Learning a new language is like getting VIP access to a secret club: suddenly you understand the jokes, the memes, and the conversations happening around you. If Portuguese is your club of choice, you’re in very good company: more than 260 million people worldwide speak it every day. But before you blast off to Lisbon or sip caipirinhas on a beach in Rio, you’ll want a ready-to-go toolkit of common Portuguese words that let you greet, thank, order, and explore with confidence. 

Below you’ll find a carefully curated starter pack of Portuguese words, divvied up into useful categories. Ready to upgrade your language game? Vamos lá!

## Portuguese Greetings & First Impressions

Whether you’re meeting future in-laws or asking a stranger for directions, your opening line sets the tone. Master these [Portuguese greetings](https://tandem.net/blog/15-portuguese-greetings-for-every-day) early and the rest of the convo flows like creamy brigadeiro.

- **Olá** : Hello 
 *Ex.:* Olá, tudo bem? *(Hi, how’s it going?)*
- **Oi** : Hi / Hey 
 *Ex.:* Oi, gente! *(Hey, folks!)*
- **Bom dia** : Good morning 
 *Ex.:* Bom dia, Pedro! *(Good morning, Pedro!)*
- **Boa tarde** : Good afternoon 
 *Ex.:* Chego às três, boa tarde! *(I arrive at three, good afternoon!)*
- **Boa noite** : Good evening / Good night 
 *Ex.:* Boa noite, até amanhã. *(Good night, see you tomorrow.)*
- **Tchau** : Bye 
 *Ex.:* Vou embora, tchau! *(I’m leaving, bye!)*

> ✨ Pro tip: Once you’re comfortable with the classics, spice things up with some [Portuguese slang](https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-slang) to sound extra local.

## Portuguese Numbers: Counting from 1 to 20 (and Beyond)

If you want to haggle at a feira, shout your table number to a waiter, or just keep score during a beachside futebol match, knowing your digits is essential. Start here and you’ll be trading phone numbers and bragging about how many pastéis de nata you’ve eaten in no time.

- **Um / Uma** : One 
 *Ex.:* Quero um café, por favor. *(I’d like one coffee, please.)*
- **Dois / Duas** : Two 
 *Ex.:* Tenho duas mochilas. *(I have two backpacks.)*
- **Três** : Three 
 *Ex.:* Três ingressos para o filme, por favor. *(Three tickets for the movie, please.)*
- **Quatro** : Four 
 *Ex.:* O hotel tem quatro andares. *(The hotel has four floors.)*
- **Cinco** : Five 
 *Ex.:* São cinco horas. *(It’s five o’clock.)*
- **Seis** : Six 
 *Ex.:* O show começa às seis. *(The show starts at six.)*
- **Sete** : Seven 
 *Ex.:* Chego às sete em ponto. *(I arrive at exactly seven.)*
- **Oito** : Eight 
 *Ex.:* A aula dura oito semanas. *(The class lasts eight weeks.)*
- **Nove** : Nine 
 *Ex.:* Tenho nove reais. *(I have nine reais.)*
- **Dez** : Ten 
 *Ex.:* Dez minutos de intervalo. *(Ten‑minute break.)*
- **Onze** : Eleven 
 *Ex.:* São onze pessoas na fila. *(There are eleven people in line.)*
- **Doze** : Twelve 
 *Ex.:* O relógio marca doze horas. *(The clock strikes twelve.)*
- **Treze** : Thirteen 
 *Ex.:* Ele tem treze anos. *(He’s thirteen years old.)*
- **Catorze / Quatorze** : Fourteen 
 *Ex.:* Quatorze dias de férias. *(Fourteen days of vacation.)*
- **Quinze** : Fifteen 
 *Ex.:* São quinze euros. *(That’s fifteen euros.)*
- **Dezesseis / Dezasseis** : Sixteen 
 *Ex.:* Ela tem dezesseis anos. *(She’s sixteen years old.)*
- **Dezessete / Dezassete** : Seventeen 
 *Ex.:* Faltam dezessete minutos. *(Seventeen minutes left.)*
- **Dezoito** : Eighteen 
 *Ex.:* Ele chega no dia dezoito. *(He arrives on the eighteenth.)*
- **Dezenove / Dezanove** : Nineteen 
 *Ex.:* Aula às dezenove horas. *(Class at 19:00.)*
- **Vinte** : Twenty 
 *Ex.:* Vinte pessoas confirmaram. *(Twenty people confirmed.)*

Got the basics down? Stack ’em to build bigger numbers: *trinta e dois* (32), *quarenta e sete* (47), *cem* (100) and so on. Practice counting out loud on your commute or tally how many times friends say "legal" in a day for effortless fluency.

## Portuguese Words for Politeness & Pleasantries

Politeness greases the social wheels in any language. These courteous Portuguese words will help you navigate cafés, shops, and everyday chats without sounding like a caveman.

- **Por favor** : Please 
 *Ex.:* Um café, por favor. *(A coffee, please.)*
- **Obrigado/Obrigada** : Thank you (male/female speaker) 
 *Ex.:* Obrigada pela ajuda! *(Thanks for the help!)*
- **De nada** : You’re welcome 
 *Ex.:* :Obrigado! :De nada! *( :Thanks! :You’re welcome! )*
- **Com licença** : Excuse me 
 *Ex.:* Com licença, posso passar? *(Excuse me, can I pass?)*
- **Desculpe** : Sorry 
 *Ex.:* Desculpe pelo atraso. *(Sorry for the delay.)*
- **Tudo bem?** : All good? / How are you? 
 *Ex.:* :Oi, tudo bem? :Tudo ótimo! *( :Hi, how are you? :Great! )*

## Common Portuguese Words for Directions & Getting Around

Lost in a maze of pastel-painted streets? These words are your compass. A few well-placed nouns and question words can save you hours of wandering (unless wandering is the plan).

- **Onde** : Where 
 *Ex.:* Onde fica a estação? *(Where is the station?)*
- **Aqui / Ali / Lá** : Here / There (near) / There (far) 
 *Ex.:* A farmácia fica ali. *(The pharmacy is there.)*
- **Direita / Esquerda** : Right / Left 
 *Ex.:* Vire à direita depois do banco. *(Turn right after the bank.)*
- **Em frente** : Straight ahead 
 *Ex.:* Siga em frente por três quarteirões. *(Go straight for three blocks.)*
- **Perto / Longe** : Near / Far 
 *Ex.:* É perto daqui? *(Is it near here?)*
- **Quanto custa?** : How much does it cost? 
 *Ex.:* Quanto custa a passagem? *(How much is the ticket?)*

**Ready to test-drive these phrases with real humans? Download [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) and swap directions with a Lisbon local in minutes.**

<h2>Basic Portuguese Words for Food, Drink &amp; Ordering Like a Pro</h2>

Portuguese cuisine is legendary: pastéis de nata, feijoada, bacalhau, the list is mouth-watering. These common Portuguese words make menus less mysterious and keep you fueled for sightseeing.

<ul>
 <li>Água : Water Ex.: Uma garrafa de água, por favor. (A bottle of water, please.)</li>
 <li>Cerveja : Beer Ex.: Duas cervejas geladas, obrigada. (Two cold beers, thanks.)</li>
 <li>Vinho : Wine Ex.: Prefere vinho tinto ou branco? (Do you prefer red or white wine?)</li>
 <li>Conta : Bill Ex.: A conta, por favor. (The bill, please.)</li>
 <li>Prato do dia : Dish of the day Ex.: Qual é o prato do dia? (What’s the dish of the day?)</li>
 <li>Delicioso : Delicious Ex.: Este bolo está delicioso! (This cake is delicious!)</li>
</ul>

If you want to level up from polite to playful, sprinkle in a few tasteful
<a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-insults">Portuguese insults</a>. Just kidding (mostly). Use responsibly!

<h2>Portuguese Words for Emergencies &amp; Asking for Help</h2>

Nobody plans for mishaps, but life loves plot twists. Keep these words handy for peace of mind.

