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tempo inteiro

A2 adjective 9 min read

tempo inteiro

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips tempo inteiro in 30 Seconds

Explanation tempo inteiro in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to describe your daily life and basic work situation. 'Tempo inteiro' is a vital phrase to learn because it helps you answer the very common question: 'What do you do?'. Even if you don't know many verbs, you can say 'Trabalho tempo inteiro' (I work full-time). At this stage, you should focus on the phrase as a single block of meaning. Don't worry too much about why 'inteiro' follows 'tempo'; just remember that 'full-time' equals 'tempo inteiro'. You might use it to describe your status as a student or a worker in simple introductory sentences. For example, 'Eu sou estudante de tempo inteiro' is a great sentence to have in your basic toolkit. It helps people understand why you might be busy during the day and sets the foundation for more complex professional vocabulary later on.

At the A2 level, you are expected to handle simple tasks like job interviews or filling out basic forms. This is where 'tempo inteiro' becomes truly functional. You will start using prepositions like 'a' or 'de' with the phrase. You should be able to distinguish between 'tempo inteiro' and 'tempo parcial'. In an interview, you might say: 'Procuro um emprego a tempo inteiro' (I am looking for a full-time job). You will also encounter this in advertisements for apartments or services where people specify their availability. You are moving beyond just 'knowing' the word to 'using' it to achieve goals. You should also start noticing that 'inteiro' changes its meaning slightly depending on context, but in this specific phrase, it always refers to the completeness of the work schedule.

By B1, you are becoming an independent user of Portuguese. You can now use 'tempo inteiro' to discuss more abstract concepts like work-life balance or the pros and cons of different contract types. You might say, 'Embora o salário seja melhor a tempo inteiro, prefiro o tempo parcial para estar com os meus filhos' (Although the salary is better full-time, I prefer part-time to be with my children). You should also be comfortable using the Brazilian alternative 'tempo integral' if you are interacting with Brazilians. At this level, you start to understand the social implications of the word—how it relates to 'estabilidade' (stability) and 'benefícios' (benefits). You can use it in more complex sentence structures involving conjunctions and subordinate clauses.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'tempo inteiro' with nuance in professional and academic environments. You can participate in debates about labor market trends, such as the shift away from 'tempo inteiro' toward freelance work. You'll understand the legal nuances, such as how a 'contrato de trabalho a tempo inteiro' differs from other types of agreements in terms of 'férias' (vacation) and 'subsídio de desemprego' (unemployment benefits). Your usage should be flawless, including the correct prepositions ('a' in Portugal, 'em' in Brazil). You might also use the term metaphorically to describe intense hobbies or life commitments, showing a higher level of linguistic flexibility and cultural awareness.

At C1, your mastery of 'tempo inteiro' includes understanding its place in formal legal and economic discourse. You can read and analyze labor laws (like the 'Código do Trabalho' in Portugal) where the term is defined with specific hour limits and obligations. You can discuss the socioeconomic impact of 'escolas a tempo inteiro' on urban development and gender equality in the workforce. You are also aware of very specific synonyms like 'dedicação exclusiva' and can explain the difference to others. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use 'tempo inteiro' not just as a descriptor, but as a point of reference in complex arguments about productivity, burnout, and the future of work in the digital age.

At the C2 level, you use 'tempo inteiro' with the precision of a native speaker in any context, including high-level legal, academic, or literary writing. You understand the historical evolution of the concept of 'full-time' work in Lusophone countries. You can appreciate and use the term in literature to describe a character's total absorption in a task or emotion. You can navigate the most subtle regional differences across the entire Lusophone world (from Angola to Timor-Leste) and adapt your terminology accordingly. 'Tempo inteiro' is no longer just a vocabulary word; it is a tool you use to articulate complex social realities and philosophical positions on the nature of human time and labor.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

tempo inteiro in 30 Seconds

Tempo inteiro means 'full-time' in English and is used for jobs, studies, or intense personal commitments that occupy a standard day.
In Portugal, use 'a tempo inteiro' (e.g., trabalho a tempo inteiro), while in Brazil 'tempo integral' is a very common alternative.
It is the direct opposite of 'tempo parcial' (part-time) and usually implies a 35 to 44-hour work week with full benefits.
Grammatically, it often requires prepositions like 'a' or 'de' to function correctly as an adjective or adverb in a sentence.

