Portuguese Phrase
A tinta está descascando.
Meaning
The sentence states that the paint on a surface is peeling or coming off. It conveys a visual observation of deterioration, often implying that the area needs repair or repainting.
When to use
Use this phrase when you notice paint flaking on walls, furniture, or any painted object, or when you want to describe that condition to someone else.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Atintaestádescascando
Definite article (A)
The feminine singular article 'a' agrees with the noun 'tinta' (paint).
Noun (tinta)
A common feminine noun meaning 'paint' or 'ink' depending on context.
Verb estar (está)
The present indicative of 'estar' is used for temporary states or ongoing actions.
Gerund (descascando)
The gerund form of 'descascar' expresses an action in progress, similar to English '-ing'.
🗨In Conversation
A tinta está descascando.
The paint is peeling.
Precisamos repintar a sala.
We need to repaint the room.
✕Common Mistakes
A tinta é descascando.
Use 'estar' for temporary or progressive states, not 'ser'.
A tinta está descascado.
The adjective 'descascado' describes a completed state; the ongoing action needs the gerund 'descascando'.
A tinta está descascar.
The infinitive 'descascar' cannot follow 'está' directly; you need the gerund form.
↔Alternatives
A pintura está descascando.
The paint is peeling.
A tinta está se soltando.
The paint is coming off.
A tinta está se descascando.
The paint is peeling.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, 'tinta' usually refers to wall paint, while 'pintura' can also mean a painting or artwork. 'Descascando' is commonly used for paint, but can also describe skin that is flaking. Keep the register informal; in a formal report you might say 'A tinta apresenta descascamento'.