<ul>
 <li>Ajuda : Help Ex.: Preciso de ajuda! (I need help!)</li>
 <li>Polícia : Police Ex.: Chame a polícia! (Call the police!)</li>
 <li>Médico : Doctor Ex.: Há um médico por perto? (Is there a doctor nearby?)</li>
 <li>Perdi-me : I got lost Ex.: Acho que me perdi. (I think I got lost.)</li>
 <li>Perigo : Danger Ex.: Isso parece perigo! (That looks dangerous!)</li>
 <li>Farmácia : Pharmacy Ex.: Onde fica a farmácia mais próxima? (Where is the nearest pharmacy?)</li>
</ul>

<h2>Small Talk &amp; Everyday Vibes</h2>

Once the essentials are down, small talk keeps conversations rolling. These Portuguese words help you bond over weather, hobbies, and weekend plans.

<ul>
 <li>Tempo : Weather / Time Ex.: Que tempo faz hoje? (What’s the weather like today?)</li>
 <li>Hoje / Amanhã : Today / Tomorrow Ex.: Temos aula amanhã? (Do we have class tomorrow?)</li>
 <li>Legal : Cool / Nice Ex.: Esse filme é muito legal. (That movie is really cool.)</li>
 <li>Gosto de : I like Ex.: Gosto de música brasileira. (I like Brazilian music.)</li>
 <li>Talvez : Maybe Ex.: Talvez eu vá à festa. (Maybe I’ll go to the party.)</li>
 <li>Saúde : Bless you / Cheers Ex.: :Atchim! :Saúde! (:Achoo! :Bless you!)</li>
</ul>

Want even more chat-ready nuggets? Check out our guide to trendy
<a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-phrases">Portuguese phrases</a> that locals actually use.

<h2>Wrapping Up: Your Next Steps in Portuguese</h2>

Voilà, you now have a pocket-sized arsenal of roughly fifty powerhouse words. With these common Portuguese words under your belt (and a bit of practice), you can greet strangers, order feijoada, navigate narrow alleys, and even survive the occasional calamity. Keep in mind that vocabulary sticks best when you use it in real conversations, not flash-card vacuums. That’s where <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> shines. Connect with native speakers, swap audio messages, and watch your fluency skyrocket. Até logo e boa prática!

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Learn common Portuguese words such as greetings, numbers, directions, food terms, emergencies, and small-talk essentials with examples and translations.

common portuguese words

Common Portuguese Words for Beginners

common portuguese words1

Olá (Hello), Oi (Hi), Bom dia (Good morning), Boa tarde (Good afternoon), and Boa noite (Good evening) are some of the first greetings every learner should know.

What are the most common Portuguese greetings for beginners?

"Por favor" means "please," while "Obrigado" (male speaker) and "Obrigada" (female speaker) mean "thank you."

How do you say "please" and "thank you" in Portuguese?

Using language-exchange apps like Tandem to chat with native speakers helps reinforce new vocabulary through real conversations.

What’s the best way to practice Portuguese vocabulary?

Portuguese rolls off the tongue like a slow samba beat: rich, rhythmic, and brimming with emotion. Whether it drifts from a fado bar in Lisbon or rings out in joyful shouts on a Rio de Janeiro beach, the language dazzles with musicality. From playful Portuguese slang worthy of a street-corner roda to velvety lyrics that melt in your ear, every syllable drips with character. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most beautiful words Portuguese has to offer, explain their meanings, and show you how to weave them naturally into conversation. Ready to fall in love with Portuguese? Let’s jump in.

<h2>Why Portuguese Sounds Like Music</h2>

Portuguese isn’t merely spoken; it’s played. Crisp open vowels (á, é, ó) snap like a tamborim, while languid nasal diphthongs (ão, õe) hum like a stand-up bass. This built-in groove, called ginga, pulses through samba beats, capoeira chants, and even the rhythmic cheers echoing in Maracanã Stadium. Over centuries, Moorish melismas, West-African call-and-response, and Indigenous Tupi onomatopoeia layered themselves onto Latin roots, sculpting a phonetic palette as kaleidoscopic as Carnival. Even a breezy \*Oi, tudo bem?, one of the classic <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/15-portuguese-greetings-for-every-day">Portuguese greetings</a>, lands on the ear like the opening chord of a bossa-nova tune.

<h2>21 Beautiful Portuguese Words You Need in Your Life</h2>

Before we dive into this treasure trove of beautiful words, remember that Portuguese vocabulary shines brightest in real-life conversation. So, slip these gems into your next audio message, text thread, or café chat!

<h3>1. Saudade</h3>
Meaning: A bittersweet, nostalgic longing for someone or something absent.
<blockquote>PT: Sinto uma saudade enorme dos verões na Bahia. 
EN: “I feel an enormous longing for the summers in Bahia.”</blockquote>

<h3>2. Cafuné</h3>
Meaning: The act of running your fingers tenderly through someone’s hair.
<blockquote>PT: Gosto de adormecer com o seu cafuné. 
EN: “I like to fall asleep while you stroke my hair.”</blockquote>

<h3>3. Xodó</h3>
Meaning: A cherished person, object, or pet; your special darling.
<blockquote>PT: Essa canção é o meu xodó. 
EN: “That song is my absolute favorite.”</blockquote>

<h3>4. Lindeza</h3>
Meaning: Literally “beauty,” often used affectionately to address someone adorable.
<blockquote>PT: Bom dia, lindeza! 
EN: “Good morning, gorgeous!”</blockquote>

<h3>5. Fofoca</h3>
Meaning: Light, juicy gossip (the playful kind shared over coffee).
<blockquote>PT: Vamos tomar um café e colocar a fofoca em dia? 
EN: “Shall we grab a coffee and catch up on the gossip?”</blockquote>
 
Pssst—conversations like this bubble with the best <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-slang">Portuguese slang</a> you’ll hear in any Brazilian café.

<h3>6. Desenrascanço / Desenrascar</h3>
Meaning: The Portuguese knack for improvising a clever solution at the last minute.
<blockquote>PT: Ele fez um verdadeiro desenrascanço para consertar o carro. 
EN: “He totally winged it to fix the car.”</blockquote>
 
🎧 Quick practice break! Want to roll these words off your tongue with locals? Download <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> and swap audio messages with native speakers today.

<h3>7. Miminho</h3>
Meaning: A small act of affection, like a treat, cuddle, or pampering gesture.
<blockquote>PT: Preparei um miminho para o teu aniversário. 
EN: “I prepared a little treat for your birthday.”</blockquote>

<h3>8. Cafezinho</h3>
Meaning: The beloved Brazilian ritual of a tiny yet potent coffee served with a warm welcome.
<blockquote>PT: Chega mais, toma um cafezinho! 
EN: “Come on in, have a little coffee!”</blockquote>

<h3>9. Abraço Apertado</h3>
Meaning: A tight hug that squeezes the stress away.
<blockquote>PT: Depois das notícias, só quero um abraço apertado. 
EN: “After that news, I just want a big bear hug.”</blockquote>
 
Tuck this embrace into your arsenal of heartfelt <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-phrases">Portuguese phrases</a> for daily warmth.

<h3>10. Borogodó</h3>
Meaning: That irresistible, hard-to-define charm someone exudes.
<blockquote>PT: Ela tem um borogodó que ninguém explica. 
EN: “She has a special charm that no one can explain.”</blockquote>

<h3>11. Malemolência</h3>
Meaning: The relaxed, almost lazy sway of Brazilian dance, or attitude; smooth finesse.
<blockquote>PT: A malemolência do samba conquista todo mundo. 
EN: “The relaxed sway of samba wins everyone over.”</blockquote>

<h3>12. Encantador</h3>
Meaning: Enchanting or captivating; often used to describe places or people.
<blockquote>PT: O pôr do sol em Lisboa é encantador. 
EN: “The sunset in Lisbon is enchanting.”</blockquote>

<h3>13. Estrepolia</h3>
Meaning: Playful mischief or shenanigans.
<blockquote>PT: As crianças voltaram cheias de estrepolia da festa. 
EN: “The kids came back full of mischief from the party.”</blockquote>
 
Cheeky fun like this sits a few notches below the sharper wit of <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-insults">Portuguese insults</a>, so choose wisely!