The Portuguese expression tempo inteiro is a fundamental descriptor in the world of work and commitment. At its core, it translates to 'full-time' in English. It is an adjectival phrase used to describe a schedule, a job, or a dedicated effort that occupies the standard, maximum number of hours typically expected in a professional or academic setting. In most Lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) countries, this usually refers to a 35 to 44-hour work week, depending on local labor laws and collective bargaining agreements. When you say you work 'a tempo inteiro', you are signaling a primary professional commitment that leaves little room for other major daytime activities.

Professional Context: In job advertisements, you will see 'Contrato a tempo inteiro' or 'Horário de tempo inteiro'. This distinguishes the role from 'tempo parcial' (part-time) or 'estágio' (internship). It implies eligibility for full benefits, social security contributions, and a standard salary scale.
Academic Context: Students can also be enrolled 'a tempo inteiro'. This means they are taking a full course load, usually aimed at completing their degree within the standard timeframe. It is often a requirement for certain scholarships or student visas.
Dedication and Passion: Metaphorically, one can be a 'mãe a tempo inteiro' (stay-at-home mother) or a 'músico a tempo inteiro'. Here, it highlights that the activity is not just a hobby, but a life-defining occupation that consumes the majority of one's waking hours.

Finalmente consegui um contrato de tempo inteiro naquela empresa de tecnologia.

Translation: I finally got a full-time contract at that tech company.

Understanding the cultural weight of 'tempo inteiro' is crucial. In Portugal and Brazil, the transition from 'recibos verdes' (freelance work) or part-time shifts to a 'tempo inteiro' position is often seen as a significant milestone in achieving financial stability and 'estabilidade laboral' (job security). It suggests that the employer is willing to invest in the employee long-term.

Ser pai é um trabalho de tempo inteiro, sem folgas ou férias.

Translation: Being a father is a full-time job, without days off or vacations.

When discussing lifestyle, 'tempo inteiro' contrasts sharply with 'tempo parcial'. If you are looking for a job, the first question a recruiter might ask is 'Procura algo a tempo inteiro ou parcial?' (Are you looking for something full-time or part-time?). This phrase is ubiquitous in administrative forms, tax documents, and casual conversations about career paths. It is a neutral, essential term that every learner must master to navigate the Portuguese-speaking world's social and professional structures effectively.

Using tempo inteiro correctly involves understanding its placement and the prepositions that often accompany it. While it functions as a compound adjective or adverbial phrase, its usage varies slightly between the European and Brazilian variants of Portuguese, though the core meaning remains identical.

As an Adverbial Phrase: When modifying a verb like 'trabalhar' (to work) or 'estudar' (to study), it describes the mode of the action. In Portugal, use 'a': 'Eu trabalho a tempo inteiro'. In Brazil, you might hear 'em': 'Eu trabalho em tempo inteiro' (though 'tempo integral' is a strong competitor there).
As an Adjective: When it follows a noun like 'contrato' (contract) or 'mãe' (mother), it acts as a descriptor. 'Um contrato de tempo inteiro' (A full-time contract). Notice the use of 'de' to link the noun and the phrase.

Ela é uma estudante de tempo inteiro na Universidade de Coimbra.

Example: She is a full-time student at the University of Coimbra.

In formal writing, such as a CV (Curriculum Vitae) or a cover letter, 'tempo inteiro' is the standard term. You might write: 'Tenho disponibilidade para trabalhar a tempo inteiro imediatamente' (I am available to work full-time immediately). In more casual settings, you might drop the prepositions, but 'a tempo inteiro' remains the most grammatically sound and common way to express the concept.

O cargo exige dedicação de tempo inteiro.

Example: The position requires full-time dedication.

One interesting aspect is the negation. To say you don't work full-time, you would say 'Não trabalho a tempo inteiro' or, more specifically, 'Trabalho a tempo parcial'. The structure remains rigid, making it easy to swap 'inteiro' for 'parcial' to change the meaning entirely. This symmetry is helpful for learners to memorize both terms as a pair.

You will encounter tempo inteiro in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from the mundane to the life-changing. It is not a slang term; it is a functional piece of the Portuguese language used by everyone from teenagers looking for their first job to senior executives discussing workforce planning.

