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hidrelétrico

B1 adjective 16 min read

hidrelétrico

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips hidrelétrico in 30 Seconds

Explanation hidrelétrico in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'hidrelétrico' often, but it is helpful to understand its parts. The word starts with 'hidro', which means water (água), and ends with 'elétrico', which means electric (elétrico). In Brazil, most of the electricity comes from water. Imagine a big river and a big wall (a dam). The water moves and makes light for your house. That is 'hidrelétrico'. You might see this word on a map or in a simple science book. For now, just remember that 'hidro' = water and 'elétrico' = electricity. If you see 'usina hidrelétrica', think 'water power station'. It is a long word, but you can say it slowly: hi-dre-lé-tri-co. Practice saying 'água' and 'luz' (light) first, as these are the basic ideas behind this big word. You might hear it on the news when people talk about the weather and the rain. Rain is good for 'hidrelétrico' because it fills the rivers. If there is no rain, there is less 'hidrelétrico' power. This is why the word is important even for beginners to recognize.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'hidrelétrico' to describe where energy comes from. You already know 'água' and 'energia'. Now, you can combine them. You can say 'A energia do Brasil é hidrelétrica'. This is a simple sentence that shows you understand how the country works. You should also learn that the word changes if the noun is masculine or feminine. 'O projeto' is masculine, so it is 'o projeto hidrelétrico'. 'A usina' is feminine, so it is 'a usina hidrelétrica'. You will see this word in newspapers or on signs when you travel through the Brazilian countryside. It is also useful for talking about the environment. You can say 'A hidrelétrica é importante'. At this level, don't worry about the complex engineering, just focus on the fact that it is energy from rivers. Try to notice the accent on the 'é'. This accent tells you to stress that part of the word. Practice saying: 'O Brasil tem muitas hidrelétricas'. This will help you sound more like a native speaker who understands the local geography.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'hidrelétrico' in discussions about the economy, environment, and geography. You should understand that Brazil's 'matriz energética' (energy matrix) is primarily 'hidrelétrica'. This means you can participate in conversations about why electricity bills are expensive during a drought ('crise hídrica'). You should be able to use the word as both an adjective ('o potencial hidrelétrico') and a substantivized noun ('a hidrelétrica de Itaipu'). You should also be aware of the environmental debates. For example, 'As hidrelétricas causam impacto ambiental, mas produzem energia limpa'. This sentence uses the word in a way that shows you understand the pros and cons. You can also start using related terms like 'reservatório' (reservoir) and 'barragem' (dam) in conjunction with 'hidrelétrico'. Your goal at this level is to use the word accurately in sentences that explain cause and effect, such as 'Se não chover, a produção hidrelétrica diminui'. This shows a solid grasp of both the vocabulary and the cultural context of Lusophone countries like Brazil.

At the B2 level, you should use 'hidrelétrico' with nuance and technical accuracy. You can discuss the differences between 'UHE' (large plants) and 'PCH' (small plants). You should be able to read technical reports or long-form journalism about energy policy. At this level, you should also understand the European variant 'hidroelétrico' and use it if you are in Portugal or writing for a Portuguese audience. You can engage in debates about 'sustentabilidade' (sustainability) and the 'custo-benefício' (cost-benefit) of hydroelectric projects. For instance, you might say: 'Embora o potencial hidrelétrico seja vasto, a construção de novas usinas na Amazônia enfrenta forte oposição devido aos impactos socioambientais'. This sentence shows a high level of vocabulary integration. You should also be comfortable using the word in professional contexts, such as engineering, law, or economics. You can discuss 'leilões de energia hidrelétrica' (hydroelectric energy auctions) or 'concessões hidrelétricas' (hydroelectric concessions). At B2, 'hidrelétrico' is no longer just a word about water; it's a word about policy, infrastructure, and national development.

At the C1 level, your use of 'hidrelétrico' should be fluid and sophisticated. You can use it in complex rhetorical structures and academic writing. You understand the subtle connotations the word carries in different contexts—for example, how it might represent 'progress' in a historical text but 'environmental risk' in a modern ecological study. You can discuss the 'interconexão do sistema hidrelétrico nacional' (the interconnection of the national hydroelectric system) and how it relates to other sources like 'eólica' and 'termelétrica'. You should be able to analyze the 'vulnerabilidade hidrelétrica' of a country in the face of climate change. Your vocabulary should include advanced collocations like 'aproveitamento hidrelétrico' or 'inventário hidrelétrico'. You can also use the word metaphorically or in high-level policy discussions. For example, 'A hegemonia hidrelétrica no Brasil moldou o desenvolvimento industrial do século XX'. At this level, you are expected to have perfect command of gender agreement and the orthography of both the Brazilian and European variants, using them appropriately based on your target audience.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'hidrelétrico' and its entire lexical field. You can navigate the most dense technical manuals, legal statutes, and philosophical critiques of hydroelectric development. You understand the historical evolution of the term and its role in the 'geopolítica da energia' (geopolitics of energy). You can lead a seminar on the 'viabilidade técnico-econômica de complexos hidrelétricos' or write an editorial on the 'ética da exploração hidrelétrica em terras indígenas'. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, such as an energy engineer or a specialized journalist. You can play with the word's nuances, perhaps using it to describe the 'fluxo hidrelétrico' of capital or ideas in an abstract sense. You are aware of the most obscure synonyms and technical classifications. For you, 'hidrelétrico' is a fundamental piece of the Portuguese linguistic tapestry, which you use with precision, elegance, and a deep understanding of its multi-faceted implications for society and the planet.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

hidrelétrico in 30 Seconds

Hidrelétrico means 'hydroelectric'. It describes electricity made from water.
In Brazil, it is the most important word for energy and infrastructure.
It must agree with the noun: 'hidrelétrico' (masculine) or 'hidrelétrica' (feminine).
It is common in news about energy prices, droughts, and environmental issues.

