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The verb dar is one of the most common and versatile verbs in Portuguese. In this guide, you’ll learn its many meanings and how native speakers really use it.
The verb dar is one of the most frequently used verbs in Portuguese, but it is also one of the most confusing for learners. While dar is often translated as “to give,” its real meaning goes far beyond that simple definition. Understanding the many faces of dar is essential for anyone who wants to speak Portuguese naturally.
In its basic form, dar means to give, as in dar um presente (to give a gift). However, native speakers use dar in dozens of everyday expressions where “give” is no longer a literal translation. For example, dar tempo means “to have enough time,” while dar certo means “to work out” or “to be successful.”
Learn Portuguese Online – Portuguese verb dar
Another very common use of dar is to express possibility or result. In sentences like isso não dá (that doesn’t work) or deu para entender (it was possible to understand), dar describes outcomes rather than actions. This usage is extremely common in spoken Portuguese.
The verb dar is also used to talk about feelings, physical sensations, and reactions, such as dar fome (to make someone hungry) or dar sono (to make someone sleepy). In these cases, dar helps express experiences rather than deliberate actions.
Because dar appears in so many fixed expressions, learning it through real examples is the most effective approach. Instead of memorizing rules, learners should focus on recognizing patterns and contexts where dar naturally appears.
Mastering the verb dar will greatly improve your comprehension and help you sound more natural in everyday conversations. It is a small verb with many meanings—and one that every Portuguese learner must know.
Portuguese Verbs for Beginners
Dar certo – to work out
Dar tempo – to have enough time