At the A1 level, you don't really need to use the word 'esposar'. It is a very formal word. Instead, you should focus on the word 'casar', which means 'to marry'. 'Casar' is the word people use every day. For example, you can say 'Eu quero casar' (I want to marry). 'Esposar' is too difficult and formal for basic conversations. However, it is good to know that it is related to the words 'esposo' (husband) and 'esposa' (wife), which you probably learned already. If you see 'esposar' in a book, just remember it means something very similar to 'casar'. At this stage, just focus on building your basic vocabulary with words like 'marido', 'mulher', and 'família'. Think of 'esposar' as a secret, fancy version of 'casar' that you will use much later in your Portuguese journey. It's like the difference between saying 'to get hitched' and 'to enter into a state of holy matrimony'. Stick with 'casar' for now, but keep 'esposar' in the back of your mind as a cousin to 'esposa'.
At the A2 level, you are starting to see more formal language. You might encounter 'esposar' in short stories or news articles. It is important to know that 'esposar' means 'to marry' in a formal way. It comes from the same root as 'esposa' (wife). So, if you see 'Ele decidiu esposar a princesa', it means 'He decided to marry the princess'. Another important thing to learn at this level is that 'esposar' can also mean 'to adopt an idea'. For example, if someone says 'Eu esposo essa ideia', they mean 'I agree with this idea and I make it mine'. This is a bit more advanced, but it's a great way to start sounding more professional. Remember: 'esposas' also means 'handcuffs', but the verb 'esposar' never means 'to handcuff'. If you want to say 'to handcuff', use 'algemar'. This is a common mistake for students! So, at A2, you should recognize the word and know it's a formal version of 'casar' or a fancy way to say 'adotar uma ideia'.
At the B1 level, you should be able to understand 'esposar' in context without much help. You will see it frequently in editorials, formal letters, and literature. You should begin to distinguish between 'casar' (everyday marriage) and 'esposar' (formal marriage or metaphorical adoption of ideas). At this level, you can start using it in your own writing to vary your vocabulary. For instance, instead of always saying 'O autor concorda com a teoria', you can say 'O autor esposa a teoria'. This makes your writing sound more academic and sophisticated. You should also be comfortable with its conjugation, as it is a regular -ar verb. Pay attention to how it is used in legal or political news. If a politician says they 'esposam a causa da educação', they are showing a deep commitment. It's more than just a preference; it's a promise to stand by that cause. Practice using it when discussing your own deeply held beliefs or when summarizing the arguments of an author you are studying.
At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'esposar' correctly and understand its nuances. You should know that it is a transitive direct verb, so you don't need a preposition like 'com' when using it for ideas ('esposar a tese', not 'esposar com a tese'). You should also be aware of its historical and literary connotations. In B2 level reading, you might find it in 19th-century novels where it describes the social and economic bonds of marriage. In modern contexts, you'll see it in legal rulings or high-level journalism. You should be able to use it to express a strong, formal alignment with a principle. For example, in an essay, you might write: 'É imperativo que a sociedade esposo valores de tolerância e respeito mútuo'. This shows you have a command of higher-register Portuguese. You should also be careful not to use it in informal settings where it would sound out of place. It’s a word for speeches, articles, and formal debates, not for a casual chat with friends.
At the C1 level, you should have a mastery of 'esposar' and its related forms. You can use it to add stylistic flair to your writing and speaking. You understand that 'esposar' is not just a synonym for 'adotar', but that it carries a connotation of 'vowing' or 'pledging' oneself to an idea. It implies a moral or intellectual contract. You should be able to identify its use in complex legal texts where a judge 'esposa o entendimento' of a higher court. You can also use it rhetorically to emphasize the gravity of a commitment. For instance, 'Ao esposar essa ideologia radical, o grupo rompeu com a tradição democrática'. Here, 'esposar' highlights the definitive and serious nature of the group's choice. You should also be familiar with synonyms like 'perfilhar' or 'consorciar-se' and know when to choose 'esposar' over them for the best impact. Your use of this word should feel natural and integrated into a generally high-level discourse, showing that you can navigate the most formal layers of the Portuguese language.
At the C2 level, your understanding of 'esposar' is complete, including its etymological roots and its evolution in the Portuguese language. You are aware of how its meaning has shifted from the literal betrothal (from Latin 'sponsare') to the formal act of marriage and finally to the intellectual adoption of doctrines. You can appreciate its use in the most dense and classical literature, such as the works of Camilo Castelo Branco, where it might be used with subtle irony or to reflect the rigid social structures of the time. You can use 'esposar' in your own highly academic or professional writing to convey precise shades of meaning, such as the difference between simply following a trend and 'esposando' a fundamental shift in paradigm. You are also sensitive to the phonological aspects of the word and how it fits into the rhythm of a formal speech. At this level, 'esposar' is just one of many specialized tools in your vast linguistic toolkit, used with perfect precision to reflect the exact level of formality and commitment required by the context.

esposar 30秒了解

  • Esposar is a formal verb meaning to marry or to adopt a cause or idea.
  • It is the sophisticated cousin of 'casar' (marry) and 'adotar' (adopt).
  • Commonly found in legal texts, literature, and academic discussions about ideologies.
  • It is a transitive direct verb, meaning it doesn't usually need a preposition.