The word hidrelétrico is a vital adjective in the Portuguese language, particularly within the context of Brazil and other Lusophone countries that rely heavily on natural resources for power. At its core, it describes anything related to the generation of electricity through the kinetic energy of flowing water. For an English speaker, it translates directly to 'hydroelectric'. However, its cultural weight in Brazil is significantly higher than in many English-speaking nations because Brazil possesses one of the largest hydroelectric potentials in the world. When you hear this word, you aren't just hearing a technical term; you are hearing about the backbone of the national economy and infrastructure. It is used in news reports about energy prices, in geography classrooms when discussing river basins, and in environmental debates regarding the construction of new dams in the Amazon rainforest.

Technical Application: Refers to the machinery, the process, or the plants (usinas) that convert water flow into power.

In daily conversation, you might hear people talking about the 'setor hidrelétrico' (hydroelectric sector) when discussing the stock market or national development. Because Brazil's energy matrix is so dependent on this source, the word is often linked to weather patterns. If there is a drought, the 'reservatórios hidrelétricos' (hydroelectric reservoirs) go down, and electricity bills go up. This connection makes the word part of the common person's vocabulary, not just engineers. It is also important to note the feminine form, hidrelétrica, which is frequently used as a noun to mean 'hydroelectric power plant' (short for 'usina hidrelétrica').

O Brasil é um líder mundial na produção de energia de origem hidrelétrica.

Beyond the physical plants, the term appears in academic and political discourse. It represents a point of pride regarding renewable energy but also a point of contention regarding indigenous rights and environmental preservation. Large-scale projects like Belo Monte or Itaipu are often described using this adjective, carrying connotations of massive engineering feats. For a B1 learner, mastering this word involves understanding its agreement with nouns: 'o sistema hidrelétrico' (masculine) versus 'a barragem hidrelétrica' (feminine).

Precisamos expandir o nosso potencial hidrelétrico de forma sustentável.

Environmental Context: Commonly used in discussions about 'impacto hidrelétrico'—the ecological footprint of dams.

Furthermore, the word is part of a larger family of 'hidro-' words. Understanding 'hidrelétrico' helps you unlock 'hidráulico' (hydraulic), 'hidrografia' (hydrography), and 'hidrologia' (hydrology). In a world moving toward green energy, 'hidrelétrico' stands as a traditional yet evolving term that bridges the gap between old-school industrialism and modern sustainability efforts. When reading a Brazilian newspaper like Folha de São Paulo or O Globo, you will encounter this word in the economy or environment sections almost weekly. It is a high-frequency technical term that defines the physical landscape of the country.

A manutenção do complexo hidrelétrico exige alta tecnologia.

O setor hidrelétrico é fundamental para a soberania nacional.

Economic Impact: Relates to the cost of electricity production and the 'bandeira tarifária' (tariff flags) in Brazil.

Muitas cidades surgiram ao redor de projetos hidrelétricos.

In summary, 'hidrelétrico' is more than just a translation of 'hydroelectric'. It is a word that carries the weight of Brazil's rivers, its engineering history, and its future challenges with climate change. Whether you are discussing the massive Itaipu dam or a small 'PCH' (Pequena Central Hidrelétrica), this word is your primary tool for navigating the world of Portuguese energy and geography.

Mastering the use of hidrelétrico requires paying close attention to the nouns it qualifies. As an adjective, it must agree in gender and number with the noun it describes. In Portuguese, nouns related to energy and infrastructure are diverse. For example, 'potencial' (potential) is masculine, so we say 'potencial hidrelétrico'. Conversely, 'energia' (energy) and 'usina' (plant) are feminine, leading to 'energia hidrelétrica' and 'usina hidrelétrica'. This flexibility is key to sounding natural. If you are describing a group of dams, you would use the plural: 'barragens hidrelétricas'.

Agreement Patterns: Masculine Singular: Projeto hidrelétrico. Feminine Singular: Fonte hidrelétrica. Plural: Recursos hidrelétricos.

One of the most common ways you will use this word is when identifying sources of electricity. If someone asks where Brazil gets its power, a perfect B1-level response would be: 'A maior parte vem de fontes hidrelétricas'. Notice how 'fontes' (sources) is feminine plural, so 'hidrelétricas' follows suit. Another common sentence structure involves the word 'usina'. In Brazil, people often skip the word 'usina' and just say 'A hidrelétrica de Itaipu' as if 'hidrelétrica' were the noun itself. This is called substantivation, where an adjective takes on the role of a noun.

A construção daquela hidrelétrica levou mais de dez anos.

You will also use 'hidrelétrico' when discussing environmental science or geography. For instance, 'O impacto hidrelétrico no ecossistema local foi devastador' (The hydroelectric impact on the local ecosystem was devastating). Here, 'impacto' is masculine, so 'hidrelétrico' remains in its base form. It is also common in bureaucratic or technical writing. If you are reading a contract or a news report about the energy grid, you might see 'operador do sistema hidrelétrico' (hydroelectric system operator). The word often appears at the end of a noun phrase to specify the type of energy being discussed, distinguishing it from 'eólico' (wind) or 'solar' (solar).

