What Are False Cognates?
False cognates, sometimes referred to as “false friends,” are words in two languages that look or sound similar but have different meanings. These can be especially confusing for English speakers learning Portuguese, as both languages share many Latin roots. However, over time, some words have evolved to mean very different things. Misunderstanding these can lead to embarrassing or confusing situations, making it important to learn and recognize them early on.
Common False Cognates Between English and Portuguese
Here are some of the most frequently encountered false cognates that English speakers should be aware of when learning Portuguese:
1. Actual vs. Atual
In English, “actual” means something real or existing. In Portuguese, “atual” means “current” or “present.” For example, atual presidente means “current president,” not “actual president.”
2. Pretend vs. Pretender
The English verb “to pretend” means to make believe or feign. In Portuguese, “pretender” means “to intend” or “to plan.” If you say eu pretendo viajar, you’re saying “I intend to travel,” not “I pretend to travel.”
3. Eventually vs. Eventualmente
In English, “eventually” means “in the end” or “finally.” In Portuguese, “eventualmente” means “occasionally” or “sometimes.” This can cause confusion in timelines and expectations.
4. Library vs. Livraria
A “library” in English is a place where you borrow books. In Portuguese, “livraria” is a bookstore, where you buy books. The Portuguese word for library is “biblioteca.”
5. Assist vs. Assistir
“To assist” in English means to help. In Portuguese, “assistir” usually means “to watch,” as in watching TV (assistir televisão). If you want to say “to help,” use “ajudar.”
6. Push vs. Puxar
English speakers might assume “puxar” means “to push,” but it actually means “to pull.” The word for “to push” in Portuguese is “empurrar.”
7. Parents vs. Parentes
While “parents” in English refers to mother and father, “parentes” in Portuguese means “relatives” in general. “Pais” is the correct term for parents.
8. Fabric vs. Fábrica
“Fabric” in English is a material for making clothes, but “fábrica” in Portuguese means “factory.” The Portuguese word for fabric is “tecido.”
9. Chef vs. Chefe
In English, “chef” is a professional cook. In Portuguese, “chefe” means “boss” or “chief.” The word for a cook is “cozinheiro.”
10. Sympathetic vs. Simpático
“Sympathetic” in English means showing sympathy. In Portuguese, “simpático” means “friendly” or “nice.” If you want to say someone is sympathetic, use “compassivo.”
Why Do False Cognates Exist?
False cognates arise due to the way languages borrow and adapt words from common roots—often from Latin, French, or other languages. Over centuries, meanings can shift, sometimes drastically. Words that once shared similar meanings can diverge, resulting in false friends that trap even experienced language learners.
Tips to Avoid False Cognate Pitfalls
- Double-check unfamiliar words: If a word looks familiar, verify its meaning before using it.
- Keep a list of common false cognates: Regularly review a list of the most confusing pairs.
- Practice with native speakers: Conversation helps you recognize and correct false cognate mistakes.
- Use language learning tools: Platforms like Talkpal can help you spot and avoid these tricky words.
Conclusion
False cognates are a common stumbling block for English speakers learning Portuguese, but with awareness and practice, you can master them. By paying attention to the most frequently confused word pairs and using reliable language learning resources like Talkpal, you’ll communicate more accurately and confidently. Remember, mistakes are part of the process, and every mix-up is a valuable learning opportunity. Happy learning on your Portuguese journey!