The Portuguese verb esposar is an elegant and sophisticated term that primarily functions in two distinct semantic spheres: the literal act of marriage and the metaphorical act of adopting a belief or cause. To understand its usage, one must first recognize its register. Unlike the common word casar, which is used in everyday conversation, esposar carries a weight of formality, tradition, and intellectual commitment. When used in the context of matrimony, it describes the formal act of taking someone as a spouse. However, its most frequent contemporary use in high-level Portuguese—such as in journalism, academic writing, and political discourse—is to describe the process of 'espousing' or wholeheartedly embracing a doctrine, an ideology, or a specific viewpoint. This dual nature makes it a powerful tool for learners looking to elevate their vocabulary from basic communication to nuanced expression.

Literal Definition
To take someone as a spouse; to marry in a formal or ceremonial sense. It emphasizes the union and the legal or social bond created between two people.

O nobre decidiu esposar a filha do duque em uma cerimônia privada.

In its metaphorical sense, 'esposar' suggests a deep, almost marital commitment to an idea. Just as a marriage implies a long-term bond and defense of one's partner, 'esposar uma causa' implies that the individual is now bound to that cause and will defend it as their own. This is particularly common in legal and political texts where a judge might 'esposar a tese' (adopt the thesis) of a particular lawyer, or a politician might 'esposar ideais' (espouse ideals) of social justice. It is important to note that this verb is transitive direct, meaning it does not typically require a preposition like 'com' when used in the sense of adopting an idea, though historical usage in marriage contexts sometimes varied.

Metaphorical Definition
To adopt, embrace, or support a cause, idea, or principle with conviction. It implies a public and firm alignment with a specific thought or movement.

O filósofo passou a esposar teorias existencialistas após sua viagem à Europa.

Culturally, using 'esposar' instead of 'casar' or 'adotar' signals that the speaker is educated and is aiming for a precise, elevated tone. In literature, especially from the 19th and early 20th centuries (like the works of Machado de Assis or Eça de Queirós), 'esposar' is frequently encountered to describe the strategic and social aspects of marriage. In modern times, you will hear it most often in the hallowed halls of justice or in the columns of serious newspapers. It is a word that demands respect and indicates a high level of linguistic proficiency.

Etymological Connection
Derived from the Latin 'sponsare', which means to promise or to betroth. This root also gives us 'esposo' (husband) and 'esposa' (wife), as well as 'sponsor' in English.

A empresa decidiu esposar a sustentabilidade como seu valor central.

Muitos jovens hoje preferem esposar causas ambientais do que se filiar a partidos políticos.

Não é comum esposar alguém sem um contrato pré-nupcial em certas classes sociais.

The syntax of esposar is relatively straightforward, but its formal nature requires careful placement. It is a regular verb ending in '-ar', following the standard conjugation patterns of the first conjugation. The most critical grammatical point to remember is that it is a **transitive direct verb**. This means that unlike 'casar-se', which is pronominal and requires the preposition 'com' (casar-se com alguém), 'esposar' can take its object directly. For example, 'Ele esposou a causa' (He espoused the cause) or 'Ele esposou Maria' (He married Maria - though this sounds very archaic). In modern Portuguese, using it for people is rare and almost exclusively found in historical novels or formal legal proceedings regarding the validity of a union.

Subject-Verb-Object Pattern
The subject (person or entity) + esposar (conjugated) + the object (person, idea, or cause). No preposition is needed between the verb and the object.

O governo federal esposou as novas diretrizes de saúde pública.

When discussing the adoption of ideas, 'esposar' is often paired with nouns like tese (thesis), ideologia (ideology), doutrina (doctrine), or ponto de vista (point of view). It suggests a definitive choice. It’s not just 'liking' an idea; it’s 'marrying' it—committing to it as your own. In passive constructions, which are common in formal writing, you might see 'A tese foi esposada pelo tribunal' (The thesis was espoused by the court). This emphasizes the acceptance of the argument by an official body.

Infinitive Usage
Often used after auxiliary verbs like 'decidir' (to decide), 'querer' (to want), or 'passar a' (to start to). Example: 'Ela decidiu esposar o vegetarianismo.'

Ao esposar tal comportamento, ele perdeu a confiança dos amigos.

Furthermore, 'esposar' can be used in the past participle form as an adjective, though 'esposado' is less common than 'adotado' or 'defendido'. However, in legal jargon, 'a tese esposada' refers to the specific legal theory that has been accepted or argued by a party. This reinforces the verb's strong connection to formal advocacy and intellectual alignment. For learners, practicing the transition from 'Eu acho que...' (I think that...) to 'Eu esposo a ideia de que...' (I espouse the idea that...) is a great way to sound more authoritative in written Portuguese.

Negative Constructions
To refuse to adopt an idea. 'O partido não quis esposar a proposta radical.'

É difícil esposar um projeto sem conhecer seus detalhes técnicos.

O autor esposa uma visão pessimista da natureza humana em seu novo livro.

Eles pretendem esposar-se no próximo verão, conforme a tradição familiar.