Eles investiram em um novo parque hidrelétrico no norte do país.

In more advanced contexts, you might use the word to describe complex concepts like 'matriz hidrelétrica' (hydroelectric matrix) or 'inventário hidrelétrico' (hydroelectric inventory). These phrases are common in government reports. Even in casual conversation about the cost of living, you might hear: 'A conta de luz está cara porque o nível hidrelétrico está baixo' (The electricity bill is expensive because the hydroelectric level is low). While 'nível dos reservatórios' is more precise, people often use 'hidrelétrico' as a catch-all descriptor for the water-based power system.

Sentence Starters: 'Em termos hidrelétricos...' (In hydroelectric terms...), 'O potencial hidrelétrico de...' (The hydroelectric potential of...).

O governo anunciou novos incentivos para o desenvolvimento hidrelétrico.

Finally, consider the word's placement. In Portuguese, adjectives usually come after the noun. Saying 'hidrelétrico projeto' sounds like an archaic poem or a bad translation; always stick to 'projeto hidrelétrico'. This word is also frequently paired with 'complexo' (complex) to describe large-scale installations like 'O Complexo Hidrelétrico do Rio Madeira'. By understanding these patterns, you can discuss energy, environment, and economy with the precision of a native speaker.

As turbinas hidrelétricas são máquinas impressionantes.

O aproveitamento hidrelétrico dos rios é uma prioridade nacional.

Pluralization: Singular: usina hidrelétrica. Plural: usinas hidrelétricas.

If you spend any significant amount of time in Brazil, you will encounter the word hidrelétrico far more often than you might expect. One of the primary places is the nightly news (Jornal Nacional, for example). Because Brazil's electricity prices are tied to rainfall, news anchors frequently discuss the 'reservatórios das hidrelétricas' (reservoirs of the hydroelectric plants). When the water levels are low, they talk about 'crise hidrelétrica' (hydroelectric crisis) or the need to activate thermal plants because the 'sistema hidrelétrico' cannot keep up. It is a word that directly affects every citizen's wallet, making it a household term.

In the News: Frequent mentions in 'Economia' and 'Previsão do Tempo' (weather forecast) segments.

Another common setting is the educational system. Brazilian students learn about the 'potencial hidrelétrico' of the Amazon basin from a very young age. Geography textbooks are filled with maps showing 'usinas hidrelétricas' scattered across the country. If you are a student or an academic, you will find this word in papers regarding sustainable development, engineering, and ecology. It is also a buzzword in political campaigns. Politicians often promise to 'investir no setor hidrelétrico' to lower energy costs or create jobs, sparking debates about the displacement of local populations.

A TV noticiou que o nível hidrelétrico está em estado de alerta.

Travelers and tourists will also see this word. Some of Brazil's largest dams, like Itaipu on the border with Paraguay, are major tourist attractions. When you visit, the guides will use the word 'hidrelétrico' constantly to describe the turbines, the spillway, and the sheer scale of the 'complexo hidrelétrico'. Even on road signs in rural areas, you might see directions pointing toward a 'Barragem Hidrelétrica'. It is part of the physical and linguistic landscape of the countryside, where massive rivers are harnessed for power.

Visitamos a usina hidrelétrica durante nossas férias no Paraná.

In the business world, 'hidrelétrico' appears in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reports. Companies brag about using 'energia de fonte hidrelétrica' to prove their green credentials. You'll hear it in boardrooms when discussing energy efficiency. Furthermore, if you are interested in environmental activism, you will hear the word used with a more critical tone. Activists talk about the 'desastre hidrelétrico' when a dam fails or when a project destroys a river's biodiversity. This range—from economic necessity to environmental tragedy—makes it a word with deep emotional and social layers.

Professional Use: Used by engineers, economists, and environmentalists in technical reports.

O relatório destaca os riscos do projeto hidrelétrico para a fauna.

Lastly, you might even hear it in songs or literature that discuss the modernization of Brazil. The 'luz' (light) brought by the 'hidrelétrica' is a common trope for progress in 20th-century Brazilian culture. Whether it's a technical manual, a political debate, or a casual complaint about the electric bill, 'hidrelétrico' is a word that connects the natural world of water to the modern world of electricity in the Lusophone mind.

A matriz hidrelétrica brasileira é uma das mais limpas do mundo.

O setor hidrelétrico gera milhares de empregos diretos.

Acronyms: UHE (Usinas Hidrelétricas de Energia) is a common sight in documents.

For English speakers, the most frequent mistake when using hidrelétrico is related to spelling and pronunciation, specifically the placement of the accent. Portuguese is a language where stress and accents are crucial. Many learners forget the acute accent on the 'é' (hidrelétrico), which changes the pronunciation and is a major orthographic error. Without the accent, the word doesn't exist. Another common spelling error is confusing it with the English 'hydroelectric' and trying to put a 'y' in it. Remember: in Portuguese, it’s always 'i', never 'y'.

Spelling Trap: Incorrect: 'hydreletrico' or 'hidreletrico'. Correct: 'hidrelétrico'.