At the Job Center (IEFP/Sine): If you visit the IEFP in Portugal or SINE in Brazil, the digital kiosks and counselors will constantly use this term. 'Vagas a tempo inteiro' (Full-time openings) will be the most sought-after category on the screens.
In the News: Economic reports often discuss the 'taxa de emprego a tempo inteiro' (full-time employment rate). When politicians debate labor laws, like the 35-hour work week, they are fundamentally talking about what constitutes 'tempo inteiro'.
Social Gatherings: When meeting new people, the question 'O que é que fazes?' (What do you do?) is often followed by 'Estás a tempo inteiro ou fazes freelancing?' (Are you full-time or do you freelance?). It helps people understand your schedule and availability.

Muitos jovens hoje preferem vários trabalhos parciais a um de tempo inteiro.

Translation: Many young people today prefer several part-time jobs over one full-time job.

In the context of the 'Gig Economy', 'tempo inteiro' is sometimes used as a point of contrast. Drivers for apps like Uber or Glovo might say 'Eu faço isto a tempo inteiro' to indicate that it is their sole source of income, as opposed to a 'part-time' side hustle. This usage highlights that the term is adapting to modern labor realities while maintaining its core meaning of 'exclusive commitment'.

O anúncio dizia que o horário era de tempo inteiro, mas as horas extras são muitas.

Translation: The ad said the schedule was full-time, but there is a lot of overtime.

Finally, you will hear it in the education sector. 'Escola a tempo inteiro' refers to schools that offer activities and supervision throughout the entire day, often to accommodate parents who also work 'a tempo inteiro'. This social infrastructure is a key part of daily life for families in Portugal and Brazil.

While tempo inteiro seems straightforward, English speakers often fall into a few traps due to literal translations or regional variations within the Lusophone world. Avoiding these will make your Portuguese sound much more natural and professional.

Literal Translation of 'Full-Time': Avoid saying 'hora cheia' or 'tempo total' when you mean full-time employment. While 'total' means full, it isn't the idiomatic way to describe a work schedule. Stick to 'tempo inteiro' or 'tempo integral'.
Confusing 'Inteiro' and 'Integral': In Brazil, 'tempo integral' is the standard for jobs and schools. Using 'tempo inteiro' in a Brazilian corporate setting might sound slightly 'off', though it is technically correct. In Portugal, 'tempo inteiro' is the king. Know your audience!
Missing Prepositions: English says 'I work full-time'. Portuguese requires a preposition: 'Trabalho a tempo inteiro'. Omitting the 'a' or 'de' makes the sentence feel fragmented and 'Gringo-style'.

❌ Eu trabalho tempo inteiro.
✅ Eu trabalho a tempo inteiro.

The preposition 'a' is essential in European Portuguese.

Another mistake is using 'tempo inteiro' to mean 'all the time' in a general sense. While 'full-time' can sometimes mean that in English (e.g., 'He's a jerk full-time'), in Portuguese, you should use 'o tempo todo' or 'sempre' for general frequency. 'Tempo inteiro' is strictly for schedules and dedicated roles.

❌ Ele reclama tempo inteiro.
✅ Ele reclama o tempo todo.

Don't confuse professional 'full-time' with the frequency 'all the time'.

Lastly, be careful with the plural. Since 'tempo' is the noun and 'inteiro' is the adjective, if you were (rarely) to pluralize it, it would be 'tempos inteiros', but this is almost never used. Stick to the singular phrase as a fixed unit to describe the nature of the work.

To truly master Portuguese, you need to know the synonyms and related terms for tempo inteiro. Depending on the context—formal, legal, or regional—different words might be more appropriate.

Tempo Integral: The primary synonym in Brazil. If you are applying for a job in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, 'tempo integral' is the term you will see on LinkedIn and in contracts. It sounds more formal and 'legalistic' than 'tempo inteiro'.
Dedicação Exclusiva: This is a step above 'tempo inteiro'. Common in academia and high-level government roles, it means you are legally barred from having any other job. It's 'full-time' with a restrictive clause.
Horário Completo: A more literal way of saying 'full schedule'. It's often used interchangeably in retail or service jobs: 'Precisamos de alguém para horário completo'.

