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A2 verb 14 min read

preencher

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips preencher in 30 Seconds

Explanation preencher in your Level:

400+w

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

preencher in 30 Seconds

Use 'preencher' for filling forms, documents, or spaces.
It means to complete or occupy.
Commonly heard in administrative, healthcare, and educational settings.
Be mindful of correct conjugation and context.

Core Meaning: The Portuguese verb "preencher" fundamentally means to fill in, to complete, or to occupy a space or a role. It's a versatile verb used in many everyday situations, from practical tasks to more abstract concepts.
Common Scenarios: You will often hear "preencher" when talking about filling out forms, whether they are for official documents, job applications, or surveys. It's also used when something physically occupies a space, like a piece of furniture filling a room, or when a task needs to be completed to fulfill a requirement. In a more abstract sense, it can refer to filling a position or a role, or even filling a void in someone's life.
Beyond Forms: While filling out forms is a very common context, "preencher" extends to many other uses. Imagine a painter needing to "preencher" a canvas with color, or a musician needing to "preencher" a song with notes. It can also describe the act of completing a schedule or a calendar, or even the feeling of being fulfilled or satisfied. The idea of occupying or completing is at the heart of this word, making it incredibly useful.
Nuances: The specific meaning of "preencher" can be inferred from the context. If someone asks you to "preencher a ficha," they mean to fill out the form. If a room is "preenchida" with people, it means it's full. If a job vacancy needs to be "preenchida," it means the position needs to be filled. Understanding these contexts will help you grasp the full scope of this common verb.

Precisamos preencher este formulário para a inscrição. preencher.

O espaço na parede foi preenchido com um quadro. preenchido.

Occupying Space: When an object or person takes up space, "preencher" is used. For instance, "A mesa preenche a sala," meaning "The table fills the room." This highlights the physical aspect of the verb.
Completing Tasks: In the context of tasks and requirements, "preencher" signifies completion. "Precisamos preencher todos os requisitos do projeto," which translates to "We need to fulfill all the project requirements." This emphasizes the fulfillment aspect.
Filling Roles: When a position or vacancy needs to be occupied by someone, "preencher" is the verb of choice. "Ele foi contratado para preencher a vaga de gerente," meaning "He was hired to fill the manager's position." This relates to occupying a role.

The artist will preencher the canvas with vibrant colors.

Basic Sentence Structure: The most common structure for "preencher" is Subject + preencher + Object. For example, "Eu preencho o formulário" (I fill out the form). The verb conjugates according to the subject and tense. In the present tense, for "eu" it's "preencho," for "você/ele/ela" it's "preenche," and for "nós" it's "preenchemos." The past tense (preterite) for "eu" is "preenchi," for "você/ele/ela" is "preencheu," and for "nós" is "preenchemos." The imperfect past for "eu" is "preenchia," for "você/ele/ela" is "preenchia," and for "nós" is "preenchíamos."
Using with Prepositions: Sometimes, "preencher" is used with prepositions to add more specific meaning. For instance, "preencher com" (to fill with) is common when describing what something is filled with. Example: "A caixa foi preenchida com brinquedos" (The box was filled with toys). Another useful construction is "preencher para" (to fill for), indicating the purpose. Example: "Preencha este formulário para o cadastro" (Fill out this form for registration).
Passive Voice: The passive voice is frequently used with "preencher," especially when the agent performing the action is not important or unknown. The structure involves the verb "ser" (to be) conjugated in the appropriate tense, followed by the past participle "preenchido/preenchida/preenchidos/preenchidas." Example: "O formulário será preenchido amanhã" (The form will be filled out tomorrow). Or, "As vagas foram preenchidas rapidamente" (The positions were filled quickly).
Reflexive Use (Less Common but Possible): While not as common as the active or passive voice, "preencher-se" can sometimes be used reflexively, implying something fills itself or is being filled in a general sense. However, for most practical purposes, the active and passive forms are more prevalent. Example: "O tempo se preenche com atividades" (Time fills up with activities) - this usage is more poetic or abstract.

Eu preciso preencher este documento com informações verdadeiras. preencher.

A sala foi completamente preenchida pelos convidados. preenchida.

Filling a Schedule: You can "preencher" your schedule or calendar with appointments or tasks. For example, "Vou preencher minha agenda com reuniões na próxima semana." (I will fill my calendar with meetings next week.)
Filling a Role or Position: When a job opening or a specific role needs to be filled, "preencher" is used. "A empresa precisa preencher a vaga de analista financeiro." (The company needs to fill the financial analyst position.)
Filling with Content: This can apply to creative contexts as well. "O artista preencheu a tela com cores vibrantes." (The artist filled the canvas with vibrant colors.)

The empty spaces on the wall were filled with photographs.

