Portuguese Phrase
É difícil entrar em certos círculos.
Meaning
The sentence means “It’s hard to get into certain circles.” It refers to the difficulty of becoming part of exclusive social, professional, or cultural groups.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to comment on the barriers that exist in elite clubs, professional networks, or any group that feels closed off to outsiders. It works in both casual conversation and more formal discussions about social mobility.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Édifícilentraremcertoscírculos
É (ser)
Third‑person singular of the verb ser, used here impersonally to state a fact.
difícil (adjective)
An adjective that does not change gender or number when used with the impersonal construction "é difícil".
entrar (infinitive)
Infinitive verb that follows the adjective "difícil"; no preposition "de" is needed.
em (preposition)
Introduces the complement "certos círculos" indicating the place or sphere.
certos (adjective)
Plural masculine form of "certo", agreeing with the noun "círculos".
círculos (noun)
Plural masculine noun meaning "circles" in the sense of social groups or networks.
🗨In Conversation
Você acha que vai conseguir entrar naquele clube de leitura?
Do you think you’ll be able to join that reading club?
É difícil entrar em certos círculos, mas vou tentar.
It’s hard to get into certain circles, but I’ll try.
✕Common Mistakes
É difícil **de** entrar em certos círculos.
After the adjective "difícil" you do NOT use the preposition "de" before an infinitive.
É difícil entrar em **certo** círculos.
The adjective must agree in number with "círculos"; use "certos" (plural).
É difícil entrar **nos** certos círculos.
Do not add an extra preposition; "entrar" already takes "em" for the target group.
↔Alternatives
É complicado fazer parte de alguns grupos.
It’s complicated to be part of some groups.
É desafiador integrar certos círculos.
It’s challenging to integrate into certain circles.
Não é fácil entrar em determinados círculos.
It’s not easy to get into particular circles.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, social circles often form around class, profession, or shared interests. When talking about these groups, keep a neutral tone; sounding overly critical can be perceived as rude. The phrase is perfectly acceptable in both informal chats and more formal discussions about networking or social inclusion.