisão. (The research work is demanding and requires precision.)
Sentence Patterns
O/A [noun] é exigente.
O cão é <strong>exigente</strong>.
Um(a) [noun] exigente.
É um trabalho <strong>exigente</strong>.
Ser exigente com [noun].
Ele é <strong>exigente com</strong> os detalhes.
Ter padrões exigentes.
Ela tem <strong>padrões exigentes</strong>.
O/A [noun] é [adverb] exigente.
O curso é muito <strong>exigente</strong>.
Um(a) [noun] muito exigente.
Ela é uma aluna <strong>muito exigente</strong>.
Ser exigente quanto a [noun].
O diretor é <strong>exigente quanto à</strong> curadoria.
Um(a) [noun] tecnicamente exigente.
Uma performance tecnicamente <strong>exigente</strong>.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common
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Incorrectly using 'exigente' for plural nouns.
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Use 'exigentes' for plural nouns.
The adjective must agree in number. For example, 'Os pais são <strong>exigentes</strong>' (The parents are demanding), not 'exigente'.
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Confusing 'exigente' (adjective) with 'exigir' (verb).
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Use the verb 'exigir' for the action of demanding and 'exigente' for the description.
You 'exige' something (demand something), and someone or something 'é exigente' (is demanding). 'Eu <strong>exijo</strong> respeito' (I demand respect) vs. 'Ele é <strong>exigente</strong> com o respeito' (He is demanding about respect).
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Using 'exigente' when 'difícil' is more appropriate.
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Use 'difícil' for general difficulty and 'exigente' for difficulty stemming from high standards or specific skills.
A complex math problem might be 'difícil', but a task requiring extreme precision and focus is 'exigente'.
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Mispronouncing the 'x' sound.
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Pronounce the 'x' as a 'zh' sound (like in 'measure').
Say 'eg-zee-ZHEN-tee', not 'eg-sig-GEN-tee'. This is a common pronunciation challenge for learners.
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Assuming 'exigente' is always negative.
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Recognize that 'exigente' can describe positive traits like high standards and dedication to quality.
In many contexts, being 'exigente' is seen as a sign of professionalism or excellence. The interpretation depends heavily on the surrounding context and tone.
Tips
Agreement Matters
Remember that 'exigente' is an adjective and must agree in number with the noun it describes. Use 'exigente' for singular nouns (masculine or feminine) and 'exigentes' for plural nouns.
Explore Synonyms
To enrich your vocabulary, learn related words like 'rigoroso' (rigorous), 'severo' (severe), and 'duro' (hard/tough). Each has a slightly different nuance that can make your Portuguese more precise.
Master the 'X' Sound
The 'x' in 'exigente' has a 'zh' sound, similar to the 's' in 'measure'. Practice saying 'ex-zee-ZHEN-tee' to get the pronunciation right.
Connect to High Standards
Associate 'exigente' with concepts like 'high standards', 'perfection', or 'difficulty'. Visualizing someone meticulously checking details or a challenging task can help reinforce the meaning.
Use it Actively
Try to describe people, jobs, or tasks you encounter daily using 'exigente'. The more you use it in sentences, the more natural it will become.
Appreciation for Diligence
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, hard work and high quality are valued. Therefore, being 'exigente' can often be seen as a sign of dedication and professionalism, rather than just being difficult.
Exigente vs. Difícil
While related, 'difícil' (difficult) is general, whereas 'exigente' implies difficulty due to high standards or specific skill requirements. A task can be difficult without being particularly demanding of specific skills.
Know the Opposites
Understanding antonyms like 'complacente' (easy-going) or 'flexível' (flexible) helps solidify the meaning of 'exigente' by contrast.
Describe Processes
Don't limit 'exigente' to people. It's very useful for describing demanding processes, recipes, or even challenging environments where high performance is crucial.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a very strict teacher, 'Senhor Exigente', who always gives difficult homework. He is so 'exigente' that he makes students sweat! The 'ex' sound reminds you of 'exam', and the 'gente' part can remind you of 'people' who are often the ones facing these demands.
Visual Association
Picture a person with a stern face, holding a ruler and a very long checklist, pointing at someone who looks stressed. This visual represents the high standards and demands associated with 'exigente'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three different people you know using the word 'exigente' or its antonyms. For example, 'My aunt is very exigente about her garden,' or 'My friend is not exigente at all when it comes to movies.'
Word Origin
The word 'exigente' comes from the Latin word 'exigentem', which is the present participle of the verb 'exigere'. 'Exigere' means 'to drive out', 'to measure', 'to weigh', 'to assess', or 'to demand'.
Original meaning: In Latin, 'exigentem' referred to something that was pressing or demanding.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseCultural Context
While 'exigente' can describe someone who is difficult, it's generally not considered an offensive term on its own. However, its interpretation can depend heavily on the tone and context. It's best used when describing objective standards or a person's known work ethic rather than as a personal insult.
In English, 'demanding' is a close equivalent, but 'exigente' can sometimes carry a slightly more formal or precise connotation, especially when referring to standards or processes.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Workplace and Professional Settings
- chefe exigente
- trabalho exigente
- padrões exigentes
- ambiente exigente
Education and Academia
- professor exigente
- curso exigente
- exames exigentes
- nível exigente de estudo
Personal Standards and Hobbies
- ser exigente consigo mesmo
- gosto exigente
- hobby exigente
- exigente com os detalhes
Descriptions of Tasks and Processes
- tarefa exigente
- processo exigente
- receita exigente
- preparação exigente
General Descriptions of Difficulty
- vida exigente
- viagem exigente
- desafio exigente
- condições exigentes
Conversation Starters
"What kind of job would you describe as 'exigente'?"