Administrative Settings: In any office, government agency, or service provider, you'll hear "preencher" constantly. Phrases like "Por favor, preencha este formulário" (Please fill out this form) or "Precisa preencher todos os campos" (You need to fill in all the fields) are ubiquitous. This applies to everything from registering for services, applying for jobs, to submitting official documents. You might also hear someone say, "O documento já está preenchido" (The document is already filled out).
Healthcare Environments: At the doctor's office, the clinic, or the hospital, "preencher" is a key verb. Patients are often asked to "preencher uma ficha de admissão" (fill out an admission form) or "preencher um questionário médico" (fill out a medical questionnaire). Doctors might also refer to filling out patient records or prescriptions.
Educational Institutions: Schools, universities, and other educational bodies frequently use "preencher." This can involve students filling out registration forms, application forms for courses or scholarships, or even taking exams where they might need to "preencher" answer sheets. Teachers might also instruct students to "preencher" gaps in their notes or exercises.
Retail and Customer Service: When you're signing up for a loyalty program, making a reservation, or completing an order, you'll likely encounter "preencher." For example, "Pode preencher seus dados aqui, por favor?" (Can you fill in your details here, please?). This also applies to online forms for purchases or service requests.
Everyday Conversations: Beyond formal settings, "preencher" is used in everyday contexts. Someone might say, "Preciso preencher o tanque do carro" (I need to fill up the car's tank). Or, "A agenda dele está preenchida até o final do mês" (His schedule is filled until the end of the month). It can also be used metaphorically, like "Ele preencheu um vazio em minha vida" (He filled a void in my life).

At the bank, I had to preencher a form for a new account.

The doctor asked me to preencher a medical history form.

Online Forms and Applications: Modern life means you'll hear "preencher" in relation to digital forms. "Você precisa preencher todos os campos obrigatórios no site." (You need to fill in all the mandatory fields on the website.)
Travel and Hospitality: When checking into a hotel or booking a flight, forms need to be filled. "Por favor, preencha a ficha de check-in." (Please fill out the check-in form.)
Surveys and Questionnaires: Market research, customer feedback, and academic studies often involve surveys. "Agradecemos se puder preencher nosso questionário." (We would appreciate it if you could fill out our questionnaire.)

The volunteer helped to preencher the registration desk.

Confusing with "Preencher" and "Completar": While "preencher" and "completar" can sometimes be used interchangeably, they have distinct nuances. "Preencher" often implies filling a space or a form, adding something to an existing structure. "Completar," on the other hand, suggests finishing something that is incomplete, bringing it to its final state. For instance, you "preenche" a form, but you "completa" a task or a puzzle. Using "preencher" when you mean to finish or finalize something might sound slightly off. For example, saying "Eu preenchi o livro" (I filled the book) is less common than "Eu completei o livro" (I finished the book) if you mean you read it all or wrote it all. The key is the nature of what is being acted upon.
Incorrect Verb Conjugation: Like any verb, "preencher" needs to be conjugated correctly according to the subject and tense. A common mistake for learners is using the infinitive form "preencher" when a conjugated form is required, or using the wrong ending. For example, saying "Eu preencher o formulário" instead of "Eu preencho o formulário." Another error might be with the past participle, "preenchido." If the subject is feminine singular, it should be "preenchida" (e.g., "A vaga foi preenchida"). If it's plural masculine, "preenchidos," and plural feminine, "preenchidas." Incorrect agreement can lead to grammatical errors.
Misunderstanding "Preencher" for "Encher": The verb "encher" also means to fill, but it usually refers to filling something completely, often with a liquid or a substance, like filling a glass with water ("encher um copo com água") or filling a balloon with air ("encher um balão"). While there's overlap, "preencher" is more common for forms, spaces, roles, and requirements. Using "encher" for a form sounds incorrect. For example, you would not say "encher um formulário"; you would say "preencher um formulário." It's important to distinguish when you are filling a container versus filling out a document or occupying a space.
Using "Preencher" for Abstract Concepts Incorrectly: While "preencher" can be used metaphorically (e.g., "preencher um vazio emocional" - to fill an emotional void), learners might misuse it in contexts where a more specific verb is needed. For instance, instead of saying "Ele preencheu a conversa com piadas" (He filled the conversation with jokes), it might be more natural to say "Ele encheu a conversa de piadas" or "Ele fez a conversa ficar cheia de piadas." The key is to ensure the metaphorical use of "preencher" feels natural and idiomatic in Portuguese.

Incorrect: Eu preencher o formulário. Correct: Eu preencho o formulário.

Incorrect: A vaga foi preenchido. Correct: A vaga foi preenchida.

