Log inSign up

O tempo está mau.

O tempo está mau.
The weather is bad.
FromLesson 7inHardcore Portuguese (Portugal)

Breakdown of O tempo está mau.

estar
to be
o tempo
the weather
mau
bad

Questions & Answers about O tempo está mau.

Why is the verb estar used in “O tempo está mau” instead of ser?
In Portuguese, estar is used to express temporary or changeable conditions. Since weather can vary from day to day, “O tempo está mau” implies that the weather is currently bad, rather than an inherent, permanent trait.
What does mau mean in this sentence?
In this context, mau is an adjective meaning bad. It describes the undesirable state of the weather.
What is the difference between mau and mal, and why is mau used here?
Mau is an adjective meaning bad, while mal is typically used as an adverb meaning badly. Since the sentence requires an adjective to describe the weather (a noun), mau is the correct choice.
Does tempo mean time or weather in this sentence?
Although tempo can mean both time and weather, in “O tempo está mau” it refers to weather. In Portuguese, discussing weather conditions often uses the word tempo.
Are there alternative ways to say “The weather is bad” in Portuguese (Portugal)?
Yes, an alternative expression would be “O tempo está ruim.” Both mau and ruim can be used to describe unfavorable weather, though usage may depend on context and regional preferences.
AI Language TutorTry it ↗
“What's the best way to learn Portuguese grammar?”
Portuguese grammar becomes intuitive with practice. Focus on understanding the core patterns first — how sentences are structured, how verbs change form, and how words relate to each other. Our course breaks these concepts into small lessons so you can build understanding step by step.

Sign up free — start using our AI language tutor

Start learning Portuguese

Master Portuguese — from O tempo está mau to fluency

All course content and exercises are completely free — no paywalls, no trial periods.

  • ✓ Infinitely deep — unlimited vocabulary and grammar
  • ✓ Fast-paced — build complex sentences from the start
  • ✓ Unforgettable — efficient spaced repetition system
  • ✓ AI tutor to answer your grammar questions
Start learning Portuguese freeBrowse the full course