pescar in 30 Seconds
- Pescar means to catch fish.
- Used for the activity of fishing.
- Common in coastal areas and for hobbies.
- Verb, present tense: pesco (I), pesca (he/she/you).
- Verb
- Pescar is a verb that means to catch fish. It is used when talking about the activity of fishing, whether it's for sport, for food, or as a profession. People often use this word when discussing hobbies, leisure activities, or even when describing a livelihood. It's a fundamental verb for anyone interested in water-related activities or coastal communities.
- Contexts
- You will hear 'pescar' in discussions about: Hobbies and leisure activities (e.g., going fishing on a weekend). Family traditions (e.g., learning to fish from a parent). Livelihoods and professions (e.g., fishermen who fish for a living). Food and meals (e.g., discussing what was caught and will be eaten). Travel and tourism (e.g., fishing trips in different locations). Environmental discussions (e.g., sustainable fishing practices). Cultural events and festivals related to the sea or rivers.
- Examples of Use
- Imagine a conversation about weekend plans: 'No fim de semana, quero ir pescar no rio.' (On the weekend, I want to go fishing in the river.) Or perhaps someone is describing a past experience: 'Ele aprendeu a pescar com o avô quando era criança.' (He learned to fish with his grandfather when he was a child.) It can also be used more broadly to refer to the act of trying to obtain something, though this is less common for beginners. However, the primary meaning is always related to catching fish.
Eu adoro pescar no lago perto da minha casa.
Os pescadores saíram cedo para pescar no mar.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- The verb 'pescar' follows standard Portuguese verb conjugation. In its infinitive form, it is 'pescar'. When used in sentences, it will change based on the subject and tense. For A1 learners, focus on the present tense. The basic structure is Subject + 'pescar' (conjugated) + Object (optional, e.g., 'peixe' - fish, 'no rio' - in the river).
- Present Tense Conjugation (Eu)
- For the first-person singular ('Eu' - I), the present tense of 'pescar' is 'pesco'. Example: 'Eu pesco peixes pequenos.' (I catch small fish.) This form is crucial for simple statements about your own fishing activities.
- Present Tense Conjugation (Tu/Você)
- For the second-person singular informal ('Tu' - you) and formal/common ('Você' - you), the present tense is 'pescas' (for 'Tu') and 'pesca' (for 'Você'). Example: 'Tu pescas muito bem!' (You fish very well!) or 'Você gosta de pescar?' (Do you like to fish?). Remember that 'Você' is more common in Brazil, while 'Tu' is more common in Portugal, though both are understood.
- Present Tense Conjugation (Ele/Ela/Nós)
- For 'Ele/Ela' (He/She), the conjugation is 'pesca'. For 'Nós' (We), it is 'pescamos'. Example: 'Ele pesca sardinhas.' (He fishes for sardines.) 'Nós vamos pescar amanhã.' (We are going to fish tomorrow.)
- Present Tense Conjugation (Vós/Vocês)
- For the second-person plural informal ('Vós' - you all, less common in Brazil) and formal/common ('Vocês' - you all), the conjugation is 'pescais' (for 'Vós') and 'pescam' (for 'Vocês'). Example: 'Vós pescais com rede?' (Do you all fish with a net?) 'Eles e elas pescam muito em Portugal.' (They [masculine/feminine] fish a lot in Portugal.)
Eu gosto de pescar.
Você quer pescar comigo?
- Coastal Communities and Fishing Villages
- In Portugal and Brazil, especially in regions with coastlines or significant rivers and lakes, 'pescar' is a word heard very frequently. In small fishing villages, it's part of everyday conversation. You might hear fishermen discussing their plans for the day: 'Hoje vamos pescar mais cedo.' (Today we will fish earlier.) or 'Amanhã, o mar está bom para pescar.' (Tomorrow, the sea is good for fishing.) It's also common in markets where fish is sold, with vendors talking about what they managed to 'pescar'.
- Leisure and Tourism
- For recreational purposes, 'pescar' is a common topic. Tour operators might offer fishing excursions: 'Oferecemos passeios para pescar em águas abertas.' (We offer trips to fish in open waters.) Families might plan weekend activities: 'As crianças adoram pescar no rio com o pai.' (The children love to fish in the river with their dad.) You'll hear it in conversations about hobbies and outdoor activities.
- Media and Documentaries
- Documentaries about marine life, fishing industries, or even travel shows often use 'pescar'. News reports about fishing quotas or successful catches will also feature the word. For instance, a news segment might say: 'Os pescadores locais conseguiram pescar uma grande quantidade de bacalhau.' (Local fishermen managed to catch a large quantity of cod.)
