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Vocabulary
máquina de lavar roupa

A2 noun 10 min read

máquina de lavar roupa

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips máquina de lavar roupa in 30 Seconds

Explanation máquina de lavar roupa in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to recognize 'máquina de lavar roupa' as a single object. Think of it as a label for a picture in your mind. You should know that it is 'a máquina' (feminine) and that it is used for 'roupa' (clothes). At this stage, you focus on simple sentences like 'Eu tenho uma máquina' (I have a machine) or 'A máquina é branca' (The machine is white). You learn it alongside other basic household items like 'mesa' (table) and 'cama' (bed). The goal is to identify the object and use it with basic verbs like 'ter' (to have) and 'ser' (to be). You don't need to worry about complex grammar or different types of cycles yet. Just remember the three words together: máquina + de + lavar + roupa. It is a fundamental part of learning how to describe your home and your daily life in a very simple way.

At the A2 level, you start using 'máquina de lavar roupa' in the context of daily routines and chores. You should be able to say that you are 'doing the laundry' using verbs like 'pôr' (to put) or 'lavar' (to wash). You will learn to use prepositions like 'na' (in the) to say 'A roupa está na máquina' (The clothes are in the machine). You should also be able to describe the machine using basic adjectives like 'nova' (new), 'velha' (old), or 'estragada' (broken). This level involves being able to handle basic interactions, such as asking someone to turn on the machine or telling a landlord that the machine is not working. You are moving from just naming the object to interacting with it in your spoken and written Portuguese. You also begin to distinguish it from the 'máquina de lavar loiça' (dishwasher).

By the B1 level, you can discuss the 'máquina de lavar roupa' with more detail and complexity. You can talk about different cycles, such as 'ciclo delicado' (delicate cycle) or 'centrifugação' (spin cycle). You can explain problems in more detail, like 'A máquina está a deitar água' (The machine is leaking water) or 'O tambor não gira' (The drum doesn't spin). You can compare different models based on their capacity (e.g., 'esta máquina leva 8 quilos') or their energy efficiency. At this stage, you can also understand and follow instructions in a user manual or on a detergent bottle. Your vocabulary expands to include related items like 'detergente' (detergent), 'amaciador' (fabric softener), and 'lixívia' (bleach). You are now able to have a full conversation about laundry habits and appliance maintenance.

At the B2 level, you can use the 'máquina de lavar roupa' as a topic for discussing broader themes like environmental impact and technology. You might talk about 'consumo de energia' (energy consumption) or 'sustentabilidade' (sustainability) in the context of household appliances. You can understand more technical descriptions and marketing materials that use sophisticated language. You can also use the term in more complex grammatical structures, such as conditional sentences ('Se a máquina não fosse tão cara, eu compraria-a') or passive voice. You are comfortable using idiomatic expressions related to laundry and can navigate the nuances between European and Brazilian Portuguese terminology for appliance parts and functions. You can also write a formal complaint to a company if a machine you bought is defective.

At the C1 level, you have a near-native command of the vocabulary surrounding 'máquina de lavar roupa'. You can discuss its role in the history of domestic labor or its sociological impact on the liberation of women from manual chores. You can use precise technical terms like 'pressostato', 'eletroválvula', or 'placa eletrónica' when discussing repairs. Your ability to use the term in abstract or metaphorical contexts is well-developed. You can understand subtle humor or cultural references involving the machine in literature, film, or stand-up comedy. You can participate in high-level debates about consumerism and the 'obsolescência programada' (planned obsolescence) of modern appliances. Your language is fluid, and you can switch between formal technical language and informal household slang with ease.

At the C2 level, 'máquina de lavar roupa' is a term you use with total mastery and precision. You can appreciate and use it in literary or philosophical contexts, perhaps as a metaphor for the repetitive nature of life or the cleansing of one's past. You can understand the most obscure technical manuals and legal documents related to appliance manufacturing and safety standards. You can effortlessly navigate regional dialects and archaic terms related to laundry across the entire Lusophone world. Your command of the language allows you to use the term in wordplay, puns, and sophisticated rhetoric. Whether you are discussing the thermodynamics of a washing cycle or the semiotics of laundry in advertising, your use of the language is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

máquina de lavar roupa in 30 Seconds

A feminine noun meaning 'washing machine' for clothes, essential for household chores and daily life in Portuguese-speaking countries.
Composed of 'máquina' (machine), 'de' (of), 'lavar' (to wash), and 'roupa' (clothes). It is often shortened to 'máquina de lavar'.
Used with feminine articles (a, uma) and verbs like 'pôr', 'ligar', and 'avariar'. Vital for A2 level learners discussing domestic routines.
Distinguished from 'máquina de lavar loiça' (dishwasher) and 'máquina de secar' (dryer). Central to the 'House and Home' vocabulary theme.