You are unlikely to hear esposar while buying bread at a padaria or chatting at a bar. It is a 'high-register' word. Its natural habitats are the courtroom, the university lecture hall, the legislative assembly, and the pages of literary fiction. In the Brazilian or Portuguese judicial system, judges frequently use 'esposar' in their written rulings to indicate which legal doctrine they are applying to a case. For example, 'Esposo o entendimento do Supremo Tribunal Federal' (I adopt the understanding of the Supreme Federal Court). This usage conveys a sense of officiality and intellectual heritage.

Legal Context
Used by judges and lawyers to signify the adoption of a specific legal interpretation or precedent.

O magistrado preferiu esposar a tese da legítima defesa.

In academic circles, particularly in the humanities (philosophy, sociology, history), 'esposar' is used to describe the schools of thought a particular scholar follows. A professor might say that a certain author 'esposa ideias marxistas' or 'esposa uma fenomenologia rigorosa'. In this setting, the word functions as a synonym for 'to subscribe to' or 'to align with'. It sounds much more professional than saying 'ele gosta de' (he likes) or 'ele segue' (he follows).

Academic Discourse
Used to categorize scholars or theories within specific intellectual traditions.

Muitos intelectuais do século XX vieram a esposar o existencialismo.

In the realm of literature, 'esposar' is a staple of 19th-century prose. If you are reading the classics of Portuguese literature, you will see it used literally for marriage. In these contexts, it often carries a connotation of social arrangement or duty. For example, a character might be forced to 'esposar' someone for financial reasons. Modern writers might use it ironically or to evoke a sense of 'old-world' formality. Understanding this word is essential for anyone wishing to read Portuguese literature in its original form without constantly reaching for a dictionary.

Literary Usage
Common in classical novels to describe formal unions and the social contracts of marriage.

Naquele romance clássico, o herói se recusa a esposar a vilã por interesse.

A imprensa internacional começou a esposar a narrativa de que a economia está em crise.

O conselho de ética decidiu esposar uma postura mais rígida contra a corrupção.

The most common mistake learners make with esposar is confusing it with the everyday verb casar. While they are synonyms, they are not interchangeable in terms of social register. Using 'esposar' in a casual conversation about your friend's wedding will sound extremely strange, almost as if you are speaking like a character from a 1700s play. Another frequent error is the 'false friend' trap related to the noun esposas. In Portuguese, esposas means 'wives' but also 'handcuffs'. However, the verb 'esposar' NEVER means 'to handcuff'. To handcuff someone, the verb is algemar. Confusing these can lead to some very awkward or unintended sentences!

Mistake: Wrong Register
Using 'esposar' in casual talk. Correct: 'Eles vão casar no sábado.' Incorrect: 'Eles vão esposar no sábado.' (Too formal).

O policial esposou o ladrão. (WRONG: This means the policeman married the thief! It should be 'algemou').

Another grammatical pitfall involves prepositions. As mentioned earlier, 'esposar' is transitive direct. English speakers often want to say 'esposar *com* uma ideia' because in English we might say 'wedded *to* an idea'. In Portuguese, you simply 'esposar a ideia'. Adding the 'com' makes the sentence grammatically incorrect in the metaphorical sense. Furthermore, don't confuse 'esposar' with 'expor' (to expose). While they sound vaguely similar to a beginner's ear, their meanings are entirely unrelated. 'Expor' is about showing or presenting, while 'esposar' is about adopting or committing.

Mistake: Preposition Overuse
Adding 'com' after the verb. Correct: 'Ele esposou a causa.' Incorrect: 'Ele esposou com a causa.'

Não confunda: esposar (to marry/adopt) vs. algemar (to handcuff).

Finally, remember that 'esposar' is a strong word. If you use it for a minor opinion or a fleeting interest, it will sound hyperbolic. You 'esposar' a life-changing philosophy or a major legal theory, you don't 'esposar' a preference for chocolate over vanilla. Misusing the intensity of the word can make your Portuguese sound unnatural or overly dramatic. Reserve it for significant commitments and formal arguments to maintain its intended impact.

Mistake: Hyperbole
Using it for trivial things. Better: 'Eu prefiro pizza.' Overkill: 'Eu esposo a causa da pizza.'

Ele esposou a religião de seus antepassados após anos de busca.

A rainha não permitiu que o príncipe esposasse uma plebeia.

É um erro esposar conclusões precipitadas sem analisar os fatos.

Depending on the context, there are several alternatives to esposar. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the right word for the right occasion. For the literal meaning of marriage, casar is the universal choice. If you want to be slightly more formal but not as 'heavy' as esposar, you can use contrair matrimônio (to contract marriage), which is common in legal documents and wedding invitations. For the metaphorical meaning of adopting an idea, adotar (to adopt) is the most neutral and common alternative.

Comparison: Esposar vs. Casar
'Casar' is for everyone, everywhere. 'Esposar' is for knights in books or very formal legal discussions about the state of being a spouse.

Eles vão casar na praia; ninguém usaria 'esposar' aqui.

In the context of supporting a cause, you might use defender (to defend), apoiar (to support), or sustentar (to sustain/uphold). 'Defender' implies an active battle for the idea, while 'esposar' implies an internal acceptance and identification with it. Another sophisticated synonym is perfilhar, which literally means 'to take as a son' (to affiliate), but is used for ideas much like 'esposar'. Using 'perfilhar uma ideia' is just as formal as 'esposar uma ideia'.

