termostato
termostato em 30 segundos
- A termostato is a masculine noun in Portuguese referring to a device that automatically regulates temperature in homes, cars, and appliances.
- It is a cognate of the English word 'thermostat', making it easy for English speakers to identify and remember in technical contexts.
- Common verbs used with termostato include 'ajustar' (adjust), 'regular' (regulate), 'programar' (program), and 'avariar' (to malfunction or break).
- It is essential for managing home comfort and energy efficiency, and it is a common topic in household maintenance and automotive repair.
The word termostato is a masculine noun in Portuguese that refers to a technical device designed to maintain a constant temperature within a specific system. Whether it is the climate control system in a modern apartment, the internal regulation of a refrigerator, or the complex cooling system of an automobile engine, the termostato acts as the brain that monitors thermal fluctuations and triggers corrective actions. For English speakers, the word is a cognate, meaning it looks and sounds very similar to the English word 'thermostat,' making it an accessible entry point into technical Portuguese vocabulary. However, understanding its usage requires more than just recognizing the word; it involves understanding the verbs that accompany it and the domestic or industrial contexts where it is most relevant. In a typical Portuguese household, you might encounter this word when discussing the water heater (esquentador) or the air conditioning unit. The termostato is the interface between human comfort and mechanical execution. It represents the transition from manual labor—like adding wood to a fire—to automated precision. When you use the word termostato, you are often engaging in a conversation about comfort, energy efficiency, or mechanical maintenance. It is a word that bridges the gap between everyday household management and engineering.
- Domestic Utility
- In homes, the termostato is used to control the 'aquecimento central' (central heating) or the 'ar condicionado'. It is the physical dial or digital screen on the wall.
- Automotive Context
- In a car, the termostato regulates the flow of coolant to the radiator, ensuring the engine does not overheat or run too cold.
- Industrial Application
- Factories use high-precision termostatos to manage chemical reactions or food processing temperatures where even a one-degree variance can be critical.
The term is derived from the Greek roots 'thermos' (heat) and 'statos' (standing or staying), which perfectly describes its function: making heat stay still or stay at a desired level. In Portuguese-speaking cultures, particularly in colder regions like northern Portugal or the southern states of Brazil, the termostato becomes a central topic of conversation during the winter months when families try to balance warmth with the high cost of electricity or gas. You will hear it in hardware stores (lojas de ferragens), during service calls with technicians (técnicos), and in manuals for household appliances. It is not a slang word; it is a precise, functional noun that carries the same weight in formal technical writing as it does in casual conversation about home improvement.
O técnico disse que o termostato do frigorífico está avariado e precisa de ser substituído o mais rapidamente possível.
Podes ajustar o termostato para vinte e dois graus? Está a ficar um pouco frio aqui na sala.
Este termostato inteligente permite controlar a temperatura da casa através de uma aplicação no telemóvel.
A instalação de um termostato programável pode ajudar a reduzir significativamente a fatura da eletricidade ao final do mês.
Se o termostato do motor falhar, o carro pode sobreaquecer em poucos minutos de condução.
Beyond the physical device, the word termostato can occasionally be used metaphorically in complex literature or high-level journalism to describe a mechanism or person that regulates the 'temperature' of a situation, such as a political climate or social tension. However, this is quite rare compared to its literal use. Most of the time, you will be using it to describe the very real, very practical gadgets that keep your water hot and your wine cellar cool. Understanding the termostato is essential for anyone living in a Portuguese-speaking country, as it is a fundamental component of modern infrastructure and daily comfort management.
Using the word termostato effectively in Portuguese requires a grasp of specific verbs and prepositional patterns. Since it is a device you interact with, you will frequently use verbs of action. The most common verb associated with it is ajustar (to adjust). You might also use regular (to regulate), programar (to program), fixar (to set/fix), or verificar (to check). When the device isn't working, the verbs avariar (to break down/malfunction) or falhar (to fail) are essential. Because it is a masculine noun, all accompanying adjectives and articles must agree in gender. For example, you would say 'o termostato novo' (the new thermostat) or 'este termostato' (this thermostat).
- Setting a Temperature
- To say 'Set the thermostat to 20 degrees,' you use the preposition 'para': 'Coloca o termostato para vinte graus' or 'Ajusta o termostato para vinte graus'.
- Indicating Location
- To describe where it is, use 'em' (in/on): 'O termostato está na parede do corredor' (The thermostat is on the hallway wall).