The term máquina de lavar roupa is a fundamental noun in the Portuguese language, literally translating to "machine of washing clothes." In the context of a modern household, it is one of the most essential appliances, representing the transition from manual labor to domestic automation. While the full phrase is used in formal settings, product manuals, and advertisements, native speakers frequently shorten it to simply máquina de lavar when the context of laundry is clear. However, one must be careful, as máquina de lavar loiça (dishwasher) is its common counterpart in the kitchen.

Grammatical Gender: It is a feminine noun because the core word is 'máquina'. Therefore, you use feminine articles and adjectives: a máquina, esta máquina, uma máquina nova.
Cultural Significance: In Portugal and Brazil, the washing machine is often located in a specific area called the área de serviço or marquise, rather than the bathroom or kitchen as seen in some other European countries.

You will hear this word daily in household management discussions. Whether you are discussing chores with a roommate, buying a new appliance at a store like Worten or Magazine Luiza, or calling a technician for repairs, this is the standard term. It encompasses all types of washing machines, including front-loaders (carga frontal) and top-loaders (carga superior).

Preciso de comprar uma máquina de lavar roupa nova porque a antiga avariou ontem à noite.

Technologically, the máquina de lavar roupa has evolved significantly. Older models required manual intervention, but modern versions are fully automatic (automáticas). In European Portuguese, you might also encounter the term máquina de lavar e secar, referring to a washer-dryer combo. Understanding this term is crucial for A2 learners as it relates to the 'House and Home' vocabulary theme, which is a staple of language proficiency exams and daily survival in a Lusophone country.

Regional Variation: While the name of the machine remains consistent, the vocabulary for the cycles might change slightly. In Brazil, you might hear 'centrifugação' emphasized, while in Portugal, 'centrifugagem' is also common for the spin cycle.

Não ponhas essa camisola de lã na máquina de lavar roupa, senão ela encolhe.

The phrase also appears in metaphorical contexts occasionally, though rarely. For instance, a 'máquina de lavar' can be used in investigative journalism to describe 'money laundering' (lavagem de dinheiro), though the appliance itself is not the focus. In a literal sense, the machine is the heart of the laundry room, and knowing its parts—the drum (tambor), the drawer (gaveta) for detergent, and the filter (filtro)—is part of expanding your vocabulary from A2 to B1.

Using máquina de lavar roupa in a sentence requires an understanding of common verbs associated with laundry. The most frequent verbs are pôr (to put), meter (to put/place), ligar (to turn on), and limpar (to clean). Because it is a compound noun, it functions as a single unit within the sentence structure.

Direct Object Usage: When the machine is the object of the action: "Vou ligar a máquina de lavar roupa." (I am going to turn on the washing machine.)

Prepositions are vital when describing the location of clothes. We use na (in the) to indicate that something is inside the machine. For example, "A roupa está na máquina de lavar." If you are referring to the method of washing, you use à (by/with). For instance, "Esta camisa deve ser lavada à mão, não à máquina." (This shirt should be washed by hand, not by machine.)

Esqueci-me da roupa dentro da máquina de lavar roupa o dia todo.

When talking about capacity, we use the preposition de followed by the weight. "Tenho uma máquina de sete quilos." (I have a seven-kilogram machine.) This is a common way to specify the model when shopping or comparing appliances. In complex sentences, you might describe the state of the machine: "A máquina de lavar roupa está a deitar água por fora!" (The washing machine is leaking water!)

Adjectives usually follow the entire phrase. "Comprei uma máquina de lavar roupa silenciosa." (I bought a silent washing machine.) If you want to emphasize that it is broken, you use avariada (Portugal) or quebrada (Brazil). "A minha máquina de lavar roupa está avariada há duas semanas."

Instructional Language: On clothing labels, you will see "Lavável na máquina" (Machine washable). This is a passive construction using the adjective form.