Comparison: Esposar vs. Adotar
'Adotar' is general (adopt a child, adopt a habit). 'Esposar' is specific to beliefs and carries a more solemn, committed tone.

O cientista adotou um novo método, mas esposou uma nova filosofia de vida.

Lastly, in very formal or old-fashioned writing, you might see consorciar-se. This is related to 'consórcio' (consortium/partnership) and refers to the union of two people or entities. It is even more technical than 'esposar' and usually refers to the legal or financial merger of interests. For a learner, mastering 'esposar' provides a bridge between common verbs like 'casar' and 'adotar' and the high-level vocabulary needed for professional fluency.

Comparison: Esposar vs. Abraçar
'Abraçar' (to embrace) is more emotional and warm. 'Esposar' is more intellectual and formal.

Ela abraçou a causa dos animais com paixão.

O jurista decidiu esposar a doutrina da proteção integral.

Ao perfilhar tais argumentos, o autor se expõe a críticas severas.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The English word 'sponsor' comes from the same Latin root 'spondere'. Just as a sponsor 'vows' for someone, 'esposar' is a 'vow' of marriage or commitment.

发音指南

UK /iʃ.pu.ˈzaɾ/
US /es.po.ˈzaɾ/
The stress is on the last syllable: 'zar'.
押韵词
Casar Amar Falar Pensar Adotar Alcançar Lutar Mudar
常见错误
  • Pronouncing the 's' like 'z' in the middle (it should be 'z' because it's between vowels, which is correct, but some learners make it too sharp).
  • Misplacing the stress on 'es-PO-sar' instead of 'es-po-SAR'.
  • Confusing the pronunciation with 'esposa' (wife), where the 'o' might change sound in some dialects.
  • Failing to reduce the initial 'e' in European Portuguese.
  • Pronouncing the final 'r' too strongly like an English 'r'.

难度评级

阅读 3/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'esposa' or English 'espouse'.

写作 4/5

Requires knowledge of formal registers to use appropriately.

口语 5/5

Rarely used in speech; might sound pretentious if used incorrectly.

听力 3/5

Clear pronunciation but requires context to distinguish from 'esposas'.

接下来学什么

前置知识

Casar Esposa Esposo Ideia Causa

接下来学习

Perfilhar Consorciar-se Doutrina Ideologia Matrimônio

高级

Exarar Pretoriano Inconstitucionalidade Paradigma Abnegação

需要掌握的语法

Regular -ar Verb Conjugation

Eu esposo, tu esposas, ele esposa...

Transitive Direct Verbs

Ele esposou a causa (No preposition).

Future Subjunctive

Se ele esposar a ideia, terá apoio.

Inflected Infinitive

Para eles esposarem a causa, precisam de dados.

Passive Voice with 'Ser'

A tese foi esposada pelo professor.

按水平分级的例句

1

O príncipe quer esposar a princesa.

The prince wants to marry the princess.

A1 learners should use 'casar', but 'esposar' is the formal version.

2

Ela é a esposa dele.

She is his wife.

The noun 'esposa' is common even at A1.

3

Eles vão se casar hoje.

They are going to get married today.

Use 'casar' for everyday situations.

4

O esposo dela é médico.

Her husband is a doctor.

'Esposo' is the formal word for husband.

5

Eu não quero esposar ninguém agora.

I don't want to marry anyone now.

Negative construction in the present tense.

6

O rei disse: 'Você deve esposar minha filha'.

The king said: 'You must marry my daughter'.

Imperative-like suggestion in a story context.

7

Eles decidiram esposar um ao outro.

They decided to marry each other.

Infinitive after the verb 'decidir'.

8

Quem ele vai esposar?

Who is he going to marry?

Question form with future 'ir + infinitive'.

1

O autor decidiu esposar uma nova ideia.

The author decided to adopt a new idea.

Here 'esposar' means to adopt or embrace an idea.

2

Não é fácil esposar uma causa difícil.

It is not easy to espouse a difficult cause.

Impersonal 'é' + adjective + infinitive.

3

Eles esposaram-se em segredo.

They married each other in secret.

Past tense (Pretérito Perfeito) with a reflexive pronoun.

4

O político esposo a luta contra a pobreza.

The politician espoused the fight against poverty.

Past tense of 'esposar' in a political context.

5

Você pretende esposar os valores da empresa?

Do you intend to adopt the company's values?

Question using 'pretender' (to intend).

6

Ele nunca quis esposar as opiniões do pai.

He never wanted to adopt his father's opinions.

Negative past tense with 'querer'.

7

Nós esposamos a mesma filosofia.

We espouse the same philosophy.

Present tense, first person plural.

8

Ela quer esposar o namorado no próximo ano.

She wants to marry her boyfriend next year.

Formal use of 'esposar' for marriage.

1

Ao esposar essa tese, o cientista mudou o campo da biologia.

By espousing this thesis, the scientist changed the field of biology.

Gerund construction 'Ao + infinitive' meaning 'upon' or 'by'.

2

Muitas pessoas passam a esposar o veganismo por motivos éticos.

Many people start to espouse veganism for ethical reasons.

'Passar a' indicates a change in state or beginning of an action.

3

O juiz acabou por esposar o argumento da defesa.