O professor trabalha em regime de dedicação exclusiva.

This implies even more commitment than 'tempo inteiro'.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the antonyms. Knowing these helps define 'tempo inteiro' by what it is not.

Tempo Parcial: The direct opposite (Part-time). Usually refers to 20-25 hours a week.
Meio Período: Very common in Brazil to mean 'half-time' or 'half-day'. If a job is 'meio período', it's usually 4 hours a day.

By understanding these alternatives, you can tailor your speech to be more precise. If you're talking to a lawyer about a contract, use 'tempo integral' or 'regime de tempo inteiro'. If you're talking to a friend about your busy week, 'tempo inteiro' is perfect.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the Middle Ages, 'inteiro' referred to something pure or uncorrupted. Today, applying it to 'tempo' suggests a pure, undivided commitment to a single task.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈtẽ.pu ĩ.ˈtej.ɾu/

US /ˈtẽ.pu ĩ.ˈteɪ.ɾoʊ/

The primary stress is on the first syllable of 'Tempo' (TEM-po) and the second syllable of 'Inteiro' (in-TEI-ro).

Rhymes With

cheiro dinheiro fevereiro passageiro primeiro travesseiro canteiro caseiro

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'm' in 'tempo' clearly instead of using it to nasalize the 'e'.
Making the 'r' in 'inteiro' like an English 'r' instead of a quick tap.
Forgetting to nasalize the 'in' in 'inteiro'.
Pronouncing the final 'o' in 'tempo' as a strong 'oh' instead of a soft 'oo'.
Stress on the wrong syllable, e.g., in-tei-RO.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize as it looks like 'time' and 'entire'.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the correct prepositions (a/de).

Speaking 3/5

Nasal sounds in 'tempo' and 'inteiro' can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Clearly articulated in professional contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

tempo inteiro trabalho estudo horas

Learn Next

tempo parcial horário salário folga férias

Advanced

precariedade subemprego dedicação exclusiva vínculo laboral

Grammar to Know

Adverbial Phrases with 'A'

Trabalhar a tempo inteiro.

Noun + De + Noun phrases

Um contrato de tempo inteiro.

Nasal Vowels (em/in)

T**em**po **in**teiro.

Prepositional Contraction

No (em + o) tempo inteiro.

Adjective Placement

Tempo inteiro (follows the noun 'tempo').

Examples by Level

Eu trabalho tempo inteiro.

I work full-time.

Basic subject + verb + adverbial phrase.

Ela é estudante de tempo inteiro.

She is a full-time student.

Use of 'de' to connect noun and phrase.

O meu pai trabalha tempo inteiro.

My father works full-time.

Simple present tense.

Você trabalha tempo inteiro?

Do you work full-time?

Question form with rising intonation.

Não, eu não trabalho tempo inteiro.

No, I don't work full-time.

Negative construction with 'não'.

O trabalho é tempo inteiro.

The job is full-time.

Using 'ser' to define the job.

Maria quer um emprego de tempo inteiro.

Maria wants a full-time job.

Verb 'querer' + noun phrase.

Nós estudamos tempo inteiro.

We study full-time.

First person plural 'nós'.

Estou à procura de um emprego a tempo inteiro.

I am looking for a full-time job.

Present continuous + 'a tempo inteiro'.

Trabalho a tempo inteiro desde o ano passado.

I've been working full-time since last year.

Preposition 'desde' indicating duration.

O contrato é de tempo inteiro ou parcial?

Is the contract full-time or part-time?

Contrast between 'inteiro' and 'parcial'.

Ela trabalha a tempo inteiro numa loja.

She works full-time in a shop.

Preposition 'numa' (em + uma).

Prefiro trabalhar a tempo inteiro para ganhar mais.

I prefer to work full-time to earn more.

Infinitive 'trabalhar' after 'preferir'.

Eles têm horários de tempo inteiro.

They have full-time schedules.

Plural noun 'horários'.

O meu irmão é músico a tempo inteiro agora.

My brother is a full-time musician now.

Adverb 'agora' showing a change in status.

É difícil ser mãe a tempo inteiro.

It is difficult to be a full-time mother.

Impersonal 'É difícil' + infinitive.

Se eu trabalhasse a tempo inteiro, não teria tempo para o ginásio.

