Portuguese Phrase
A máquina de lavar está ligada.
Meaning
The sentence states that the washing machine is currently turned on. It conveys a temporary condition, not a permanent characteristic of the appliance.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to inform someone that the washing machine is running, for example when coordinating laundry chores or warning someone not to touch the machine.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Amáquinadelavarestáligada
Definite article agreement
The article 'A' agrees in gender (feminine) and number (singular) with the noun 'máquina'.
Purpose preposition 'de'
The preposition 'de' links the noun to its purpose, forming 'máquina de lavar' (washing machine).
Estar for temporary states
Use 'estar' to describe a condition that can change, such as a device being on or off.
Past participle as adjective
'Ligada' is the feminine past participle of 'ligar' and works as an adjective matching the gender of 'máquina'.
🗨In Conversation
A máquina de lavar está ligada.
The washing machine is on.
Obrigado, vou colocar minhas roupas.
Thanks, I’ll put my clothes in.
✕Common Mistakes
A máquina de lavar é ligada.
Use 'está' for temporary states; 'é' describes permanent characteristics.
A máquina de lavar está ligado.
The adjective must agree with the feminine noun 'máquina'.
Máquina de lavar está ligada.
Missing the article 'A' makes the sentence sound incomplete in standard Portuguese.
↔Alternatives
A lavadora está ligada.
The washing machine is on.
A máquina está funcionando.
The machine is working.
A máquina de lavar está ligada agora.
The washing machine is on now.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil the word 'lavadora' is often used, while in Portugal people usually say 'máquina de lavar roupa'. Also, 'ligada' can mean 'plugged in' as well as 'turned on', so context determines the exact nuance.