desenrascar
to improvise a solution, to sort oneself out, to muddle through
Pronunciation
/de.zẽ.ʁɐʃ.ˈkaʁ/
Cultural Note
The Portuguese equivalent of Brazil's 'jeitinho brasileiro.' 'Desenrascar-se' is considered a defining trait of Portuguese culture — the ability to improvise and find solutions with limited resources. The noun 'desenrascanço' has been semi-seriously proposed as an untranslatable Portuguese concept. It reflects a pragmatic, resourceful mindset born from Portugal's history as a small nation.
📝 Example Sentences
Não te preocupes, eu desenrasco-me.
Don't worry, I'll sort it out myself.
Os portugueses são mestres em desenrascar.
The Portuguese are masters of improvising solutions.
Ela desenrascou um jantar incrível com o que tinha no frigorífico.
She improvised an incredible dinner with what she had in the fridge.