Overuse of "Preencher": Sometimes, learners might overuse "preencher" when a simpler or more specific verb would suffice. For instance, instead of "preencher o tempo" (to fill time), one might say "passar o tempo" (to pass time) or "ocupar o tempo" (to occupy time). While "preencher" is not strictly wrong, it might sound a bit formal or less natural depending on the context.
Confusing "Preencher" with "Ajudar": In a service context, someone might mistakenly say "Eu vou preencher seu pedido" (I will fill your order) when they mean "Eu vou atender seu pedido" (I will attend to your order) or "Eu vou processar seu pedido" (I will process your order). "Preencher" is for forms and spaces, not typically for fulfilling a service request in that manner.

Incorrect: Enchi o formulário. Correct: Preenchi o formulário.

Completar vs. Preencher: Both "completar" and "preencher" can mean to fill or complete. However, "preencher" is most commonly used for filling out forms, documents, or questionnaires, where you add specific information into designated spaces. "Completar," on the other hand, is broader and often refers to finishing something that is incomplete, reaching a final state, or fulfilling a set of requirements. For example, you "preenche" a form (fill it out), but you "completa" a task, a set of exercises, or a collection. You might also say "completar um ciclo" (complete a cycle) or "completar os requisitos" (complete the requirements). While you can "completar" a form by finishing it, "preencher" is the more specific and common verb for the act of filling in the details.
Encher vs. Preencher: "Encher" is primarily used for filling something with a substance, typically a liquid, gas, or granular material. Think of filling a glass with water ("encher um copo com água"), a balloon with air ("encher um balão"), or a bag with sand ("encher um saco com areia"). It implies making something full to capacity. "Preencher," as discussed, is for forms, spaces, roles, and requirements. You would never say "encher um formulário" for filling out a form; it must be "preencher." Similarly, while you can "encher" a room with furniture, "preencher" might be used if the furniture is specifically chosen to occupy empty spaces with a purpose.
Ocupar vs. Preencher: "Ocupar" means to occupy, to take up space, or to hold a position. It's more about the state of being in a place or holding a role. "Preencher" is the action of making something occupied or full. For instance, a chair "ocupa" a space in the room (the chair takes up space), but the act of placing chairs to fill up a hall is "preencher" the hall with chairs. A person "ocupa" a job position, but the company "preenche" the vacancy. "Ocupar" focuses on the presence, while "preencher" focuses on the action of making full or complete.
Satisfazer vs. Preencher: "Satisfazer" means to satisfy, to meet a need or desire. It's often used in the context of fulfilling requirements or pleasing someone. While "preencher" can sometimes imply satisfaction (e.g., "preencher um vazio" can lead to a sense of satisfaction), "satisfazer" is more direct. You "satisfazer" requirements, needs, or expectations. For example, "Este produto satisfaz as minhas necessidades" (This product satisfies my needs). You might "preencher" a form to prove you meet certain requirements, but the act of meeting them is "satisfazer."

I need to complete this report. (Eu preciso completar este relatório.)

I need to fill in this form. (Eu preciso preencher este formulário.)

Fornecer vs. Preencher: "Fornecer" means to provide or supply. When you are asked to fill out a form, you are providing information. So, "fornecer informações" (to provide information) is what you do when you "preenche" a form. You are the one who "fornece" the data, and the form is what is "preenchido." It's a cause-and-effect relationship: you provide information to fill the form.
Suprir vs. Preencher: "Suprir" means to supply, to provide, or to make up for a deficiency. It's often used when talking about fulfilling needs or making up for something lacking. For example, "suprir as necessidades básicas" (to supply basic needs). While "preencher" can sometimes imply fulfilling a need (like "preencher uma vaga" fills a need for an employee), "suprir" is more about provision and making up for a lack. You might "suprir" a lack of staff by hiring someone to "preencher" the vacant position.

The glass needs to be filled with water. (O copo precisa ser enchido com água.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The Latin root 'implere' also gave rise to the English word 'implement', which means to put into effect or carry out. While 'preencher' focuses on the act of filling, 'implement' often refers to the execution of plans or tasks, which can involve filling roles or completing stages.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /pɾeˈɛ̃jʒər/

US /pɾeˈɛ̃jʒər/

The stress falls on the second syllable: pre-EN-cher.

Rhymes With

encher descer crescer aprender compreender correr esquecer escrever

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'lh' sound as a simple 'l' or 'y'.
Not nasalizing the vowels before 'n' or 'm'.
Misplacing the stress on the first syllable.
Pronouncing the final 'r' too strongly or not at all.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

CEFR A2 level. The verb 'preencher' is common and its basic meaning of filling forms is easily understood. More complex or metaphorical uses might increase difficulty for learners.

Writing 2/5

Speaking 2/5

Listening 2/5

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

formar papel nome endereço data

Learn Next

completar encher ocupar fornecer dados

Advanced

regulamentação déficit lacuna requisito vazio

Grammar to Know

Verb Conjugation (Present Tense)

Eu preencho, tu preenches, ele/ela/você preenche, nós preenchemos, vós preencheis, eles/elas/vocês preenchem.

