dovetail

[/ˈdʌvteɪl/]
noun/verbpl: dovetails
cauda de andorinha (carpintaria); encaixe perfeito
1. A carpentry joint formed by interlocking wedge-shaped projections; a woodworking technique where two pieces fit together precisely
The furniture maker used dovetail joints to connect the drawer sides.
O marceneiro usou junções de cauda de andorinha para conectar os lados da gaveta.
2. A wedge-shaped projection that interlocks with another; the individual pins or tails in such a joint
Each dovetail was carefully cut to ensure a perfect fit.
Cada cauda de andorinha foi cuidadosamente cortada para garantir um ajuste perfeito.
3. To fit together or connect precisely; to complement each other perfectly
Their schedules dovetail perfectly, allowing them to work together efficiently.
Seus horários se encaixam perfeitamente, permitindo que trabalhem juntos de forma eficiente.
4. To join or combine in a harmonious or complementary way
The marketing strategy dovetails with the company's long-term goals.
A estratégia de marketing se alinha com os objetivos de longo prazo da empresa.
The term 'dovetail' originates from traditional woodworking and carpentry, particularly valued in fine furniture making. In both American and Brazilian contexts, it's used literally in carpentry but has become a common business and organizational metaphor meaning 'to fit together perfectly' or 'to complement harmoniously.' This reflects the precision and elegance associated with the joinery technique, which has been prized for centuries in high-quality furniture construction.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
jointinterlocking jointfit togethermeshcomplementaligninterlock
Antonyms / Antônimos
separatedisconnectconflictclashmismatch

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
cauda de andorinha
Standard term used in carpentry and woodworking contexts
General Brazilian
encaixe perfeito
Figurative use when describing things that fit together well
São Paulo
junta de cauda de andorinha
More formal carpentry terminology
Portugal
junta de cauda de andorinha
Portuguese equivalent; similar carpentry terminology

Related Words

carpentrywoodworkingjointmortisetenoninterlockingprecision fitjoinery

Related Idioms & Phrases

dovetail with something - to fit together perfectly with something else
dovetail into - to merge seamlessly into
dovetail arrangement - a harmonious combination of elements
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