Brazilian Portuguese contains curious linguistic quirks, including the origin of the word “Copa” and the distinctive “ão” sound. Linguist Marco Neves explores these etymological questions, delving into the history and evolution of the language. Surprisingly, Neves also discusses how the word “roubar,” typically meaning “to steal,” can be used with positive connotations in specific contexts. This challenges conventional understandings of the word’s meaning and highlights semantic flexibility within the Portuguese language. The article examines instances where “roubar” carries a playful or even appreciative meaning, diverging from its negative definition. Ultimately, Neves sheds light on the fascinating complexities embedded within everyday Brazilian Portuguese vocabulary.