Portuguese Phrase
Um DEA faz o coração voltar a bater.
Meaning
This phrase describes the life-saving function of an Automated External Defibrillator (DEA in Portuguese). It means that the device is used to restart a heart that has stopped beating, typically during sudden cardiac arrest, by delivering an electrical shock to restore a normal rhythm.
When to use
You would use this phrase when explaining the purpose of a defibrillator, discussing first aid procedures, or talking about medical emergencies. It's common in public health campaigns, first aid training, or when describing a critical intervention.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Um DEAfazo coraçãovoltar a bater
Um DEA
'Um' is the indefinite masculine article, meaning 'a' or 'an'. 'DEA' is an acronym for 'Desfibrilador Externo Automático' (Automated External Defibrillator).
faz
This is the third-person singular conjugation of the verb 'fazer' (to do/to make). In this context, it means 'causes' or 'makes something happen'.
o coração
'O' is the definite masculine article, meaning 'the'. 'Coração' means 'heart'. Portuguese nouns almost always require an article.
voltar a bater
This is a common verbal construction. 'Voltar' means 'to return' or 'to come back'. When followed by 'a' and an infinitive verb ('bater' - to beat), it means 'to do something again' or 'to start doing something again'.
🗨In Conversation
O que é aquele aparelho vermelho na parede?
What is that red device on the wall?
É um DEA. Um DEA faz o coração voltar a bater em caso de emergência.
It's an AED. An AED makes the heart beat again in an emergency.
✕Common Mistakes
Um DEA é o coração voltar a bater.
Using 'ser' (é) implies identity or characteristic, not an action or causation. 'Fazer' (faz) is correct for 'to make' or 'to cause'.
Um DEA faz o coração para bater.
The construction 'voltar a + infinitive' is used to express 'to do something again'. 'Para' would imply purpose, which doesn't fit here.
↔Alternatives
Um desfibrilador pode reanimar o coração.
A defibrillator can reanimate the heart.
O DEA ajuda a restaurar o ritmo cardíaco.
The AED helps restore the heart rhythm.
O DEA faz o coração voltar ao normal.
The AED makes the heart return to normal.
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking countries, there's a growing awareness of the importance of public access defibrillators (DEAs) in places like airports, shopping centers, and sports facilities. Knowing this phrase can be vital for understanding emergency information or participating in discussions about public health and safety. First aid training, including CPR and DEA use, is increasingly promoted.

