The verb “ligar” has many different meanings in Portuguese. Originally, “ligar” means “to call.” For example: “Ligo para minha família todos os fins de semana.” But besides that, there are at least five other meanings. Let’s explore them:
- Ligar = Turn On
- Example: “Ligo as luzes da sala todas as noites.”
- Ligar = Connect, Link
- Example: “O TGV liga Paris a muitas cidades da Europa.”
- Se Liga! = Pay Attention!
- Example: “Se liga no teu celular quando você vai ao carnaval.”
- Tá Ligado? = Got It? (It’s a common slang expression, especially among younger speaker in Brazil, not popular in Portugal).
- Example: “Manhã, vamos trabalhar juntos com o colega, e depois à tarde, temos a reunião, tá ligado? Beleza.”
- Não Deu Liga = It Doesn’t Work
- Example: “A pizza com abacaxi não deu liga.”
- Ligar = Care about
- Example: “Ele não liga para o que os outros pensam.” (He doesn’t care about what others think.)
The verb “ligar” is versatile and rich in meaning. It’s used in various contexts and expressions, adding depth and color to the Portuguese language. Whether you’re turning on a light, connecting cities, or simply making a phone call, “ligar” is a word that links many aspects of daily life.
👀 Attention for Spanish speakers:
“Ligar” in Portuguese and Spanish is what’s known as a “false friend.” While the word looks and sounds similar in both languages, its meaning can be different. In Spanish, “ligar” primarily means “to flirt” or “to pick up,” whereas in Portuguese, it has a broader meaning of “to connect” or “to link,” and it can also be used in a social context to express romantic interest or flirtation, similar to the Spanish usage.
Also interesting 👉: How to flirt in Spanish ( the best guide)