<h3>14. Carinho</h3>
Meaning: Affection, tenderness, or loving care.
<blockquote>PT: Ela cuidou dele com muito carinho. 
EN: “She took care of him with great affection.”</blockquote>

<h3>15. Esperança</h3>
Meaning: Hope—a heartfelt optimism that better days are ahead.
<blockquote>PT: Mantemos a esperança de dias melhores. 
EN: “We keep the hope of better days.”</blockquote>

<h3>16. Apaixonar</h3>
Meaning: To fall passionately in love. (Reflexive: apaixonar-se)
<blockquote>PT: É impossível não se apaixonar pelo Rio ao pôr do sol. 
EN: “It’s impossible not to fall in love with Rio at sunset.”</blockquote>

<h3>17. Gostosa</h3>
Meaning: Literally “tasty,” but colloquially used to describe someone attractive in Brazil.
<blockquote>PT: Ela chegou toda gostosa, chamando a atenção de todos. 
EN: “She showed up looking gorgeous, turning everyone’s head.”</blockquote>

<h3>18. Fado</h3>
Meaning: Portugal’s haunting traditional music genre, and by extension, a sense of destiny or fate.
<blockquote>PT: O fado ecoava nas ruas estreitas de Alfama. 
EN: “Fado echoed through the narrow streets of Alfama.”</blockquote>

<h3>19. Desabafar</h3>
Meaning: To vent or unburden one’s heart.
<blockquote>PT: Preciso desabafar sobre o trabalho. Vamos tomar um vinho? 
EN: “I need to vent about work. Shall we grab some wine?”</blockquote>

<h3>20. Mágoa</h3>
Meaning: Deep heartache or emotional wound that lingers.
<blockquote>PT: Ainda sinto mágoa pelo que aconteceu. 
EN: “I still feel heartache about what happened.”</blockquote>

<h3>21. Espelhar</h3>
Meaning: To mirror or reflect—physically or metaphorically.
<blockquote>PT: Os filhos costumam espelhar os pais em muitos hábitos. 
EN: “Children often mirror their parents in many habits.”</blockquote>

<h2>Weaving Beautiful Portuguese Words Into Everyday Chat</h2>

Learning languages is about more than grammar drills; it’s about collecting feelings, flavors, and perspectives. Portuguese offers all three wrapped in lyrical sounds and heartfelt warmth. Whether saudade drew you in, apaixonar swept you off your feet, or borogodó charmed you, these words are ready to enrich your daily conversations.

Ready to practice in real time? Download <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> and chat with Portuguese speakers around the globe. Até logo e boa aprendizagem!

Explore 21 of the most beautiful Portuguese words, from saudade to borogodó, with meanings, examples, and tips for using them in conversation.

beautiful portuguese words

21 Beautiful Portuguese Words and What They Mean

beautiful portuguese words1

Words like saudade, cafuné, xodó, lindeza, and borogodó are considered among the most beautiful in Portuguese. The article lists 21 such words with meanings and examples.

What are some beautiful Portuguese words?

Saudade is a bittersweet, nostalgic longing for someone or something absent.

What does saudade mean in Portuguese?

You can practice these words with native speakers using the Tandem language-exchange app, linked in the article.

How can I practice Portuguese vocabulary?

Ever heard someone tell you to **stick your foot in a jackfruit** or to **take your horse out of the rain**? Welcome to the wonderfully weird universe of Brazilian idioms and Brazilian sayings. While English has its own fair share of head‑scratchers (looking at you, “raining cats and dogs”), the creativity of Brazilian Portuguese hits different. Each phrase is a tiny postcard from Brazil’s history, mixing Indigenous roots, African rhythms, colonial mishaps, and, of course, that trademark Brazilian humor. In this guide, we’ll unwrap some of the most colorful expressions that simply refuse to behave when translated literally. By the end, you’ll not only understand them, you’ll be itching to drop them into your next convo.

## Why These Colorful Lines Make Brazilians Laugh (and English Speakers Blink)

Languages evolve around what a culture eats, farms, jokes about, and worries over. So it’s no surprise that many Brazilian sayings revolve around food, farm animals, and the occasional household object‑turned‑metaphor. Most expressions below come from oral tradition, so their origins are debated, but their usage is 100 % alive. 

## Brazilian Sayings About Animal Antics: Farm, Forest & Foolery

From cows in trouble to sneaky pigs, Brazil’s fauna is front and center in everyday banter. Each of these expressions packs centuries of rural life into a single punchline; ask any Brazilian grandparent and they’ll likely have a story to illustrate it:

- **A vaca foi pro brejo** — *The cow went to the swamp*\
  **Meaning**: Everything’s gone south; the situation is beyond repair.\
  **Ex.:** "A vaca foi pro brejo ontem e agora precisamos encontrar outra solução."\
  *(Translation: “The cow went to the swamp yesterday, and now we need to find another solution.”)*

- **Um espírito de porco** — *A pig’s spirit*\
  **Meaning**: A trouble‑maker with dirty tricks up their sleeve.\
  **Ex.:** "Ele é um espírito de porco; vive atrapalhando todo mundo."\
  *(Translation: “He’s a pig’s spirit; always messing everybody up.”)*
- **Estar com a macaca** — *To be with the female monkey*\
  **Meaning**: To be in a foul, irritable mood.\
  **Ex.:** "Fica longe do chefe hoje; ele tá com a macaca."\
  *(Translation: “Stay away from the boss today; he’s in a terrible mood.”)*
- **João sem braço** — *Armless John*\
  **Meaning**: Someone who plays dumb to avoid responsibility.\
  **Ex.:** "Não vem de João sem braço; eu vi você derrubar o café!"\
  *(Translation: “Don’t play dumb; I saw you knock over the coffee!”)*
- **Tirar o cavalinho da chuva** — *Take your little horse out of the rain*\
  **Meaning**: Give up hope; what you want isn’t happening.\
  **Ex.:** "Pode tirar o cavalinho da chuva; não tem feriado extra."\
  *(Translation: “You can take your horse out of the rain; there’s no extra holiday.”)*
- **Pegar alguém de calças curtas** — *Catch someone in short pants*\
  **Meaning**: To catch someone off guard.\
  **Ex.:** "A pergunta do professor me pegou de calças curtas."\
  *(Translation: “The teacher’s question caught me off guard.”)*

In a country where cattle ranching and rainforest wildlife are staples of daily life, it’s no wonder animals wander into everyday conversation. Master these and you’ll immediately sound more in tune with Brazil’s rural roots, even if the closest you’ve been to a swamp is your living‑room ficus.

> 🎉 **Pro tip:** The fastest way to practice dropping these lines into real conversation is to chat with native speakers on [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u). Download the app and see how many you can squeeze into a single session!