- Describing Type
- Use descriptive adjectives: 'termostato digital', 'termostato analógico', 'termostato sem fios' (wireless thermostat).
In more complex sentence structures, such as those involving the conditional or subjunctive moods, the termostato often appears in 'if' clauses (orações condicionais). For instance, 'Se o termostato estivesse a funcionar, não estaria tanto frio' (If the thermostat were working, it wouldn't be so cold). This demonstrates how the word integrates into everyday logical reasoning regarding environment and comfort. In a professional setting, such as an engineering report or a repair manual, the language becomes more passive and descriptive: 'O termostato deve ser calibrado anualmente para garantir a precisão das leituras' (The thermostat must be calibrated annually to ensure the accuracy of the readings).
Eu não sei como mexer neste termostato moderno; as instruções são muito complicadas.
O termostato desligou o aquecimento assim que a sala atingiu a temperatura desejada.
É importante não tapar o termostato com cortinas, caso contrário, a leitura da temperatura será incorreta.
When writing about energy conservation, the termostato is frequently mentioned alongside the verb baixar (to lower). 'Baixar o termostato apenas um grau pode poupar muita energia' (Lowering the thermostat just one degree can save a lot of energy). Conversely, subir or aumentar (to raise/increase) are used when more heat is desired. These action-oriented sentences are the most common ways you will interact with the word in a practical, real-world Portuguese environment. Mastering these combinations allows you to communicate your needs clearly to landlords, roommates, or repair professionals.
The word termostato is ubiquitous in several specific domains of Portuguese life. The first and most common is the domestic sphere. If you are renting an apartment in Lisbon or Porto, you will likely have a conversation with your landlord about the 'termostato do aquecimento central'. You will hear it in the context of 'contas da luz' (electricity bills), especially when discussing how to optimize the 'termostato' to save money. In the hardware store or 'loja de bricolage' (like Leroy Merlin, common in Portugal and Brazil), you will hear customers asking for 'termostatos inteligentes' or 'pilhas para o termostato'.
Another major area is the automotive world. When a car starts to 'aquecer' (overheat), the first thing a mechanic (mecânico) will check is the 'termostato do motor'. You might hear a mechanic say, 'O termostato ficou colado' (The thermostat got stuck), which is a common technical failure. In this context, the word is part of a specialized but widely understood vocabulary. You will also hear it in appliance repair shops. If your 'frigorífico' is freezing your lettuce or not keeping the milk cold, the 'técnico' will inevitably mention that the 'termostato' needs a 'regulação' or a 'substituição'.
- In the Media
- During winter energy crises, news segments often provide tips like 'regule o seu termostato para dezoito graus para poupar gás'.
- In Smart Home Tech
- YouTube reviewers and tech bloggers in Portuguese discuss the latest 'termostatos Wi-Fi' and their integration with Alexa or Google Home.
O senhor Silva, o canalizador, explicou que o termostato do esquentador estava mal regulado.
In summary, while 'termostato' might seem like a dry, technical term, it is actually a word that appears in the most vital parts of daily life: maintaining a comfortable home, keeping a car running, and managing household finances. It is a word of the 'practical world'. It is not found in poetry or romantic songs, but it is found in the conversations that keep life running smoothly. When you hear it, it is usually a sign that someone is taking care of their environment or dealing with a technical necessity. Paying attention to how native speakers use it in these contexts will help you understand the blend of technical precision and everyday practicality that characterizes Portuguese linguistic culture.
The most frequent mistake English speakers make with termostato is confusing it with termômetro (thermometer). While they both relate to temperature, their functions are distinct. A termômetro simply measures and displays the temperature, whereas a termostato actively controls it. Saying 'Vou ver o termostato para ver se tenho febre' (I'm going to check the thermostat to see if I have a fever) would be a humorous error; you would use a termômetro for that. Another common error is gender-related. Since many Portuguese words ending in 'a' are feminine, some learners might mistakenly say 'a termostata'. It is strictly masculine: o termostato.
Another nuance involves the difference between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese vocabulary for the devices the termostato controls. An American learner might use 'aquecedor' generally, but in Portugal, a 'termostato' is often connected to an 'esquentador' (water heater) or 'aquecimento central'. In Brazil, it might be more commonly associated with an 'ar-condicionado'. Using the wrong device name in the wrong country doesn't make 'termostato' wrong, but it can make the sentence feel 'off'.