Past Participle Agreement

O formulário foi preenchido. (masculine singular) / A vaga foi preenchida. (feminine singular) / Os relatórios foram preenchidos. (masculine plural) / As informações foram preenchidas. (feminine plural)

Infinitive Usage

É importante preencher com atenção. (It is important to fill out with attention.)

Passive Voice Construction

O formulário será preenchido amanhã. (The form will be filled out tomorrow.)

Imperative Mood

Preencha o seu nome aqui. (Fill in your name here.)

Examples by Level

Eu preciso preencher este papel.

I need to fill out this paper.

"Preencher" is in the present tense, first person singular (eu).

Por favor, preencha o seu nome.

Please fill in your name.

"Preencha" is the imperative form for 'você'.

A casa está cheia. Não há espaço para preencher.

The house is full. There is no space to fill.

"Preencher" is used here in its infinitive form after 'para'.

O formulário foi preenchido.

The form was filled out.

"Preenchido" is the past participle, agreeing with the masculine singular noun 'formulário'.

Precisamos preencher todos os campos.

We need to fill all the fields.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form after 'precisamos'.

Vou preencher o tanque do carro.

I am going to fill the car's tank.

"Preencher" is used here to mean fill up.

O calendário está preenchido.

The calendar is filled.

"Preenchido" is used as an adjective here, describing the state of the calendar.

Ele preencheu a vaga de emprego.

He filled the job vacancy.

"Preencheu" is the past tense for 'ele'.

Você poderia me ajudar a preencher esta declaração?

Could you help me fill out this declaration?

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form after 'ajudar a'.

A sala de espera estava preenchida com pacientes.

The waiting room was filled with patients.

"Preenchida" is the past participle, agreeing with the feminine singular noun 'sala'.

É importante preencher todos os dados corretamente.

It is important to fill in all the data correctly.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, used as the subject of the sentence after 'É importante'.

O espaço na prateleira foi preenchido por livros novos.

The space on the shelf was filled by new books.

"Preenchido" is the past participle in the passive voice, agreeing with 'espaço'.

Precisamos preencher o formulário de inscrição antes do prazo.

We need to fill out the registration form before the deadline.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, functioning as the object of 'precisamos'.

A artista preencheu a tela com cores vibrantes.

The artist filled the canvas with vibrant colors.

"Preencheu" is the past tense for 'a artista'.

O sistema preenche automaticamente alguns campos.

The system automatically fills in some fields.

"Preenche" is the present tense for 'o sistema'.

A agenda do médico estava completamente preenchida.

The doctor's schedule was completely filled.

"Preenchida" is the past participle used as an adjective, agreeing with 'agenda'.

Para solicitar o visto, é necessário preencher um formulário detalhado.

To apply for the visa, it is necessary to fill out a detailed form.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following "é necessário."

O espaço em branco na página deve ser preenchido com sua assinatura.

The blank space on the page must be filled with your signature.

"Preenchido" is the past participle in a passive construction, agreeing with 'espaço'.

Os organizadores pediram aos voluntários que preenchessem a lista de presença.

The organizers asked the volunteers to fill out the attendance list.

"Preenchessem" is the past subjunctive form, used after 'pediram que'.

A empresa precisa preencher a vaga de gerente de marketing o mais rápido possível.

The company needs to fill the marketing manager position as soon as possible.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, functioning as the object of 'precisa'.

A história preencheu um vazio na minha compreensão do evento.

The story filled a void in my understanding of the event.

"Preencheu" is the past tense for 'a história', used metaphorically.

Ela conseguiu preencher todos os requisitos para a bolsa de estudos.

She managed to meet all the requirements for the scholarship.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form after 'conseguiu'.

O novo mobiliário preencheu o espaço de forma elegante.

The new furniture filled the space elegantly.

"Preencheu" is the past tense for 'o mobiliário'.

Será preciso preencher um questionário sobre suas preferências.

It will be necessary to fill out a questionnaire about your preferences.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following "Será preciso."

Os candidatos devem preencher o formulário de inscrição online antes da data limite.

Candidates must fill out the online application form before the deadline.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following the modal verb 'devem'.

A falta de pessoal qualificado preencheu as expectativas da empresa em termos de contratação.

The lack of qualified personnel met the company's expectations in terms of hiring.

"Preencheu" is the past tense for 'A falta de pessoal qualificado', used somewhat metaphorically, implying meeting a need.

O governo anunciou medidas para preencher o déficit orçamentário.

The government announced measures to fill the budget deficit.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, indicating the purpose of the measures.

É fundamental que os alunos preencham suas agendas com atividades extracurriculares.

It is fundamental that students fill their schedules with extracurricular activities.

