Meaning
To the letter / Literally
Example
A sentença deveria ser aplicada ao pé da letra conforme o juiz determinou.
The sentence should be applied to the letter as the judge determined.
Origin
A direct Latin calque of ad pedem litterae, 'to the foot of the letter.' The image is that of reading a text word by word, tracing each letter rather than paraphrasing.
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More idioms
Acertar na moscaTo guess correctly / To hit the nail on the headAmigo da onçaA fake/false friendAndar na linhaTo toe the line / To behave properlyArmar um barracoTo cause a public sceneRodar a baianaTo cause a public scene / To go ballisticArrumar sarna pra se coçarTo ask for troubleArrastar as asasTo hit on someone / To flirtAbrir o jogoTo come clean / To open upArregaçar as mangasTo roll up one's sleeves / To get to workAgarrar com unhas e dentesTo hold on for dear life / To seize an opportunity