Fechadura vs. cadeado
The Portuguese words fechadura and cadeado both translate to lock in English, but they refer to different types of locks with distinct uses and characteristics.
Fechadura
A2Fechadura refers to the built-in lock typically installed in a door, gate, or drawer. It is a permanent fixture used for added security, often accompanied by a key or a modern locking mechanism like a keypad or digital system.
A fechadura da porta estava quebrada, então chamamos um chaveiro para consertá-la.
(The door lock was broken, so we called a locksmith to fix it.)
Eu coloquei uma fechadura eletrônica no portão para maior segurança.
(I installed an electronic lock on the gate for greater security.)
Antes de sair, certifique-se de trancar a porta com a fechadura.
(Before leaving, make sure to lock the door with the lock.)
Cadeado
A2Cadeado refers to a portable lock, often padlock-style, that can be used to secure items like lockers, gates, chains, or storage boxes. It typically consists of a metal loop and a key or combination system.
Coloquei um cadeado na bicicleta para garantir que ninguém a leve.
(I put a padlock on the bike to make sure no one takes it.)
O cadeado da minha bolsa tem um segredo que só eu sei.
(The padlock on my bag has a combination only I know.)
Precisamos de um cadeado para trancar o portão do jardim.
(We need a padlock to lock the garden gate.)
Summary
In summary, fechadura refers to a fixed lock that is typically built into doors or similar structures, whereas cadeado is a movable lock, such as a padlock, that is used for securing various items. These terms are not interchangeable because they describe different uses and designs of locks.