The judge ended up adopting the defense's argument.

'Acabar por' means 'to end up doing something'.

4

É raro vê-lo esposar uma posição tão radical.

It is rare to see him adopt such a radical position.

Infinitive after a perception verb ('vê-lo').

5

Se eu fosse você, não esposaria essa causa sem pensar.

If I were you, I wouldn't espouse that cause without thinking.

Conditional mood ('esposaria') used for advice.

6

Eles haviam esposado ideais democráticos desde a juventude.

They had espoused democratic ideals since their youth.

Past perfect (Pretérito Mais-que-perfeito composto).

7

O grupo decidiu não esposar nenhuma religião oficial.

The group decided not to adopt any official religion.

Negative infinitive after 'decidir'.

8

Quem esposar esta ideia terá o meu apoio total.

Whoever espouses this idea will have my total support.

Future subjunctive ('esposar') in a relative clause.

1

O tribunal decidiu esposar a interpretação mais favorável ao réu.

The court decided to adopt the interpretation most favorable to the defendant.

Common legal phrasing with 'interpretação'.

2

Ela sempre se recusou a esposar dogmas sem questionamento.

She always refused to espouse dogmas without questioning.

Reflexive verb 'recusar-se' followed by 'a' + infinitive.

3

O historiador esposo a visão de que a guerra era inevitável.

The historian espoused the view that the war was inevitable.

Past tense used for academic attribution.

4

Embora fosse conservador, ele esposou reformas progressistas.

Although he was conservative, he espoused progressive reforms.

Concessive clause with 'Embora' + subjunctive.

5

É necessário que a empresa esposo práticas sustentáveis.

It is necessary that the company adopt sustainable practices.

Present subjunctive ('espose' - wait, corrected: 'espose') after 'É necessário que'.

6

O governo reluta em esposar a nova política econômica.

The government is reluctant to adopt the new economic policy.

Verb 'relutar' followed by 'em' + infinitive.

7

Ao esposarem o projeto, eles assumiram uma grande responsabilidade.

By adopting the project, they took on a great responsibility.

Inflected infinitive 'esposarem' used with 'Ao'.

8

Não se pode esposar uma mentira e esperar que ela se torne verdade.

One cannot espouse a lie and expect it to become truth.

Impersonal 'se' construction.

1

A corte superior veio a esposar a tese da inconstitucionalidade da lei.

The superior court came to adopt the thesis of the law's unconstitutionality.

Formal 'vir a + infinitive' indicating a gradual or eventual conclusion.

2

O filósofo, em sua maturidade, passou a esposar um misticismo profundo.

The philosopher, in his maturity, began to espouse a deep mysticism.

Parenthetical phrase 'em sua maturidade' adding context.

3

Raras são as ocasiões em que um crítico decide esposar a obra de um amador.

Rare are the occasions when a critic decides to espouse the work of an amateur.

Inverted sentence structure for emphasis.

4

Ao esposar o determinismo, ele negou a existência do livre-arbítrio.

By espousing determinism, he denied the existence of free will.

Linking a philosophical stance to its logical consequence.

5

Espero que o novo diretor espose uma gestão mais transparente.

I hope the new director adopts a more transparent management.

Subjunctive mood expressing a wish or expectation.

6

A instituição não hesitou em esposar o clamor popular por justiça.

The institution did not hesitate to adopt the popular outcry for justice.

'Não hesitar em' + infinitive.

7

É perigoso esposar ideologias sem antes submetê-las ao crivo da razão.

It is dangerous to espouse ideologies without first submitting them to the sieve of reason.

Complex sentence with an object pronoun 'las'.

8

O autor parece esposar a ideia de que o tempo é uma ilusão.

The author seems to espouse the idea that time is an illusion.

Verb 'parecer' + infinitive.

1

O magistrado, ao exarar sua sentença, esposou o entendimento pretoriano já consolidado.

The magistrate, when issuing his sentence, adopted the already consolidated judicial understanding.

Use of technical legal terms like 'exarar' and 'pretoriano'.

2

A despeito das críticas, o governo manteve-se firme ao esposar o novo paradigma ecológico.

Despite the criticism, the government remained firm in adopting the new ecological paradigm.

'A despeito de' (despite) and 'manter-se firme ao'.

3

Esposar uma causa de tal magnitude exige uma abnegação que poucos possuem.

To espouse a cause of such magnitude requires a self-denial that few possess.

Infinitive as the subject of the sentence.

4

O romance oitocentista frequentemente explora as tensões de esposar alguém por dever social.

The 19th-century novel frequently explores the tensions of marrying someone out of social duty.

Literary analysis vocabulary ('oitocentista', 'tensões').

5

Se a academia não esposar a inovação, corre o risco de se tornar obsoleta.

If the academy does not adopt innovation, it runs the risk of becoming obsolete.

Conditional 'se' + future subjunctive.

6

A tese esposada pelo réu carecia de fundamentação jurídica sólida.

The thesis adopted by the defendant lacked solid legal grounding.

Passive past participle used as an adjective ('esposada').

7

Instado a manifestar-se, o intelectual esposou uma neutralidade cautelosa.

Urged to express himself, the intellectual adopted a cautious neutrality.

Passive participle 'Instado' starting the sentence.

