ouça

Ouça is a Portuguese word that translates to "listen" in English. It is the imperative form of the verb ouvir, meaning "to hear" or "to listen." The word ouça is commonly used in everyday conversation and instructions, urging someone to pay attention to what is being said or to an auditory stimulus.

The verb ouvir itself has a broad range of applications. It can refer to the physical act of perceiving sound with one's ears, such as hearing a car horn or a piece of music. However, it also extends to the more active and intentional act of listening, which implies comprehension and engagement with the sound. In this sense, ouça is often used to encourage someone to focus and understand.

For example, someone might say "Ouça com atenção" which means "Listen carefully." This phrase emphasizes the need for concentration and processing of information. The word ouça can be found in various contexts, from simple commands to more nuanced expressions about understanding and empathy. It is a fundamental verb in the Portuguese language, reflecting the importance of auditory perception and attentive reception of information.