ficar
Regular with spelling change (c -> qu) Level A1 ⭐ #5 Most CommonEnglish translation: to stay / to remain / to become / to be located
Presente (Present)
Staying or being situated currently
| Subject Pronoun | Conjugation | Audio |
|---|---|---|
| eu | fico | |
| tu | ficas | |
| ele/ela/você | fica | |
| nós | ficamos | |
| vós | ficais | |
| eles/elas/vocês | ficam |
- O museu fica bem no centro histórico. — The museum is located right in the historic center.
- Hoje eu fico em casa descansando. — Today I am staying at home resting.
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Frequently Asked Questions: FICAR
Is "ficar" a regular or irregular verb in Portuguese? ▾
"ficar" is classified as a Regular with spelling change (c -> qu) verb in Portuguese. Its characteristic conjugation pattern is "c -> qu before 'e' (fiquei in preterite / fique in subjunctive)". Spelling change c -> qu in preterite 1st person (fiquei) and all present subjunctive forms to preserve the /k/ sound. One of the most versatile verbs in Portuguese: used for locations ('Onde fica o hotel?'), remaining ('Vou ficar em casa'), and emotional changes ('Fiquei feliz').
What does "ficar" mean in English? ▾
In English, "ficar" translates primarily to "to stay / to remain / to become / to be located". In natural speech, it is commonly used across CEFR level A1 contexts for everyday communication.
What is the most frequent mistake learners make with "ficar"? ▾
A frequent error is saying "Onde é o hotel? (for permanent buildings)" instead of "Onde fica o hotel?". Why? In Portuguese, the location of buildings, streets, and businesses naturally takes 'ficar', not 'ser'.
What are common idioms or expressions with "ficar"? ▾
A popular idiom is "Ficar de olho" which means "To keep an eye on" (e.g. "Fique de olho na minha bolsa, por favor.").
How can I practice and memorize "ficar" conjugations? ▾
Use Verbpedia's built-in interactive flashcards, pronounce each form using native Web Speech audio, and complete the instant mini-quiz below. You can also print a distraction-free A4 cheat sheet using the Print button above.
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Quick Practice: Fill in the Blanks
Test your understanding of 'ficar' across tenses
Why is the 1st person preterite of Portuguese 'ficar' spelled 'fiquei'?
Other Important Portuguese Verbs to Study
to be (permanent / identity)
to be (state, mood, location)
to have / possess
to go
to do / to make
to say / tell
to see / watch
can / to be able to
to know (facts, skills)
to want / to love
to come
to speak / to talk
to hear / to listen
to bring
to ask for / to order / to request
to feel / to regret / to hear