contorcer-se

[kõn.tor.ˈser.sə]
verb
to contort oneself, to twist, to writhe
1. to bend or twist one's body into an unnatural or strained position
The acrobat contorted herself into an impressive pose.
A acrobata se contorceu em uma pose impressionante.
2. to twist or turn in response to pain, discomfort, or strong emotion
He contorted in agony after the injury.
Ele se contorceu de agonia após a lesão.
3. to move with twisting or writhing motions
The snake contorted across the ground.
A cobra se contorceu pelo chão.
In Brazilian culture, 'contorcer-se' is frequently associated with capoeira movements, samba dancing, and circus arts. It is also commonly used to describe physical reactions to intense emotions like pain or laughter. The word conveys both literal physical contortion and metaphorical emotional responses.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
torcer-seretorcer-serevirar-seserpentear
Antonyms / Antônimos
esticar-sealongar-seendireitar-se

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
contorcer-se
standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
contorcer-se
commonly used in capoeira and samba contexts
São Paulo
contorcer-se
standard usage in urban and formal contexts
Portugal
contorcer-se
identical usage; less common in everyday speech

Related Words

contorçãocontorcidoflexibilidadeacrobacia

Related Idioms & Phrases

contorcer-se de dor
contorcer-se de riso
contorcer-se em agonia
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