Gender agreement is the second biggest hurdle. Because English adjectives are gender-neutral, learners often stick to the masculine 'hidrelétrico' even when describing a feminine noun. For example, 'uma usina hidrelétrico' is a classic mistake. Since 'usina' is feminine, the adjective must be 'hidrelétrica'. This applies to plural forms as well. If you are talking about 'fontes' (sources), you must say 'fontes hidrelétricas'. Mixing these up won't usually prevent you from being understood, but it will immediately mark you as a beginner.

Errado: A hidrelétrico de Itaipu é grande. (Should be: A hidrelétrica...)

Another mistake is confusing 'hidrelétrico' with 'hidráulico'. While they share the 'hidro-' root, they have different meanings. 'Hidráulico' (hydraulic) refers to systems that use pressurized liquids to move machinery (like the brakes in a car or a hydraulic press). 'Hidrelétrico' specifically refers to electricity generation from water. You wouldn't say 'energia hidráulica' when you mean the power coming from a dam; you would say 'energia hidrelétrica'. Using 'hidráulico' in an electrical context sounds technically 'off' to a native speaker.

Confusão comum: O sistema hidráulico do carro (Correct). O sistema hidrelétrico do país (Correct).

Learners also struggle with the variant 'hidroelétrico'. As mentioned before, 'hidrelétrico' is the standard in Brazil, while 'hidroelétrico' is common in Portugal. A mistake would be to think one is wrong. However, if you are in Brazil and you use 'hidroelétrico' in a very formal or technical setting, it might sound a bit 'European' or slightly archaic, though perfectly correct. The biggest mistake is inconsistency—mixing both forms in the same document.

Variant Usage: Brazil: hidrelétrico (standard). Portugal: hidroelétrico (standard).

Cuidado: Não confunda hidrelétrico com 'elétrico' puro; o 'hidre-' especifica a fonte.

Finally, avoid the 'false friend' trap of thinking it can be used for anything water-related. It is strictly for electricity. If you want to talk about a water-powered mill (like for grain), you should use 'moinho de água', not 'moinho hidrelétrico' (unless the mill is actually generating electricity). Being precise with the 'elétrico' part of the word is essential for clear communication. Also, watch out for the plural: the accent remains on the same syllable: 'hidrelétricos'.

Erro de acentuação: Os projetos hidreletricos (Missing accent on the second 'e').

A hidrelétrica produz energia limpa, mas impacta o rio.

Summary of Errors: 1. Missing accent. 2. Wrong gender. 3. Confusing with 'hidráulico'. 4. Using 'y' like English.

While hidrelétrico is the most common term for water-based electricity, there are several related words and alternatives that can enrich your vocabulary and help you navigate different registers. The most direct alternative is hidroelétrico. As previously noted, this is simply a spelling variant. In Brazil, 'hidrelétrico' is preferred for its phonetic simplicity, while 'hidroelétrico' is the standard in Portugal and occasionally appears in very formal Brazilian legal documents. They are 100% synonymous.

Comparison: Hidrelétrico vs. Hidráulico: Hidrelétrico: Focuses on electricity generation (e.g., a dam).
Hidráulico: Focuses on fluid mechanics (e.g., a car jack or plumbing).

Another important term is hídrico. While 'hidrelétrico' is specific to electricity, 'hídrico' is a broader adjective meaning 'related to water resources' in general. You will often hear about 'recursos hídricos' (water resources) or 'crise hídrica' (water crisis). A 'crise hídrica' often leads to a 'crise hidrelétrica', but they are not the same thing. One refers to the lack of water, the other to the lack of power caused by the lack of water. Using 'hídrico' makes you sound more academic and precise when discussing environmental issues.

A gestão dos recursos hídricos é essencial para as usinas.

If you want to talk about the physical structure rather than the type of energy, you might use barragem (dam) or represa (reservoir/dam). While 'hidrelétrica' implies the whole power plant, 'barragem' refers specifically to the wall holding back the water. You might say, 'A barragem da hidrelétrica é imensa'. Another common word is usina. This is a generic word for 'plant' or 'factory'. You have 'usinas nucleares' (nuclear plants), 'usinas termelétricas' (thermal plants), and 'usinas hidrelétricas'. In casual speech, as mentioned, 'hidrelétrica' often stands alone as a noun, replacing 'usina hidrelétrica'.

O país busca alternativas à dependência hidrelétrica.

For small-scale projects, the term PCH (Pequena Central Hidrelétrica) is used. This is a technical term you'll see in news reports about local energy production. It contrasts with 'UHE' (Usinas Hidrelétricas de Energia), which are the massive ones. If you are discussing the flow of water itself, you might use fluxo or vazão. For example, 'A vazão do rio afeta a produção hidrelétrica'. Understanding these nuances allows you to switch between casual, technical, and environmental registers effectively.

Comparison: Hidrelétrico vs. Aquático: Hidrelétrico: Related to power (e.g., turbines).
Aquático: Related to water life or sports (e.g., plantas aquáticas, esportes aquáticos).

A energia eólica complementa a produção hidrelétrica.

Lastly, when discussing the environmental impact, you might use sustentável (sustainable) or limpo (clean). Although 'hidrelétrico' is considered a 'fonte limpa' (clean source) because it doesn't burn fossil fuels, it isn't always 'sustentável' due to the ecological disruption it causes. Being able to contrast 'energia hidrelétrica' with 'energia fóssil' (fossil energy) is a hallmark of a B2/C1 level speaker. By learning these synonyms and related terms, you can talk about the complex world of energy with nuance and confidence.