"Preencham" is the present subjunctive form, used after 'É fundamental que'.

O artista utilizou técnicas inovadoras para preencher a tela com texturas complexas.

The artist used innovative techniques to fill the canvas with complex textures.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, indicating the purpose of the techniques.

A pesquisa visa preencher lacunas no conhecimento sobre o tema.

The research aims to fill gaps in the knowledge about the topic.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following 'visa' (aims to).

O novo sistema de gerenciamento preenche todos os requisitos de segurança da informação.

The new management system meets all the information security requirements.

"Preenche" is the present tense for 'O novo sistema', implying it fulfills or meets.

A história de sucesso foi preenchida com desafios inesperados.

The success story was filled with unexpected challenges.

"Preenchida" is the past participle in the passive voice, agreeing with 'história'.

A necessidade de regulamentação visa preencher as incertezas jurídicas existentes.

The need for regulation aims to fill the existing legal uncertainties.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, expressing the purpose of the regulation.

O programa de mentoria foi concebido para preencher a lacuna entre a teoria acadêmica e a prática profissional.

The mentorship program was designed to fill the gap between academic theory and professional practice.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, indicating the program's objective.

É imperativo que os formulários sejam preenchidos com caligrafia legível para evitar erros de processamento.

It is imperative that the forms be filled out with legible handwriting to avoid processing errors.

"Preenchidos" is the past participle in the passive voice, agreeing with 'formulários'.

A falta de consenso político preencheu o vácuo de liderança, permitindo a ascensão de soluções populistas.

The lack of political consensus filled the leadership vacuum, allowing the rise of populist solutions.

"Preencheu" is the past tense for 'A falta de consenso político', used metaphorically for a leadership void.

Os historiadores debatem se a revolução conseguiu preencher as aspirações do povo.

Historians debate whether the revolution managed to fulfill the people's aspirations.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following 'conseguiu'.

O artigo busca preencher uma omissão na literatura científica sobre o assunto.

The article seeks to fill an omission in the scientific literature on the subject.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, indicating the article's goal.

A nova política ambiental visa preencher os requisitos estabelecidos pelo acordo internacional.

The new environmental policy aims to meet the requirements established by the international agreement.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following 'visa'.

O silêncio ensurdecedor preencheu a sala após a notícia chocante.

The deafening silence filled the room after the shocking news.

"Preencheu" is the past tense for 'O silêncio', used poetically.

A complexidade do sistema tributário exige que os contribuintes preencham uma miríade de formulários com precisão exaustiva.

The complexity of the tax system requires taxpayers to fill out a myriad of forms with exhaustive precision.

"Preencham" is the present subjunctive, used after 'exige que'.

O debate filosófico procurou preencher a lacuna ontológica entre o ser e o não-ser.

The philosophical debate sought to fill the ontological gap between being and non-being.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, indicating the debate's objective.

A narrativa histórica, por vezes, falha em preencher as lacunas deixadas pela escassez de fontes primárias.

Historical narrative, at times, fails to fill the gaps left by the scarcity of primary sources.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following 'falha em'.

A diplomacia moderna se esforça para preencher o abismo de desconfiança entre nações em conflito.

Modern diplomacy strives to fill the abyss of mistrust between nations in conflict.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, indicating the effort of diplomacy.

O artista plástico utilizou materiais diversos para preencher o espaço expositivo com instalações que provocam reflexão.

The visual artist used diverse materials to fill the exhibition space with installations that provoke reflection.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, describing the artist's action and intent.

O objetivo da pesquisa é preencher um nicho de mercado ainda não explorado.

The objective of the research is to fill a market niche that has not yet been explored.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following 'é'.

A ausência de uma legislação clara sobre inteligência artificial preenche um vazio regulatório preocupante.

The absence of clear legislation on artificial intelligence fills a worrying regulatory void.

"Preenche" is the present tense for 'A ausência', implying it creates or occupies.

A obra literária consegue, de forma magistral, preencher as expectativas do leitor mais exigente.

The literary work masterfully manages to meet the expectations of the most demanding reader.

"Preencher" is in the infinitive form, following 'consegue'.

Common Collocations

preencher formulário

preencher ficha

preencher um espaço

preencher requisitos

preencher vaga

preencher com

preencher a agenda

preencher o tanque

preencher lacuna

preencher campo

Common Phrases

Preencha o formulário.

— Fill out the form.

O atendente disse: 'Preencha o formulário, por favor.'

Preciso preencher isso.

— I need to fill this out.

Tenho um papel aqui e preciso preencher isso antes de ir.

Está preenchido?

— Is it filled out? / Is it full?

Perguntei se o formulário já estava preenchido.

Tem que preencher tudo.

— You have to fill everything out.

O professor avisou que tem que preencher tudo para valer ponto.