- Confusion with 'Termômetro'
- Wrong: Preciso de um termostato para medir a temperatura da água. Right: Preciso de um termômetro para medir a temperatura da água.
- Gender Agreement
- Wrong: A termostato está ligada. Right: O termostato está ligado.
Não confundas o termostato (que controla) com o termómetro (que apenas mede).
Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the verb 'to set'. While 'set' is very versatile in English, in Portuguese it's better to be specific. Using 'pôr' (to put) is okay informally, but 'ajustar' or 'regular' is much more natural when talking about a termostato. Avoid literal translations like 'configurar' unless you are talking about the initial digital setup of a smart device. For daily use, stick to 'ajustar'. By avoiding these pitfalls—confusing it with a thermometer, getting the gender wrong, or using overly literal translations for 'set'—you will sound much more like a native speaker.
While termostato is the specific technical term, there are several related words that you might use depending on the context. If you are talking about the broad concept of temperature management, you might use climatização (climate control). If you are referring to the part of a machine that senses heat but doesn't necessarily control it, you might use sensor de temperatura. In a very informal setting, someone might just say 'o comando do aquecimento' (the heating control), although this is less precise.
- Termostato vs. Regulador
- A 'termostato' is a type of 'regulador', but 'regulador' is a general term for any device that controls a flow (like a pressure regulator).
- Termostato vs. Sensor
- A 'sensor' only detects; the 'termostato' detects and then acts upon that detection to switch a circuit on or off.
- Termostato vs. Temporizador
- A 'temporizador' (timer) is often found on the same panel as a termostato, but it controls *when* the device runs, not at what temperature.
In industrial contexts, you might encounter the term controlador térmico. This is essentially a high-end termostato used in labs or factories. For those interested in green energy, the term termostato modulante is becoming popular; it refers to a device that doesn't just turn the heat on or off but varies the intensity. Understanding these alternatives helps you navigate different levels of formality and technicality. For example, if you're talking to a neighbor, 'termostato' is perfect. If you're reading a scientific paper, 'sistema de regulação térmica' might be used to describe the broader system.
O termostato é o componente principal do sistema de climatização da casa.
Finally, consider the word interruptor térmico. This is a safety version of a termostato that simply cuts power if something gets too hot to prevent a fire. While related, it's a 'one-way' safety device, whereas a termostato is a 'two-way' regulation device. By learning these distinctions, you not only improve your Portuguese vocabulary but also your understanding of how the world around you is built and maintained. The termostato is a small but mighty part of that world, and knowing its name and its 'cousins' in the language is a great step toward fluency in practical, everyday Portuguese.
How Formal Is It?
Curiosidade
The term was first coined in English in the early 19th century and quickly adopted into Portuguese and other Romance languages as the technology spread globally. It is one of the few technical words that has remained almost identical across dozens of languages.
Guia de pronúncia
- Stressing the first syllable like in English (THER-mo-stat).
- Pronouncing the 's' as a 'z' sound.
- Forgetting the final 'o' sound entirely.
- In Portugal, failing to make the 'sh' sound for the 's'.
- Adding an accent where there is none (e.g., termóstato).
Nível de dificuldade
Very easy due to being a cognate with English.
Easy, but requires remembering the masculine ending and no accents.
Moderate, as the 's' pronunciation varies by region (s vs sh).
Easy to recognize in context.
O que aprender depois
Pré-requisitos
Aprenda a seguir
Avançado
Gramática essencial
Masculine Noun Agreement
O termostato novo (not a termostata nova).
Contraction of 'em' + 'o'
O termostato está no (em + o) corredor.
Subjunctive with 'Caso'
Caso o termostato falhe, avisa-me.
Position of Adjectives
Termostato digital (adjective usually follows the noun).
Direct Object Pronouns
Eu vou comprá-lo (referring to o termostato).
Exemplos por nível
O termostato é branco.
The thermostat is white.
Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.
Onde está o termostato?
Where is the thermostat?
Interrogative sentence with the verb 'estar'.
O termostato está ali.
The thermostat is there.
Using the adverb 'ali' for location.
Eu vejo o termostato.
I see the thermostat.
First-person singular with the verb 'ver'.
É um termostato antigo.
It is an old thermostat.
Using the verb 'ser' for permanent characteristics.
O termostato é pequeno.
The thermostat is small.