O potencial hidroelétrico da região ainda não foi totalmente explorado.

A vazão reduzida impactou o desempenho hidrelétrico.

Register Check: Casual: A hidrelétrica. Formal: O complexo hidroelétrico. Technical: A unidade geradora hidrelétrica.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The term 'hidrelétrico' gained massive popularity in Brazil during the mid-20th century as the country began its 'March to the West', harnessing massive rivers to fuel industrialization.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌhaɪ.drəʊ.ɪˈlek.trɪk/

US /ˌhaɪ.droʊ.ɪˈlek.trɪk/

The primary stress is on the 'lé' (the fourth syllable).

Rhymes With

elétrico dielétrico piezelétrico termelétrico fotoelétrico bioelétrico geocêntrico excêntrico

Common Errors

Pronouncing it like 'hydro' with an 'ai' sound instead of 'ee' (hi-).
Missing the 'dr' cluster and saying 'hi-e-letrico'.
Stressing the wrong syllable, like the 'tri'.
Pronouncing the 't' too softly; it should be crisp.
Forgetting to open the 'é' sound (it should be like 'bed').

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is long but follows standard phonetic rules. Easy to recognize for English speakers.

Writing 4/5

The accent on the 'é' is often forgotten by learners.

Speaking 4/5

The 'dr' cluster followed by 'lé' can be a tongue twister for some.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to catch in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

água luz energia rio elétrico

Learn Next

termelétrico eólico sustentabilidade barragem vazão

Advanced

matriz energética bandeira tarifária impacto socioambiental potencial remanescente

Grammar to Know

Adjective-Noun Agreement

O projeto (m) hidrelétrico (m) / A usina (f) hidrelétrica (f).

Substantivation of Adjectives

A [usina] hidrelétrica é grande. (The adjective becomes the noun).

Stress on the Antepenultimate Syllable (Proparoxítonas)

Hi-dre-lé-tri-co. All proparoxítonas are accented in Portuguese.

Pluralization of Compound Adjectives

Sistemas socio-hidrelétricos (Only the last part pluralizes).

Use of 'de' to indicate source

Energia de fonte hidrelétrica.

Examples by Level

A água faz energia hidrelétrica.

Water makes hydroelectric energy.

Simple subject + verb + object structure.

O Brasil tem muita energia hidrelétrica.

Brazil has a lot of hydroelectric energy.

Use of 'muita' (a lot) agreeing with 'energia'.

A usina é hidrelétrica.

The plant is hydroelectric.

Predicate adjective agreeing with 'usina'.

Eu vejo o rio hidrelétrico.

I see the hydroelectric river.

Adjective following the noun 'rio'.

A luz vem da hidrelétrica.

The light comes from the hydroelectric plant.

'Hidrelétrica' used as a noun.

O projeto hidrelétrico é grande.

The hydroelectric project is big.

Masculine singular agreement.

Eles gostam da energia hidrelétrica.

They like hydroelectric energy.

Verb 'gostar' followed by 'da' (de + a).

A água é para o setor hidrelétrico.

The water is for the hydroelectric sector.

Preposition 'para' indicating purpose.

Nós visitamos uma usina hidrelétrica ontem.

We visited a hydroelectric plant yesterday.

Past tense 'visitamos'.

O potencial hidrelétrico deste rio é alto.

The hydroelectric potential of this river is high.

Noun phrase 'potencial hidrelétrico'.

As usinas hidrelétricas são importantes para o país.

Hydroelectric plants are important for the country.

Plural agreement 'usinas hidrelétricas'.

Você conhece a hidrelétrica de Itaipu?

Do you know the Itaipu hydroelectric plant?

Direct object 'a hidrelétrica'.

A conta de luz depende do nível hidrelétrico.

The electric bill depends on the hydroelectric level.

Verb 'depender' followed by 'do'.

O governo quer construir um novo complexo hidrelétrico.

The government wants to build a new hydroelectric complex.

Infinitive 'construir' after 'quer'.

A energia hidrelétrica é uma fonte renovável.

Hydroelectric energy is a renewable source.

Noun-adjective pairs 'energia hidrelétrica' and 'fonte renovável'.

Muitas cidades usam o sistema hidrelétrico.

Many cities use the hydroelectric system.

Subject-verb agreement 'cidades usam'.

O setor hidrelétrico brasileiro enfrenta desafios com a seca.

The Brazilian hydroelectric sector faces challenges with the drought.

Present tense 'enfrenta' used for current situations.

É necessário investir em manutenção hidrelétrica constante.

It is necessary to invest in constant hydroelectric maintenance.

Impersonal expression 'É necessário'.

A produção hidrelétrica caiu devido à falta de chuva.

Hydroelectric production fell due to the lack of rain.

Prepositional phrase 'devido à'.

O impacto hidrelétrico na floresta foi discutido na reunião.

The hydroelectric impact on the forest was discussed in the meeting.

Passive voice 'foi discutido'.

Existem várias barragens hidrelétricas ao longo do rio Paraná.

There are several hydroelectric dams along the Paraná river.

Verb 'existir' in the plural.

O engenheiro explicou o funcionamento hidrelétrico da turbina.

The engineer explained the hydroelectric operation of the turbine.

Adjective modifying the noun 'funcionamento'.

A matriz hidrelétrica garante a maior parte da nossa luz.

The hydroelectric matrix guarantees most of our light.

Noun phrase 'matriz hidrelétrica'.