Podes ensinar-me a programar a máquina de lavar roupa?

Finally, when discussing the act of doing laundry as a whole, the machine is the central actor. We often say "fazer a máquina" (to do the machine/laundry) or "estender a máquina" (to hang the laundry from the machine). These idiomatic uses are essential for sounding like a native speaker at the A2 and B1 levels.

The most common place to hear máquina de lavar roupa is within the domestic sphere. Families, roommates, and couples use it constantly when coordinating household chores. You'll hear questions like "Já puseste a máquina de lavar a trabalhar?" (Did you already start the washing machine?) or "A máquina já acabou?" (Is the machine finished?).

Commercial Environments: In electronics stores, the term is omnipresent. Salespeople will compare different brands like Samsung, LG, or Bosch, focusing on the 'máquina de lavar roupa's energy rating (classe energética) and RPM (rotações por minuto).

Another very common location is the lavandaria self-service (self-service laundry). These have become extremely popular in Portuguese cities like Lisbon and Porto over the last decade. In these shops, you will see large industrial máquinas de lavar roupa with instructions posted on the walls. You might hear someone ask the attendant, "Qual destas máquinas está livre?" (Which of these machines is free?).

No anúncio do apartamento dizia que incluía uma máquina de lavar roupa, mas não a vejo em lado nenhum.

You will also encounter the term in repair services. If your machine makes a strange noise, you call a técnico de eletrodomésticos. On the phone, you would say, "A minha máquina de lavar roupa está a fazer um barulho muito estranho durante a centrifugação." This specific context requires you to know the term to get help. Radio and TV commercials also frequently feature the latest models, emphasizing features like 'eco-bubble' or 'steam wash'.

In Literature and Media: While not a poetic word, it appears in contemporary novels and films to depict the mundane reality of daily life. It symbolizes the 'rotina' (routine) of the modern working class.

O som da máquina de lavar roupa a trabalhar era o único ruído na casa silenciosa.

Lastly, in educational settings, such as Portuguese as a Second Language classes, this term is taught early on to help students describe their homes and daily routines. It is a 'building block' word that allows learners to navigate the physical world and express basic needs regarding hygiene and household maintenance.

One of the most frequent errors for English speakers is the word order and the use of the preposition 'de'. In English, we say "washing machine," using "washing" as an adjective. In Portuguese, you cannot say "lavando máquina." You must use the noun + de + infinitive verb: máquina de lavar. Forgetting the 'de' is a common mistake that makes the phrase sound disjointed.

Confusion with the Dishwasher: Learners often confuse 'máquina de lavar roupa' with 'máquina de lavar loiça'. While both are 'washing machines', the object being washed (clothes vs. dishes) is vital. Using the wrong one can lead to humorous but confusing situations, like telling a landlord the 'clothes machine' is in the kitchen when you mean the dishwasher.

Gender agreement is another stumbling block. Since máquina is feminine, all associated words must be feminine. Students often say "o máquina" because they might associate appliances with neutral or masculine concepts in their native language. Always remember: A máquina, uma máquina, esta máquina.

Incorrect: O meu máquina de lavar é novo.
Correct: A minha máquina de lavar roupa é nova.

Another mistake involves the plural form. Only the word máquina changes to plural. The rest of the phrase remains the same. It is máquinas de lavar roupa, never máquinas de lavares roupas. The 'lavar' stays in the infinitive because it functions as the purpose of the machine.

Misusing 'Lavandaria': Some students use 'lavandaria' to mean the machine itself. 'Lavandaria' is the room or the shop (laundry), while 'máquina' is the specific appliance. You put the 'máquina' inside the 'lavandaria'.

Finally, when using verbs like 'pôr' (to put), learners sometimes forget the article. You should say "pôr a máquina" or "pôr a roupa na máquina." Omitting the 'a' or 'na' makes the sentence grammatically incomplete. Paying attention to these small details will significantly improve your fluency and accuracy when discussing domestic life.

While máquina de lavar roupa is the standard term, there are several related words and alternatives depending on the context. Understanding these helps you navigate different laundry situations more effectively.

Máquina de secar (Secadora): This is the clothes dryer. In Portugal, it's usually called 'máquina de secar roupa', while in Brazil, 'secadora' is very common. It is the logical successor to the washing machine in the laundry process.
Lava e Seca: Common in Brazil, this refers to a single appliance that both washes and dries clothes. In Portugal, you might hear 'máquina de lavar e secar'.

