Portuguese Phrase
Aos sábados eu costumo dormir até tarde.
Meaning
This phrase describes a habitual weekend routine using the verb 'costumar' to indicate a regular tendency. The expression 'dormir até tarde' specifically refers to the act of waking up much later than usual, rather than going to bed late.
When to use
Use this phrase when talking about your weekly habits, personal schedule, or weekend plans. It is ideal for small talk with friends or colleagues about how you spend your free time.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Aos sábadoseu costumodormiraté tarde
Aos sábados
The combination of the preposition 'a' and the article 'os' indicates a recurring action every Saturday.
Costumar
This verb is used to express frequency or habits and is followed directly by another verb in the infinitive form.
Até tarde
In this context, 'até' (until) combined with 'tarde' (late) creates the idiomatic meaning of 'sleeping in'.
🗨In Conversation
O que você gosta de fazer no fim de semana?
What do you like to do on the weekend?
Aos sábados eu costumo dormir até tarde.
On Saturdays I usually sleep in late.
✕Common Mistakes
Eu costumo de dormir até tarde.
Unlike some other Portuguese verbs, 'costumar' is followed directly by the infinitive without the preposition 'de'.
Aos sábados eu durmo tarde.
'Dormir tarde' means to go to bed late, whereas 'dormir até tarde' means to wake up late or sleep in.
↔Alternatives
Eu geralmente acordo tarde no sábado.
I generally wake up late on Saturday.
No sábado eu fico na cama até mais tarde.
On Saturday I stay in bed until later.
Cultural Tip
In many Lusophone cultures, especially in Brazil, the weekend is a sacred time for recharging. Sharing that you 'sleep in' is seen as a relatable and positive sign of a relaxed lifestyle, often preceding a long family lunch or a trip to the beach.