8

O partido, outrora revolucionário, acabou por esposar valores burgueses.

The party, once revolutionary, ended up adopting bourgeois values.

Use of 'outrora' (formerly) and 'acabou por'.

常见搭配

Esposar uma causa
Esposar uma tese
Esposar ideais
Esposar uma doutrina
Esposar um ponto de vista
Esposar a carreira
Esposar interesses
Esposar uma teoria
Esposar o vegetarianismo
Esposar a política

常用短语

Esposar o entendimento

— To adopt a specific understanding or interpretation of a law or fact.

O tribunal resolveu esposar o entendimento anterior.

Esposar a fé

— To formally adopt or commit to a religious faith.

Ele decidiu esposar a fé de seus pais.

Esposar uma luta

— To join and support a specific struggle or social movement.

Nós devemos esposar a luta contra o racismo.

Esposar um comportamento

— To adopt a specific way of behaving.

É preciso esposar um comportamento ético no trabalho.

Esposar a tradição

— To follow and uphold traditional ways.

A família prefere esposar a tradição local.

Esposar a noiva

— To marry the bride (very formal/archaic).

O cavaleiro veio esposar a noiva.

Esposar o projeto

— To take responsibility for and support a project.

O diretor vai esposar o projeto de expansão.

Esposar a filosofia

— To adopt a certain philosophy of life or work.

Eles esposam a filosofia do desapego.

Esposar a convicção

— To hold and defend a firm conviction.

Sempre esposou a convicção de que a educação é a base de tudo.

Esposar a retórica

— To adopt a specific style of speaking or arguing.

O palestrante esposou uma retórica agressiva.

容易混淆的词

esposar vs Algemar

Learners see 'esposas' (handcuffs) and think 'esposar' means to handcuff. It doesn't!

esposar vs Expor

Sounds slightly similar but means 'to expose' or 'to present'.

esposar vs Espaçcar

Unrelated verb meaning 'to beat' or 'to thrash'; don't mix up the sounds!

习语与表达

"Esposar a causa alheia"

— To take up someone else's fight or problem as if it were your own.

Ele tem o hábito de esposar a causa alheia.

Formal
"Esposar o erro"

— To persist in or adopt a mistaken idea or path.

Infelizmente, ele preferiu esposar o erro a pedir desculpas.

Formal
"Esposar o silêncio"

— To commit to remaining silent (literary).

Após a tragédia, ela esposou o silêncio absoluto.

Literary
"Esposar a pobreza"

— To take a vow of poverty (usually religious context).

O monge decidiu esposar a pobreza.

Religious/Formal
"Esposar a dúvida"

— To adopt a skeptical or doubtful stance.

O filósofo esposa a dúvida como método de busca pela verdade.

Academic
"Esposar o destino"

— To accept one's fate completely.

Ele esposou seu destino com coragem.

Literary
"Esposar a mentira"

— To align oneself with a lie or falsehood.

Políticos que esposam a mentira perdem a credibilidade.

Formal
"Esposar o ódio"

— To adopt a hateful ideology.

Não podemos permitir que os jovens esposam o ódio.

Formal
"Esposar a esperança"

— To commit to a hopeful outlook.

Apesar de tudo, esposamos a esperança de dias melhores.

Poetic/Formal
"Esposar a mudança"

— To fully embrace and lead a change.

A liderança deve esposar a mudança para que a empresa cresça.

Business/Formal

容易混淆

esposar vs Esposas

It means both 'wives' and 'handcuffs'.

Esposar is the verb for marrying/adopting ideas. Algemar is the verb for handcuffing. They are completely different actions despite the shared noun root.

Ele algemou o bandido (handcuffed) vs Ele esposou a noiva (married).

esposar vs Casar

Both mean to marry.

Casar is used 99% of the time. Esposar is literary or formal. Also, casar-se usually needs 'com', while esposar is direct.

Vou casar com ela vs Vou esposá-la.

esposar vs Adotar

Both can mean adopting an idea.

Adotar is general. Esposar implies a deeper, more formal or solemn commitment, like a vow.

Adotei um cachorro (pet) vs Esposei uma filosofia (life path).

esposar vs Abraçar

Both can mean embracing a cause.

Abraçar is emotional and common. Esposar is intellectual and formal.

Abracei meu amigo (hugged) vs Esposei a causa da liberdade (formal stance).

esposar vs Sponsor (English)

Cognate confusion.

While they share a root, 'esposar' does not mean 'to sponsor' an event. For that, use 'patrocinar'.

A Coca-Cola patrocinou o evento (sponsored) vs O juiz esposou a tese (adopted).

句型

A2

Sujeito + decidiu + esposar + substantivo.

O autor decidiu esposar a ideia.

B1

Ao + esposar + substantivo, + [consequência].

Ao esposar a causa, ele ficou famoso.

B2

É necessário que + sujeito + espose + substantivo.

É necessário que o juiz espose a lei.

C1

A tese + esposada + por + [agente] + é + [adjetivo].

A tese esposada pelo autor é brilhante.

C2

Instado a + [verbo], + sujeito + esposou + [substantivo].

Instado a falar, o líder esposou a reforma.

B1

Não se deve + esposar + substantivo + sem + [verbo].

