Portuguese Phrase
Vou cortar a grama.
Meaning
This phrase expresses the intention to perform the household chore of cutting grass. It uses the immediate future construction with the verb 'ir' (to go) followed by an infinitive. Note that 'grama' refers specifically to the grass in a yard or garden.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are about to start gardening work or when explaining your chores to family and friends. It is a common expression used in casual, everyday contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Voucortaragrama
Ir (Vou)
The verb 'ir' in the present tense acts as an auxiliary to indicate an action that will happen in the near future.
Infinitive after Ir
When using 'ir' to express the future, the main action verb always remains in its base infinitive form ending in -ar, -er, or -ir.
🗨In Conversation
O que você vai fazer hoje à tarde?
What are you going to do this afternoon?
Vou cortar a grama.
I am going to mow the lawn.
✕Common Mistakes
Eu vou corto a grama.
After the auxiliary verb 'vou', you must use the infinitive form 'cortar' rather than a conjugated verb.
Vou cortar o grama.
In Portuguese, 'a grama' (feminine) means grass, while 'o grama' (masculine) refers to the unit of weight (grams).
↔Alternatives
Vou aparar a grama.
I am going to trim the grass.
Preciso cortar a grama.
I need to mow the lawn.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, 'grama' is the standard term for lawn grass. However, in Portugal, you are more likely to hear 'relva' or 'relvado'. Always remember the gender distinction for 'grama' to avoid telling someone you are going to cut a weight measurement!