desfazer

Desfazer is a Portuguese verb that means to undo, untie, unmake, dissolve, or revoke. It is formed with the prefix des- attached to fazer (to do or make), reflecting a reversal of an action. The word is used in a broad range of contexts, from physical tasks to abstract processes.

In everyday language, desfazer is transitive, requiring a direct object: desfazer algo (to undo something), such as desfazer um nó, desfazer uma montagem, or desfazer um acordo. The reflexive form, desfazer-se, means to dispose of or get rid of something or to undo a process for oneself, often followed by de: desfazer-se de um objeto, desfazer-se de velhos hábitos.

In computing and editing, desfazer is commonly used to designate the undo action that reverses the most recent operation, with refazer meaning redo. This sense is widespread in software, text editors, and digital workflows.

Conjugation and usage notes: desfazer conjugates irregularly, similar to fazer. Present indicative examples include desfaço and desfaz (or desfaças in certain forms in different dialects). The pretérito perfeito can be desfiz and desfez for the corresponding persons, while the past participle is desfeito. Understanding the verb’s irregular root changes is helpful when forming other tenses.

See also: fazer, desfeito, desfazimento, refazer.