Portuguese Phrase
Não se espalhe demais.
Meaning
Literally, 'Don't spread yourself too much.' Figuratively it warns someone not to overextend, take on too many tasks, or become overly involved in many things at once.
When to use
Use this phrase when giving friendly advice or a gentle warning to a colleague, friend, or family member who is trying to do too many things at once, or when you want to remind someone to keep a healthy balance.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nãoseespalhedemais
Negative Imperative
In Portuguese, the negative command uses the present subjunctive form of the verb, preceded by 'não'.
Reflexive Verb
Espalhar‑se is a reflexive verb; the pronoun 'se' must stay attached to the verb in the imperative.
Adverb 'demais'
'Demais' functions as an adverb meaning 'too much' or 'excessively'.
🗨In Conversation
Você está aceitando todos os projetos que aparecem.
You're taking on every project that comes up.
Não se espalhe demais.
Don't spread yourself too thin.
✕Common Mistakes
Não se espalha demais.
The affirmative form 'espalha' is incorrect for a negative command; you need the subjunctive 'espalhe'.
Não espalhe demais.
Missing the reflexive pronoun 'se' changes the meaning; the phrase must stay reflexive.
Não se espalhe muito.
While 'muito' can work, 'demais' is the idiomatic adverb used in this set phrase.
↔Alternatives
Não se sobrecarregue.
Don't overload yourself.
Não se esforce demais.
Don't push yourself too hard.
Não se estenda demais.
Don't stretch yourself too far.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, work‑life balance is a common topic, and people often use expressions like 'não se espalhe demais' to remind friends and coworkers to take care of themselves. The phrase is informal but polite, suitable for conversations among peers rather than formal business settings.