For manual washing, the word is tanque. In many older Portuguese and Brazilian homes, there is a concrete or plastic basin called a 'tanque' used for scrubbing delicate items by hand. Before the widespread use of machines, this was the primary tool for laundry. In rural areas, you might still find lavadouros públicos (public washhouses), though they are now mostly historical sites.

Se a máquina de lavar roupa estiver cheia, podes usar o tanque para lavar as tuas meias.

Another term is centrifugadora. While most modern machines have a built-in spin cycle, some people own a separate machine just for spinning the water out of clothes, which is much faster than the spin cycle of a standard washer. This is less common today but still exists in some households.

Comparisons

Máquina de lavar: Automatic, uses electricity and water.
Tanque: Manual, requires physical effort.
Tinturaria: Professional service, uses chemical solvents (dry cleaning).

In Brazil, you might also hear the term tanquinho. This is a simpler, cheaper version of a washing machine that agitates the clothes but usually doesn't have a spin cycle or a pump to drain the water automatically. It's a semi-automatic alternative often found in budget-conscious households. Knowing these distinctions allows you to discuss laundry at a much more nuanced level.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'roupa' originally referred to the spoils of war or things 'stripped' from the enemy, which eventually came to mean clothing in general in the Iberian Peninsula.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈmakinɐ dɨ lɐˈvaɾ ˈʁopɐ/

US /ˈmakinɐ dʒi laˈvaʁ ˈʁowpɐ/

The primary stress in 'máquina' is on the first syllable (má). In 'lavar', it is on the last syllable (var). In 'roupa', it is on the first syllable (rou).

Rhymes With

Página (rhymes with máquina) Vagar (rhymes with lavar) Cantar (rhymes with lavar) Jantar (rhymes with lavar) Sopa (rhymes with roupa) Popa (rhymes with roupa) Copa (rhymes with roupa) Tropa (rhymes with roupa)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'máquina' with stress on the second syllable.
Making the 'de' too long or clear in European Portuguese (it should be very short).
Forgetting to roll or rasp the 'r' in 'roupa'.
Pronouncing the final 'a' in 'máquina' as a long 'ah' instead of a short neutral sound.
Confusing the pronunciation of 'lavar' with 'levar'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize as it is a literal description of its function.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the 'de' and the correct spelling of 'máquina' with the accent.

Speaking 3/5

The 'r' in 'roupa' and the short 'de' in EP can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Usually clear, though often shortened to just 'máquina'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Máquina Lavar Roupa De A

Learn Next

Detergente Amaciador Secadora Estendal Passar a ferro

Advanced

Centrifugação Eletrodoméstico Eficiência energética Obsolescência Avaria

Grammar to Know

Noun-Adjective Agreement

A máquina (fem) é nova (fem).

Compound Nouns with 'de'

Máquina de lavar (Noun + de + Infinitive).

Preposition Contractions

Na máquina (em + a).

Definite Article Usage

A máquina (specific) vs Uma máquina (general).

Placement of Adjectives

Máquina de lavar roupa [silenciosa] (adjective follows the whole unit).

Examples by Level

A máquina de lavar roupa é branca.

The washing machine is white.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

Eu tenho uma máquina de lavar roupa.

I have a washing machine.

Use of the verb 'ter' (to have).

Onde está a máquina de lavar roupa?

Where is the washing machine?

Basic question with 'onde' (where).

A máquina é grande.

The machine is big.

Adjective agreement (feminine).

A máquina de lavar roupa está na cozinha.

The washing machine is in the kitchen.

Preposition 'na' (in the).

Esta é a minha máquina.

This is my machine.

Demonstrative pronoun 'esta' (this).

A máquina de lavar roupa é nova.

The washing machine is new.

Adjective 'nova' (new).

Não tenho máquina de lavar roupa.

I don't have a washing machine.

Negative sentence with 'não'.

Vou pôr a roupa na máquina de lavar roupa.

I'm going to put the clothes in the washing machine.

Future with 'ir' + infinitive.

A máquina de lavar roupa está avariada.

The washing machine is broken.

The adjective 'avariada' is common in Portugal.

Podes ligar a máquina de lavar roupa?

