English Meaning & Definitions
An expression of impatience, disbelief, annoyance, or dismissal; equivalent to 'oh well', 'come on', 'gosh', or 'bulls***' in milder contexts.
- “Ora bolas, não acredito que perdemos o último autocarro!”
- “Ora bolas, não é preciso fazer tanta birra por causa de um brinquedo.”
English Synonyms & Near Equivalents
Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown
Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “ora bolas”.
An expressive Portuguese interjection combining 'ora' (an exclamation meaning 'well' or 'now') and 'bolas' (literally 'balls' or 'marbles', used here as a mild minced oath or euphemism for frustration, similar to 'gosh' or 'darn'). It has long been used in Portugal and Brazil to express mild annoyance, disbelief, or resignation.
Imagine dropping your marbles (bolas) and shouting 'ora bolas!' in frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions About “ora bolas”
1. What is the meaning of “ora bolas” in English?
In English, ora bolas (interjection) is defined as: “An expression of impatience, disbelief, annoyance, or dismissal; equivalent to 'oh well', 'come on', 'gosh', or 'bulls***' in milder contexts.”.
2. How do you use “ora bolas” in a sentence?
“Ora bolas, não acredito que perdemos o último autocarro!”
3. What are English synonyms of “ora bolas”?
4. What is the etymology and word origin of “ora bolas”?
An expressive Portuguese interjection combining 'ora' (an exclamation meaning 'well' or 'now') and 'bolas' (literally 'balls' or 'marbles', used here as a mild minced oath or euphemism for frustration, similar to 'gosh' or 'darn'). It has long been used in Portugal and Brazil to express mild annoyance, disbelief, or resignation.
🇵🇹More Portuguese Words to English
View all Portuguese words →Ahead, forward, further along in space or time.
At the present time or moment; now.
Showing joy, happiness, or good spirits; cheerful, merry, or joyful.
A person who sharpens cutting tools, such as knives, scissors, and razors, often historically traveling from place to place.