意思
Idleness can lead to negative thoughts or actions.
文化背景
In Brazil, the variation 'Cabeça vazia' is arguably more common in spoken language than 'Mente vazia'. It is often used by grandmothers to scold grandchildren. In Portugal, the proverb is often used in a more literal moral sense, sometimes linked to the traditional value of 'honrar o trabalho' (honoring work). Similar to other Lusophone countries, proverbs are a vital part of oral tradition in Angola, used to pass down wisdom and social order.
Use it as a joke
You can use this phrase playfully when a friend says they are bored and thinking of doing something silly, like texting an ex.
Gender Agreement
Always remember 'vazia' ends in 'a' because 'mente' is feminine. Saying 'mente vazio' is a very common beginner mistake.
意思
Idleness can lead to negative thoughts or actions.
Use it as a joke
You can use this phrase playfully when a friend says they are bored and thinking of doing something silly, like texting an ex.
Gender Agreement
Always remember 'vazia' ends in 'a' because 'mente' is feminine. Saying 'mente vazio' is a very common beginner mistake.
The 'Cabeça' Swap
If you want to sound more like a local in Brazil, say 'Cabeça vazia' instead of 'Mente vazia'.
自我测试
Complete the proverb with the correct feminine adjective.
Mente ____, oficina do diabo.
'Mente' is a feminine singular noun.
What does 'oficina' mean in this proverb?
In the phrase 'oficina do diabo', the word 'oficina' refers to:
In Portuguese, 'oficina' is a place where manual work is done.
Which situation best fits the proverb?
When would you say 'Mente vazia, oficina do diabo'?
The proverb is a warning against the dangers of idleness.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Não tenho nada para fazer hoje.' B: 'Cuidado! ____.'
This is the appropriate response to someone complaining about having nothing to do.
🎉 得分： /4
视觉学习工具
Where the Devil Works
Oficina
- • Workshop
- • Creation
- • Tools
练习题库
4 练习Mente ____, oficina do diabo.
'Mente' is a feminine singular noun.
In the phrase 'oficina do diabo', the word 'oficina' refers to:
In Portuguese, 'oficina' is a place where manual work is done.
When would you say 'Mente vazia, oficina do diabo'?
The proverb is a warning against the dangers of idleness.
A: 'Não tenho nada para fazer hoje.' B: 'Cuidado! ____.'
This is the appropriate response to someone complaining about having nothing to do.
🎉 得分： /4
常见问题
6 个问题While it mentions the 'devil', it is used by everyone regardless of their religious beliefs. It is a cultural idiom more than a theological statement.
Yes, but usually in a semi-formal or casual way to talk about the importance of staying productive.
'Mente' sounds slightly more formal or psychological, while 'cabeça' is the everyday word used in Brazil.
No! This is a false friend. 'Oficina' is a workshop (mechanic, carpenter). 'Office' is 'escritório'.
Sometimes people just say 'Mente vazia...' and let the listener finish the thought.
No, it's generally seen as a piece of wisdom or a common-sense warning.
相关表达
Ocupar a cabeça
contrastTo keep one's mind busy.
Vadiagem
similarVagrancy or idleness.
Procurar sarna para se coçar
builds onTo look for trouble.
