These transformations happen naturally, as society changes and people start to use words in new ways.
Expressions in Portuguese are among the greatest examples of how the language is alive and always changing.
Many phrases that we use on a daily basis today have completely different meanings than they did a few decades ago, and, in some cases, the original meaning has been almost completely lost.
These transformations happen naturally, as society changes and people start to use words in new ways.
Therefore, knowing the origin and evolution of expressions in Portuguese is a great way to better understand the language and even avoid confusion.
6 expressions in Portuguese that changed their meaning over time, according to linguists
1. Kissing
Today, “kissing someone’s ass” means flattering someone.
But originally, the expression came from colonial times, when apprentices carried their masters’ bags and belongings — literally “sucking up” to them.
Over time, the gesture gained a figurative meaning of subservience.
2. Keep an eye
In the past, “keeping an eye” had a more literal meaning — watching something carefully.
Today, the expression is used more broadly, and can mean interest, care, or even distrust, depending on the context.
3. Kicking ass
Although today it is a light way of referring to death, the expression “knock your boots” originates from the times when soldiers wore tall boots.
When someone died, the legs would involuntarily stretch, causing the boots to “clash” together.
4. Pay money
Before meaning “to embarrass yourself”, “pagar mico” was literally a punishment in card games popular in the 19th century.
The loser had to hold a small monkey (or a figure that represented it), symbolizing shame.
Hence the current figurative use arose.
5. Backfire
This expression comes from the world of weapons.
When a shot “backfired,” it meant that the weapon misfired and the shot returned toward the shooter.
Today, the meaning is figurative: something that went wrong and ended up harming those who planned it.
6. Hit the ground running
Currently, we use “hit the ground running” to indicate that something didn’t go as expected.
The origin, however, comes from drovers and travelers who, when crossing rivers, often saw their donkeys slip and fall into the water, frustrating the journey.
Follow the Portal 6 on Instagram: @ and stay up to date with all the news and curiosities!
