roçar

Senses

1. 1.

   to graze, to brush against

   to touch lightly or pass very close to something

2. 2.

   to clear brush, to weed

   to cut down weeds, grass, or vegetation, especially with a scythe or machete

3. 3.

   to scrape, to rub

   to cause friction between surfaces

Examples

• "A bala roçou o ombro dele, mas não causou ferimentos graves."

  The bullet grazed his shoulder, but didn't cause serious injuries.

• "Precisamos roçar o mato do quintal antes que cresça mais."

  We need to clear the brush in the backyard before it grows more.

• "Ela roçou a mão no meu braço ao passar."

  She brushed her hand against my arm as she passed by.

Usage

Common in both literal contexts (vegetation clearing, physical contact) and figurative uses. Often used with prepositions "em" or "por" when meaning to graze/brush against. In rural contexts, "roçar" specifically refers to cutting down weeds or brush, while in urban settings it more commonly means to brush/graze against something.