Portuguese Phrase
Às vezes a matemática é complicada.
Meaning
The sentence means that, on occasion, the subject of mathematics can be difficult to understand or work with. It conveys a mild frustration or acknowledgment that math isn’t always easy.
When to use
Use this phrase when talking about your experience with math, especially in a classroom, study group, or casual conversation about learning challenges.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Àsvezesamatemáticaécomplicada
Às vezes
An adverbial phrase meaning 'sometimes'. It combines the preposition 'a' (to) with the plural definite article 'as' and the noun 'vezes' (times).
Definite article 'a'
Feminine singular article used before the noun 'matemática' to specify the subject.
Ser vs. Estar
Use 'é' (ser) for inherent or general qualities; here, 'complicada' describes the nature of mathematics as a subject.
Adjective agreement
The adjective 'complicada' must agree in gender (feminine) and number (singular) with 'matemática'.
🗨In Conversation
Às vezes a matemática é complicada.
Sometimes math is complicated.
É, mas com prática tudo fica mais fácil.
Yeah, but with practice everything gets easier.
✕Common Mistakes
As vezes a matemática é complicada.
The preposition 'a' contracts with the article 'as' to form 'às'. Writing 'as vezes' loses the contraction and is incorrect.
Às vezes a matemática está complicada.
Use 'é' (ser) for a general characteristic. 'Está' (estar) would imply a temporary state, which changes the meaning.
Às vezes a matemática é complicado.
The adjective must agree with the feminine noun 'matemática'.
↔Alternatives
Às vezes, a matemática pode ser difícil.
Sometimes, math can be difficult.
A matemática às vezes complica.
Math sometimes gets complicated.
Nem sempre a matemática é fácil.
Math isn’t always easy.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil and Portugal, people often use 'complicada' to describe subjects that feel abstract or require a lot of logical thinking. It’s a neutral way to express difficulty without sounding negative about the subject itself. When you say 'Às vezes a matemática é complicada', you’re acknowledging the challenge while still showing respect for the discipline.