Portuguese Phrase
Olha as luzes do modem.
Meaning
A direct, informal request to someone to look at the indicator lights on a modem, usually to check whether the device is functioning correctly.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are troubleshooting an internet connection, explaining a problem to a friend, or simply pointing out the status lights on a router/modem.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Olhaasluzesdomodem
Olha (imperative)
‘Olha’ is the informal second‑person singular imperative of the verb ‘olhar’ (to look). It is used to give a direct command or suggestion.
as (definite article)
‘as’ is the plural feminine definite article, matching the noun ‘luzes’.
luzes (noun)
‘luzes’ is the plural of ‘luz’, a feminine noun meaning ‘light(s)’ or ‘indicator light(s)’.
do (contraction)
‘do’ = ‘de’ + ‘o’, meaning ‘of the’. It links the noun ‘luzes’ to the masculine noun ‘modem’.
modem (masculine noun)
‘modem’ is a borrowed technical term that is treated as masculine in Portuguese.
🗨In Conversation
Olha as luzes do modem.
Look at the modem’s lights.
Todas estão verdes? Então deve estar tudo bem.
Are they all green? Then everything should be fine.
✕Common Mistakes
Olho as luzes do modem.
‘Olho’ is the first‑person singular present of ‘olhar’, not the command form.
Olha as luzes da modem.
‘da’ is the feminine contraction (de + a). Since ‘modem’ is masculine, the correct contraction is ‘do’.
Olha a luz do modem.
The noun must agree in number with the article ‘as’; use the plural ‘luzes’.
↔Alternatives
Veja as luzes do modem.
See the modem’s lights.
Observe as luzes do modem.
Observe the modem’s lights.
Cheque as luzes do modem.
Check the modem’s lights.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the status LEDs on a modem or router are a quick visual cue for internet health. People often say ‘as luzes do modem’ when they suspect a connectivity issue, making this phrase handy for everyday tech conversations.