Eles estão preocupados com o futuro hidrelétrico da região.

They are concerned about the hydroelectric future of the region.

Adjective 'preocupados' agreeing with 'eles'.

O inventário hidrelétrico da bacia foi concluído recentemente.

The hydroelectric inventory of the basin was recently completed.

Technical term 'inventário hidrelétrico'.

A viabilidade hidrelétrica do projeto depende de estudos ambientais.

The hydroelectric viability of the project depends on environmental studies.

Noun 'viabilidade' followed by adjective.

O governo promoveu um leilão para novas concessões hidrelétricas.

The government promoted an auction for new hydroelectric concessions.

Plural feminine 'concessões hidrelétricas'.

O complexo hidrelétrico de Belo Monte gerou muita polêmica.

The Belo Monte hydroelectric complex generated a lot of controversy.

Proper noun 'Belo Monte'.

A eficiência hidrelétrica pode ser aumentada com novas tecnologias.

Hydroelectric efficiency can be increased with new technologies.

Modal verb 'pode ser' + participle.

O potencial hidrelétrico remanescente está concentrado na Amazônia.

The remaining hydroelectric potential is concentrated in the Amazon.

Participle 'concentrado' agreeing with 'potencial'.

As tarifas variam conforme a disponibilidade hidrelétrica.

Tariffs vary according to hydroelectric availability.

Conjunction 'conforme'.

A interconexão hidrelétrica entre os países é estratégica.

The hydroelectric interconnection between the countries is strategic.

Adjective 'estratégica' agreeing with 'interconexão'.

A hegemonia hidrelétrica moldou a infraestrutura industrial do país.

Hydroelectric hegemony shaped the country's industrial infrastructure.

Abstract noun 'hegemonia'.

Estudos apontam para a vulnerabilidade hidrelétrica ante as mudanças climáticas.

Studies point to hydroelectric vulnerability in the face of climate change.

Preposition 'ante' (in front of/facing).

O aproveitamento hidrelétrico deve respeitar os limites ecológicos.

Hydroelectric utilization must respect ecological limits.

Technical term 'aproveitamento hidrelétrico'.

A regulação do setor hidrelétrico é complexa e multifacetada.

The regulation of the hydroelectric sector is complex and multifaceted.

Adjectives 'complexa' and 'multifacetada'.

O excedente hidrelétrico foi exportado para os países vizinhos.

The hydroelectric surplus was exported to neighboring countries.

Noun 'excedente' used as a subject.

A mitigação dos danos hidrelétricos exige investimentos pesados.

The mitigation of hydroelectric damages requires heavy investments.

Genitive 'dos danos hidrelétricos'.

O planejamento hidrelétrico de longo prazo é essencial para a segurança energética.

Long-term hydroelectric planning is essential for energy security.

Compound noun phrase 'planejamento... de longo prazo'.

A saturação do potencial hidrelétrico no Sudeste é um fato.

The saturation of hydroelectric potential in the Southeast is a fact.

Noun 'saturação' describing a limit.

A dialética entre desenvolvimento hidrelétrico e preservação é incessante.

The dialectic between hydroelectric development and preservation is incessant.

Philosophical term 'dialética'.

O arcabouço jurídico que rege a exploração hidrelétrica foi atualizado.

The legal framework governing hydroelectric exploration has been updated.

Formal term 'arcabouço jurídico'.

A resiliência hidrelétrica do sistema foi posta à prova durante o El Niño.

The system's hydroelectric resilience was put to the test during El Niño.

Idiomatic expression 'posta à prova'.

Discute-se a desestatização do gigante hidrelétrico nacional.

The privatization of the national hydroelectric giant is being discussed.

Passive 'se' construction 'Discute-se'.

A otimização hidrelétrica via inteligência artificial é a nova fronteira.

Hydroelectric optimization via artificial intelligence is the new frontier.

Preposition 'via'.

O impacto hidrelétrico transfronteiriço requer diplomacia hídrica refinada.

Transboundary hydroelectric impact requires refined water diplomacy.

Complex adjective 'transfronteiriço'.

A historiografia brasileira não pode ser escrita sem o capítulo hidrelétrico.

Brazilian historiography cannot be written without the hydroelectric chapter.

Academic term 'historiografia'.

A obsolescência de certas estruturas hidrelétricas preocupa os peritos.

The obsolescence of certain hydroelectric structures concerns experts.

Noun 'obsolescência'.

Common Collocations

usina hidrelétrica

potencial hidrelétrico

setor hidrelétrico

matriz hidrelétrica

impacto hidrelétrico

reservatório hidrelétrico

complexo hidrelétrico

projeto hidrelétrico

recursos hidrelétricos

crise hidrelétrica

Common Phrases

energia de fonte hidrelétrica

— Energy coming specifically from water power.

Consumimos apenas energia de fonte hidrelétrica.

aproveitamento hidrelétrico

— The efficient use of a river for power.

O aproveitamento hidrelétrico do rio é total.

inventário hidrelétrico

— A technical survey of water power potential.

O governo pediu um novo inventário hidrelétrico.

unidade hidrelétrica

— A single power-generating unit within a plant.

Uma unidade hidrelétrica parou de funcionar.

parque hidrelétrico

— A collection of hydroelectric installations.

O parque hidrelétrico nacional é vasto.

geração hidrelétrica

— The act of producing power from water.

A geração hidrelétrica bateu recordes este mês.

sistema hidrelétrico

— The entire grid based on water power.