Basic adjective agreement (masculine).
O termostato está no quarto.
The thermostat is in the bedroom.
Prepositional phrase 'no' (em + o).
Este é o meu termostato.
This is my thermostat.
Demonstrative pronoun 'este' and possessive 'meu'.
Podes ligar o termostato, por favor?
Can you turn on the thermostat, please?
Polite request using 'podes' + infinitive.
Eu ajusto o termostato todos os dias.
I adjust the thermostat every day.
Present tense indicating a habit.
O termostato novo é muito fácil de usar.
The new thermostat is very easy to use.
Adjective 'novo' following the noun.
Precisamos de comprar um termostato para a sala.
We need to buy a thermostat for the living room.
Verb 'precisar de' + infinitive.
O termostato parou de funcionar ontem.
The thermostat stopped working yesterday.
Preterite tense for a completed action.
Não toques no termostato com as mãos sujas.
Don't touch the thermostat with dirty hands.
Negative imperative 'não toques'.
O termostato está regulado para vinte graus.
The thermostat is set to twenty degrees.
Passive state using 'estar' + past participle.
Ele mudou o termostato de lugar.
He moved the thermostat to a different place.
Verb 'mudar' with the preposition 'de'.
Se o termostato estiver partido, temos de chamar o técnico.
If the thermostat is broken, we have to call the technician.
Future subjunctive 'estiver' in a conditional clause.
Acho que o termostato não está a medir bem a temperatura.
I think the thermostat isn't measuring the temperature correctly.
Present continuous 'está a medir' (European style).
É importante programar o termostato antes de sair de casa.
It's important to program the thermostat before leaving the house.
Impersonal expression 'é importante' + infinitive.
O termostato inteligente ajuda-nos a poupar muito dinheiro.
The smart thermostat helps us save a lot of money.
Direct object pronoun 'nos' attached to the verb.
Disseram-me que este termostato é o melhor do mercado.
They told me that this thermostat is the best on the market.
Indirect object pronoun 'me' and superlative 'o melhor'.
Verifica se o termostato está bem ligado à caldeira.
Check if the thermostat is properly connected to the boiler.
Imperative 'verifica' and adverb 'bem'.
O termostato do meu carro avariou durante a viagem.
My car's thermostat broke down during the trip.
Possessive 'do meu carro' showing relationship.
Sempre que o termostato clica, o aquecimento liga-se.
Whenever the thermostat clicks, the heating turns on.
Pronominal verb 'ligar-se' (reflexive/automatic action).
A precisão do termostato é fundamental para o sucesso da experiência.
The precision of the thermostat is fundamental to the success of the experiment.
Abstract noun 'precisão' as the subject.
O termostato deve ser colocado longe de fontes de calor direto.
The thermostat should be placed away from direct heat sources.
Passive voice 'deve ser colocado'.
Embora o termostato seja antigo, ainda funciona perfeitamente.
Although the thermostat is old, it still works perfectly.
Concessive clause with 'embora' + subjunctive 'seja'.
A instalação de termostatos digitais reduziu o consumo de energia em 20%.
The installation of digital thermostats reduced energy consumption by 20%.
Plural noun 'termostatos' and past tense 'reduziu'.
Caso o termostato falhe, o sistema de segurança será ativado.
In case the thermostat fails, the security system will be activated.
Conditional 'caso' + subjunctive 'falhe'.
O termostato bimetálico baseia-se na expansão de dois metais diferentes.
The bimetallic thermostat is based on the expansion of two different metals.
Reflexive verb 'baseia-se' for scientific description.
É necessário calibrar o termostato para evitar leituras erróneas.
It is necessary to calibrate the thermostat to avoid erroneous readings.
Adjective 'erróneas' matching the feminine plural 'leituras'.
O termostato permite um controlo rigoroso da temperatura ambiente.
The thermostat allows for rigorous control of the ambient temperature.
Noun phrase 'controlo rigoroso' as a direct object.
A obsolescência programada afeta até os termostatos mais robustos.
Planned obsolescence affects even the most robust thermostats.
Complex subject 'obsolescência programada'.
O termostato social daquela comunidade estava prestes a explodir.
The social thermostat of that community was about to explode.
Metaphorical use of 'termostato'.
A integração do termostato na rede inteligente otimiza a distribuição elétrica.
The integration of the thermostat into the smart grid optimizes electrical distribution.