"Can you think of a time when you had to be 'exigente' with yourself?"
"Is it better to have an 'exigente' teacher or a more relaxed one? Why?"
"How do you balance being 'exigente' with being understanding?"
"What hobbies or activities do you find particularly 'exigentes'?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a situation where you encountered something or someone 'exigente'. How did you react, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on your own standards. Are you 'exigente' with yourself? In what areas, and why?
Think about a time you had to meet 'exigente' expectations. What strategies did you use to succeed?
Consider the difference between being 'exigente' and being 'rigoroso'. Can you provide examples?
Imagine you are a boss or teacher. What kind of 'exigente' standards would you set, and how would you communicate them to your team or students?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot necessarily. While it can describe someone who is difficult to please, 'exigente' often implies high standards and a commitment to quality. A demanding teacher might push students to achieve more, and a demanding chef ensures excellent food. The context and tone are crucial in determining whether it's perceived positively or negatively.
'Exigente' generally refers to the level of demand placed on skill, attention, or resources, often by a person or a task. 'Rigoroso' typically describes methods, rules, or processes that are strict, precise, and adhere closely to standards. For example, a 'professor exigente' (demanding professor) might set tough assignments, while a 'método rigoroso' (rigorous method) ensures accuracy and consistency.
Yes, 'exigente' can describe tasks, processes, projects, or even conditions that require a lot of effort, skill, or attention. For example, 'Esta receita é exigente' (This recipe is demanding) or 'A escalada é uma atividade exigente' (Climbing is a demanding activity).
The plural form of 'exigente' is 'exigentes'. It agrees in number with the noun it modifies. For example, 'Os alunos são exigentes' (The students are demanding) and 'As normas são exigentes' (The norms are demanding).
The pronunciation is approximately /ɛɡziˈʒɛ̃tʃi/. The 'x' sounds like the 'zh' in 'measure'. The stress is on the second-to-last syllable: exi-GEN-te.
'Difícil' is a general term meaning 'difficult' or 'hard'. 'Exigente' is more specific, implying that the difficulty arises from high standards, the need for particular skills, or meticulous attention. A task can be 'difícil' without being particularly 'exigente', and vice versa. For example, a complex puzzle might be 'difícil', but a delicate surgical procedure is 'exigente'.
Yes, it can be used to describe someone with a very particular or refined taste, or a dish that requires very specific preparation. For example, 'Ele tem um paladar exigente' (He has a demanding palate) or 'Este prato é exigente de preparar' (This dish is demanding to prepare).
Common antonyms include 'complacente' (easy-going, lenient), 'tolerante' (tolerant), 'flexível' (flexible), and 'relaxado' (relaxed). These words describe someone or something that does not make high demands.
Yes, the verb is 'exigir', which means 'to demand' or 'to require'. 'Exigente' is the adjective form describing someone or something that performs the action of demanding or sets high requirements.
Think of the 'ex' sound like 'extra' effort or 'extreme' standards. The 'gente' part can remind you of the 'people' who often face these high demands, like demanding bosses or teachers.
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Summary
The Portuguese adjective 'exigente' describes someone or something that makes significant demands on skill, attention, or resources, implying high standards and a need for precision. It is often used for challenging tasks, strict individuals, or environments that require meticulous effort. Remember to ensure adjective agreement: 'exigente' for singular and 'exigentes' for plural nouns.
- Exigente means demanding, strict, or having high standards.
- It describes people, tasks, or situations requiring significant effort or precision.
- Remember adjective agreement: exigente (singular), exigentes (plural).
- Use it for teachers, bosses, complex projects, or meticulous processes.
Context is Key
The word 'exigente' can be positive or negative depending on the context. A demanding teacher might be respected for their high standards, while a demanding boss might be seen as difficult. Always consider the situation when using or interpreting the word.
Agreement Matters
Remember that 'exigente' is an adjective and must agree in number with the noun it describes. Use 'exigente' for singular nouns (masculine or feminine) and 'exigentes' for plural nouns.
Explore Synonyms
To enrich your vocabulary, learn related words like 'rigoroso' (rigorous), 'severo' (severe), and 'duro' (hard/tough). Each has a slightly different nuance that can make your Portuguese more precise.
Master the 'X' Sound
The 'x' in 'exigente' has a 'zh' sound, similar to the 's' in 'measure'. Practice saying 'ex-zee-ZHEN-tee' to get the pronunciation right.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More work words
a curto prazo
A2Over a short period of time; short-term.
à exceção de
B1With the exception of; apart from.
a longo prazo
A2Over a long period of time; long-term.
a não ser que
A2Unless; except if; only if not.
a partir de
A2Starting from; from a certain point in time or place.
a prazo
A2For a period of time; on credit or payment terms.
a tempo inteiro
B1Full-time; working the full number of hours considered normal for a job.
a tempo parcial
B1Part-time; working less than full-time hours.
abdicar
A2To give up, to abdicate; to renounce or relinquish a throne, right, power, or claim.
acessível
B1Available, accessible; easy to approach or use.