If I worked full-time, I wouldn't have time for the gym.

Imperfect subjunctive + conditional.

A empresa oferece apenas contratos a tempo inteiro.

The company only offers full-time contracts.

Adverb 'apenas' for limitation.

Mudei para tempo inteiro para ter mais estabilidade.

I switched to full-time to have more stability.

Verb 'mudar' + 'para'.

Muitas escolas oferecem atividades a tempo inteiro para as crianças.

Many schools offer full-time activities for children.

Noun 'atividades' modified by the phrase.

O regime de tempo inteiro exige quarenta horas por semana.

The full-time regime requires forty hours per week.

Noun 'regime' + 'de tempo inteiro'.

Apesar de ser a tempo inteiro, o salário é baixo.

Despite being full-time, the salary is low.

Conjunction 'Apesar de' expressing contrast.

Consegues conciliar o estudo com um trabalho a tempo inteiro?

Can you balance studying with a full-time job?

Verb 'conciliar' meaning to balance/reconcile.

Ela foi contratada a tempo inteiro após o estágio.

She was hired full-time after the internship.

Passive voice 'foi contratada'.

A transição de tempo parcial para tempo inteiro foi automática.

The transition from part-time to full-time was automatic.

Nouns 'transição' and 'regime' implied.

O mercado de trabalho privilegia, muitas vezes, o tempo inteiro.

The labor market often privileges full-time work.

Verb 'privilegiar' in a social context.

Trabalhar a tempo inteiro remotamente exige muita disciplina.

Working full-time remotely requires a lot of discipline.

Adverb 'remotamente' modifying the whole phrase.

O governo quer incentivar o emprego a tempo inteiro para os jovens.

The government wants to encourage full-time employment for young people.

Verb 'incentivar' + direct object.

Não é fácil encontrar um equilíbrio quando se trabalha a tempo inteiro.

It's not easy to find a balance when working full-time.

Impersonal 'se' construction.

O contrato de tempo inteiro garante proteção social completa.

The full-time contract guarantees full social protection.

Complex noun phrase 'proteção social completa'.

Ela dedica-se a tempo inteiro à pintura agora.

She dedicates herself full-time to painting now.

Pronominal verb 'dedicar-se'.

A maioria dos funcionários prefere o regime de tempo inteiro.

Most employees prefer the full-time regime.

Collective noun 'A maioria'.

A precariedade laboral impede que muitos tenham contratos a tempo inteiro.

Labor precariousness prevents many from having full-time contracts.

Subjunctive mood after 'impede que'.

O conceito de tempo inteiro está a ser redefinido pela economia digital.

The concept of full-time is being redefined by the digital economy.

Passive voice with 'estar a ser'.

A legislação prevê benefícios específicos para quem trabalha a tempo inteiro.

The legislation provides specific benefits for those who work full-time.

Formal verb 'prever' (to provide/foresee).

A dedicação a tempo inteiro a uma causa pode levar ao esgotamento.

Full-time dedication to a cause can lead to burnout.

Noun 'esgotamento' (burnout).

O estudo analisa o impacto da escola a tempo inteiro no rendimento escolar.

The study analyzes the impact of full-time schooling on academic performance.

Scientific/Academic register.

Muitas empresas estão a abolir o tempo inteiro em favor de semanas de quatro dias.

Many companies are abolishing full-time in favor of four-day weeks.

Prepositional phrase 'em favor de'.

A complexidade de gerir uma equipa a tempo inteiro é subestimada.

The complexity of managing a full-time team is underestimated.

Passive participle 'subestimada'.

Ele abdicou da sua carreira a tempo inteiro para viajar pelo mundo.

He gave up his full-time career to travel the world.

Verb 'abdicar' + 'de'.

A onipresença do trabalho a tempo inteiro moldou a arquitetura das nossas cidades.

The omnipresence of full-time work has shaped the architecture of our cities.

Abstract noun 'onipresença'.

Questiona-se a sustentabilidade do modelo de tempo inteiro na era da automação.

The sustainability of the full-time model in the era of automation is being questioned.

Reflexive passive voice.

O contrato a tempo inteiro tornou-se um vestígio da era industrial para alguns.

The full-time contract has become a vestige of the industrial era for some.