Technical terminology like 'rede inteligente' and 'otimiza'.
O hipotálamo funciona como o termostato interno do corpo humano.
The hypothalamus functions as the human body's internal thermostat.
Simile comparing a biological organ to a device.
Foi detectada uma anomalia no termostato do reator nuclear.
An anomaly was detected in the nuclear reactor's thermostat.
Passive voice 'foi detectada' and specific technical context.
A sensibilidade do termostato pode ser ajustada via software.
The thermostat's sensitivity can be adjusted via software.
Use of 'via' as a preposition for method.
O termostato é um exemplo clássico de um sistema de feedback negativo.
The thermostat is a classic example of a negative feedback system.
Academic terminology 'feedback negativo'.
Sem um termostato fiável, a conservação de vacinas torna-se impossível.
Without a reliable thermostat, vaccine conservation becomes impossible.
Negative condition 'sem' and adjective 'fiável'.
A dialética entre o termostato e o ambiente reflete a busca humana pelo equilíbrio.
The dialectic between the thermostat and the environment reflects the human search for equilibrium.
Philosophical and abstract sentence structure.
O engenheiro dissecou o termostato para ilustrar a elegância da sua simplicidade mecânica.
The engineer dissected the thermostat to illustrate the elegance of its mechanical simplicity.
Literary verb 'dissecar' and abstract noun 'elegância'.
A regulação homeostática é, em essência, o termostato da vida biológica.
Homeostatic regulation is, in essence, the thermostat of biological life.
Advanced biological and philosophical terminology.
A falha catastrófica do termostato precipitou o colapso do sistema criogénico.
The catastrophic failure of the thermostat precipitated the collapse of the cryogenic system.
High-level vocabulary like 'precipitou' and 'criogénico'.
O autor utiliza o termostato como metáfora para a repressão emocional na sua obra.
The author uses the thermostat as a metaphor for emotional repression in his work.
Literary analysis context.
A calibração micrométrica do termostato é imperativa em ambientes laboratoriais controlados.
The micrometric calibration of the thermostat is imperative in controlled laboratory environments.
Adjective 'micrométrica' and 'imperativa' in a formal context.
O advento dos termostatos eletrónicos revolucionou a gestão térmica industrial.
The advent of electronic thermostats revolutionized industrial thermal management.
Noun 'advento' and verb 'revolucionou'.
A interconectividade global exige que cada termostato seja um nó numa vasta rede de dados.
Global interconnectivity requires each thermostat to be a node in a vast data network.
Subjunctive 'seja' triggered by the verb of requirement 'exige'.
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
— Asking for the location of the device. Used when entering a new home or hotel.
Onde fica o termostato neste apartamento?
— Meaning the thermostat isn't clicking on or triggering the heat. Common technical complaint.
O aquecimento não liga, acho que o termostato não dispara.
— An informal way to tell someone to adjust the temperature.
Se tiveres frio, mexe no termostato.
— Indicates the device is set to its highest possible temperature.
A casa continua fria e o termostato está no máximo.
— Explaining that the device is responsible for a specific temperature change.
Não te preocupes com o gelo, é o termostato que controla isso.
— A warning to be gentle with the device or not to change the settings.
Cuidado com o termostato, ele é muito sensível.
— A very informal Portuguese idiom meaning the thermostat has completely broken/died.
O termostato deu o berro, temos de comprar outro.
— A standard instruction to check the current settings or status.
Antes de saíres, verifica o termostato.
— Informal way to say the thermostat is acting erratically or providing wrong readings.
A temperatura sobe e desce, o termostato está maluco.
— Refers to the process of putting the device in place.
A instalação do termostato demorou apenas uma hora.
Frequentemente confundido com
A thermometer measures; a thermostat regulates. Don't use a thermostat to check for a fever!
The heater is the thing that makes heat; the thermostat is the brain that tells the heater when to work.
A timer controls based on time; a thermostat controls based on temperature.
Expressões idiomáticas
— Refers to a person's natural ability to handle heat or cold, or their internal emotional regulation.
O meu termostato interno está sempre desregulado no inverno.
Informal— To act as the person who gauges or regulates the mood or tension in a group.
O diretor serve de termostato para as tensões na empresa.
Metaphorical— Used to describe someone who doesn't seem to feel temperature normally (always hot or always cold).
Tu usas t-shirt na neve? Tens o termostato avariado!
Colloquial— To take actions to calm or excite a political situation.