- Cultural Events and Traditions
- Some regions have festivals or events centered around fishing. These events are prime places to hear 'pescar' used in various contexts, from competitions to demonstrations. You might hear announcements like: 'Venha participar na competição de quem consegue pescar o maior peixe!' (Come participate in the competition for who can catch the biggest fish!).
O programa de TV mostrou como pescar dourado no mar.
Os turistas gostam de pescar na costa algarvia.
- Confusing with 'Comer' (To Eat)
- A common mistake for beginners is to confuse the act of catching fish with eating fish. While related, they are distinct actions. 'Pescar' is the act of trying to catch fish, whereas 'comer' is the act of consuming food. For example, saying 'Eu como peixe' means 'I eat fish', while 'Eu pesco peixe' means 'I catch fish'. Don't say 'Eu como peixe no rio' when you mean 'I fish in the river'.
- Incorrect Verb Conjugation
- Like many Portuguese verbs, 'pescar' requires correct conjugation. Beginners might use the infinitive form inappropriately or apply the wrong ending. For instance, using 'Eu pescar' instead of 'Eu pesco' is incorrect. Similarly, using 'Ele pesco' instead of 'Ele pesca' is a common error. Always ensure the verb ending matches the subject pronoun and tense.
- Using 'Pesca' (Noun) as a Verb
- 'Pesca' is the noun for 'fishing' or 'catch'. Beginners might mistakenly use it where the verb 'pescar' is needed. For example, saying 'Nós pesca no lago' instead of 'Nós pescamos no lago' is incorrect. Remember: 'pescar' is the action, 'pesca' is the activity or the result.
- Overgeneralization to Other Activities
- While 'pescar' can sometimes be used metaphorically (e.g., 'pescar informações' - to gather information), it's best for A1 learners to stick to its primary meaning of catching fish. Beginners might try to use it for other types of 'catching', like 'pescar uma bola' (catch a ball), which would typically be 'apanhar uma bola'. Stick to the literal meaning until you are more comfortable with idiomatic expressions.
- Gender and Number Agreement with Objects
- While 'pescar' itself doesn't change for gender or number, the object being caught often does. For example, 'um peixe' (a fish) vs. 'peixes' (fish - plural). Ensure you use the correct plural form of the noun representing what is being caught. 'Eu pesco um peixe.' (I catch a fish.) vs. 'Eu pesco muitos peixes.' (I catch many fish.)
Errado: Eu pescar no rio. Certo: Eu pesco no rio.
Errado: Ele pesco um peixe. Certo: Ele pesca um peixe.
- Apanhar
- 'Pescar' vs. 'Apanhar'
Pescar: Specifically means to catch fish using fishing gear (rod, net, etc.). It implies the act of fishing as a sport or profession.
Apanhar: A more general verb meaning 'to catch', 'to get', or 'to pick up'. It can be used for catching fish, but also for catching a ball, catching a bus, or catching a cold. When referring to fish, 'apanhar' might imply catching them by hand or in a less formal way, or simply the act of successfully catching something.
Example: 'Eu gosto de pescar no rio.' (I like to fish in the river.) vs. 'Consegui apanhar uma bola que caiu.' (I managed to catch a ball that fell.) You could say 'apanhei um peixe', but 'pesquei um peixe' is more specific to fishing.
- Capturar
- 'Pescar' vs. 'Capturar'
Pescar: As mentioned, specifically for catching fish.
Capturar: Means 'to capture' or 'to seize'. It's often used for catching animals (especially wild ones), or in a more formal or scientific context. It can be used for fish, but 'pescar' is more common for the recreational or professional activity. 'Capturar' can also imply trapping or restraining.
Example: 'Os biólogos foram para capturar tubarões para estudo.' (The biologists went to capture sharks for study.) vs. 'Os pescadores vão pescar atum.' (The fishermen are going to fish for tuna.)
- Tirar
- 'Pescar' vs. 'Tirar'
Pescar: The act of fishing.
Tirar: A very versatile verb meaning 'to take out', 'to remove', 'to get'. In the context of fishing, you might 'tirar um peixe da água' (take a fish out of the water) after you have 'pescado' it. It's not a direct synonym for 'pescar'.
Example: 'Preciso de tirar o anzol do peixe.' (I need to remove the hook from the fish.) This happens *after* the act of 'pescar'.
- Conseguir (to succeed/manage to)
- 'Pescar' vs. 'Conseguir'
Pescar: The action of fishing.