Metaphorical use of 'vestígio'.

A dedicação a tempo inteiro à arte exige um sacrifício financeiro incomensurável.

Full-time dedication to art requires an immeasurable financial sacrifice.

High-level adjective 'incomensurável'.

A erosão dos direitos associados ao tempo inteiro preocupa os sindicatos.

The erosion of rights associated with full-time work concerns the unions.

Abstract noun 'erosão'.

A dicotomia entre tempo inteiro e vida privada esbate-se com o teletrabalho.

The dichotomy between full-time work and private life blurs with teleworking.

Pronominal verb 'esbater-se' (to blur/fade).

O autor discorre sobre a tirania do tempo inteiro na sociedade contemporânea.

The author discourses on the tyranny of full-time work in contemporary society.

Formal verb 'discorrer' (to discourse).

A transição para o regime de tempo inteiro pressupõe uma reestruturação da rotina.

The transition to a full-time regime presupposes a restructuring of the routine.

Verb 'pressupor' (to presuppose).

Common Collocations

trabalhar a tempo inteiro

contrato de tempo inteiro

estudante de tempo inteiro

mãe a tempo inteiro

horário de tempo inteiro

disponibilidade para tempo inteiro

vaga a tempo inteiro

passar para tempo inteiro

escola a tempo inteiro

dedicação a tempo inteiro

Common Phrases

Trabalho a tempo inteiro.

— I work full-time. Used to describe professional status.

Não tenho muito tempo livre porque trabalho a tempo inteiro.

Procura-se funcionário a tempo inteiro.

— Full-time employee wanted. Common in job ads.

Vi um anúncio: Procura-se funcionário a tempo inteiro.

Estudar a tempo inteiro.

— To study full-time. Usually implies no job alongside studies.

É difícil estudar a tempo inteiro e pagar as contas.

Contrato de tempo inteiro.

— A full-time contract. Legal document specifying full hours.

Finalmente recebi o meu contrato de tempo inteiro.

Mãe/Pai a tempo inteiro.

— Stay-at-home parent. Implies child-rearing is the main 'job'.

Ser pai a tempo inteiro é muito gratificante.

Disponibilidade a tempo inteiro.

— Full-time availability. Used when looking for work.

Tenho disponibilidade a tempo inteiro a partir de segunda-feira.

Regime de tempo inteiro.

— Full-time regime. Formal way to describe the work setup.

O regime de tempo inteiro aqui é de 35 horas.

Passar a tempo inteiro.

— To go full-time. Moving from part-time to full-time.

A empresa quer que eu passe a tempo inteiro.

Vaga de tempo inteiro.

— Full-time opening. A specific job position.

Candidatou-se a uma vaga de tempo inteiro.

Escola em tempo inteiro.

— Full-day school. School covering the whole work day.

A escola em tempo inteiro ajuda muito os pais.

Often Confused With

tempo inteiro vs o tempo todo

Means 'all the time' (frequency), not 'full-time' (schedule).

tempo inteiro vs tempo integral

The Brazilian equivalent; identical in meaning but different in usage frequency.

tempo inteiro vs tempo total

Refers to the sum of time spent, not a work schedule.

Idioms & Expressions

"ser um trabalho de tempo inteiro"

— To be a full-time job. Used metaphorically for something very demanding.

Cuidar deste jardim é um trabalho de tempo inteiro!

informal

"dedicar-se de corpo e alma"

— To dedicate oneself body and soul. Often used alongside 'tempo inteiro'.

Ele dedica-se de corpo e alma ao trabalho a tempo inteiro.

expressive

"não ter mãos a medir"

— To be overwhelmed with work. Common for those working full-time.

Com o novo trabalho a tempo inteiro, não tenho mãos a medir.

idiomatic

"dar o litro"

— To work very hard. Often expected in full-time roles.

No meu emprego a tempo inteiro, tenho de dar o litro todos os dias.

slang (Portugal)

"vestir a camisola"

— To be very loyal to the company. Expected of full-time staff.

A empresa valoriza quem veste a camisola a tempo inteiro.

business idiom

"fazer horas extraordinárias"

— To do overtime. The 'dark side' of full-time work.

Trabalho a tempo inteiro, mas ainda faço horas extraordinárias.

neutral

"estar metido até ao pescoço"

— To be deep into something. Used for intense full-time projects.