O governo tentou ajustar o termostato político com novas medidas.
Journalistic— A metaphorical measure of how much annoyance someone can handle before getting angry.
O meu termostato da paciência está quase a chegar ao limite.
Informal— To try to make a heated argument more calm and rational.
Vamos baixar o termostato da discussão e falar com calma.
Colloquial— Rarely used for a portable device, but can jokingly refer to someone who is always prepared for weather changes.
Ele traz sempre um casaco, é o seu termostato de bolso.
Slang/Joking— Finding balance in one's personal or professional life.
Preciso de regular o termostato da minha vida para não me cansar tanto.
Poetic/Metaphorical— Indicators like interest rates that control economic 'heat'.
A inflação é o termostato da economia.
Academic/Journalistic— The internal compass or standard that regulates a person's behavior.
O seu termostato moral impediu-o de aceitar o suborno.
PhilosophicalFácil de confundir
Similar sound and both relate to temperature.
Termômetro is for measurement; termostato is for control.
Usa o termômetro para ver se a sopa está quente, mas ajusta o termostato do fogão.
Both start with 'term' and are technical.
Terminal refers to an end point or connection; termostato is a specific device.
O fio liga ao terminal do termostato.
Often used for 'thermos' (vacuum flask).
A 'termo' keeps liquid warm; a 'termostato' regulates a system.
Põe o café no termo e ajusta o termostato da sala.
Phonetic similarity for very new beginners.
A toaster makes toast; a thermostat regulates heat.
A tostadeira não tem um termostato visível.
Suffix similarity.
Estatuto means status or statute; termostato is the device.
O estatuto da empresa não menciona o termostato do escritório.
Padrões de frases
O [termostato] é [adjetivo].
O termostato é cinzento.
Podes [verbo] o [termostato]?
Podes baixar o termostato?
Se o [termostato] [subjuntivo], [condicional].
Se o termostato partisse, a casa ficaria gelada.
O [termostato] permite [infinitivo] a temperatura.
O termostato permite controlar a temperatura.
Apesar da [substantivo] do [termostato], [frase].
Apesar da precisão do termostato, o ambiente continua instável.
O [termostato] atua como [metáfora].
O termostato atua como o fiel da balança térmica.
Onde está o [termostato]?
Onde está o termostato?
O [termostato] do [objeto].
O termostato do carro.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Como usar
Common in household and technical contexts.
-
A termostato
→
O termostato
Learners often guess the gender of nouns ending in 'o' correctly, but sometimes get confused. It's always masculine.
-
Eu preciso de um termostato para a minha febre.
→
Eu preciso de um termômetro para a minha febre.
Confusing the control device (thermostat) with the measuring device (thermometer).
-
Ajustar o termostato em 20 graus.
→
Ajustar o termostato para 20 graus.
Using the wrong preposition. 'Para' indicates the target setting.
-
O termostato está quebrado.
→
O termostato está avariado.
While 'quebrado' is used in Brazil, 'avariado' is much more common for technical devices in Portugal.
-
Termóstato
→
Termostato
Adding an unnecessary accent. The word is paroxytone (stressed on the second to last syllable) and ends in 'o', so it doesn't need an accent.
Dicas
Gender Consistency
Always remember 'termostato' is masculine. This means all adjectives like 'pequeno', 'caro', or 'novo' must also end in 'o'.
The 'S' sound
In Portugal, the 's' in the middle of the word sounds like 'sh'. Practicing this will make you sound much more native.
Don't confuse with Thermometer
Repeat to yourself: 'Termostato controla, termômetro mede'. This simple rhyme helps you keep them straight.
Domestic Context
In a Portuguese house, the thermostat is often hidden in a hallway or inside a cupboard with the boiler. Ask 'Onde está escondido o termostato?'
Automotive Tip
If your car's temperature gauge is acting weird, the word you need to tell the mechanic is 'termostato'.
Energy Efficiency
Learning how to use 'baixar o termostato' in conversation can actually help you save money if you live with roommates in Portugal!
Smart Apps
If you use a smart home app, switch the language to Portuguese. You will see 'termostato' every time you check your phone.
No Accents
Unlike many technical words in Portuguese, 'termostato' is spelled exactly as it sounds without any accents.
Office Etiquette
Asking 'Posso mexer no termostato?' is a polite way to ask before changing the temperature in a shared space.
