Portuguese Phrase
Ela só ajuda quando as coisas vão bem.
Meaning
This phrase describes a person who is only supportive or cooperative during favorable circumstances. It implies that the person is unreliable or a 'fair-weather' friend who disappears when difficulties arise.
When to use
Use this phrase when venting about someone's lack of commitment or when describing a person's character to others. It is typically used in informal or semi-formal social contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Elasóajudaquandoas coisasvãobem
Só vs. Somente
'Só' is a very common way to say 'only' in spoken Portuguese, often placed right before the verb it modifies.
Concordância Verbal
The verb 'vão' is the third-person plural of 'ir', which must agree with the plural noun phrase 'as coisas'.
🗨In Conversation
Você acha que a Paula vai nos apoiar nessa crise?
Do you think Paula will support us in this crisis?
Duvido muito. Ela só ajuda quando as coisas vão bem.
I highly doubt it. She only helps when things are going well.
✕Common Mistakes
Ela só ajudo quando as coisas vão bem.
The verb must be conjugated in the third-person singular 'ajuda' to agree with 'Ela'.
Ela só ajuda quando as coisas vai bem.
The verb 'ir' must be plural 'vão' to agree with the plural subject 'as coisas'.
↔Alternatives
Ela é uma amiga de sol.
She is a fair-weather friend.
Ela não ajuda em tempos difíceis.
She doesn't help in difficult times.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, loyalty during 'perrengues' (tough situations) is highly valued. Describing someone this way is a significant criticism of their character and reliability.