Portuguese Phrase
É melhor encará-los.
Meaning
This phrase suggests that confronting a challenge, a problem, or a group of people directly is the most effective course of action. It emphasizes that avoidance usually makes things more difficult in the long run.
When to use
Use this phrase when giving advice to someone who is hesitant to deal with a difficult situation or person. It is appropriate in both professional settings and personal conversations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Émelhorencará-los
É melhor
This is an impersonal expression used to give recommendations, similar to 'It is better' in English.
Vowel Accentuation
The verb 'encarar' becomes 'encará' with an accent to maintain the open 'a' sound once the final 'r' is dropped for the pronoun.
🗨In Conversation
Tenho medo de falar com os credores.
I'm afraid to talk to the creditors.
É melhor encará-los agora para resolver isso.
It's better to face them now to resolve this.
✕Common Mistakes
É melhor encarar eles.
In formal Portuguese, when a verb ends in -r, -s, or -z, the 'r' is dropped and the pronoun 'eles' becomes '-los'.
↔Alternatives
É melhor enfrentá-los.
It's better to confront them.
Seria bom encará-los.
It would be good to face them.
Cultural Tip
While Brazilian culture often values indirectness to maintain social harmony, the term 'encarar' is highly respected as it implies bravery and taking responsibility for one's life. Using the clitic '-los' instead of 'eles' shows a sophisticated command of the language.