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comer — meaning in English: eat

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comer
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'comer' in everyday conversations, whether at home sharing a meal with family or in restaurants discussing food choices with friends. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Vamos comer pizza hoje à noite?' ('Shall we eat pizza tonight?') when planning dinner.
Synonyms & nuances
'Comer' is a straightforward term for 'eat,' but it can differ from 'ingerir,' which is more technical and refers to the act of consuming food in a medical or biological sense. You would use 'comer' in casual conversations, while 'ingerir' might appear in health discussions.
Culture
'Comer' stems from the Latin word 'comedere,' which means 'to eat up.' In Portuguese culture, meals are often a social event, and saying 'comer' can carry a sense of gathering and connection, reflecting the importance of food in family and friendship bonds. In Brazil, it's not just about eating; it’s a celebration of shared moments.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'comer' in the present tense?
'Comer' is a regular -er verb. In the present tense, it is conjugated as 'eu como' (I eat), 'tu comes' (you eat), 'ele/ela come' (he/she eats), 'nós comemos' (we eat), 'vós comeis' (you all eat), and 'eles/elas comem' (they eat).
Q.What are some common phrases using 'comer'?
Common phrases include 'comer bem' (to eat well), 'comer fora' (to eat out), and 'comer de tudo' (to eat everything). These phrases can help you express different dining situations.
Q.Is there a difference between 'comer' and 'fazer uma refeição'?
Yes, 'comer' simply means 'to eat,' while 'fazer uma refeição' translates to 'to have a meal.' The latter emphasizes the act of preparing a complete dining experience, whereas 'comer' can refer to any instance of eating.
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Portuguese Vocabulary