Preencher com dados pessoais.

— To fill in with personal data.

Para criar a conta, você deve preencher com dados pessoais.

Preencher a vaga.

— To fill the vacancy/position.

A empresa ainda não conseguiu preencher a vaga de marketing.

Preencher o tanque.

— To fill the tank (usually of a vehicle).

Vamos parar no posto para preencher o tanque.

Preencher um espaço.

— To fill a space.

Comprei uma estante para preencher um espaço na sala.

Preencher os requisitos.

— To meet the requirements.

Ele demonstrou que preenche os requisitos para o cargo.

O que devo preencher aqui?

— What should I fill in here?

Ao ver o formulário, perguntei: 'O que devo preencher aqui?'

Often Confused With

preencher vs encher

'Encher' is generally for filling containers with liquids or substances, while 'preencher' is for forms, spaces, or roles.

preencher vs completar

'Completar' means to finish or make whole, often tasks or sets of items. 'Preencher' is more about adding specific details or occupying a void.

preencher vs ocupar

'Ocupar' means to occupy or take up space. 'Preencher' is the action of making something occupied or full.

Idioms & Expressions

"preencher o vazio"

— To fill a void, often an emotional or existential one. It implies providing something that was missing and causing a sense of incompleteness.

Ele sentia que a música preenchia um vazio em sua vida.

Figurative/Literary

"preencher as lacunas"

— To fill in the gaps, usually in knowledge, understanding, or a narrative. It means to provide missing information or explanations.

A pesquisa histórica tenta preencher as lacunas deixadas por documentos perdidos.

Figurative/Academic

"preencher um papel"

— To play a role or fulfill a function. While it can be literal (filling out a paper), it's often used figuratively to describe someone's contribution or position.

Cada membro da equipe deve preencher um papel importante para o sucesso do projeto.

Figurative

"preencher a agenda"

— To fill one's schedule with appointments, tasks, or activities, often implying being very busy.

Com tantas reuniões, ela preencheu toda a sua agenda para a semana.

Figurative

"preencher o tanque"

— To fill the fuel tank of a vehicle. This is a very common and literal use, but it's so frequent it feels idiomatic.

Antes de pegar a estrada, é essencial preencher o tanque.

Literal/Common

"preencher os requisitos"

— To meet or satisfy all the necessary conditions or criteria for something, like a job, a course, or a permit.

Ele demonstrou que preenche todos os requisitos para se candidatar.

Formal/Practical

"preencher a sala"

— To fill a room, often with people or objects, making it crowded or full.

Os convidados rapidamente preencheram a sala de estar.

Literal/Figurative

"preencher um formulário"

— The most common and direct use: to fill out a form.

Por favor, preencha este formulário com suas informações.

Literal/Very Common

"preencher o tempo"

— To fill time, often with activities, to pass the time or to avoid boredom.

Ele lia livros para preencher o tempo durante a viagem.

Figurative

"preencher uma necessidade"

— To fulfill a need or requirement.

Este novo software foi criado para preencher uma necessidade específica do mercado.

Figurative/Business

Easily Confused

preencher vs encher

Both verbs mean 'to fill'.

'Encher' is typically used for filling containers with liquids or granular materials (e.g., 'encher um copo com água' - to fill a glass with water). 'Preencher' is used for filling out forms, documents, spaces, or roles (e.g., 'preencher um formulário' - to fill out a form; 'preencher uma vaga' - to fill a vacancy).

Você enche o balão com ar, mas preenche o formulário com seus dados.

preencher vs completar

Both verbs imply making something finished or whole.

'Completar' means to finish something that is incomplete, to bring it to its final state, or to fulfill a set of requirements (e.g., 'completar um quebra-cabeça' - to complete a puzzle; 'completar os requisitos' - to complete the requirements). 'Preencher' specifically refers to adding information into blanks or occupying a void.

Você completa a coleção, mas preenche os espaços em branco na sua lista.

preencher vs ocupar

Both can relate to the idea of filling a space or role.

'Ocupar' means to take up space or to hold a position (e.g., 'A cadeira ocupa um espaço' - The chair occupies a space; 'Ele ocupa o cargo de diretor' - He holds the position of director). 'Preencher' is the action of making something occupied or full (e.g., 'Preencher a sala com móveis' - To fill the room with furniture; 'Preencher a vaga de diretor' - To fill the director's vacancy).

A mesa ocupa a sala, mas você preenche a sala com mesas.

preencher vs suprir

Both can relate to fulfilling needs or requirements.

'Suprir' means to supply, provide, or make up for a deficiency (e.g., 'suprir as necessidades básicas' - to supply basic needs). While 'preencher' can involve fulfilling a need (like filling a vacancy), 'suprir' is more focused on the provision or making up for a lack.