Conseguir: Means 'to manage to', 'to succeed in', 'to get'. You use 'conseguir' to describe the success of fishing. For example, 'Consegui pescar um peixe grande.' (I managed to catch a big fish.) Here, 'conseguir' describes the outcome of the action 'pescar'.
- Apanhagem (Noun)
- 'Pesca' vs. 'Apanhagem'
Pesca: The noun for fishing or the catch itself. 'A pesca desportiva' (sport fishing). 'A pesca do bacalhau' (cod fishing).
Apanhagem: Less common as a direct synonym for 'pesca', but can refer to the act of catching or the quantity caught, often in a more general sense than 'pesca'. 'Pesca' is the standard term for fishing.
'Pescar' é específico para peixe, 'apanhar' é mais geral.
'Capturar' é usado para animais em geral, 'pescar' para peixes.
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
The word 'piscine' in English, referring to a swimming pool, also shares the same Latin root 'piscis' (fish), highlighting the ancient connection between water, fish, and human activities related to them.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'c' as 's' (like 'pes-sar').
- Not stressing the final syllable.
- Using an English 'r' sound instead of the Portuguese tapped 'r'.
Difficulty Rating
At A1/A2, recognizing 'pescar' in simple sentences is straightforward. Understanding its context and variations requires more exposure. The core meaning is easy to grasp.
Conjugating 'pescar' correctly in the present tense is manageable. Using it accurately in past or future tenses, or in more complex sentence structures, increases the difficulty.
Pronouncing 'pescar' correctly and using it in basic sentences like 'Eu gosto de pescar' is achievable. Forming spontaneous sentences about fishing experiences requires more practice.
Recognizing 'pescar' in spoken Portuguese is relatively easy due to its common usage and clear pronunciation. Understanding its context in faster speech or with different accents might be challenging.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Verb conjugation (Present Tense -ar verbs)
Like 'falar' (to speak), 'pescar' follows the pattern: eu pesco, tu pescas, ele/ela/você pesca, nós pescamos, vós pescais, eles/elas/vocês pescam.
Prepositions with locations
Use 'em' or 'no/na' (in + o/a) for locations: 'pescar no rio' (fish in the river), 'pescar no mar' (fish in the sea), 'pescar em Portugal' (fish in Portugal).
Using infinitives after 'gostar de', 'querer', 'ir', 'aprender a'
'Eu gosto de pescar.' 'Nós vamos pescar.' 'Ela quer pescar.' 'Eu aprendi a pescar.'
Simple Past Tense (Pretérito Perfeito)
The past tense of 'pescar' for 'eu' is 'pesquei', for 'ele/ela' is 'pescou', and for 'nós' is 'pescamos'.
Future Tense (using 'ir' + infinitive)
'Eu vou pescar amanhã.' (I am going to fish tomorrow.) This is a very common way to express the future.
Examples by Level
Eu gosto de pescar.
I like to fish.
Simple present tense, first person singular ('eu gosto'). 'Pescar' is in the infinitive after 'gostar de'.
Vamos pescar no rio.
Let's go fishing in the river.
Uses 'vamos' (we go/let's go) followed by the infinitive 'pescar'.
O meu pai pesca peixes.
My father fishes fish.
Present tense, third person singular ('ele/ela pesca'). 'Peixes' is the plural of 'peixe' (fish).
Você quer pescar?
Do you want to fish?
Question using 'você' (you) and the verb 'querer' (to want) followed by the infinitive 'pescar'.
Eu pesco no mar.
I fish in the sea.
Present tense, first person singular ('eu pesco'). 'No mar' means 'in the sea'.
Ele pesca com a vara.
He fishes with the rod.
Present tense, third person singular ('ele pesca'). 'Vara' means 'rod'.
Nós vamos pescar amanhã.
We are going to fish tomorrow.
Uses 'vamos' (we go) + infinitive 'pescar' to express a future intention.
Ela pesca no lago.
She fishes in the lake.
Present tense, third person singular ('ela pesca'). 'No lago' means 'in the lake'.
Aprendi a pescar com o meu avô.
I learned to fish with my grandfather.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after 'aprender a' (to learn to).
Ontem, pesquei um peixe grande.
Yesterday, I caught a big fish.
Simple past tense, first person singular ('eu pesquei').
Você gosta de pescar sardinhas?
Do you like to fish for sardines?
Using 'gostar de' + infinitive 'pescar'. 'Sardinhas' are sardines.
Os pescadores voltam hoje.
The fishermen return today.
Introduces the noun 'pescadores' (fishermen).