## Brazilian Sayings About Food & Kitchen Comedy

Brazilian cuisine is famous worldwide, so it’s only natural that the pantry doubles as a phrasebook. Food is comfort, community, and occasionally mild chaos, perfect raw material for metaphors. It’s also one area where the [difference between European and Brazilian Portuguese](https://tandem.net/blog/tips-difference-european-brazilian-portuguese) really comes to the table! If you’re already a fan of everyday [Brazilian slang](https://tandem.net/blog/brazilian-slang), the following culinary idioms will feel like dessert. When someone throws one of these lines your way, it may be time to check if dinner is burnt, or if your reputation is:

- **Enfiar o pé na jaca** — *Stick your foot in the jackfruit*\
  **Meaning**: To overdo it, usually partying or eating/drinking too much.\
  **Ex.:** "No Carnaval eu enfiei o pé na jaca mesmo!"\
  *(Translation: “I really overdid it during Carnival!”)*

- **Falar abobrinha** — *Speak zucchini*\
  **Meaning**: Talk nonsense.\
  **Ex.:** "Ele só fala abobrinha quando está cansado."\
  *(Translation: “He only talks nonsense when he’s tired.”)*
- **Arroz de festa** — *Party rice*\
  **Meaning**: A social butterfly who shows up at every event.\
  **Ex.:** "A Paula é arroz de festa; sempre presente."\
  *(Translation: “Paula is party rice; always around.”)*
- **Dar sopa** — *Give soup*\
  **Meaning**: To lead someone on or make yourself easy prey.\
  **Ex.:** "Você vai dar sopa pra aquele cara de novo?"\
  *(Translation: “Are you going to make it easy for that guy again?”)*
- **Bater/dar com a língua nos dentes** — *Tap the tongue on the teeth*\
  **Meaning**: Spill the beans.\
  **Ex.:** "Não bata a língua nos dentes sobre a surpresa!"\
  *(Translation: “Don’t spill the beans about the surprise!”)*
- **Estar/ter com a faca e o queijo nas mãos** — *Have the knife and the cheese in your hands*\
  **Meaning**: Hold all the cards / have the upper hand.\
  **Ex.:** "Com esse contrato você tem a faca e o queijo nas mãos."\
  *(Translation: “With this contract, you have the knife and the cheese in your hands.”)*
- **Última bolacha do pacote** — *The last cracker in the bag*\
  **Meaning**: Someone who thinks they’re irresistible or special.\
  **Ex.:** "Ele se acha a última bolacha do pacote."\
  *(Translation: “He thinks he’s the last cracker in the bag.”)*

Notice how many of these idioms revolve around indulgence? Brazil’s relationship with food is joyous and a little dramatic, which is exactly how language lovers like it. Slip one in at the dinner table, and you’ll collect grins faster than you can when refilling a bowl of feijoada.

## Brazilian Idioms About Gossip, Romance & Other Social Hazards

Love triangles, reputation management, and the fine art of doing nothing, this set of Brazilian idioms covers the messy social side of life. From Carnival flirtations to workplace politics, you’ll hear them everywhere (and yes, when things get spicy, a few well‑timed [Portuguese insults](https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-insults) may appear too!):

- **Cuidar da vida dos outros** — *Take care of other people’s lives*\
  **Meaning**: Gossip about others.\
  **Ex.:** "Para de cuidar da vida dos outros e cuida da sua!"\
  *(Translation: “Stop minding other people’s business and mind yours!”)*

- **Passar‑lhe a perna** — *Slip a leg under you*\
  **Meaning**: To trick or cheat someone.\
  **Ex.:** "Ele me passou a perna no negócio."\
  *(Translation: “He tricked me in the deal.”)*
- **Queimar o filme** — *Burn the film*\
  **Meaning**: To tarnish someone’s reputation.\
  **Ex.:** "Aquele escândalo queimou o filme do político."\
  *(Translation: “That scandal ruined the politician’s reputation.”)*
- **Procurar pelo em ovo** — *Look for hair on an egg*\
  **Meaning**: Nitpick or look for problems where none exist.\
  **Ex.:** "Pare de procurar pelo em ovo no relatório."\
  *(Translation: “Stop looking for hair on an egg in the report.”)*
- **Chove e não molha** — *It rains but it doesn’t get wet*\
  **Meaning**: A lot of talk, no action.\
  **Ex.:** "Esse plano é só chove e não molha."\
  *(Translation: “That plan is all talk and no action.”)*
- **Segurar vela** — *Hold the candle*\
  **Meaning**: Be the third wheel on a date or outing.\
  **Ex.:** "Não quero segurar vela de vocês hoje."\
  *(Translation: “I don’t want to third‑wheel for you two today.”)*
- **Esticar o chiclete** — *Stretch the gum*\
  **Meaning**: Drag a discussion or situation longer than necessary.\
  **Ex.:** "Vamos decidir agora em vez de esticar o chiclete."\
  *(Translation: “Let’s decide now instead of stretching the gum.”)*

If Brazilian Portuguese had a middle name, it would be *community*. These expressions thrive in social settings where everyone knows everyone’s business. Sprinkle them into your next grupo de WhatsApp chat and watch the laughing‑crying emojis pile up.

## Life’s Curveballs: Fixes, Fails & Finales

Need to fix a problem fast—or just pretend it doesn’t exist? These life‑lesson sayings are the linguistic equivalent of a shrug, a wink, or a knowing nod:

- **Tapar o sol com a peneira** — *Cover the sun with a sieve*\
  **Meaning**: Make a feeble attempt to hide a big mistake.\
  **Ex.:** "Não tente tapar o sol com a peneira; admita o erro."\
  *(Translation: “Don’t try to cover the sun with a sieve; admit the mistake.”)*

- **Casa da mãe Joana** — *Mother Joanna’s house*\
  **Meaning**: A chaotic place where anything goes.\
  **Ex.:** "Essa reunião virou casa da mãe Joana."\
  *(Translation: “This meeting turned into Mother Joanna’s house.”)*

- **Pensar na morte da bezerra** — *Think about the heifer’s death*\
  **Meaning**: Zone out or daydream, often looking sad.\
  **Ex.:** "Você tá pensando na morte da bezerra?"\
  *(Translation: “Are you daydreaming about the heifer’s death?”)*

- **Quebrar um galho** — *Break a branch*\
  **Meaning**: Help someone out in a pinch.\
  **Ex.:** "Pode quebrar um galho pra mim e revisar o texto?"\
  *(Translation: “Could you do me a favor and proofread the text?”)*

- **Meter o louco** — *Put the crazy on*\
  **Meaning**: Act crazy or ignore the rules to get your way.\
  **Ex.:** "Ele meteu o louco e saiu sem pagar."\
  *(Translation: “He played crazy and left without paying.”)*

- **Bater as botas** — *Thump the boots*\
  **Meaning**: Kick the bucket / die.\
  **Ex.:** "Meu celular bateu as botas ontem."\
  *(Translation: “My cell phone kicked the bucket yesterday.”)*

Stuff happens. Brazilian Portuguese just wraps it in humor so we can all laugh before fixing things.

## Making These Brazilian Idioms Yours

Memorizing a list is cool, but throwing one of these Brazilian sayings out at the perfect moment is cooler. Immersion is king—movies, music, memes, and especially one‑on‑one chats. By mixing expressions from this guide with fresh slang you pick up, you’ll soon be talking like a local. Ready to sound authentically Brazilian, mistakes and all? Download **[Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u)** and take these expressions for a spin today.

Explore colorful Brazilian sayings and idioms, their literal English translations, and real meanings, plus tips to practice them with native speakers.

brazilian sayings

26 Brazilian Sayings That Make No Sense in English

brazilian sayings1

Expressions like 'A vaca foi pro brejo' (The cow went to the swamp) and 'Enfiar o pé na jaca' (Stick your foot in the jackfruit) sound bizarre in literal English but mean everyday things such as 'Everything went wrong' and 'I overdid it.'

What are some funny Brazilian sayings in English?

Idioms reflect Brazil’s rural life, cuisine, and humor. Literal translations lose that cultural context, so phrases about cows, jackfruit, or short pants can seem nonsensical in English.

Why do Brazilian idioms sound strange when translated?

Immerse yourself in Brazilian media and practice with native speakers. Use Tandem, a language‑exchange app to test new expressions in real conversations.

How can I learn to use Brazilian idioms naturally?

Download Tandem, an app where you can chat, call, and exchange corrections with native Portuguese speakers in real time.

Where can I practice Brazilian Portuguese online?

If you're eager to dive deeper into the colorful and passionate Portuguese language, you've probably explored everyday phrases and slang. But there's another layer of language that often sparks curiosity—Portuguese swear words. Swearing in Portuguese can be humorous, expressive, and downright satisfying, but it's also essential to understand when and where it's appropriate.

