A lot of people use these terms thinking they understand, but in practice, the real sense can be quite different
You have probably heard several English words in everyday life.
Whether at school, at work, social networks or even conversations with friends.
Many of them have become part of the vocabulary of those who speak in Brazil.
But do you really know what these words really mean?
A lot of people use terms in English thinking they understand, but in practice, the real meaning may be quite different.
And this can generate confusion, cause misunderstandings, or even leave you in a fair skirt without realizing it.
6 English words that many Brazilians use without knowing the real meaning
1. Job
When someone says “I got a job,” he is usually referring to a job or project.
And it’s almost right. But beware: in English, “job” is not any kind of work.
“Job” means a fixed job with defined functions. Already if it is a punctual service or a nozzle, the correct term would be “Gig” or “Freelance Work”.
So if you are doing something temporary, saying you got a “job” you may not pass the right message.
2. Free
This is classic. Many people see the word “free” and think it means “free.” And sometimes it even means that.
But in most cases, especially in advertisements or websites, “Free” means “for free,” at no cost.
For example, “Free Wi-Fi” means “free Wi-Fi”, not “free Wi-Fi”.
The confusion between “free” and “free” can completely change the meaning of the sentence.
So be aware when that word comes in English.
3. Shopping
This whole Brazilian has already used: “Let’s go to the mall?”. But in English, “shopping” is the act of shopping, not the place.
The shopping center, that full of stores, is called “Shopping Mall” or just “mall”.
When one listens that you go “at the mall”, he can understand that you will go out to buy something, but not necessarily that goes to a mall.
4. Spoiler
Nowadays, with so many series and movies, this word in English has become routine.
“Don’t give me spoiler!” It became almost a war cry.
But what is “spoiler”, after all? That’s when someone reveals an important part of the story before you watch or read.
The origin comes from “to spoil”, which means spoiling. That is, a spoiler is something that spoils surprise or experience.
5. Feedback
Used mainly in companies, meetings or presentations, “Feedback” became synonymous with opinion or evaluation.
And it’s almost right, but that’s not all.
The true meaning of feedback is a constructive response about what has been done, focusing on helping to improve.
Not every comment is a feedback. Complaining or criticizing without guiding does not serve as real feedback.
6. Notebook
This word in English confuses many people. In Brazil, “notebook” became synonymous with laptop computer.
But in English -speaking countries, notebook is literally a notebook.
The computer we use on our lap is called the laptop.
So if you are out of Brazil and say you need a notebook, it is very likely that someone offers you paper and pen.
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