O sistema hidrelétrico é interconectado.

barragem hidrelétrica

— The dam structure used for power.

A barragem hidrelétrica é uma obra de engenharia.

capacidade hidrelétrica

— The maximum power a plant can produce.

Aumentamos nossa capacidade hidrelétrica.

desenvolvimento hidrelétrico

— The growth of water-based power infrastructure.

O desenvolvimento hidrelétrico mudou a região.

Often Confused With

hidrelétrico vs hidráulico

Refers to fluid mechanics, not necessarily electricity.

hidrelétrico vs hídrico

Refers to water resources in general.

hidrelétrico vs aquático

Refers to things living in or related to water.

Idioms & Expressions

"viver à sombra da hidrelétrica"

— To live in a place dominated by a large dam project, often implying both benefits and risks.

A vila inteira vive à sombra da hidrelétrica.

Informal / Literary

"luz de hidrelétrica"

— Sometimes used to describe very bright, industrial-strength lighting.

Essa sala tem luz de hidrelétrica, é muito forte!

Slang / Regional

"energia de sobra"

— While not using the word 'hidrelétrico', it's often said in the context of countries with massive dams.

Com Itaipu, o Brasil tem energia de sobra.

Informal

"abrir as comportas"

— To open the floodgates; often used metaphorically for letting emotions or information flow.

O diretor abriu as comportas da hidrelétrica de segredos.

Metaphorical

"nadar contra a corrente"

— To go against the grain; often used in debates about dam construction.

Os ambientalistas estão nadando contra a corrente hidrelétrica.

Metaphorical

"fio de água"

— A tiny amount of water; used when reservoirs are nearly empty.

A hidrelétrica está operando com um fio de água.

Informal

"segurar a represa"

— To try to contain a difficult situation.

O governo está tentando segurar a represa da crise hidrelétrica.

Metaphorical

"turbinar o projeto"

— To boost or accelerate something (referencing hydroelectric turbines).

Vamos turbinar o projeto hidrelétrico este ano.

Informal

"pé no chão"

— Realistic; often used in planning these massive projects.

Precisamos de um plano hidrelétrico com o pé no chão.

Common Idiom

"água passada não move moinho"

— Water under the bridge (literally: past water doesn't move the mill/turbine).

O erro no projeto hidrelétrico foi grave, mas água passada não move moinho.

Proverb

Easily Confused

hidrelétrico vs hidráulico

Both start with 'hidro-'.

Hidráulico is about pressure and movement in machines. Hidrelétrico is about making electricity from rivers.

O freio é hidráulico, mas a luz é hidrelétrica.

hidrelétrico vs termelétrico

Both end in '-elétrico'.

Termelétrico uses heat (gas/coal). Hidrelétrico uses water.

A termelétrica é mais cara que a hidrelétrica.

hidrelétrico vs eólico

Both are renewable energies.

Eólico is wind. Hidrelétrico is water.

O vento move a eólica, a água move a hidrelétrica.

hidrelétrico vs hidrográfico

Both relate to water and rivers.

Hidrográfico is about mapping rivers. Hidrelétrico is about energy.

O mapa hidrográfico mostra onde construir a hidrelétrica.

hidrelétrico vs elétrico

It is the root word.

Elétrico is general electricity. Hidrelétrico is specific to the water source.

Um carro elétrico pode ser carregado com energia hidrelétrica.

Sentence Patterns

A [noun] é hidrelétrica.

A energia é hidrelétrica.

O Brasil tem [adjective] [noun] hidrelétrico.

O Brasil tem grande potencial hidrelétrico.

Devido a [noun], a produção hidrelétrica [verb].

Devido à seca, a produção hidrelétrica caiu.

O impacto hidrelétrico em [place] é [adjective].

O impacto hidrelétrico no Pantanal é preocupante.

Apesar do [noun] hidrelétrico, [contrast].

Apesar do sucesso hidrelétrico, precisamos de energia solar.

A hegemonia do setor hidrelétrico [verb] a [noun].

A hegemonia do setor hidrelétrico moldou a política nacional.

Eu gostaria de visitar a hidrelétrica de [name].

Eu gostaria de visitar a hidrelétrica de Itaipu.

Estudos de viabilidade hidrelétrica são [adjective].

Estudos de viabilidade hidrelétrica são obrigatórios.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in Brazil, moderate in Portugal.

Common Mistakes

Using 'hidrelétrico' for plumbing. → hidráulico
You use 'hidráulico' for water pipes and pressure, not 'hidrelétrico', which is only for electricity.
Escrever 'hidreletrico' sem acento. → hidrelétrico
All words with stress on the third-to-last syllable must have an accent in Portuguese.
A potencial hidrelétrica. → O potencial hidrelétrico.
'Potencial' is a masculine noun, so the adjective must be masculine.
Usinas hidrelétrico. → Usinas hidrelétricas.
Adjectives must agree in number (plural) and gender (feminine) with 'usinas'.
Hydroelétrico (with a 'y'). → Hidrelétrico.
Portuguese uses 'i' for the 'hydro' prefix, never 'y'.

Tips

Gender Check

Always look at the noun. If it's 'usina', use 'hidrelétrica'. If it's 'projeto', use 'hidrelétrico'. This is the most common mistake for beginners.

The Open E

The 'é' in 'hidrelétrico' is open, like the 'e' in 'met'. Don't close it like the 'a' in 'gate'. Practice saying 'LÉ' loudly.