 Whether you're chatting casually with friends or trying to avoid embarrassment in a formal situation, this guide to swear words in Portuguese has you covered. Buckle up and prepare to get a little cheeky—Portuguese style!

 <h2>Why Learn Portuguese Swear Words?</h2>
 Learning Portuguese swear words isn't just about being rebellious; it's about truly understanding Portuguese-speaking cultures. Swear words convey emotion, provide comic relief, and can sometimes even help you blend in better. Knowing these words will give you insights into cultural nuances that textbooks might skip, helping you navigate social situations more confidently. Plus, if you plan to travel, live, or form friendships within Portuguese-speaking communities, understanding swear words can significantly enhance your interactions and prevent awkward misunderstandings. For more context, you might also want to explore everyday <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-phrases">Portuguese phrases</a> and catchy <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-slang">Portuguese slang</a>.

 <h2>Mild Portuguese Swear Words for Daily Use</h2>
 Swearing doesn't always mean being harsh or vulgar—Portuguese has plenty of mild swear words that are perfectly acceptable in everyday conversations. These words can help express minor frustration, surprise, or even a bit of humor without offending anyone. They're perfect for casual exchanges among friends or when you're just venting about small inconveniences.
 <ul>
 <li>Caraças – Equivalent to "darn" or "dang." It’s mild enough to express mild frustration without offending anyone.</li>
 <li>Raios – Literally meaning "rays," but used similarly to "darn it."</li>
 <li>Porra – While versatile, this word is usually mild enough to express surprise or annoyance without deep offense, similar to "damn."</li>
 </ul>
 These words are handy for everyday slip-ups—dropping your pastel de nata, missing the bus, or losing your keys.

 <h2>Stronger Portuguese Swear Words to Use With Caution</h2>
 Not all swear words are created equal—some pack a heavier punch. When emotions run high, stronger language can sometimes feel more fitting. However, caution is essential. Knowing your audience and the appropriate setting is crucial because these stronger swear words could cause offense in the wrong context. Use them wisely, especially when you’re around people who understand your intentions well.
 <ul>
 <li>Foda-se – The Portuguese equivalent of the English "fuck." Used broadly in moments of high frustration or anger.</li>
 <li>Caralho – This strong word translates roughly to "dick," but it's commonly used as an exclamation similar to "shit!" or "dammit!"</li>
 <li>Merda – Directly translating to "shit," universally understood and carries moderate offense.</li>
 <li>Filho da puta – Equivalent to "son of a bitch," very strong, so use sparingly!</li>
 </ul>
 If you want to sound authentic among close Portuguese friends, these swear words can help you express intense emotions.

Before we move on to our next list, remember that understanding slang and cultural nuances enriches your language learning experience immensely. If you're serious about improving your Portuguese and connecting authentically with native speakers, download <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> and start practicing today!

 <h2>Creative Portuguese Insults for When Words Really Matter</h2>
 Sometimes, ordinary swear words aren't quite enough to express precisely how you feel. Portuguese offers a colorful and creative variety of insults designed to truly capture the essence of your displeasure or frustration. These inventive insults can range from humorous and playful to genuinely cutting, so use them carefully and appropriately based on your relationship with the listener.
 <ul>
 <li>Cabeça de vento – Literally "wind head," meaning airhead or scatterbrain.</li>
 <li>Burro – Means "donkey," commonly used to call someone stupid or ignorant.</li>
 <li>Idiota – Exactly as it sounds, "idiot." Simple and direct, and universal in usage.</li>
 <li>Imbecil – Another universally clear insult meaning "imbecile."</li>
 </ul>
 Explore more insults in this detailed guide to <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-insults">Portuguese insults</a>.

 <h2>Portuguese Swear Words with Animal References</h2>
 Portuguese swear words often draw inspiration from animals, adding a playful or humorous dimension to insults. These animal-themed words allow you to convey disdain or annoyance with creativity and humor, making them perfect for teasing or mildly criticizing friends in casual settings.
 <ul>
 <li>Vaca – Meaning "cow," often directed at someone considered unpleasant or mean-spirited.</li>
 <li>Cabra – Literally means "goat," but it's used similarly to calling someone a "bitch."</li>
 <li>Porco – Means "pig," often used for someone considered rude, sloppy, or disgusting.</li>
 </ul>
 Using animal swear words can lighten the mood or provide some comic relief in the right context.

 <h2>Swear Words with a Portuguese Twist</h2>
 Every language has swear words that uniquely reflect its culture, history, or local flavor. Portuguese is no exception. These swear words offer insights into cultural attitudes and add authenticity to your conversational skills, helping you sound more natural and less textbook-like.
 <ul>
 <li>Puta que pariu – Literally translates as "whore that birthed you," similar to "son of a bitch," and often used to express extreme frustration or disbelief.</li>
 <li>Cacete – While it translates to "club," it's commonly used as "damn" or "shit."</li>
 <li>Estúpido – Straightforward insult meaning "stupid," used frequently and widely understood.</li>
 </ul>

 <h2>Regional Portuguese Swear Words</h2>
 Portuguese is rich and diverse, varying significantly from region to region, and this diversity extends to swear words as well. Each region boasts its unique and vibrant expressions, adding local flavor and personality to everyday speech. Learning regional swear words not only enriches your vocabulary but also helps you adapt and connect authentically with locals, whether you're traveling through Northern Portugal, exploring Lisbon, or mingling with communities across the country. Here are a few notable examples:
 <ul>
 <li>Gaita – Commonly used in Northern Portugal, meaning "damn" or "shit."</li>
 <li>Sacana – Popular across Portugal, translating roughly as "bastard."</li>
 <li>Chiça – A mild swear word primarily used in the Lisbon region as an alternative to stronger curses.</li>
 </ul>

 <h2>Portuguese Swear Words for Extreme Situations</h2>
 Finally, here are some powerful swear words reserved for situations of extreme annoyance or anger.
 <ul>
 <li>Cabrão – Means "bastard" or "jerk," usually said with strong emotion.</li>
 <li>Palhaço – Literally "clown," but used insultingly to suggest someone is a fool or irritating.</li>
 <li>Otário – Meaning "sucker" or "idiot," perfect for moments of strong irritation.</li>
 </ul>

 <h2>Enhance Your Portuguese Skills with Tandem</h2>
 Swearing is just one colorful part of learning Portuguese. To deepen your fluency and confidence, download <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> today. Whether you're casually chatting or seriously studying, Tandem connects you with real people who can help make your Portuguese truly authentic. You might even make some new friends along the way! So, download Tandem now and start your language adventure today!

Discover 23 Portuguese swear words, from mild expressions to strong curses. Learn when to use them, regional variations, and enhance your Portuguese skills.

portuguese swear words

23 Portuguese Swear Words, What They Mean, and When to Use Them

portuguese swear words1

FAQ: Portuguese Swear Words

Ready to transform that obrigado from a shy mumble into a confident greeting that wins hearts in Lisbon, Rio, and everywhere in between? You’re in the right place. 
 This guide rounds up the most common Portuguese phrases every traveler and budding linguist should know, sprinkled with cultural tidbits and nuance so you speak like someone who’s actually been there (or at least binge-watched enough Brazilian telenovelas to fake it convincingly). 
 
We’ll break the phrases into bite-sized categories—think greetings, food, and asking for help—each prefaced by a mini deep-dive so you understand why these words matter, not just how to say them. 
 

 <h2 id="greetings">Basic Hellos &amp; Goodbyes</h2>

 
 Portuguese loves warmth. A proper <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/15-portuguese-greetings-for-every-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Portuguese greeting</a> opens doors, earns smiles, and sometimes scores free pastries
 (true story: try “bom dia” with a big grin in a Lisbon café). 
 Before we sprint to complex sentences, nail these essentials. They’re the foundation for any stack of Portuguese phrases you’ll build later.
 

