How to Say ‘The machine broke down.’ in Portuguese
A máquina avariou.
ah MAH-kee-nah ah-vah-ree-OH
[ah MAH-kee-nah ah-vah-ree-OH]
💬 Usage Tip: [Avariou] is a common way to say a machine or device broke down; it's used for equipment, not for people. For a person feeling unwell, you'd use something else, like [senti-me mal].
Phrase Breakdown
A máquina
ah MAH-kee-nah
The machine
Refers to a machine or device, here likely a card machine.
A máquina está ali.
The machine is over there.
Words in this phrase
A
[ah]
the
Definite article introducing a specific feminine noun.
A máquina avariou, segundo o taxista.
The machine broke down, according to the taxi driver.
máquina
[MAH-kee-nah]
machine
The card terminal or payment machine used in the taxi.
A máquina avariou mesmo antes do pagamento.
The machine broke down just before payment.
Avariou.
ah-vah-ree-OH
Broke down.
Means something stopped working or got damaged.
O computador avariou.
The computer broke down.
Words in this phrase
avariou
[ah-vah-ree-OH]
broke down
States that the machine malfunctioned and stopped working.
O motorista disse: "A máquina avariou."
The driver said: "The machine broke down."
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
What Learners Are Saying
“Rio de Janeiro tested my Portuguese every single day. The real-world scenarios in this app meant I could actually keep up with locals at the beach bars.”
Chris B., 33, Digital Nomad
“Moved to Lisbon with zero Portuguese and honestly thought I’d be pointing at menus forever. Three weeks in and I’m having real conversations with my landlord.”
Priya N., 35, Freelance Designer
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker