abrir-se

[a-BRIR-sə]
verb (pronominal/reflexive)
to open up; to confide; to become open
1. to physically open oneself or something; to spread open
The flower opens up in the morning sunlight.
A flor abre-se à luz da manhã.
2. to reveal one's feelings, thoughts, or secrets to someone; to confide
She finally opened up about her problems to her friend.
Ela finalmente abriu-se sobre seus problemas para sua amiga.
3. to become receptive or accessible to something
He opened up to new experiences and perspectives.
Ele abriu-se para novas experiências e perspectivas.
4. to begin a business or establish oneself in a profession
They opened up a new restaurant in the neighborhood.
Eles abriram-se um novo restaurante no bairro.
In Brazilian culture, 'abrir-se' is deeply valued in interpersonal relationships, reflecting the warm and communicative nature of Brazilian society. It's commonly used in therapy, counseling, and intimate conversations. The phrase 'abrir o coração' (open one's heart) is particularly significant in expressing vulnerability and emotional honesty, which are culturally respected in Brazil.
NYC Slang
open up; spill the tea
Synonyms / Sinônimos
desabafar-seconfiarrevelar-seexpor-sedescobrir-secomunicar-se
Antonyms / Antônimos
fechar-seretrair-serecusar-seocultar-seguardar-se

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
abrir-se
Standard usage; commonly used in everyday speech for both literal and figurative meanings
Rio de Janeiro
abrir-se
Same usage; may be accompanied by colloquial expressions like 'abrir-se de verdade'
São Paulo
abrir-se
Standard usage; frequently used in formal and informal contexts
Portugal
abrir-se
Similar usage but may prefer 'confiar-se' or 'desabafar-se' in emotional contexts

Related Words

abriraberturaabertofechadocomunicaçãoconfiançadesabafo

Related Idioms & Phrases

abrir-se em confidências
abrir-se o coração
abrir-se à vida
abrir-se para o mundo
abrir-se em lágrimas
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