 <ol>
 <li>Olá – Hello</li>
 <li>Oi – Hi (Brazilian, ultra-casual)</li>
 <li>Bom dia – Good morning</li>
 <li>Boa tarde – Good afternoon</li>
 <li>Boa noite – Good evening&nbsp;/ Good night</li>
 <li>Tchau – Bye (Brazilian)</li>
 <li>Adeus – Goodbye (formal, more European)</li>
 <li>Até logo – See you soon</li>
 <li>Até amanhã – See you tomorrow</li>
 <li>Prazer – Nice to meet you</li>
 </ol>

 <h2 id="polite">Polite Essentials &amp; Small-Talk Sparks</h2>

 
 Politeness is currency. Sprinkle “por favor” generously and people may go the extra mile to help you.
 This section arms you with ten common Portuguese phrases that keep conversations smooth and hearts warm. 
 Before the list, know this: saying “com licença” (excuse me) before brushing past someone on a crowded tram is
 chef’s kiss good manners. It signals you’re not just a tourist—you respect local social space.
 

 <ol start="11">
 <li>Por favor – Please</li>
 <li>Obrigado&nbsp;/ Obrigada – Thank you (masc.&nbsp;/ fem.&nbsp;speaker)</li>
 <li>De nada – You’re welcome</li>
 <li>Com licença – Excuse me (to pass or get attention)</li>
 <li>Desculpe – I’m sorry</li>
 <li>Tudo bem? – How are you? (lit. “All good?”)</li>
 <li>Tudo ótimo! – I’m great!</li>
 <li>Mais ou menos – So-so</li>
 <li>Prazer em conhecê-lo/la – Pleasure to meet you (formal)</li>
 <li>Bom fim-de-semana – Have a good weekend</li>
 </ol>

 <h2 id="directions">Portuguese Phrases for Getting Around: Directions &amp; Transportation</h2>

 
 Lost in Porto’s maze of cobblestones or São Paulo’s metro sprawl? 
 These directional Portuguese phrases rescue you without relying on shaky data roaming. 
 First, remember locals will often point with the whole hand rather than a single finger—watch for that cultural hint.
 

 <ol start="21">
 <li>Onde fica…? – Where is…?</li>
 <li>Como chego a…? – How do I get to…?</li>
 <li>Direita – Right</li>
 <li>Esquerda – Left</li>
 <li>Em frente – Straight ahead</li>
 <li>Perto – Near</li>
 <li>Longe – Far</li>
 <li>A estação de metrô – The subway station</li>
 <li>O ponto de ônibus – The bus stop</li>
 <li>Pode chamar um táxi? – Can you call a taxi?</li>
 </ol>

 
Flex your new vocab live with native speakers—
 <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tandem</a> lets you ask locals for their favorite hidden viewpoints in seconds.
 

 <h2 id="dining">Dining &amp; Drinking Like a Local</h2>

 
 Portuguese cuisine is a mouth-watering parade: pastéis de nata, feijoada, bacalhau… 
 The following lines help you order, toast, and compliment a dish without pointing awkwardly at the menu. 
 Before you dig in, note that tipping is modest (5–10% max) and you’ll impress servers by praising the chef:
 “Estava delicioso!”
 

 <ol start="31">
 <li>Quero&nbsp;/ Gostaria de… – I’d like…</li>
 <li>Uma mesa para dois, por favor – A table for two, please</li>
 <li>O cardápio, por favor – The menu, please</li>
 <li>Sem glúten&nbsp;/ lactose – Gluten-free&nbsp;/ dairy-free</li>
 <li>Posso ver a carta de vinhos? – May I see the wine list?</li>
 <li>Está tudo incluso? – Is everything included?</li>
 <li>A conta, por favor – The bill, please</li>
 <li>Saúde! – Cheers!</li>
 <li>Estava delicioso – It was delicious</li>
 <li>Pode embrulhar para viagem? – Can you wrap it to go?</li>
 </ol>

 <h2 id="shopping">Portuguese Phrases for Shopping &amp; Bargaining</h2>

 
 From Lisbon’s LX Factory boutiques to Rio’s street markets, savvy shoppers use these common Portuguese phrases to snag deals—and souvenirs that aren’t overpriced magnets. 
 Pro tip: prices in Brazil’s open markets can be negotiable. Smile, ask “Faz desconto?” and enjoy the dance.
 

 <ol start="41">
 <li>Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?</li>
 <li>Aceita cartão? – Do you take card?</li>
 <li>Em dinheiro – In cash</li>
 <li>Desconto – Discount</li>
 <li>Faz desconto? – Can you give a discount?</li>
 <li>Muito caro – Too expensive</li>
 <li>Posso experimentar? – Can I try it on?</li>
 <li>Tem em outro tamanho&nbsp;/ cor? – Do you have another size&nbsp;/ color?</li>
 <li>Estou só olhando – I’m just looking</li>
 <li>Vou levar – I’ll take it</li>
 </ol>

 <h2 id="slang">Social &amp; Slangy Extras</h2>

 
 Real talk: textbooks rarely prepare you for the playful rhythms locals use after that second caipirinha. 
 While full slang deserves its own article (hello,
 <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-slang" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Portuguese slang</a>!),
 the sample below keeps you sounding fresh without veering into NSFW territory.
 

 <ol start="51">
 <li>Legal! – Cool!</li>
 <li>Beleza? – All good? (informal greeting)</li>
 <li>Tranquilo – No worries&nbsp;/ Chill</li>
 <li>Tá bom – Alright&nbsp;/ Okay</li>
 <li>Bora lá! – Let’s go!</li>
 <li>Poxa! – Darn!&nbsp;/ Wow!</li>
 <li>E aí? – What’s up?</li>
 <li>Valeu! – Thanks! (Brazilian, casual)</li>
 <li>Cara&nbsp;/ Gata – Dude&nbsp;/ Girl (casual address)</li>
 <li>Partiu? – Ready to roll?</li>
 </ol>

 <h2 id="emergencies">Portuguese Phrases for Emergencies &amp; Health</h2>

 
 No one plans for mishaps, but a few lifesaving Portuguese phrases can calm chaos.
 Learn them now; hope you never need them.
 

 <ol start="61">
 <li>Ajuda! – Help!</li>
 <li>Chame a polícia! – Call the police!</li>
 <li>Estou perdido(a) – I’m lost</li>
 <li>Preciso de um médico – I need a doctor</li>
 <li>É uma emergência – It’s an emergency</li>
 <li>Tenho alergia a… – I’m allergic to…</li>
 <li>Onde fica o hospital? – Where is the hospital?</li>
 <li>Perdi minha carteira – I lost my wallet</li>
 <li>Chamem uma ambulância! – Call an ambulance!</li>
 <li>Está tudo bem? – Is everything okay?</li>
 </ol>

 
 <h2 id="wrap-up">Practice Common Portuguese Phrases Today</h2>

 
 You’ve just powered through 70 basic Portuguese phrases—enough to navigate metros, markets, and midnight snack runs with confidence.
 Remember, though, language isn’t only vocab; it’s rhythm, culture, and the subtle dance of formality across Lusophone countries.
 If you’re curious why Brazilians soften “de” into “dji” while Lisbon locals swallow vowels, our breakdown of
 <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/tips-difference-european-brazilian-portuguese" target="_blank" rel="noopener">European and Brazilian Portuguese</a>
 pronunciation has your back.
 

 
 But the real magic happens when you practice with humans, not word lists.
 So fire up <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tandem</a>,
 match with native speakers, and swap stories—maybe you’ll teach them some slang from your hometown in return.
 Boa sorte e até logo!
 
</body>
</html>

Master 70 common Portuguese phrases for travel and everyday conversation. From greetings to dining out, learn the essentials and how to practice.