Can you turn on the washing machine?

Request using 'podes' (can you).

Preciso de comprar detergente para a máquina.

I need to buy detergent for the machine.

Preposition 'para' (for).

A máquina de lavar roupa faz muito barulho.

The washing machine makes a lot of noise.

Verb 'fazer' (to make).

Ela lava a roupa na máquina todos os sábados.

She washes the clothes in the machine every Saturday.

Present tense for routine.

A máquina de lavar roupa já acabou o ciclo.

The washing machine has already finished the cycle.

Adverb 'já' (already).

Não metas muita roupa na máquina de lavar.

Don't put too many clothes in the washing machine.

Imperative 'não metas'.

Esta máquina de lavar roupa consome pouca água.

This washing machine consumes little water.

Verb 'consumir' (to consume).

O técnico veio reparar a máquina de lavar roupa.

The technician came to repair the washing machine.

Past tense 'veio' (came).

A minha máquina de lavar roupa tem um programa para lãs.

My washing machine has a program for wools.

Noun 'programa' (program).

Esqueci-me de tirar a roupa da máquina.

I forgot to take the clothes out of the machine.

Reflexive verb 'esquecer-se' (to forget).

A máquina de lavar roupa é de carga frontal.

The washing machine is front-loading.

Compound noun 'carga frontal'.

Quero uma máquina de lavar roupa que seja silenciosa.

I want a washing machine that is silent.

Subjunctive 'seja' for a desired quality.

A centrifugação da máquina de lavar roupa é muito rápida.

The washing machine's spin cycle is very fast.

Noun 'centrifugação'.

Onde fica o filtro da máquina de lavar roupa?

Where is the washing machine filter located?

Verb 'ficar' for location.

A instalação da máquina de lavar roupa está incluída no preço.

The installation of the washing machine is included in the price.

Passive construction 'está incluída'.

Devias limpar a gaveta da máquina de lavar roupa regularmente.

You should clean the washing machine drawer regularly.

Conditional 'devias' for advice.

A máquina de lavar roupa avariou-se logo após a garantia expirar.

The washing machine broke down right after the warranty expired.

Conjunction 'logo após'.

Existem máquinas de lavar roupa muito mais eficientes hoje em dia.

There are much more efficient washing machines nowadays.

Comparative 'mais... do que'.

A porta da máquina de lavar roupa ficou encravada.

The washing machine door got stuck.

Adjective 'encravada' (stuck).

Não sei se a máquina de lavar roupa cabe neste espaço estreito.

I don't know if the washing machine fits in this narrow space.

Verb 'caber' (to fit).

O amaciador deve ser colocado no compartimento próprio da máquina.

The softener must be placed in the machine's own compartment.

Passive voice with 'deve ser'.

A máquina de lavar roupa vibra muito durante o ciclo final.

The washing machine vibrates a lot during the final cycle.

Verb 'vibrar'.

A evolução da máquina de lavar roupa revolucionou as tarefas domésticas.

The evolution of the washing machine revolutionized domestic tasks.

Abstract noun 'evolução'.

O manual de instruções da máquina de lavar roupa é bastante complexo.

The washing machine's instruction manual is quite complex.

Adverb 'bastante' (quite).

A placa eletrónica da máquina de lavar roupa tem de ser substituída.

The washing machine's electronic board needs to be replaced.

Technical term 'placa eletrónica'.

É imperativo que a máquina de lavar roupa seja nivelada corretamente.

It is imperative that the washing machine be leveled correctly.

Subjunctive after 'é imperativo que'.

A obsolescência programada afeta a durabilidade das máquinas de lavar.

Planned obsolescence affects the durability of washing machines.

Technical concept 'obsolescência programada'.

Houve uma fuga de água na mangueira da máquina de lavar roupa.

There was a water leak in the washing machine hose.

Noun 'fuga' (leak).

A máquina de lavar roupa dispõe de tecnologia de reconhecimento de carga.

The washing machine features load recognition technology.

Formal verb 'dispor de'.

A manutenção preventiva prolonga a vida útil da máquina de lavar roupa.

Preventive maintenance extends the useful life of the washing machine.

Adjective 'preventiva'.

A máquina de lavar roupa tornou-se um símbolo da automação doméstica.

The washing machine has become a symbol of domestic automation.

Reflexive verb 'tornar-se'.