Itaipu is Key

If you want to talk about this topic, mention 'Itaipu'. It's the most famous example and every Brazilian knows it. It gives you immediate cultural credibility.

Don't use 'y'

English speakers often want to write 'hydro-'. In Portuguese, it is always 'hidro-' or 'hidre-'. No 'y' allowed!

Energy Matrix

Learn the phrase 'matriz hidrelétrica'. It's a very sophisticated way to talk about a country's energy system and will impress native speakers.

Accent Mark

The accent is on the second 'e'. Remember: hi-dre-LÉ-tri-co. The accent marks the 'mountain' of the word's sound.

News Keywords

When listening to the news, listen for 'reservatórios' (reservoirs). If they mention them, the word 'hidrelétrico' is usually coming next.

Droughts

In Brazil, 'seca' (drought) is the enemy of 'hidrelétrico'. If you hear about 'falta de chuva', expect to hear about 'crise hidrelétrica'.

UHE vs PCH

In business, use the acronyms. UHE for big dams, PCH for small ones. It shows you understand the industry standards.

European Variant

If you are in Lisbon, use 'hidroelétrico'. It sounds more natural there. If you are in São Paulo, 'hidrelétrico' is your best friend.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'HIDRO' (water) and 'ELECTRIC'. In Portuguese, the 'o' and 'e' merge into 'e', making it HIDRELÉTRICO.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant water wheel (hydro) connected to a glowing electric wire (electric) inside a dam.

Word Web

Água Rio Luz Turbina Barragem Energia Brasil Itaipu

Challenge

Try to explain to a friend, in Portuguese, how a river can make your phone charge using the word 'hidrelétrico'.

Word Origin

Formed by the combination of the Greek 'hydro' (water) and the Latin 'electrum' (amber, the root for electricity).

Original meaning: Power or electricity derived from the movement of water.

Indo-European (Greek and Latin roots via Romance evolution).

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing dams in the Amazon; it is a sensitive political and environmental topic involving indigenous rights.

In the US or UK, people might say 'hydro' or 'water power', but 'hydroelectric' is the formal term. In Brazil, 'hidrelétrico' is much more common in everyday news.

Itaipu Binacional (The world's second largest hydroelectric plant). Belo Monte (A controversial dam in the Amazon). Furnas (A major Brazilian energy company focused on hydroelectricity).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Museum or Tour

Qual é a capacidade hidrelétrica?
Onde ficam as turbinas?
A usina é aberta para visitação?
Quantos megawatts ela produz?

Discussing the News

O nível hidrelétrico está baixo.
Haverá racionamento de energia?
O governo vai construir novas usinas?
A conta de luz vai subir.

In a Geography Class

Onde está o maior potencial hidrelétrico?
Como a barragem afeta o rio?
A energia hidrelétrica é renovável?
Quais são os rios de planalto?

Environmental Debate

O impacto hidrelétrico é irreversível.
Devemos investir em energia solar.
As comunidades locais foram consultadas?
A fauna aquática está em risco.

Business Meeting

O setor hidrelétrico é estável.
Precisamos diversificar a matriz.
O custo da energia hidrelétrica é menor.
Investir em PCHs é vantajoso.

Conversation Starters

"Você já visitou uma usina hidrelétrica no Brasil?"

"O que você acha do impacto hidrelétrico na Amazônia?"

"A energia no seu país também é de fonte hidrelétrica?"

"Você sabia que Itaipu é uma das maiores hidrelétricas do mundo?"

"Como a falta de chuva afeta o sistema hidrelétrico onde você mora?"

Journal Prompts

Descreva como seria a vida se não tivéssemos energia hidrelétrica hoje.

Escreva sobre os prós e contras de construir uma hidrelétrica em uma floresta.

Como a geografia do Brasil favorece o desenvolvimento hidrelétrico?

Imagine que você é um engenheiro trabalhando em um novo projeto hidrelétrico.

Reflita sobre a relação entre a água que bebemos e a energia que usamos.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is a correct variant. 'Hidrelétrico' is more common in Brazil, while 'hidroelétrico' is the standard in Portugal. Both are interchangeable in terms of meaning.

In Portuguese, words stressed on the third-to-last syllable (proparoxítonas) must always have an accent. 'Hi-dre-lé-tri-co' fits this rule perfectly.

Yes, it is very common to say 'A hidrelétrica' instead of 'A usina hidrelétrica'. It’s similar to how 'cell phone' became just 'cell' in some contexts.

It stands for 'Pequena Central Hidrelétrica' (Small Hydroelectric Center). These are smaller dams that have less environmental impact than large ones.

While it doesn't emit CO2 like coal, it causes significant local environmental changes, such as flooding forests and displacing wildlife, which is often discussed in Portuguese news.

Yes. It becomes 'hidrelétricos' for masculine plural and 'hidrelétricas' for feminine plural. The accent never moves.

It's a quick sound. Place your tongue behind your top teeth for the 'd' and then quickly tap it for the 'r', almost like the 'tt' in the American pronunciation of 'butter'.

It refers to the entire industry of companies, engineers, and government bodies that manage water-based electricity.

No. For appliances, you just use 'elétrico' (e.g., chuveiro elétrico). 'Hidrelétrico' is only for the source of the power.

Because over 60% of Brazil's electricity comes from this source, making it a key topic for the economy and daily life.