Você preenche a vaga de vendedor para suprir a demanda de clientes.

preencher vs fornecer

When filling out a form, you are providing information.

'Fornecer' means to provide or supply (e.g., 'fornecer informações' - to provide information). 'Preencher' is the action of using that provided information to fill out a document or space (e.g., 'preencher o formulário com as informações fornecidas' - to fill out the form with the provided information).

Você fornece os dados para que eu possa preencher o formulário.

Sentence Patterns

Eu preencho [object].

Eu preencho o formulário.

Por favor, preencha [object].

Por favor, preencha seu nome.

Preciso preencher [object].

Preciso preencher este documento.

[Object] foi preenchido/a.

O espaço foi preenchido.

É importante preencher [object].

É importante preencher todos os campos.

Pediram para preencher [object].

Pediram para preencher a pesquisa.

É necessário preencher [object] com [content].

É necessário preencher o tanque com gasolina.

Ele/Ela preencheu [object].

Ele preencheu a vaga de emprego.

Word Family

Nouns

preenchimento

Verbs

preencher

Adjectives

preenchido

preenchida

preenchidos

preenchidas

preenchimento

formulário

documento

espaço

vaga

How to Use It

frequency

Very High

Common Mistakes

Using 'encher' for forms. → Preencher o formulário.
While both mean 'to fill', 'encher' is for substances (like water) and containers, whereas 'preencher' is for forms, spaces, and roles. You 'preenche' a form, not 'enche' it.
Incorrect past participle agreement. → A vaga foi preenchida.
The past participle 'preenchido' must agree in gender and number with the noun. 'Vaga' is feminine singular, so it becomes 'preenchida'.
Using the infinitive 'preencher' instead of a conjugated form. → Eu preencho a ficha.
When the subject is 'eu' (I), the present tense conjugation is 'preencho', not the infinitive 'preencher'.
Confusing 'preencher' with 'completar' in specific contexts. → Preciso completar este relatório.
'Completar' means to finish or finalize something. While you might 'preencher' a report with information, the act of finishing the entire report is 'completar'.
Not nasalizing the vowels before 'n'. → Preencho.
The 'e' before 'n' in 'preencher' and its conjugations should be nasalized, sounding like 'en' in 'rent' but with a nasal quality, not just a simple 'e' sound.

Tips

Forms are Key

The most frequent use of 'preencher' is related to forms, documents, and applications. Always think of 'preencher' when you see a blank space on paper or screen that requires specific information.

Participle Agreement

Remember that the past participle 'preenchido' must agree in gender and number with the noun it refers to when used in the passive voice or as an adjective. Check if the noun is masculine/feminine and singular/plural.

Context is King

While 'preencher' means to fill, the context will tell you what is being filled: a document, a space, a role, or a need. Pay attention to the object of the verb.

The 'lh' Sound

The 'lh' in 'preencher' makes a sound similar to the 'lli' in 'million' in English. Practice this sound to pronounce the word correctly.

Visual Aids

Imagine a pen actively filling out a form or a puzzle piece fitting into a gap. Visualizing the action of 'preencher' can help you remember its meaning.

'Preencher' vs. 'Encher'

Think of 'preencher' for information and roles, and 'encher' for substances and containers. You 'preenche' a form, you 'enche' a glass.

Everyday Situations

You'll hear 'preencher' a lot in administrative tasks, when registering for services, or even when talking about filling your car's gas tank ('preencher o tanque').

Verb Conjugation

Like most Portuguese verbs, 'preencher' has different endings depending on the subject and tense. Practice conjugating it in the present, past, and imperative moods.

Beyond the Literal

Don't forget that 'preencher' can be used metaphorically, like 'preencher um vazio' (to fill a void) or 'preencher as lacunas' (to fill gaps in knowledge).

Active Recall

Try to actively recall and use 'preencher' in your own sentences. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine you are at a 'pre-event' (pre-) where you need to 'ear-hear' (encher - sounds similar) instructions to 'fill' (preencher) out a special 'ear-ring' (similar sound) form. The 'ear-ring' form is the one you need to fill out.

Visual Association

Picture a blank document or form with a large, empty space. Visualize a pen actively writing and filling that space with ink, making it complete. The ink itself is 'pre-filling' the area.

Word Web

Forms Documents Complete Fill Space Vacancy Requirements Data

Challenge

Try to use 'preencher' in at least three different sentences today, each with a different context (e.g., filling a form, filling a role, filling a space).

Word Origin

The verb 'preencher' comes from the Latin word 'implere', meaning 'to fill up'. This Latin root is also the origin of the English word 'implement'. The Portuguese prefix 'pre-' often indicates 'before', 'in front of', or 'thoroughly', suggesting a thorough filling or completion.