Podemos traçar a história social através da máquina de lavar roupa.

We can trace social history through the washing machine.

Infinitive 'traçar' (to trace).

A eficácia da máquina de lavar roupa depende da dureza da água.

The washing machine's effectiveness depends on the water hardness.

Technical term 'dureza da água'.

O ruído rítmico da máquina de lavar roupa evocava memórias de infância.

The rhythmic noise of the washing machine evoked childhood memories.

Literary verb 'evocar'.

A integração de IA nas máquinas de lavar roupa otimiza o gasto energético.

The integration of AI in washing machines optimizes energy expenditure.

Acronym 'IA' (AI).

A máquina de lavar roupa é um exemplo de engenharia eletromecânica.

The washing machine is an example of electromechanical engineering.

Compound adjective 'eletromecânica'.

Subestimamos amiúde a complexidade de uma simples máquina de lavar.

We often underestimate the complexity of a simple washing machine.

Archaic/Formal adverb 'amiúde' (often).

A máquina de lavar roupa jaz ali, inerte e silenciosa, à espera de reparação.

The washing machine lies there, inert and silent, waiting for repair.

Poetic verb 'jazer' (to lie).

Synonyms

Máquina de lavar Lavadora Eletrodoméstico Lava e seca Máquina de roupa Aparelho de lavagem Tanquinho Lavadora de roupas

Antonyms

Tanque Lavagem à mão Secadora Lavadouro público

Common Collocations

Pôr a máquina

Ligar a máquina

Máquina de carga frontal

Máquina de carga superior

Consumo da máquina

Capacidade da máquina

Avariar a máquina

Filtro da máquina

Gaveta da máquina

Tambor da máquina

Common Phrases

Pôr uma máquina de roupa

— To start a load of laundry in the machine.

Vou pôr uma máquina de roupa antes de sair.

Tirar a roupa da máquina

— To remove the clean clothes from the machine.

Já podes tirar a roupa da máquina.

Estender a máquina

— To hang out the clothes that were just washed in the machine.

Ajuda-me a estender a máquina, por favor.

A máquina está a trabalhar

— The machine is currently running.

Não abras a porta, a máquina está a trabalhar.

Lavar à máquina

— To wash something using the machine (as opposed to by hand).

Isto pode-se lavar à máquina?

Programa da máquina

— The specific washing cycle selected.

Qual é o melhor programa da máquina para algodão?

Fazer barulho

— To make noise (common complaint about machines).

A máquina faz muito barulho a centrifugar.

Deitar água por fora

— To leak water.

A máquina está a deitar água por fora, desliga-a!

Limpar a máquina

— To perform maintenance/cleaning on the appliance itself.

É preciso limpar a máquina com vinagre.

Comprar uma máquina

— To purchase a new washing machine.

Estamos a pensar comprar uma máquina nova.

Often Confused With

máquina de lavar roupa vs Máquina de lavar loiça

This is for dishes. Do not put clothes in it!

máquina de lavar roupa vs Máquina de secar

This only dries clothes, it doesn't wash them.

máquina de lavar roupa vs Lavandaria

This is the place (laundry room/shop), not the machine itself.

Idioms & Expressions

"Roupa suja lava-se em casa"

— Family or private problems should be discussed in private, not in public.

Não contes os nossos problemas aos vizinhos; roupa suja lava-se em casa.

Proverbial

"Parecer uma máquina"

— To work very fast and efficiently without stopping.

Ele a trabalhar parece uma máquina!

Informal

"Estar na máquina"

— Metaphorically being processed or part of a system, though usually literal for laundry.

O teu processo já está na máquina (being processed).

Colloquial

"Máquina de fazer dinheiro"

— Something that generates a lot of profit effortlessly.

Aquele novo café é uma máquina de fazer dinheiro.

Metaphorical

"Engrenagem da máquina"

— Part of a larger system or bureaucracy.

Ele é apenas uma peça na engrenagem da máquina.

Formal/Metaphorical

"Trabalhar como uma máquina"

— To work tirelessly.

Ela trabalhou como uma máquina para acabar o projeto.

Informal

"Máquina do tempo"

— A time machine (shares the word 'máquina').

Quem me dera ter uma máquina do tempo.

Sci-fi/Common

"Lavar as mãos de"

— To wash one's hands of something/refuse responsibility (related to 'lavar').