Não se deve esposar uma ideia sem estudar.

A2

Ele/Ela + quer + esposar + [pessoa].

Ele quer esposar a rainha.

B2

Embora + [verbo subjuntivo], + sujeito + esposou + [causa].

Embora fosse difícil, ele esposou a causa.

词族

名词

Esposo (Husband)
Esposa (Wife)
Esposais (Nuptials/Wedding rites - archaic)

动词

Esposar (To marry/adopt)

形容词

Esposado (Married/Adopted)
Esposável (Marriable - rare)

相关

Matrimônio
Cônjuge
Núpcias
Casamento
Adoção

如何使用

frequency

Low in daily speech, High in legal and academic writing.

常见错误
  • Using 'esposar' for 'handcuff'. O policial algemou o suspeito.

    Esposar means to marry/adopt ideas. Algemar means to handcuff. This is a very common confusion because 'esposas' means handcuffs.

  • Saying 'esposar com uma tese'. O juiz esposou a tese.

    Esposar is transitive direct. It does not take the preposition 'com' in modern Portuguese when referring to ideas.

  • Using 'esposar' at a casual party. Eles vão se casar.

    Esposar is too formal for casual speech. It sounds stiff and unnatural in informal settings.

  • Confusing 'esposar' with 'expor'. Ele expôs sua ideia na reunião.

    Expor means to present/expose. Esposar means to adopt/commit to. They are not the same.

  • Incorrect stress on the first syllable. es-po-SAR

    Learners often stress the 'po', but in Portuguese infinitives, the stress is on the '-ar'.

小贴士

Save it for Writing

Use 'esposar' in your written Portuguese—essays, emails to professors, or formal reports—to show off your advanced vocabulary.

No Prepositions!

Remember: 'esposar a tese', NOT 'esposar com a tese'. It acts directly on the object.

Think of the Ring

Associate 'esposar' with 'esposa' (wife). When you 'esposar' an idea, you are making it your permanent partner.

Legal Contexts

If you are studying law in Portuguese, 'esposar' is a mandatory word to know for reading court decisions.

Avoid Pretentiousness

Don't use 'esposar' in casual settings. Using it with friends might make you sound like you're trying too hard to be fancy.

Espouse = Esposar

They are perfect cognates. If you would use 'espouse' in English, 'esposar' is likely the correct choice in Portuguese.

Handcuff Trap

Never use 'esposar' to mean 'handcuff'. You will end up saying a policeman married a criminal!

Classic Novels

When reading 19th-century Portuguese books, 'esposar' is the standard word for marriage among the upper classes.

Final Stress

Always stress the last syllable: es-po-SAR. This is typical for verbs ending in -ar.

Synonym Variety

Mix 'esposar' with 'adotar' and 'perfilhar' in long texts to avoid repetition and show linguistic range.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of 'Espouse' in English. They look the same and mean the same thing: to marry or adopt an idea. Also, 'Esposar' contains 'Esposa' (wife) — you are making someone your wife or making an idea your 'partner'.

视觉联想

Imagine a person in a wedding dress holding a book of philosophy instead of flowers. They are 'marrying' the idea.

Word Web

Esposa Esposo Casar Adotar Ideia Causa Tese Doutrina

挑战

Try to write three sentences using 'esposar': one about a historical marriage, one about a political cause, and one about a personal belief.

词源

From the Latin verb 'sponsare', which is the frequentative form of 'spondere', meaning 'to promise solemnly' or 'to vow'.

原始含义: To promise in marriage; to betroth.

Romance (Latin root)

文化背景

No specific sensitivities, but remember that 'esposas' also means handcuffs, so avoid making jokes in formal settings unless you are sure of the audience.

English speakers can easily remember this word via the cognate 'espouse'. The usage is almost identical in both languages.

Machado de Assis often used 'esposar' in his novels to describe 19th-century social dynamics. Legal codes in Portugal and Brazil use related terms for matrimonial law. Political manifestos in the 20th century frequently used 'esposar' to declare ideological shifts.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Legal Rulings

  • Esposar o entendimento
  • A tese esposada
  • Esposar a jurisprudência
  • Decidiu esposar

Academic Writing

  • Esposar uma teoria
  • O autor esposa
  • Esposar o pensamento
  • Ao esposar tal visão

Political Discourse

  • Esposar uma causa
  • Esposar ideais
  • Esposar a luta
  • O partido esposa

Classic Literature

  • Esposar a donzela
  • Esposar por interesse
  • O ato de esposar
  • Prometeu esposar

Religious Contexts

  • Esposar a fé
  • Esposar a pobreza
  • Esposar a vida religiosa
  • Decidiu esposar

对话开场白

"Você acha que é importante esposar uma causa social hoje em dia?"

"Qual filosofia de vida você decidiu esposar?"

"Você já leu algum livro onde o personagem precisou esposar alguém por dever?"

"Na sua opinião, quais ideais o nosso governo deveria esposar?"

"É difícil para você esposar uma ideia com a qual você não concorda totalmente?"

日记主题

Escreva sobre uma causa que você decidiu esposar e por que ela é importante para você.

Reflita sobre a diferença entre 'casar' e 'esposar'. Como o tom muda a percepção da união?

Descreva uma situação em que um juiz ou líder precisou esposar uma tese difícil.

