Portuguese Phrase
Eles batem com o horário da academia.
Meaning
This phrase is an idiomatic expression in Portuguese meaning that something (usually an event, appointment, or time slot) conflicts or coincides negatively with another schedule. It implies that two things cannot happen at the same time because their timings overlap or are incompatible.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to explain that a proposed time or event conflicts with an existing commitment, such as a class, a meeting, or a personal activity like going to the gym. It's a common way to politely decline or explain scheduling difficulties.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Elesbatemcomohoráriodaacademia.
Bater com
This is an idiomatic verb phrase meaning 'to clash with' or 'to coincide negatively with' in the context of schedules or timings. It's crucial to include the preposition 'com'.
Eles
'Eles' is the third-person plural pronoun, meaning 'they'. It refers to the subject that is clashing with the schedule, which could be implied events or appointments.
Horário
Meaning 'schedule' or 'time slot'. It's a masculine noun, hence 'o horário'. In this context, it refers to a specific time or a planned sequence of events.
Da academia
'Da' is a contraction of 'de' (of/from) + 'a' (the). So, 'da academia' means 'of the gym' or 'the gym's'. It specifies which schedule is being referred to.
🗨In Conversation
Que tal irmos ao cinema às 19h na terça?
How about we go to the cinema at 7 PM on Tuesday?
Ah, não consigo. Esse horário bate com o horário da academia.
Oh, I can't. That time clashes with the gym schedule.
✕Common Mistakes
Eles batem o horário da academia.
The preposition 'com' is essential here. 'Bater o horário' without 'com' would imply physically hitting the schedule, which doesn't make sense.
Eles chocam com o horário da academia.
While 'chocar' can mean 'to clash' in some contexts, 'bater com' is the standard idiomatic expression for scheduling conflicts. 'Chocar' often implies a more direct collision or shock.
↔Alternatives
Eles coincidem com o horário da academia.
They coincide with the gym schedule.
Eles conflitam com o horário da academia.
They conflict with the gym schedule.
Não dá para ir, tenho academia nesse horário.
I can't go, I have gym at that time.
Cultural Tip
Brazilians often use indirect language when declining invitations or explaining scheduling conflicts to maintain politeness. Saying something 'bate com' another commitment is a common and accepted way to express unavailability without being overly direct. Punctuality is generally valued, but flexibility can also be common in social settings, so clear communication about schedules is appreciated.