Eu lavo as mãos deste assunto.

Common

"Dar corda à máquina"

— To speed things up or get something started (old reference).

Vamos lá dar corda à máquina!

Old-fashioned

"Ser uma máquina"

— To be excellent or very capable at something.

Tu és uma máquina a jogar futebol!

Slang

Easily Confused

máquina de lavar roupa vs Lavar

Sounds like 'Levar'.

'Lavar' is to clean with water; 'Levar' is to take or carry something.

Vou lavar a roupa (clean) vs Vou levar a roupa (carry).

máquina de lavar roupa vs Roupa

Sounds like 'Ropa' in Spanish.

In Portuguese, the 'r' is much stronger and guttural.

A minha roupa está suja.

máquina de lavar roupa vs Máquina

English speakers might say 'Machina'.

In Portuguese, 'qu' sounds like 'k' and the stress is on the first syllable.

A máquina funciona.

máquina de lavar roupa vs Gaveta

Drawer for soap vs drawer for clothes.

In the context of the machine, it's always the soap dispenser.

Põe o sabão na gaveta.

máquina de lavar roupa vs Tanque

Might think of a military tank.

In a house, it's a laundry basin.

Lava isso no tanque.

Sentence Patterns

A máquina é [cor].

A máquina é branca.

Eu vou [verbo] a máquina.

Eu vou ligar a máquina.

A máquina está a [verbo-ing].

A máquina está a fazer barulho.

Se a máquina [subjuntivo], eu [condicional].

Se a máquina avariasse, eu compraria outra.

Apesar de a máquina ser [adjetivo]...

Apesar de a máquina ser velha, funciona bem.

Tão logo a máquina finalize o ciclo...

Tão logo a máquina finalize o ciclo, procederei à secagem.

Preciso de [verbo] a máquina.

Preciso de limpar a máquina.

Onde fica o/a [parte] da máquina?

Onde fica a gaveta da máquina?

Word Family

Nouns

Maquinaria

Maquinista

Lavagem

Lavandaria

Lavagem

Rouparia

Roupão

Verbs

Maquinar

Lavar

Enroupar

Adjectives

Maquinal

Lavado

Lavável

Enroupado

Detergente

Amaciador

Centrifugação

Tambor

Estendal

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily domestic life.

Common Mistakes

O máquina de lavar → A máquina de lavar
Máquina is a feminine noun and requires the feminine article 'a'.
Máquina para lavar roupa → Máquina de lavar roupa
The standard preposition for purpose in this compound noun is 'de', not 'para'.
Máquina de lavando roupa → Máquina de lavar roupa
You must use the infinitive 'lavar', not the gerund 'lavando'.
Eu lavo na lavandaria (meaning the machine) → Eu lavo na máquina
Lavandaria is the room or shop; the machine is the 'máquina'.
Máquinas de lavares roupas → Máquinas de lavar roupa
In plural, only 'máquina' changes. 'Lavar roupa' remains unchanged.

Tips

Gender Check

Remember that 'máquina' is always feminine. Even if you are a man talking about your machine, use 'a minha máquina'.

Shortening

In casual settings, drop the 'roupa' and just say 'máquina de lavar'. It sounds more natural.

Drying

In Portugal, even if you have a machine, people will ask 'Já estendeste a roupa?'. Hanging clothes is part of the process.

The Strong R

The 'R' in 'roupa' is at the start of the word, so it must be strong and guttural, like clearing your throat.

Kitchen vs Laundry

If you are in the kitchen, specify 'roupa' or 'loiça' to avoid confusion between the washer and dishwasher.

Kilos Matter

Machines are sold by 'quilos'. A standard size for a family is 'oito quilos'.

The Filter

Learn the word 'filtro'. It's the first thing a technician will ask you to check if the machine doesn't drain.

Action Verb

The most common verb to use with the machine is 'pôr' (to put). 'Vou pôr uma máquina' is the standard way to say you're doing laundry.

Water Leak

Learn 'fuga de água'. It's an emergency term if your machine breaks and floods the floor.

Eco Mode

Look for the word 'Eco' or 'Económico' on the dial to save electricity in Portugal.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Machine' that 'Delivers' (de) 'Lava' (lavar) to your 'Ropes' (roupa) - though it's water, not lava, and clothes, not ropes!

