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Portuguese Phrase

Usa lanternas, não velas.

/ˈuza lɐ̃ˈtɛɾnɐs ˈnɐ̃w veˈlɐs/
Meaning"Use flashlights, not candles."
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Meaning

This is a short, imperative sentence advising someone to use flashlights (lanternas) instead of candles (velas). It is often used in safety contexts, such as during power outages or camping, to prevent fire hazards.

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When to use

Use this phrase when giving quick safety advice, especially in emergencies, at home during a blackout, or while teaching children about fire prevention.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Usalanternas,nãovelas.

1

Imperative (tu) of 'usar'

The verb 'usar' in the informal second‑person singular (tu) drops the final -r, becoming 'usa' to give a direct command.

2

Negation with 'não'

Place 'não' directly before the word or phrase you want to negate; here it negates the noun 'velas' in an elliptical construction.

3

Elliptical clause

The second part omits the verb, which is understood from the first clause, making the sentence concise.

4

Plural nouns

Both 'lanternas' and 'velas' are plural nouns, matching the context of multiple items.

🗨In Conversation

A

A energia acabou e está escuro aqui.

The power went out and it's dark here.

Usa lanternas, não velas.

Use flashlights, not candles.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Usa as lanternas, não as velas.

    The article 'as' is unnecessary because the command is already clear without it.

  • Usa lanternas, não as velas.

    Mixing the article only on the second noun sounds awkward; keep the structure parallel.

  • Usa lanternas, não velas!

    Exclamation marks are fine for emphasis, but the period is standard in written instructions.

↔Alternatives

  • Use lanternas, não velas.

    Use flashlights, not candles.

  • Prefira lanternas a velas.

    Prefer flashlights to candles.

  • Opte por lanternas em vez de velas.

    Opt for flashlights instead of candles.

pt

Cultural Tip

In Brazil, many families light candles during power outages, but this can be a fire risk, especially in homes with flammable décor. Municipalities often distribute lanternas (battery‑powered flashlights) as a safer alternative. Using the imperative form 'Usa' is informal; in a formal setting you would say 'Use lanternas, não velas.'