Se você pudesse esposar qualquer filosofia antiga, qual seria e como ela mudaria sua vida?

Pense em um momento em que você se recusou a esposar uma opinião popular. O que aconteceu?

常见问题

10 个问题

Technically yes, but you shouldn't. It would sound very strange and overly formal, like you're in a 19th-century novel. Stick to 'casar' for real-life weddings.

No! This is a common mistake because 'esposas' means handcuffs. To handcuff someone, use the verb 'algemar'. 'Esposar' only means to marry or adopt an idea.

It is common in Brazilian legal writing and high-level journalism, but you will almost never hear it in spoken conversation unless someone is being intentionally formal or ironic.

No. It is a transitive direct verb. You say 'esposar a causa' or 'esposar a tese'. Adding 'com' is usually considered a mistake in modern Portuguese.

'Abraçar' is more passionate and common. 'Esposar' is more formal and suggests a solemn, intellectual commitment. You 'abraçar' a cause with your heart, but you 'esposar' it with your mind.

Only metaphorically. You can't 'marry' a car, but you can 'esposar' the idea of minimalism or a specific design philosophy.

It's a regular -ar verb: eu esposo, tu esposas, ele esposa, nós esposamos, vós esposais, eles esposam.

Yes, just like in Brazil, it is used in formal, legal, and literary contexts in Portugal.

The most common opposites would be 'rejeitar' (reject), 'refutar' (refute), or 'combater' (combat) an idea.

It's often introduced at these levels because it's a key cognate for English speakers ('espouse') and helps learners begin to distinguish between different registers of speech.

自我测试 200 个问题

writing

Escreva uma frase formal usando 'esposar' no sentido de adotar uma tese jurídica.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use o verbo 'esposar' em uma frase sobre um príncipe e uma princesa.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Crie uma frase usando 'esposar' no sentido de apoiar uma causa ambiental.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Transforme a frase 'Ele adotou a ideia' usando o verbo 'esposar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Escreva uma frase no futuro do presente com o verbo 'esposar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Explique, em uma frase, a diferença entre 'casar' e 'esposar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'esposar' em uma frase negativa sobre política.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Crie uma frase usando o particípio passado 'esposada'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Escreva uma pequena história (3 frases) usando 'esposar' duas vezes.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use o gerúndio 'esposando' em uma frase sobre um movimento social.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Crie uma frase interrogativa com 'esposar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Escreva uma frase usando 'esposar' no sentido de 'voto de pobreza'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'esposar' em uma frase condicional.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Crie uma frase sobre um autor clássico e o verbo 'esposar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Escreva uma frase usando 'esposar' para descrever a adoção de um novo comportamento.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Crie uma frase usando o infinitivo pessoal 'esposarem'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'esposar' em uma frase sobre religião.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Escreva uma frase formal de agradecimento usando 'esposar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Crie uma frase usando 'esposar' e 'ideologia' na mesma sentença.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'esposar' no pretérito imperfeito.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explique oralmente o que significa 'esposar uma causa'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Como você usaria 'esposar' em uma frase sobre o seu trabalho?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Diga uma frase formal convidando alguém para um casamento usando 'esposar'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Qual a diferença de pronúncia entre 'esposa' e 'esposar'?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Como um juiz diria que aceita um argumento?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Crie uma frase oral sobre um político e seus ideais.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Você acha que 'esposar' soa pretensioso? Por quê?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Como você diria 'They espoused the new rules' em português?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Diga o verbo 'esposar' conjugado no presente para 'nós'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explique a confusão entre 'esposar' e 'esposas'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Como você diria 'to marry the princess' formalmente?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Use 'esposar' para falar sobre uma mudança de vida.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Qual o particípio passado de 'esposar'? Use-o em uma frase.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Crie uma frase com 'esposar' no modo subjuntivo.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Diga uma frase usando 'esposar' no passado (pretérito perfeito).

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Como você recomendaria a alguém que adotasse uma ideia usando 'esposar'?

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Diga 'esposar' no futuro do pretérito para 'eu'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Explique o sentido de 'esposar a fé'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Qual o gerúndio de 'esposar'? Use-o em uma frase.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Diga uma frase sobre 'esposar a pobreza'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Ouça a frase e identifique o verbo: 'O magistrado esposou a decisão'.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Qual a diferença sonora entre 'esposa' (noun) e 'esposa' (verb)?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Identifique o tempo verbal: 'Eles esposariam qualquer causa justa'.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

O que o locutor quis dizer com 'O autor esposa o liberalismo'?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Ouça e complete: 'É preciso ______ novos métodos'.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

A palavra ouvida foi 'algemar' ou 'esposar'?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Identifique o número de sílabas na palavra 'esposar'.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Na frase 'Eles se esposaram', qual o sentido?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Qual o sentimento transmitido pela palavra 'esposar' em um discurso?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

O locutor disse 'esposo' ou 'esposou'?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

A frase 'A tese esposada' soa como algo comum ou erudito?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Identifique o sujeito: 'Esposamos a luta ambiental'.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Traduza mentalmente: 'I will espouse'.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Ouça a frase: 'O rei esposou a princesa'. O que aconteceu?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Qual a última letra ouvida na palavra 'esposar'?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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