Vamos pescar depois do almoço.
Let's go fishing after lunch.
Using 'vamos' + infinitive for a plan.
Ele não sabe pescar muito bem.
He doesn't know how to fish very well.
Uses 'saber' (to know) + infinitive 'pescar'.
A pesca no rio é tranquila.
Fishing in the river is peaceful.
Uses the noun 'pesca' (fishing).
Eu quero pescar com os meus amigos.
I want to fish with my friends.
'Querer' (to want) + infinitive 'pescar'.
Quando era criança, eu pescava todos os fins de semana.
When I was a child, I used to fish every weekend.
Imperfect past tense ('eu pescava') to describe a habitual action in the past.
Eles planeiam pescar em alto mar na próxima semana.
They plan to fish in the open sea next week.
Uses 'planeiam' (they plan) + infinitive 'pescar' + adverbial phrase 'em alto mar'.
Conseguiste pescar algum peixe?
Did you manage to catch any fish?
Simple past tense, second person singular informal ('tu conseguiste') + infinitive 'pescar'.
A técnica que usam para pescar é muito antiga.
The technique they use to fish is very old.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after 'para' (to/for) to indicate purpose.
Adoraria ir pescar consigo um dia.
I would love to go fishing with you one day.
Conditional tense ('adoraria' - I would love) + infinitive 'pescar'.
O que é que vocês pescaram ontem?
What did you all catch yesterday?
Question using 'o que é que' and the simple past tense ('vocês pescaram').
É importante pescar de forma sustentável.
It is important to fish sustainably.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after an adjective ('importante').
Ele disse que ia pescar no fim de semana.
He said he was going to fish on the weekend.
Reported speech: 'ia pescar' (was going to fish).
A gestão dos recursos pesqueiros é um desafio complexo.
The management of fishing resources is a complex challenge.
Uses the adjective 'pesqueiros' (fishing, related to fishing) derived from 'pescar'.
Se o tempo permitir, vamos pescar trutas na montanha.
If the weather allows, we will go fishing for trout in the mountains.
Conditional clause ('Se o tempo permitir') followed by future intention ('vamos pescar').
Houve um debate sobre a proibição de pescar em certas áreas.
There was a debate about the prohibition of fishing in certain areas.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after a noun ('proibição de').
Os métodos tradicionais de pescar bacalhau ainda são praticados.
The traditional methods of fishing for cod are still practiced.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after 'métodos de' (methods of).
Ele dedicou a sua vida a pescar e a vender peixe fresco.
He dedicated his life to fishing and selling fresh fish.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after 'dedicou a sua vida a' (dedicated his life to).
É fundamental que se pesque com responsabilidade para preservar os oceanos.
It is fundamental that one fishes responsibly to preserve the oceans.
Subjunctive mood ('se pesque') after 'É fundamental que'.
A quantidade de peixe que conseguiram pescar superou as expectativas.
The amount of fish they managed to catch exceeded expectations.
Uses 'conseguiram pescar' (managed to catch) as part of a relative clause.
O turismo de pesca é uma importante fonte de rendimento em algumas regiões.
Fishing tourism is an important source of income in some regions.
Uses the compound noun 'turismo de pesca' (fishing tourism).
As políticas de pesca têm um impacto significativo na economia costeira.
Fishing policies have a significant impact on the coastal economy.
Uses 'pesqueira' (related to fishing) in the plural 'políticas de pesca'.
O documentário explorou as implicações éticas de pescar em águas internacionais.
The documentary explored the ethical implications of fishing in international waters.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' in a complex sentence discussing ethics.
A sobrepesca tem levado à diminuição drástica de certas espécies marinhas.
Overfishing has led to a drastic decrease in certain marine species.
Introduces the term 'sobrepesca' (overfishing).
Os pescadores artesanais lutam para manter as suas tradições face à pesca industrial.
Artisanal fishermen struggle to maintain their traditions against industrial fishing.
Contrasts 'pescadores artesanais' (artisanal fishermen) with 'pesca industrial' (industrial fishing).
Seria imperativo que todos os países adotassem medidas rigorosas para pescar de forma sustentável.
It would be imperative for all countries to adopt strict measures to fish sustainably.
Uses the conditional 'seria imperativo que' followed by the subjunctive 'pescassem' (if the context implied past unreal condition) or 'pescasse' depending on the subject, or more commonly, 'pescassem' in a general sense for 'all countries'. For clarity, let's use a direct infinitive structure for the example: 'Seria imperativo adotar medidas rigorosas para pescar de forma sustentável.'