Estou metido até ao pescoço neste projeto a tempo inteiro.

informal

"queimar as pestanas"

— To study very hard. Common for full-time students.

Como estudante de tempo inteiro, queimo as pestanas todas as noites.

informal

"pôr o pão na mesa"

— To put bread on the table. The goal of a full-time job.

O meu trabalho a tempo inteiro é o que põe o pão na mesa.

proverbial

"viver para o trabalho"

— To live for work. A criticism of working too much full-time.

Ele não tem vida social, vive para o trabalho a tempo inteiro.

informal

Easily Confused

tempo inteiro vs Inteiro

Means 'whole' or 'entire'.

'Tempo inteiro' is a fixed phrase for full-time. 'Inteiro' alone just means whole.

Comi o bolo inteiro.

tempo inteiro vs Integral

Used for 'whole wheat' or 'full-time' in Brazil.

In Portugal, 'integral' is mostly for food (pão integral), while 'inteiro' is for work.

Pão integral é saudável.

tempo inteiro vs Parcial

The opposite of 'inteiro'.

Used for part-time schedules.

Trabalho a tempo parcial.

tempo inteiro vs Completo

Means 'complete'.

Used in 'horário completo', which is a synonym but less common than 'tempo inteiro'.

O serviço está completo.

tempo inteiro vs Sempre

Means 'always'.

Used for frequency, not for describing a job type.

Eu trabalho sempre aqui.

Sentence Patterns

Eu [verb] tempo inteiro.

Eu trabalho tempo inteiro.

Eu sou [noun] de tempo inteiro.

Eu sou mãe de tempo inteiro.

Trabalhar a tempo inteiro em [place].

Trabalhar a tempo inteiro num banco.

Prefiro [verb] a tempo inteiro do que [verb].

Prefiro trabalhar a tempo inteiro do que ficar em casa.

Se eu [subjunctive], trabalharia a tempo inteiro.

Se eu pudesse, trabalharia a tempo inteiro.

O regime de tempo inteiro permite [verb].

O regime de tempo inteiro permite ter benefícios.

A transição para o tempo inteiro implica [noun].

A transição para o tempo inteiro implica mais responsabilidade.

Questiona-se a validade do tempo inteiro face a [noun].

Questiona-se a validade do tempo inteiro face à tecnologia.

Word Family

Nouns

tempo

temporalidade

intemporalidade

inteireza

Verbs

temporizar

inteirar

integralizar

Adjectives

temporal

intemporal

inteiro

integral

horário

jornada

expediente

contrato

escala

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in professional and educational contexts.

Common Mistakes

Trabalho tempo inteiro. → Trabalho a tempo inteiro.
In European Portuguese, the preposition 'a' is required for the sentence to be grammatically complete.
Ele reclama tempo inteiro. → Ele reclama o tempo todo.
'Tempo inteiro' is for work schedules; 'o tempo todo' is for frequency (all the time).
Um contrato de tempo integral (in Portugal). → Um contrato de tempo inteiro.
While 'integral' is understood, 'inteiro' is the standard term in Portugal.
Trabalho a hora inteira. → Trabalho a tempo inteiro.
Literal translation of 'full hour' does not work for 'full-time'.
Eu sou um trabalhador inteiro. → Eu trabalho a tempo inteiro.
'Trabalhador inteiro' sounds like you are a 'whole person' rather than a full-time worker.

Tips

Regional Choice

If you are in Brazil, use 'tempo integral'. If you are in Portugal, use 'tempo inteiro'. This is the quickest way to sound like a local.

The 'A' Factor

Always remember the 'a' in 'trabalhar a tempo inteiro'. It's a small word that makes a big difference in fluency.

The Opposite

Learn 'tempo parcial' at the same time. They are two sides of the same coin and usually learned together.

Job Hunting

When looking for work, look for 'vagas a tempo inteiro'. This is the keyword for standard employment.

Nasal Vowels

Practice the nasal 'em' in 'tempo'. It should sound like it's coming from your nose, not your throat.

CV Tip

Specify 'regime de tempo inteiro' to show you are looking for a permanent, full-hours position.