Cognate Power
Use this word to build confidence. Since it's so similar to English, it's a 'free' word in your vocabulary bank.
Memorize
Mnemônico
Think of a 'Thermo' (heat) 'Stat' (static/stable). It makes the 'Thermo' stay 'Static'. In Portuguese, just add an 'o' at the end: termostato.
Associação visual
Imagine a giant 'O' (the shape of a dial) at the end of the word 'thermostat'. This 'O' reminds you it's 'termostato' and it's masculine (o).
Word Web
Desafio
Go to your own thermostat at home. Point at it and say 'Este é o meu termostato' three times. Then, pretend to adjust it and say 'Eu ajusto o termostato'.
Origem da palavra
The word is formed from the combination of two Ancient Greek roots: 'thermos' (θερμός), meaning hot or warm, and 'statos' (στατός), meaning standing, stationary, or placed.
Significado original: A device that makes heat stay in one place or at one level.
Indo-European (via Greek and Modern Latin scientific terminology).Contexto cultural
Be aware that discussing high heating settings can be a sensitive topic in Portugal due to high electricity prices; it can be seen as a sign of wealth or wastefulness.
English speakers often use 'stat' as a shorthand, but in Portuguese, you must always use the full word 'termostato'.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Home Maintenance
- O termostato está avariado.
- Onde posso comprar um termostato?
- Como programo o termostato?
- O termostato precisa de pilhas novas.
Car Repair
- O termostato do carro colou.
- Mudar o termostato do motor.
- O ponteiro da temperatura não sobe.
- O termostato está a deixar passar água.
Cooking/Kitchen
- O termostato do forno é preciso.
- Ajusta o termostato para 180 graus.
- O frigorífico tem o termostato no nível 3.
- O termostato não desliga a resistência.
Energy Saving
- Baixa o termostato para poupar.
- Um termostato inteligente é mais eficiente.
- Não deixes o termostato no máximo.
- O termostato ajuda a gerir o consumo.
Office Environment
- Quem tem o controlo do termostato?
- O termostato do escritório está bloqueado.
- Podes subir o termostato um pouco?
- O termostato central regula todo o andar.
Iniciadores de conversa
"Sabes como funciona este termostato digital ou é melhor ler o manual?"
"Achas que devíamos baixar o termostato para poupar um pouco na conta da luz?"
"O termostato do teu carro alguma vez te deu problemas durante o verão?"
"Preferes um termostato tradicional de rodinha ou um daqueles inteligentes que se ligam ao telemóvel?"
"Onde é que costumam colocar o termostato nas casas aqui em Portugal?"
Temas para diário
Descreve um dia em que o termostato da tua casa se avariou e como resolveste o problema.
Escreve sobre as vantagens de ter um termostato inteligente na tua rotina diária.
Como é que a invenção do termostato mudou a forma como vivemos dentro de casa?
Imagina um mundo onde podes controlar o termostato do tempo lá fora. O que farias?
Relata uma discussão engraçada que tiveste com alguém sobre a temperatura ideal no termostato.
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasYes, the word 'termostato' is used in all Portuguese-speaking countries to refer to the device. The pronunciation and the appliances it controls might differ slightly, but the word itself is universal.
You say 'termostato inteligente'. It is a very common phrase nowadays with the rise of home automation.
It is always 'o termostato'. It is a masculine noun. For example: 'O termostato está ligado' (The thermostat is on).
Yes, it is the correct technical term for the valve that regulates engine temperature. You would say 'o termostato do motor'.
The plural is 'termostatos'. You simply add an 's' at the end. For example: 'Temos dois termostatos em casa'.
You can say: 'Podes subir o termostato?' or 'Aumenta o termostato, por favor'.
No, 'termostato' does not have any written accents in Portuguese, unlike 'termômetro' or 'termómetro'.
The most common verbs are 'ajustar', 'regular', 'baixar', 'subir', 'programar', and 'instalar'.
Yes, it is the device that controls the temperature of the water in an 'esquentador' or 'termossifão'.
Not really. People might call it 'o comando' or 'o botão', but 'termostato' is so common and easy that it's used by everyone.
Teste-se 180 perguntas
Escreve uma frase simples com a palavra 'termostato'.
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Explica em português para que serve um termostato.
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Escreve um pequeno diálogo entre duas pessoas a discutir a temperatura do termostato.
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Descreve o que acontece se o termostato de um carro avariar.