A capacidade de um país de pescar e processar marisco é um indicador económico.
A country's capacity to fish and process seafood is an economic indicator.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' in a compound structure with 'processar'.
A arte de pescar requer paciência, conhecimento do mar e, por vezes, um pouco de sorte.
The art of fishing requires patience, knowledge of the sea, and sometimes, a bit of luck.
Uses the noun phrase 'A arte de pescar' (The art of fishing).
A regulamentação visa garantir que a atividade de pescar não esgote os recursos naturais.
The regulation aims to ensure that the activity of fishing does not deplete natural resources.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after 'atividade de' (activity of).
A análise econométrica dos dados de captura revelou padrões complexos na dinâmica populacional das espécies que se pescam.
The econometric analysis of catch data revealed complex patterns in the population dynamics of the species that are fished.
Uses 'que se pescam' (that are fished) in a passive-like construction.
A antropologia do mar explora as multifacetadas interações humanas com o ato de pescar e a sua ressonância cultural.
The anthropology of the sea explores the multifaceted human interactions with the act of fishing and its cultural resonance.
Uses 'o ato de pescar' (the act of fishing) in a formal, academic context.
A legislação internacional sobre pescas tem evoluído consideravelmente, refletindo uma crescente consciencialização sobre a necessidade de preservar os ecossistemas marinhos.
International fishing legislation has evolved considerably, reflecting a growing awareness of the need to preserve marine ecosystems.
Uses 'pescas' as an adjective in 'legislação internacional sobre pescas' (international fishing legislation).
A tecnologia de sonar tem revolucionado a capacidade de localizar cardumes, permitindo pescar com maior eficiência, mas também levantando questões sobre a sustentabilidade.
Sonar technology has revolutionized the ability to locate schools of fish, allowing for more efficient fishing, but also raising questions about sustainability.
Uses the infinitive 'pescar' after 'permitindo' (allowing) to describe the consequence of the technology.
O debate académico sobre a definição de 'pesca sustentável' abrange desde práticas de baixo impacto a modelos de gestão de recursos altamente regulamentados.
The academic debate on the definition of 'sustainable fishing' ranges from low-impact practices to highly regulated resource management models.
Uses the compound term 'pesca sustentável' (sustainable fishing).
A narrativa literária frequentemente recorre à metáfora do pescador e do ato de pescar para explorar temas de paciência, destino e a luta contra as forças da natureza.
Literary narrative frequently resorts to the metaphor of the fisherman and the act of fishing to explore themes of patience, destiny, and the struggle against the forces of nature.
Uses 'o ato de pescar' in a metaphorical and literary context.
A predição de áreas com maior probabilidade de concentração de peixe, baseada em modelos oceanográficos, auxilia os pescadores a otimizar as suas rotas e a maximizar o seu rendimento.
The prediction of areas with a higher probability of fish concentration, based on oceanographic models, helps fishermen optimize their routes and maximize their yield.
Uses 'pescadores' (fishermen) in relation to advanced prediction methods.
A transição de uma economia baseada na pesca extrativa para uma baseada na aquacultura levanta desafios significativos em termos de infraestrutura, conhecimento técnico e aceitação pública.
The transition from an extractive fishing-based economy to one based on aquaculture raises significant challenges in terms of infrastructure, technical knowledge, and public acceptance.
Uses 'pesca extrativa' (extractive fishing) to differentiate from aquaculture.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To fish from the bank (of a river/lake).
É mais simples pescar de barranco do que ir de barco.
Often Confused With
'Apanhar' is a more general verb for 'to catch'. While you can 'apanhar' a fish, 'pescar' specifically implies the act of fishing with gear. Using 'apanhar' might be understood, but 'pescar' is more precise for the activity.
'Capturar' means 'to capture' and is often used for animals in general, or in more formal or scientific contexts. It's less common for everyday recreational fishing than 'pescar'.
'Comer' means 'to eat'. It's a sequential action after 'pescar' (catching fish), but not a synonym. Don't say 'Eu como peixe no rio' when you mean 'I fish in the river'.
Idioms & Expressions
— To take advantage of a confusing or chaotic situation for personal gain. Literally 'to fish in troubled waters'.
Ele aproveitou a crise para pescar em águas turvas e fazer negócios ilegais.
Informal/Figurative— To attempt the impossible; to try to achieve something unattainable. Similar to 'chasing the moon'.
Tentar convencer o chefe a dar um aumento tão grande é como tentar pescar a lua.
