comprometer

Senses

1. 1.

   to compromise, to jeopardize

   to put something at risk or in danger; to harm or damage

2. 2.

   to commit, to pledge

   to obligate oneself or someone else to do something; to make a commitment

3. 3.

   to incriminate, to implicate

   to involve someone in a crime or wrongdoing; to make someone appear guilty

4. 4.

   to embarrass, to put in an awkward position

   to cause someone to feel uncomfortable or in a difficult social situation

Examples

• "A falta de investimento pode comprometer o futuro da empresa."

  The lack of investment could jeopardize the company's future.

• "Eu me comprometi a entregar o relatório até sexta-feira."

  I committed to delivering the report by Friday.

• "Não quero comprometer você com essa história."

  I don't want to implicate you in this situation.

Usage

Very common verb with multiple meanings depending on context. Often used reflexively (comprometer-se) meaning "to commit oneself" or "to get engaged" (romantically). The sense of "to compromise" is usually negative (jeopardize), not the positive English sense of "reaching an agreement." Common collocations: comprometer a saúde, comprometer-se com alguém/algo.