Portuguese Phrase
Gosto de nadar umas voltas na piscina.
Meaning
I like to swim a few laps in the pool. The expression 'umas voltas' suggests a casual, relaxed swimming session rather than a rigorous workout.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to talk about a leisure activity, describe your routine at a public or private pool, or explain why you’re at the pool for a short swim.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Gostodenadarumasvoltasnapiscina
Gostar + de
The verb 'gostar' (to like) always requires the preposition 'de' before the infinitive or noun that follows.
Infinitive verb
'Nadar' is the infinitive form of the verb 'to swim' and follows 'de' directly.
Indefinite article 'umas'
'Umas' is the feminine plural indefinite article, used here with 'voltas' to mean 'a few laps'.
Contraction 'na'
'Na' is the contraction of 'em' + 'a', meaning 'in the' for feminine nouns like 'piscina'.
Noun 'piscina'
'Piscina' means 'pool' and is a feminine noun.
🗨In Conversation
Gosto de nadar umas voltas na piscina.
I like to swim a few laps in the pool.
Ah, que ótimo! Eu também adoro nadar depois do trabalho.
Ah, that's great! I also love swimming after work.
✕Common Mistakes
Gosto nadar na piscina.
The verb 'gostar' always needs the preposition 'de' before the infinitive.
Gosto de nadar umas voltas para a piscina.
If you want to say 'to the pool' you would use 'para a piscina', not 'na piscina'.
Gosto de nadar uma volta na piscina.
'Volta' must agree in number with the article; use 'umas voltas' for plural.
↔Alternatives
Gosto de nadar na piscina.
I like swimming in the pool.
Gosto de dar algumas voltas na piscina.
I like to take a few laps in the pool.
Adoro fazer algumas voltas na piscina.
I love doing a few laps in the pool.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, swimming is a popular summer pastime and many cities have public 'piscinas' that are open to the community. Saying 'umas voltas' is a relaxed way to indicate you’re not training for a competition, just enjoying the water. In informal conversation, Brazilians often add a friendly 'e você?' after the statement to keep the dialogue flowing.