Portuguese phrases

70 Common Portuguese Phrases to Jumpstart Your Learning

Portuguese phrases1

You don’t need to be a master of drama to appreciate the expressive power of Portuguese insults. From Lisbon’s tiled alleyways to São Paulo’s bustling avenidas, native speakers sprinkle creative jabs into everyday banter. Learning a few choice insults in Portuguese can help you spot playful teasing, steer clear of offense, and squeeze extra nuance into your language arsenal. Below, we’ll break down when to whip them out—and when to holster them—so you can keep conversations breezy rather than bruised.

 <h2>Why Bother Learning Insults in Portuguese?</h2>
 Before we dive head‑first into the colourful world of Portuguese insults, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why even learn them? Easy—because language is culture, and culture is messy, emotional, and often hilariously rude. Knowing common insults helps you:
 <ul>
 <li>Decode TV shows, memes, and street chatter without running to a dictionary.</li>
 <li>Recognise when friends are joking (or not).</li>
 <li>Avoid accidental foot‑in‑mouth moments when literal translations go rogue.</li>
 </ul>
 Plus, sprinkling a cheeky phrase at the right moment can win laughs—or at least respectful nods—if your timing is on point. Just remember: context is king.

 <h2>Quick Note on Politeness Before We Proceed</h2>
 Politeness norms in Portuguese‑speaking cultures vary from region to region and person to person. What lands as gentle ribbing among close friends in Porto may feel nuclear‑grade in a formal Rio business meeting. When in doubt, err on the side of eu sou educado (I’m polite). And yes, that sometimes means zipping it.

 <h2>European vs Brazilian Portuguese: Same Language, Different Spice</h2>
 If you’ve peeked at the differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese you’ll know pronunciation, vocabulary, and even body language diverge.
 <ul>
 <li>Vocabulary: Brazilians favour expressive diminutives (fofinho!), while Europeans keep things crisper.</li>
 <li>Formality: In Portugal, tu vs você is location‑dependent; in Brazil, você reigns informal supreme.</li>
 <li>Insults: Some expressions are region‑locked, and intensity scales change. A mild tease in Madeira could sound harsh in Minas Gerais.</li>
 </ul>
 For deep dives on nuance, check out the handy guide on the <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/tips-difference-european-brazilian-portuguese">difference between European and Brazilian Portuguese</a>.

 <h2>39 Standout Portuguese Insults (and How to Deploy Them Safely)</h2>
 Below is a curated hit list of 39 insults in Portuguese you might hear in bars, sitcoms, or spirited family lunches. For each, you’ll find the literal meaning, typical usage, a green‑light cue for when to use it, and a red‑light warning for when to steer clear. Memorise responsibly!

 <h3>1. Chato/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Boring / Annoying</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Calling someone dull or clingy</li>
 <li>Use when… Light‑hearted banter among friends</li>
 <li>Avoid when… The person is sensitive about social skills</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>2. Tanso/a (Portugal)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Dopey</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Joking about a silly mistake</li>
 <li>Use when… Close buddies own the blunder</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Professional or first‑time meetings</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>3. Mané (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Jack / Idiot</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Pointing out foolish behaviour</li>
 <li>Use when… Friends mocking a harmless fail</li>
 <li>Avoid when… You’re uncertain about the relationship</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>4. Panaca</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Fool</li>
 <li>Typical usage: General mild insult</li>
 <li>Use when… Mild irritation with peers</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Speaking to elders or superiors</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>5. Burro/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Donkey (dumb)</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Calling out ignorance</li>
 <li>Use when… Close pal ignores an obvious fact</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Academic or hierarchical settings</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>6. Otário/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Sucker</li>
 <li>Typical usage: When someone is gullible</li>
 <li>Use when… They just got scammed and can laugh about it</li>
 <li>Avoid when… They feel embarrassed or ashamed</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>7. Cromo (Portugal)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Trading card nerd</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Refers to an awkward geek</li>
 <li>Use when… Playful geek‑joke with mates</li>
 <li>Avoid when… The person is insecure about it</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>8. Abestalhado/a (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Bewildered</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Someone spaced‑out</li>
 <li>Use when… Buddy forgets keys again</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Formal environments</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>9. Desgraçado/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Wretch</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Showing exasperation</li>
 <li>Use when… Dramatic storytelling</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Any serious confrontation</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>10. Choné (Portugal)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Ditz</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Silly, absent‑minded kid</li>
 <li>Use when… Among siblings</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Teacher‑student context</li>
 </ul>
 <h3>11. Marmota (Portugal)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Groundhog (slob)</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Dishevelled appearance</li>
 <li>Use when… Old friends roasting looks</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Someone’s self‑conscious about their appearance</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>12. Preguiçoso/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Lazybones</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Procrastinator</li>
 <li>Use when… Housemates dodging chores</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Colleague facing a deadline</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>13. Cara‑de‑pau (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Wooden‑face</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Shameless person</li>
 <li>Use when… Joking about brazenness</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Accusing someone publicly</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>14. Energúmeno/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Demon / Ignoramus</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Strong intellectual insult</li>
 <li>Use when… Venting political rage online</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Face‑to‑face debates</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>15. Pateta</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Goofy</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Playful, silly jab</li>
 <li>Use when… Teasing kids or pets</li>
 <li>Avoid when… An adult hates childish labels</li>
 </ul>

 Ready to test‑drive these Portuguese insults with a real human (safely)? <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Download Tandem</a> to swap banter with native speakers and get instant feedback!

 <h3>16. Xexelento/a (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Grubby</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Something or someone dirty</li>
 <li>Use when… Talking about a messy roommate</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Commenting on a guest’s home décor</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>17. Estúpido/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Stupid</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Calling someone rude</li>
 <li>Use when… They’re blatantly impolite</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Any ambiguous situation</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>18. Nojento/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Disgusting</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Behaviour or attitude</li>
 <li>Use when… Reacting to snobbery</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Commenting on appearance</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>19. Mal-criado/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Bad-mannered</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Ill-behaved kid</li>
 <li>Use when… Parent scolding their own child</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Criticising a stranger’s child</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>20. Fanfarão / Fanfarrão</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Braggart</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Calling out a show-off</li>
 <li>Use when… Friend boasts about gym progress</li>
 <li>Avoid when… They’re sensitive about their ego</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>21. Mosca morta (Portugal)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Dead fly</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Someone pretending to be meek</li>
 <li>Use when… Calling out a two-faced peer</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Corporate meetings</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>22. Zé-Ninguém</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Mr. Nobody</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Insignificant person</li>
 <li>Use when… Self-deprecating joke</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Insulting someone’s worth directly</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>23. Linguarudo/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Loose-tongued</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Gossip</li>
 <li>Use when… Friends tease a chatty pal</li>
 <li>Avoid when… They’ve just shared a sensitive secret</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>24. Safado/a (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Mischievous / Naughty</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Flirty joking</li>
 <li>Use when… Light flirting or playful banter</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Formal or hierarchical contexts</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>25. Baixar a bola (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Lower the ball</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Telling someone to calm down or stop showing off</li>
 <li>Use when… A friend is bragging or getting heated in a game</li>
 <li>Avoid when… They’re genuinely upset or you’re their subordinate</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>26. Vai pentear macacos</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Go comb monkeys</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Telling someone to get lost or stop bothering you</li>
 <li>Use when… Lightly shooing away a persistent jokester</li>
 <li>Avoid when… The person doesn’t share your sense of humor</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>27. Pirralho/Pirralha (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Brat / Pest</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Calling out childish behaviour</li>
 <li>Use when… Teasing a younger sibling or playful banter</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Addressing other people’s children or sensitive adults</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>28. Mala (Brazil)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Suitcase</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Labeling someone a drag or annoying</li>
 <li>Use when… Friends have had enough of a talkative mate</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Formal settings or with acquaintances</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>29. Ir com os porcos (Portugal)</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Go with the pigs</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Darkly wishing someone ill or to “drop dead”</li>
 <li>Use when… Only in extreme joking among very close friends who get dark humor</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Basically everywhere else—it’s harsh!</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>30. Filho da mãe</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Son of the mother</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Euphemistic way of calling someone a jerk (SOB)</li>
 <li>Use when… You need to vent frustration but want to keep it PG-ish</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Addressing someone’s family directly or in polite company</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>31. Puxa-saco</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Bag puller / Boot-licker</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Sycophant who flatters the boss</li>
 <li>Use when… Teasing a colleague who’s brown-nosing</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Publicly shaming someone in front of that boss</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>32. Ranzinza</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Cranky / Grouch</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Someone who’s always complaining</li>
 <li>Use when… Friend wakes up on the wrong side of bed</li>
 <li>Avoid when… They’re truly stressed or depressed</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>33. Desligado/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Unplugged / Spacey</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Absent-minded person</li>
 <li>Use when… Lightly chiding a forgetful classmate</li>
 <li>Avoid when… They feel insecure about attention issues</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>34. Bicho do mato</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Wild animal</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Shy, socially awkward person</li>
 <li>Use when… Friendly teasing of an introverted pal who skips parties</li>
 <li>Avoid when… They’re self-conscious about shyness</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>35. Manteiga derretida</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Melted butter</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Someone who cries easily</li>
 <li>Use when… Close friend weeping over puppy commercials</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Real emotional distress</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>36. Escroto/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Scrotum (colloquial)</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Jerk / Nasty person</li>
 <li>Use when… Venting privately with friends</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Formal or mixed company—strong insult</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>37. Mala sem alça</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Suitcase without a handle</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Someone extremely annoying to be around</li>
 <li>Use when… Friends stuck with a tiresome person</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Addressing them directly in public</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>38. Paspalho/a</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Fool / Simpleton</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Silly bungler</li>
 <li>Use when… Light teasing among close friends</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Contexts requiring respect</li>
 </ul>