Figurative— To act in one's own interest, often in a selfish way. While not directly using 'pescar', it relates to obtaining resources, like a fisherman obtaining fish for themselves.
Ele só pensa em si, está sempre a puxar a brasa à sardinha.
Informal— To give someone fish (literally). Figuratively, it can mean to provide someone with something they need, but the idiom 'ensinar a pescar' is more common for teaching a skill.
Se ele me der peixe, eu como hoje. Se me ensinar a pescar, como sempre.
Figurative/Proverbial— To teach someone how to do something so they can be self-sufficient, rather than just giving them the result. The most famous proverb: 'Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.'
É melhor ensinar as crianças a pescar do que dar-lhes dinheiro.
Proverbial/Figurative— To do something that is extremely easy or pointless, as if fishing in a place where fish are guaranteed to be present and easily caught.
Tentar convencer aquele vendedor a aceitar a oferta é como pescar no aquário.
Informal/Figurative— To take the bait; to fall for a trick or deception.
Ele pensou que era esperto, mas acabou por pescar o anzol.
Informal/Figurative— To grasp or understand an idea. Similar to 'catch the idea'.
Demorou um pouco, mas finalmente pesquei a ideia principal.
Informal— To catch a wave (in surfing).
Ele passou o dia a tentar pescar a onda perfeita.
Specific context (surfing)— To grasp the meaning of something.
Tentei pescar o sentido da sua explicação, mas era muito complexa.
InformalEasily Confused
Both verbs relate to the concept of 'catching'.
'Pescar' is specific to catching fish using fishing equipment. 'Apanhar' is a broader term for catching anything – a ball, a bus, a cold, or even fish in a less formal way. For example, you 'pescar' a fish with a rod, but you 'apanhar' a ball with your hands.
Eu gosto de <strong>pescar</strong> trutas. (I like to fish for trout.) vs. Eu <strong>apanhei</strong> a bola que o meu amigo lançou. (I caught the ball my friend threw.)
Both verbs imply obtaining something, often an animal.
'Capturar' implies a more forceful or strategic act of seizure, often used for wild animals or in scientific research (e.g., 'capturar um leão', 'capturar um vírus'). 'Pescar' is specifically about catching fish, usually through angling or net fishing as a sport or profession.
Os cientistas vão <strong>capturar</strong> os pássaros para estudo. (The scientists will capture the birds for study.) vs. Os pescadores vão <strong>pescar</strong> bacalhau. (The fishermen are going to fish for cod.)
They are often related activities: one catches fish to eat them.
'Pescar' is the action of catching fish. 'Comer' is the action of consuming food. You 'pescar' a fish, and then you can 'comer' it. They are sequential, not interchangeable.
Ele vai <strong>pescar</strong> um peixe para o jantar. (He is going to catch a fish for dinner.) He will then 'comer o peixe' (eat the fish).
They share the same root and are closely related concepts.
'Pescar' is the verb (to fish). 'Pesca' is the noun (fishing, or the catch itself). You 'pescar' (verb) to get a 'pesca' (noun).
Eu gosto de <strong>pescar</strong> (verb) no rio. A <strong>pesca</strong> (noun) dele foi boa hoje.
Directly derived from 'pescar'.
'Pescar' is the action. 'Pescador' is the person who performs the action (fisherman/fisherwoman).
Ele vai <strong>pescar</strong> (verb) como um verdadeiro <strong>pescador</strong> (noun).
Sentence Patterns
Subject + pescar (present tense)
Eu pesco.
Subject + gostar de + pescar
Ele gosta de pescar.
Vamos + pescar
Vamos pescar!
Subject + ir + a + pescar
Nós vamos pescar amanhã.
Subject + pescar (simple past)
Ontem, eu pesquei um peixe.
Subject + querer + pescar
Eles querem pescar no lago.
Subject + aprender a + pescar
Ela aprendeu a pescar com o avô.
É importante + pescar
É importante pescar com responsabilidade.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High, especially in coastal regions and in contexts related to leisure and food.
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Using the infinitive 'pescar' instead of a conjugated form.
→
Eu pesco.
In Portuguese, verbs must be conjugated to agree with the subject. Saying 'Eu pescar' is incorrect; it should be 'Eu pesco' in the present tense.
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Confusing 'pescar' (to fish) with 'comer' (to eat).
→
Ele vai pescar um peixe para o jantar.
'Pescar' is the act of catching fish, while 'comer' is the act of consuming them. They are sequential actions, not the same thing. You don't 'eat fish in the river'; you 'fish in the river'.
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Using 'pescar' for general catching.
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Eu apanhei a bola.
