cavalo-vapor
1. A unit of power equal to 746 watts, used to measure the power output of engines and motors
The car engine produces 250 horsepower.
O motor do carro produz 250 cavalos-vapor.
2. The power or strength of something, often used metaphorically to describe capability or capacity
This new computer has enough horsepower to handle complex tasks.
Este novo computador tem potência suficiente para lidar com tarefas complexas.
Horsepower is a critical specification in both American and Brazilian automotive culture. In Brazil, the abbreviation 'cv' (cavalo-vapor) is extremely common in car advertisements and specifications. The term reflects the historical measurement system established by James Watt in the 18th century. In everyday Brazilian Portuguese, 'potência' is often used colloquially instead of the more technical 'cavalo-vapor'.
Related Idioms & Phrases
full horsepower - at maximum capacity or power
under the hood horsepower - actual power versus advertised power
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