Original meaning: To fill up thoroughly.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Portuguese

Cultural Context

When asking someone to 'preencher' a form, ensure the language is polite and clear, especially if the person is not a native speaker. Phrases like 'Por favor, preencha...' are standard.

In English, we have similar concepts with 'to fill in', 'to fill out', 'to complete', and 'to occupy'. The Portuguese 'preencher' often encapsulates the specific action of filling in blanks on a document.

The common phrase 'preencha o formulário' is a ubiquitous instruction in Brazil and Portugal. In bureaucratic settings, 'preencher a papelada' (to fill out the paperwork) is a very common expression. The concept of 'preencher um vazio' is often explored in literature and philosophy.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Filling out official documents at a government office.

Por favor, preencha este formulário.
Precisa preencher todos os campos.
Onde devo preencher meu nome?
Está tudo preenchido?

Completing a medical history form at a doctor's office.

Preencha sua ficha médica.
Pode preencher com suas informações de saúde?
O formulário precisa ser preenchido com caneta azul.
Você preencheu a seção de alergias?

Applying for a job online.

Preencha o formulário de inscrição.
Você tem que preencher seu currículo.
Os dados serão preenchidos automaticamente.
Preencha com cuidado.

Making a reservation at a hotel or restaurant.

Por favor, preencha a reserva.
Preciso preencher meus dados para confirmar.
A reserva foi preenchida.
Preencha o número de pessoas.

Filling up a car's gas tank.

Vou preencher o tanque.
Preciso preencher o tanque antes de viajar.
O tanque está quase preenchido.
Preencha com gasolina comum.

Conversation Starters

"Have you had to fill out any interesting forms recently in Portuguese?"

"What's the most complicated form you've ever had to 'preencher'?"

"When you travel, what kind of documents do you usually have to 'preencher'?"

"If you were to describe a place that feels 'preenchido' with atmosphere, what would it be?"

"Besides forms, what other things can you 'preencher' in Portuguese?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you had to 'preencher' a very important document. What was it for, and how did you feel?

Imagine you are designing a new form. What kind of information would you ask people to 'preencher' and why?

Think about a space in your home or a schedule in your life that needs to be 'preenchido'. What would you add?

Reflect on the idiom 'preencher um vazio'. Can you think of a time when something or someone helped you 'preencher' a void in your life?

Write a short story where the main character's goal is to 'preencher' a specific role or achieve a particular requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The main difference lies in the context. 'Encher' is typically used for filling containers with liquids, gases, or granular materials (like filling a glass with water or a balloon with air). 'Preencher', on the other hand, is used for filling out forms, documents, questionnaires, or for occupying a space or a role (like filling out a job application or filling a vacancy). You 'preenche' a form, but you 'enche' a bottle.

'Preencher' is more specific to adding information into blanks or designated areas, especially on forms. 'Completar' is broader and means to finish something that is incomplete, to bring it to its final state, or to fulfill a set of requirements. For example, you 'preenche' a form, but you 'completa' a task or a project. You might also 'completar' a set of answers, whereas you 'preenche' the answer sheet itself.

Yes, 'preencher' can be used metaphorically for abstract concepts. For instance, 'preencher um vazio' means to fill a void, often an emotional or existential one. You can also 'preencher lacunas' (fill gaps) in knowledge or understanding. These uses are common in literature and more formal contexts.

The past tense (preterite) of 'preencher' conjugates as follows: eu preenchi, tu preenches, ele/ela/você preencheu, nós preenchemos, vós preencheis, eles/elas/vocês preencheram. For example: 'Eu preenchi o formulário ontem.' (I filled out the form yesterday.)

The past participle is 'preenchido'. It is used in compound tenses (like the perfect tenses) and in the passive voice. Importantly, it agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies. Examples: 'O formulário foi preenchido.' (The form was filled out - masculine singular). 'A vaga foi preenchida.' (The vacancy was filled - feminine singular). 'Os relatórios foram preenchidos.' (The reports were filled out - masculine plural). 'As respostas foram preenchidas.' (The answers were filled out - feminine plural).

Yes, 'preencher o tanque' (to fill the tank) is a very common and idiomatic phrase for filling a vehicle's fuel tank. While 'encher' means to fill, 'preencher' is the standard verb in this specific context.

The noun form is 'preenchimento'. It refers to the act of filling or the completed state of being filled. For example: 'O preenchimento do formulário levou dez minutos.' (The filling out of the form took ten minutes.)

Yes, you can. For example, 'Os convidados preencheram a sala.' (The guests filled the room.) In this case, it means to occupy the space. You might also say 'A sala foi preenchida por convidados.' (The room was filled by guests.)

A common mistake is using 'encher' when you should use 'preencher' for documents or forms. You always 'preencher' a form, never 'encher' a form. 'Encher' is for filling containers with substances.

You would say 'preencher os espaços em branco' or 'preencher as lacunas'.