atacar problema
to tackle problem
Literally: to attack problem
Use it when you're moving from talking about a problem to actually fixing it with energy.
In 15 Seconds
- Means taking immediate, forceful action to solve a specific difficulty.
- Perfect for professional settings to show leadership and initiative.
- Implies moving from the planning phase to the execution phase.
Meaning
It means to stop procrastinating and finally deal with a difficult situation or problem head-on with energy and focus.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business meeting
Vamos atacar o problema da queda nas vendas imediatamente.
Let's tackle the problem of the drop in sales immediately.
Talking to a roommate about chores
A pia está cheia; vou atacar esse problema agora mesmo.
The sink is full; I'm going to tackle that problem right now.
Discussing a complex issue with a partner
Precisamos atacar a raiz do problema, não apenas os sintomas.
We need to tackle the root of the problem, not just the symptoms.
Cultural Background
The phrase reflects a shift in Lusophone business culture toward proactive leadership and 'mão na massa' (hands-on) mentalities. While older generations might use more passive verbs, the modern 'atacar' suggests a dynamic, results-oriented approach common in tech and startup hubs like São Paulo or Lisbon.
Pair it with 'Raiz'
If you want to sound like a real strategist, always say 'atacar a raiz do problema'. It shows you're a deep thinker.
Don't 'Attack' People
Remember, 'atacar alguém' means a physical or verbal assault. Always include 'o problema' to keep it metaphorical!
In 15 Seconds
- Means taking immediate, forceful action to solve a specific difficulty.
- Perfect for professional settings to show leadership and initiative.
- Implies moving from the planning phase to the execution phase.
What It Means
Imagine a problem is a wall blocking your path. To atacar o problema means you aren't just looking at it. You are actively trying to tear it down. It implies a shift from passive worrying to active solving. It’s about taking the initiative. You aren't waiting for things to get better. You are making them better right now.
How To Use It
You use this phrase when you want to sound proactive. It works just like the English 'to tackle.' You usually use a definite article like o or um. For example, Precisamos atacar o problema (We need to tackle the problem). It’s a strong, punchy verb-noun combination. It sounds energetic and decisive. Use it when you have a plan of action ready to go.
When To Use It
This is perfect for the workplace. Use it during a brainstorming session when everyone is stuck. It also works great in personal life. Maybe your kitchen sink is leaking and you've ignored it for a week. Tell your partner, 'Vou atacar esse problema hoje' (I'm going to tackle this problem today). It shows you are taking responsibility. It’s a great 'hero' phrase for when you’re saving the day.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this for tiny, insignificant things. You don't atacar a choice between strawberry or chocolate ice cream. That’s too dramatic! Also, avoid using it with people. You atacar a situation, not a person (unless you mean a physical or verbal attack, which is totally different!). If a friend is sad, don't say you will atacar their sadness. It sounds a bit too aggressive for emotional support.
Cultural Background
Brazilians and Portuguese people value 'jeitinho' (finding a way), but atacar o problema represents the more structured, direct side of the culture. It’s the language of the 'mão na massa' (hands-on) attitude. It became very popular in business circles in the 90s. Now, it’s a standard way to show you are a 'doer' rather than just a 'talker.' It reflects a modern, fast-paced lifestyle.
Common Variations
You might hear atacar a raiz do problema (tackle the root of the problem). This means you are looking for the deep cause. Another one is atacar de frente (to tackle head-on). This adds even more emphasis to your bravery. If you want to sound more casual, you might say dar um jeito no problema. But atacar remains the most professional and energetic choice.
Usage Notes
The phrase is highly versatile. It sits in the 'neutral' zone, making it safe for both a casual chat with friends and a high-stakes board meeting. Just ensure the 'problem' is clearly defined.
Pair it with 'Raiz'
If you want to sound like a real strategist, always say 'atacar a raiz do problema'. It shows you're a deep thinker.
Don't 'Attack' People
Remember, 'atacar alguém' means a physical or verbal assault. Always include 'o problema' to keep it metaphorical!
The 'Mão na Massa' connection
Brazilians love the expression 'mão na massa' (hands in the dough). Using 'atacar o problema' is the verbal equivalent of rolling up your sleeves.
Examples
6Vamos atacar o problema da queda nas vendas imediatamente.
Let's tackle the problem of the drop in sales immediately.
Shows leadership and urgency in a professional setting.
A pia está cheia; vou atacar esse problema agora mesmo.
The sink is full; I'm going to tackle that problem right now.
A slightly humorous, dramatic way to talk about boring chores.
Precisamos atacar a raiz do problema, não apenas os sintomas.
We need to tackle the root of the problem, not just the symptoms.
Adds depth by using 'raiz' (root) to show serious intent.
Amanhã a gente ataca esse problema do site, beleza?
Tomorrow we'll tackle that website problem, okay?
Short, direct, and collaborative for a text message.
Se atacarmos o problema juntos, terminamos mais cedo.
If we tackle the problem together, we'll finish earlier.
Uses the conditional 'se' to motivate a group.
Vou precisar de um café bem forte para atacar esse problema!
I'm going to need a very strong coffee to tackle this problem!
Uses coffee as the 'weapon' for the 'attack'.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct form of the verb to complete the professional sentence.
Nós precisamos ___ o problema antes do fim do dia.
After 'precisamos' (we need), you use the infinitive form 'atacar'.
Complete the common variation meaning 'tackle the root'.
É melhor atacar a ___ do problema.
'Raiz' means root, referring to the core cause of an issue.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'Atacar o Problema'
Used with friends for chores or tasks.
Vou atacar essa bagunça!
Standard use in daily life and work.
Precisamos atacar o problema.
Used in reports or high-level presentations.
A estratégia visa atacar o problema.
When to use 'Atacar o Problema'
Office Meeting
Solving a bug in the software.
Home Improvement
Fixing a broken shelf.
Financial Planning
Dealing with credit card debt.
Group Project
Dividing tasks for a presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot at all! In a professional context, it’s seen as a positive, proactive trait. It shows you have energy to solve things.
Yes, you can. It sounds a bit dramatic, but in a funny, relatable way like Vou atacar essa pilha de roupa.
Resolver is the result (solving it), while atacar describes the energetic start of the process.
Yes, it is common in both Brazil and Portugal, especially in corporate and tech environments.
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable in formal writing to describe a strategy for dealing with social or economic issues.
Usually, yes, but you can also 'atacar' a 'questão' (issue) or a 'desafio' (challenge).
Forgetting the article. Always say atacar O problema, not just atacar problema.
You would say Nós atacamos o problema (in Brazil) or Nós atacámos o problema (in Portugal).
A more informal version would be cair matando, which means to dive into something with extreme intensity.
Yes, doctors might talk about atacar a doença (attacking the disease) with a specific treatment.
Related Phrases
Mão na massa
To get to work / hands-on
Dar um jeito
To find a way / to fix
Enfrentar o desafio
To face the challenge
Ir direto ao ponto
To get straight to the point
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