Introduction
The word ligarmos is a verb form in Portuguese derived from ligar which means to connect, to link, to call, or to turn on. Specifically ligarmos is the first-person plural form (we) in the present subjunctive and future subjunctive as well as the infinitive personal form.
Understanding this verb is essential for effective communication in Portuguese, as it has multiple applications in daily life, including making phone calls, linking objects, turning on devices, and expressing attention or care.
Understanding the Verb “Ligar”
The verb “ligar” is a regular verb ending in “-ar” and follows standard conjugation patterns. Let’s examine its various meanings and how “ligarmos” is used in different contexts.
1. Basic Meaning of “Ligar”
| Portuguese Verb | English Translation | Example in a Sentence |
| Ligar | To connect/link | Eu ligo os cabos do computador. (I connect the computer cables.) |
| Ligar | To make a call | Ela vai ligar para a mãe dela. (She is going to call her mother.) |
| Ligar | To turn on | Você pode ligar a luz? (Can you turn on the light?) |
| Ligar | To care about something | Ele não liga para futebol. (He doesn’t care about football.) |
“Ligarmos” in Different Tenses
“Ligarmos” is the first-person plural (we) form of “ligar” and is primarily used in the subjunctive mood and personal infinitive.
1. Present Subjunctive (Presente do Subjuntivo)
Used when expressing doubt, desire, or hypothetical situations.
Example Sentence:
- É importante que ligarmos para confirmar a reserva.
(It is important that we call to confirm the reservation.)
2. Future Subjunctive (Futuro do Subjuntivo)
Used to talk about possible actions in the future.
Example Sentence:
- Quando ligarmos para ele, saberemos a resposta.
(When we call him, we will know the answer.)
3. Infinitive Personal (Infinitivo Pessoal)
Used when the subject of the action is emphasized.
Example Sentence:
- Antes de ligarmos para o suporte, vamos tentar resolver o problema.
(Before we call support, let’s try to solve the problem.)
Common Uses of “Ligar” in Daily Life
1. Making a Phone Call
One of the most common uses of “ligar” is when making phone calls.
- Você pode ligar para mim mais tarde? (Can you call me later?)
- Se ligarmos agora, ainda conseguiremos um ingresso. (If we call now, we can still get a ticket.)
2. Turning On Electrical Devices
“Ligar” is used when referring to turning on lights, appliances, or machines.
- Por favor, ligue o ventilador. (Please turn on the fan.)
- Assim que ligarmos o computador, verificaremos os e-mails. (As soon as we turn on the computer, we will check the emails.)
3. Connecting or Linking Objects
“Ligar” also means to connect things physically or metaphorically.
- O engenheiro ligou os circuitos elétricos. (The engineer connected the electrical circuits.)
- Vamos ligar as informações e encontrar a solução. (Let’s connect the information and find the solution.)
4. Caring or Paying Attention
In informal conversations, “ligar” can mean “to care about” or “to pay attention to.”
- Ele não liga para as críticas. (He doesn’t care about criticism.)
- Se ligarmos nos detalhes, teremos sucesso. (If we pay attention to the details, we will succeed.)
Differences Between “Ligar” and Similar Verbs
| Verb | Meaning | Example Sentence |
| Ligar | To connect, call, or turn on | Vamos ligar a TV. (Let’s turn on the TV.) |
| Conectar | To connect (used more in tech context) | Precisamos conectar o Wi-Fi. (We need to connect to Wi-Fi.) |
| Chamar | To call (used for calling someone aloud) | Ela chamou o garçom. (She called the waiter.) |
Conclusion
The verb “ligar” is highly versatile in Portuguese and ligarmos is an essential form of this verb used in the subjunctive mood and infinitive personal tense. It has multiple meanings, including making phone calls, turning on electrical devices, connecting things, and expressing care.
By understanding and practicing the different contexts of ligarmos Portuguese learners can improve their fluency and communication skills. Whether calling a friend, turning on a light or linking ideas this verb remains a fundamental part of everyday Portuguese conversation.