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Escreve um e-mail curto para um técnico a pedir a reparação do teu termostato.
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Quais são as vantagens de um termostato inteligente? Escreve três pontos.
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Usa a palavra 'termostato' numa metáfora sobre emoções.
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Escreve uma instrução técnica sobre como instalar um termostato.
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Compara o uso do termostato em Portugal e no Brasil.
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Cria uma frase usando 'termostato' e 'eficiência energética'.
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Como explicarias a uma criança o que é um termostato?
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Escreve uma frase no condicional usando 'termostato'.
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Relata uma experiência pessoal com um termostato avariado.
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Usa a palavra 'termostato' numa frase sobre o corpo humano.
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Escreve um slogan publicitário para um novo termostato.
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Descreve a aparência de um termostato moderno.
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Escreve uma frase com o plural 'termostatos'.
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Usa a palavra 'termostato' e o verbo 'calibrar' na mesma frase.
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Escreve um aviso para um escritório sobre o uso do termostato.
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Cria uma frase complexa sobre a evolução tecnológica dos termostatos.
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Pronuncia a palavra 'termostato' pausadamente.
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Diz: 'O termostato está na parede'.
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Pede a alguém para baixar o termostato educadamente.
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Explica como mudas a temperatura no teu termostato.
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Descreve a localização do termostato na tua casa.
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Diz uma frase sobre um termostato inteligente.
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Simula uma chamada para um técnico de termostatos.
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Explica a diferença entre termostato e termómetro em voz alta.
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Usa a palavra 'termostato' numa frase sobre o teu carro.
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Lê em voz alta: 'A precisão do termostato garante o conforto térmico'.
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Diz três adjetivos que podem descrever um termostato.
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Como dirias que o termostato não funciona?
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Pergunta o preço de um termostato numa loja.
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Diz uma frase usando 'termostato' e 'inverno'.
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Explica as vantagens de baixar o termostato à noite.
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Pronuncia o plural 'termostatos' corretamente.
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Usa a palavra numa frase sobre poupança de dinheiro.
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Diz: 'O técnico vai calibrar o termostato amanhã'.
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Cria uma frase curta com 'termostato digital'.
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Faz uma pergunta sobre o termostato de um hotel.
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Ouve e escreve: 'O termostato está avariado'.
Identifica o número ouvido: 'Põe o termostato nos 21 graus'.
Ouve a instrução e diz o que deves fazer com o termostato.
Ouve o diálogo: Onde está o termostato?
Ouve a notícia: Qual é a nova regra para os termostatos?
Ouve e identifica se o termostato é digital ou analógico.
Ouve o problema mecânico: O que se passa com o termostato?
Ouve a descrição técnica: Qual é o material do termostato?
Ouve e escreve a frase completa sobre eficiência térmica.
Identifica o tom do falante ao falar do termostato.
Ouve o anúncio: Quanto custa o termostato?
Ouve e diz se a frase é verdadeira ou falsa.
Ouve e identifica o verbo principal usado com termostato.
Ouve o conselho: A que temperatura deve estar o termostato?
Ouve a reclamação: O que irrita o cliente no termostato?
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'termostato' is a masculine noun (o termostato) that is essential for discussing temperature control in everyday Portuguese life. Example: 'Ajusta o termostato para 21 graus' (Adjust the thermostat to 21 degrees).
- A termostato is a masculine noun in Portuguese referring to a device that automatically regulates temperature in homes, cars, and appliances.
- It is a cognate of the English word 'thermostat', making it easy for English speakers to identify and remember in technical contexts.
- Common verbs used with termostato include 'ajustar' (adjust), 'regular' (regulate), 'programar' (program), and 'avariar' (to malfunction or break).
- It is essential for managing home comfort and energy efficiency, and it is a common topic in household maintenance and automotive repair.
Gender Consistency
Always remember 'termostato' is masculine. This means all adjectives like 'pequeno', 'caro', or 'novo' must also end in 'o'.
The 'S' sound
In Portugal, the 's' in the middle of the word sounds like 'sh'. Practicing this will make you sound much more native.
Don't confuse with Thermometer
Repeat to yourself: 'Termostato controla, termômetro mede'. This simple rhyme helps you keep them straight.
Domestic Context
In a Portuguese house, the thermostat is often hidden in a hallway or inside a cupboard with the boiler. Ask 'Onde está escondido o termostato?'
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