Visual Association

Imagine a giant 'M' shaped machine with a 'V' (for lavar) inside it, surrounded by colorful 'R' (roupa) clothes spinning around.

Word Web

Água Sabão Limpeza Casa Trabalho Eletricidade Cesto Vara

Challenge

Go to your laundry room and say 'Esta é a minha máquina de lavar roupa' five times. Then, name three things you can put inside it in Portuguese.

Word Origin

From 'máquina' (Latin 'machina', Greek 'makhana') + 'de' (Latin 'de') + 'lavar' (Latin 'lavare') + 'roupa' (Gothic 'raupa', meaning 'booty' or 'stripped garment').

Original meaning: The combination literally means 'a device for the purpose of cleansing garments'.

Romance (Italic) with Germanic influence for 'roupa'.

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that in some very rural areas, discussing expensive machines might highlight economic differences.

Unlike the US where dryers are standard, in many Portuguese-speaking regions, the 'máquina de lavar' is the only machine, and sun-drying is preferred.

The short film 'A Máquina' (various Portuguese/Brazilian productions often use the machine as a mundane backdrop). Songs by Brazilian artists like Rita Lee sometimes mention domestic life and appliances. Portuguese comedy sketches (e.g., Gato Fedorento) often mock the complexity of modern appliance manuals.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At Home

Pôr a máquina
Tirar a roupa
A máquina acabou
Falta detergente

At the Store

Qual é o preço?
Tem garantia?
É de 8 quilos?
É silenciosa?

At the Repair Shop

Está avariada
Não deita água
Faz muito barulho
O tambor não gira

At the Self-service Laundry

Quanto custa a ficha?
Qual máquina está livre?
Onde ponho o sabão?
Tem secadora?

Real Estate Ads

Cozinha equipada
Tem máquina de lavar
Espaço para máquina
Lavandaria incluída

Conversation Starters

"Com que frequência usas a tua máquina de lavar roupa?"

"A tua máquina de lavar roupa é silenciosa ou faz muito barulho?"

"Prefieres máquinas de lavar roupa de carga frontal ou superior?"

"Alguma vez a tua máquina de lavar roupa se avariou e inundou a casa?"

"Qual é a melhor marca de máquina de lavar roupa na tua opinião?"

Journal Prompts

Descreve como seria a tua vida se não tivesses uma máquina de lavar roupa durante um mês.

Escreve sobre a primeira vez que tiveste de usar uma máquina de lavar roupa sozinho(a).

Qual é a tarefa doméstica que mais detestas: pôr a máquina ou passar a roupa a ferro? Porquê?

Imagina que a tua máquina de lavar roupa podia falar. O que é que ela diria sobre as tuas roupas?

Descreve a 'área de serviço' ideal na tua casa de sonho.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Em Portugal, diz-se 'máquina de lavar roupa'. Frequentemente, as pessoas dizem apenas 'máquina de lavar' se o contexto for claro. É um termo essencial para o dia a dia.

'Máquina de lavar roupa' é o termo padrão em Portugal. 'Lavadora' ou 'lavadora de roupas' é muito mais comum no Brasil. Ambas significam a mesma coisa.

Sim, em contextos domésticos, se estiveres a falar de tarefas da casa, todos vão perceber que te referes à máquina de lavar roupa. Por exemplo: 'Vou ligar a máquina'.

O correto é 'máquina de lavar'. A preposição 'de' indica a função ou propósito do objeto na língua portuguesa.

Diz-se 'centrifugação' ou, por vezes, 'centrifugagem'. É a parte do ciclo onde a máquina gira rapidamente para tirar a água.

Geralmente fica na cozinha, na casa de banho, ou numa pequena varanda fechada chamada 'marquise' ou 'área de serviço'.

Em Portugal, diz-se 'a máquina está avariada'. No Brasil, é mais comum dizer 'a máquina está quebrada' ou 'estragada'.

É um eletrodoméstico que faz as duas funções: lava a roupa e depois seca-a no mesmo tambor. É ideal para casas pequenas.

Sim, na Europa (incluindo Portugal) as máquinas de carga frontal são a norma, enquanto nos EUA as de carga superior são muito comuns.

Diz-se 'detergente para a roupa' ou simplesmente 'detergente'. Se for em pó, diz-se 'detergente em pó'.