English Meaning & Definitions
An expression used to show surprise, impatience, gentle reproach, or encouragement; similar to 'well', 'come on', or 'now then'.
- “Ora, não fiques triste por uma coisa dessas!”
- “Ora essa, não tens de agradecer!”
Used in correlative constructions meaning 'now... now...', indicating alternating actions or states (ora... ora...).
- “O tempo está incerto: ora chove, ora faz sol.”
- “Ele ora sorria, ora chorava sem motivo aparente.”
Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown
Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “ora”.
Derived from Latin 'hōram' (hour, time), passing through Old Portuguese. As an interjection, its usage evolved from marking a temporal transition ('now') to expressing various emotional nuances such as impatience, realization, or encouragement.
Think of the English word 'hour' (hora in Portuguese, without the 'h') to remember its temporal roots, which evolved into the interjection 'ora' meaning 'now' or 'come on'.
Frequently Asked Questions About “ora”
1. What is the meaning of “ora” in English?
In English, ora (interjection) is defined as: “An expression used to show surprise, impatience, gentle reproach, or encouragement; similar to 'well', 'come on', or 'now then'.”.
2. How do you use “ora” in a sentence?
“Ora, não fiques triste por uma coisa dessas!”
4. What is the etymology and word origin of “ora”?
Derived from Latin 'hōram' (hour, time), passing through Old Portuguese. As an interjection, its usage evolved from marking a temporal transition ('now') to expressing various emotional nuances such as impatience, realization, or encouragement.
🇵🇹More Portuguese Words to English
View all Portuguese words →At the present time or moment; now.
A person who sharpens cutting tools, such as knives, scissors, and razors, often historically traveling from place to place.
To consent, assent, or agree to something, often formally or by granting a request.
To risk money or something of value on the outcome of an uncertain event, game, or race; to bet.