News Context

When you hear 'mercado de trabalho' on the news, 'tempo inteiro' will likely follow soon after.

Student Status

If you are applying for a student visa, you will likely need to be a 'estudante de tempo inteiro'.

Passion

Use it to describe your passions. 'Sou músico a tempo inteiro' shows you are serious about your art.

Frequency vs Schedule

Don't use 'tempo inteiro' for 'I do this all the time'. Use 'sempre' or 'o tempo todo' for that.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Temple' (Tempo) that is 'Entirely' (Inteiro) yours. You spend your whole day there.

Visual Association

Imagine a clock face that is completely colored in (inteiro), representing a full day of work.

Word Web

Trabalho Contrato Horas Salário Carreira Estudo Dedicação Estabilidade

Challenge

Try to describe your current work or study situation using 'tempo inteiro' or 'tempo parcial' in three different sentences.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'tempus' (time) and 'integer' (whole, untouched). The phrase combines these two roots to describe a 'whole amount of time'.

Original meaning: The phrase literally means 'whole time' or 'unbroken time'.

Romance (Latin-based).

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'tempo inteiro' can be a sensitive topic for those in 'precariedade' (unstable work) who cannot find full-time positions.

The concept is identical to the UK/US '9 to 5' or '40-hour week'.

The Portuguese Labor Code (Código do Trabalho) defines 'tempo inteiro'. Brazilian CLT (Consolidação das Leis do Trabalho) sets the standards for 'tempo integral'. Portuguese news often features debates on 'semana de 4 dias' vs 'tempo inteiro'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Interview

Qual é o horário?
É a tempo inteiro?
Prefiro tempo inteiro.
Tenho experiência.

University Enrollment

Sou estudante.
Tempo inteiro ou parcial?
Quais são as propinas?
Tenho aulas de manhã.

Socializing

O que fazes?
Trabalho a tempo inteiro.
É muito cansativo.
Gostas do teu trabalho?

Legal/HR

Assinar contrato.
Segurança social.
Horas semanais.
Direitos do trabalhador.

Parenting

Ficar em casa.
Mãe a tempo inteiro.
Cuidar dos filhos.
Escola primária.

Conversation Starters

"Preferes trabalhar a tempo inteiro ou ter mais tempo livre com um trabalho parcial?"

"Achas que é possível ser um estudante de tempo inteiro e trabalhar ao mesmo tempo?"

"Na tua opinião, ser mãe a tempo inteiro é mais difícil do que trabalhar num escritório?"

"Como é um dia típico para alguém que trabalha a tempo inteiro no teu país?"

"Gostarias de passar para um regime de tempo inteiro na tua empresa atual?"

Journal Prompts

Descreve as vantagens e desvantagens de trabalhar a tempo inteiro em comparação com o trabalho freelancer.

Como mudaria a tua vida se passasses a ser um estudante de tempo inteiro novamente?

Escreve sobre uma pessoa que conheces que se dedica a tempo inteiro a uma causa social.

Reflete sobre o conceito de 'escola a tempo inteiro'. É bom para as crianças?

Se pudesses escolher, trabalharias a tempo inteiro num emprego que amas ou a tempo parcial num que detestas?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, yes. However, in Portugal, many public sector jobs are 35 hours, but they are still called 'tempo inteiro' because they represent the full legal schedule for that role.

Yes, but it's metaphorical. It implies you spend as much time on the hobby as a full-time job. 'Sou fotógrafo a tempo inteiro' means photography is your main occupation.

In Portugal, 'a tempo inteiro' is the standard. In Brazil, 'em tempo integral' is much more common, but 'em tempo inteiro' is used in some regions.

Yes. 'Escola a tempo inteiro' refers to schools that provide activities from early morning until late afternoon to help working parents.

It is neutral. It is appropriate for both casual conversation and formal job contracts.

Use 'Disponibilidade para tempo inteiro' or list your previous roles as 'Trabalho a tempo inteiro'.

The most common opposite is 'tempo parcial' (part-time).

No, in this specific phrase, 'tempo' is masculine, so 'inteiro' stays masculine. You would never say 'tempo inteira'.

In casual speech, yes, but it sounds more correct and 'native' with the preposition 'a'.

Rarely for jobs. It's mostly used in mathematical or very technical contexts, or for whole-grain food.