'Pescar' is specifically for catching fish. For catching other objects or animals, use verbs like 'apanhar' (to catch) or 'capturar' (to capture).
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Incorrect conjugation in the past tense.
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Ontem, eu pesquei um peixe.
The simple past tense for 'eu' is 'pesquei', not 'pescou' or 'pescava' (which is imperfect past). Ensure correct past tense endings.
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Using the noun 'pesca' as a verb.
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Nós vamos pescar.
'Pesca' is the noun (fishing/catch). 'Pescar' is the verb (to fish). You cannot say 'Nós pesca' (using the noun as a verb); it must be the conjugated verb 'Nós pescamos'.
Tips
Master the 'R' sound
The final 'r' in 'pescar' is a tapped or slightly rolled 'r', common in Portuguese. Practice saying it clearly: pes-CAR. Avoid the hard 'r' sound found in some English dialects.
Focus on Present Tense Conjugation
For A1 learners, master the present tense forms: 'Eu pesco', 'Tu pescas', 'Ele/Ela/Você pesca'. These are the most frequently used in basic conversations about fishing.
Learn Related Words
Expand your vocabulary by learning words like 'peixe' (fish), 'rio' (river), 'mar' (sea), 'pesca' (fishing), and 'pescador' (fisherman). This will help you use 'pescar' in more varied and descriptive sentences.
Distinguish from 'Apanhar'
Remember that 'pescar' is specific to fishing. While 'apanhar' also means 'to catch', it's more general. Use 'pescar' when you specifically mean catching fish.
Visualize the Action
Imagine yourself holding a fishing rod by a lake or river. Visualize the action of 'pescar' to help solidify the meaning and word in your memory.
Understand Cultural Significance
Fishing is a significant activity in many Portuguese-speaking countries. Understanding this cultural context can help you appreciate why 'pescar' is such a common and important verb.
Write Simple Sentences
Create simple sentences using 'pescar' in different present tense conjugations. For example: 'Eu pesco', 'Você pesca?', 'Nós vamos pescar'.
Listen for 'Pescar' in Media
When watching Portuguese movies or listening to music, pay attention to instances of 'pescar'. Try to understand the context in which it is used.
Explore Idiomatic Uses
Once you are comfortable with the literal meaning, explore figurative uses like 'pescar em águas turvas' (to fish in troubled waters) to deepen your understanding of the language.
Learn Prepositional Phrases
Learn how 'pescar' is used with prepositions indicating location, such as 'pescar no rio' (fish in the river) or 'pescar no mar' (fish in the sea).
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person named 'Pescara' who loves to fish. Whenever you see or hear 'pescar', think of Pescara holding a fishing rod, trying to catch a fish.
Visual Association
Picture a fisherman casting a line into a calm lake, with the word 'PESCAR' written on the fishing rod.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe your ideal fishing trip using the word 'pescar' at least three times. For example, 'Eu adoraria ir pescar no mar azul, com a minha cana preferida, e pescar um peixe grande para o jantar. Seria uma pescaria fantástica.'
Word Origin
The Portuguese verb 'pescar' originates from the Latin word 'piscare', which itself derives from 'piscis' meaning 'fish'. This etymological root clearly links the verb directly to the action of catching fish.
Original meaning: To catch fish.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseCultural Context
While 'pescar' is a neutral term, discussions around fishing can touch upon sensitive topics like overfishing, environmental impact, and the livelihood of fishing communities. It's important to be aware of these broader contexts when discussing the topic.
In English-speaking cultures, 'fishing' is a similar concept, often viewed as a sport or a food source. However, the cultural weight and daily integration might differ significantly from countries with extensive coastlines and strong maritime traditions.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Talking about hobbies and leisure activities.
- Gosto de pescar.
- Vamos pescar no fim de semana?
- Qual é o teu hobby?
- O que fazes para relaxar?
Discussing food and meals.
- Pescar um peixe para o jantar.
- O que pescaste hoje?
- Gostas de peixe fresco?
- Vamos comer peixe?
Describing vacations or trips.
- Fui pescar nas férias.
- Onde podemos pescar aqui?
- Queria experimentar pescar no mar.
- É um bom lugar para pescar.
Talking about professions or livelihoods.
- Ele é pescador.
- Os pescadores trabalham muito.
- A pesca é importante para a economia.
- Ele vive a pescar.
Asking for or giving directions to fishing spots.
- Para onde vamos pescar?
- O rio é bom para pescar aqui.
- Há um lago ótimo para pescar ali.
- Precisas de licença para pescar?
Conversation Starters
"Do you like to fish?"
"Have you ever been fishing?"
"What's your favorite type of fish to catch?"
"If you could go fishing anywhere in the world, where would it be?"
"What do you think about sustainable fishing?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you went fishing, or a time you would like to go fishing. Use the word 'pescar'.
Imagine you are a fisherman. What is your daily routine like? How often do you 'pescar'?
Write about the importance of fish for your diet or culture. How do you get the fish you eat? Do you 'pescar' them yourself?
What does the act of 'pescar' represent to you? Is it relaxing, challenging, or something else?
Write a short story that includes the word 'pescar' multiple times, perhaps about a successful or unsuccessful fishing trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe main difference lies in specificity. 'Pescar' specifically means to catch fish using fishing gear like rods, lines, or nets. It implies the activity of fishing. 'Apanhar', on the other hand, is a more general verb meaning 'to catch' or 'to get'. You can 'apanhar' a ball, a bus, or even a fish, but 'pescar' is exclusively for fishing. So, while you can say 'apanhei um peixe', 'pesquei um peixe' is more precise for the act of fishing.
'Pescar' is a regular -ar verb. In the present tense, it conjugates as follows: Eu pesco, Tu pescas, Ele/Ela/Você pesca, Nós pescamos, Vós pescais, Eles/Elas/Vocês pescam. For example, 'Eu pesco peixes pequenos' (I catch small fish) and 'Eles pescam no rio' (They fish in the river).
Yes, 'pescar' can be used metaphorically, though less commonly than in its literal sense. For example, 'pescar informações' means to gather or pick up information. However, for beginners, it's best to focus on the primary meaning of catching fish.
The main noun related to 'pescar' is 'pesca', which means 'fishing' or 'the catch'. For example, 'A pesca desportiva' means 'sport fishing', and 'A pesca foi boa hoje' means 'The catch was good today'.
People 'pescar' in various aquatic environments such as 'rios' (rivers), 'lagos' (lakes), 'mares' (seas), 'oceanos' (oceans), and 'costas' (coasts). The specific location often depends on the type of fish they are trying to catch.
The verb 'pescar' itself is used identically in both Portugal and Brazil. However, the pronoun usage for conjugation might differ slightly in informal contexts (e.g., 'tu pescas' is more common in Portugal, while 'você pesca' is more common in Brazil, though both are understood). The core meaning and usage remain the same.
Common fish people 'pescar' include 'trutas' (trout), 'sardinhas' (sardines), 'douradas' (sea bream), 'atum' (tuna), 'bacalhau' (cod), 'salmão' (salmon), and many others, depending on the region and body of water.
Common equipment includes 'cana de pesca' (fishing rod), 'linha' (line), 'anzol' (hook), 'isca' (bait), 'redes' (nets), and 'boias' (floats). The specific equipment depends on the type of fishing and the fish being targeted.
No, 'pescar' is a regular -ar verb, making its conjugation straightforward, especially in the present tense. Its meaning is also very direct and literal, making it relatively easy for learners to grasp and use.
While its primary meaning is catching fish, 'pescar' can be used metaphorically for 'gathering' or 'picking up' information ('pescar informações'). However, for physical objects or other animals, more general verbs like 'apanhar' or 'capturar' are usually preferred.
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Summary
The verb 'pescar' exclusively refers to the act of catching fish, whether for sport, food, or livelihood. It's a fundamental term for discussing fishing activities and is conjugated like other regular -ar verbs.
- Pescar means to catch fish.
- Used for the activity of fishing.
- Common in coastal areas and for hobbies.
- Verb, present tense: pesco (I), pesca (he/she/you).
Master the 'R' sound
The final 'r' in 'pescar' is a tapped or slightly rolled 'r', common in Portuguese. Practice saying it clearly: pes-CAR. Avoid the hard 'r' sound found in some English dialects.
Focus on Present Tense Conjugation
For A1 learners, master the present tense forms: 'Eu pesco', 'Tu pescas', 'Ele/Ela/Você pesca'. These are the most frequently used in basic conversations about fishing.
Learn Related Words
Expand your vocabulary by learning words like 'peixe' (fish), 'rio' (river), 'mar' (sea), 'pesca' (fishing), and 'pescador' (fisherman). This will help you use 'pescar' in more varied and descriptive sentences.
Distinguish from 'Apanhar'
Remember that 'pescar' is specific to fishing. While 'apanhar' also means 'to catch', it's more general. Use 'pescar' when you specifically mean catching fish.
Example
Gosto de pescar no rio aos domingos.
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