 <h3>39. Sangue-suga</h3>
 <ul>
 <li>Literal meaning: Leech</li>
 <li>Typical usage: Person who exploits others</li>
 <li>Use when… Discussing a mooching roommate</li>
 <li>Avoid when… Could escalate conflict</li>
 </ul>

<h2>Context Is King: When to Use, When to Zip It</h2>
 Mastering insults in Portuguese isn’t just about vocabulary—it’s a dance of timing, tone, and relationship. Before firing off any quip, ask yourself:
 <ol>
 <li>How close am I to this person? The closer the bond, the softer the landing.</li>
 <li>What’s the setting? A beach barbecue = chill. A visa interview = não.</li>
 <li>Is alcohol involved? People laugh easier—but also misinterpret faster.</li>
 <li>What does my body language say? Smile and relaxed posture tell listeners you’re joking.</li>
 </ol>
 If any of these checkpoints give you pause, holster that one‑liner. Better to stay simpático than sem amigos (friendless).

 <h2>Level Up Your Vocabulary Beyond Insults</h2>
 Craving language that’s more playful than prickly? Dip into vibrant <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-slang">Portuguese slang</a> for European twists or ride the rhythmic wave of <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/brazilian-slang">Brazilian slang</a> to sound like a local in Rio. Slang expands expression without necessarily ruffling feathers—and it’s wildly fun to learn.

 Knowing Portuguese insults is like owning a spice rack: the right pinch turns bland small talk into zesty conversation, but dump the whole jar and you’ll ruin the dish. Study tone, watch locals for cues, and practice with partners who’ll correct (and forgive) you.
 One more thing—language mastery doesn’t happen in a vacuum. <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Download Tandem</a>, connect with speakers worldwide, and upgrade your banter game today. Boa sorte e vá com calma!

Learn 39 Portuguese insults, their literal meanings, usage cues, and etiquette—plus a few differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese insults.

portuguese insults

39 Portuguese Insults: When to Use Them and When to Avoid Them

portuguese insults1

Chato/a (boring or annoying) is mild and can be used light‑heartedly among close friends—but avoid it with acquaintances who might take offense.

What is a mild Portuguese insult I can use among friends?

Escroto/a is a harsh term roughly meaning ‘jerk’ or ‘nasty person.’ Keep it out of any professional or mixed‑company scenario.

What is a strong Portuguese insult I should avoid in formal settings?

Yes. Some insults are region‑specific (e.g., Tanso/a in Portugal, Mané in Brazil) and intensity scales can change between countries, so always gauge local reactions first.

Are insults different in European and Brazilian Portuguese?

Pair up with native speakers on Tandem and ask them for feedback before using insults publicly. Context and relationship matter more than literal translation.

How can I practice Portuguese insults safely?

Literally ‘wooden face,’ it describes someone shameless or brazen—much like calling someone ‘thick‑skinned’ in English.

What does ‘cara‑de‑pau’ mean in Portuguese?

Rio’s beachfront chatter, São&nbsp;Paulo’s skyscraper banter, and Salvador’s Afro‑Bahian rhythms have simmered together for 500&nbsp;years, distilling into the playful, ever‑evolving cocktail we call Brazilian slang. From Indigenous Tupi verbs to African‑born beats to TikTok‑fueled abbreviations, these Brazilian Portuguese slang words are living proof that language in Brazil refuses to sit still. Whether you’re backpacking up the coast, making friends at a rodízio table, or decoding Insta reels, slipping the right slang into conversation morphs you from tourist to honorary local in seconds.

<h2>Brazilian Portuguese vs. European Portuguese: How Slang Splits the Difference</h2>
Picture two lifelong friends who grew up together but then moved to opposite sides of the Atlantic. They still share the same mother tongue, yet their inside jokes—and the way they tell them—have drifted apart. That’s Portuguese in a nutshell. The grammar core stays recognisably the same, but once the conversation turns street‑level casual, Brazilian slang and European Portuguese gíria zip off on very different scooters.
Slang is the gatekeeper to authentic connection. Drop a crisp massa! in Rio and locals instantly peg you as in‑the‑know; use the same word in Lisbon, and you’ll get polite confusion. Misunderstanding slang can also derail a perfectly good chat—ask a Paulista if he has “trocos” for the bus and you may get a blank stare (they say trocados). Curious about all the contrasts? Dive into our detailed guide on the <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/tutor-tips-difference-european-brazilian-portuguese">difference between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese</a>.

<h2>Brazilian Portuguese Slang Words You Need to Learn</h2>
Travel tip: Brazilian slang isn’t bound by strict categories—the same word can jump from beach banter to office small talk as long as the vibe stays informal. Below is a single, scroll‑friendly list of 30 essential Brazilian Portuguese slang words. Skim it now, star your favourites, and get ready to sound muito local.

<ol>
 <li>Beleza?
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “beauty?”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “All good?” / informal greeting</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>E aí?
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “and there?”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “What’s up?” casual hello</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Valeu!
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “it was worth (value)”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Thanks!” / “Cheers!”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Demorô!
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “it delayed!”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Deal!” / enthusiastically agreeing</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Firmeza
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “firmness”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Cool!” / “Solid”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Massa!
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “dough / mass”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Awesome!” reaction to good news</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Mó barato
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “big cheap”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Super fun” describing something enjoyable</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Tô bolado
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “I’m balled up”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “I’m upset/annoyed/confused”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>De boa
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “of good”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Chill / No worries”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Que viagem!
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “what a trip!”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “That’s crazy!”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
</ol>

Pro tip: Practice these phrases with native speakers on <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> and get real‑time feedback on your accent!

<ol start="11">
 <li>Cara
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “face”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Dude / Guy”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Guria / Guri
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “girl / boy”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Kid” (Southern Brazil)</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Mano / Mina
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “hand” / “mine”</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Bro / Girl” (close friend)</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Malandro
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “rascal”</li>
 <li>Meaning: street‑smart trickster</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Fofoca
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “gossip”</li>
 <li>Meaning: juicy rumour or chatter</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Balada
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “ballad”</li>
 <li>Meaning: nightclub / party</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Rolo
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “roll”</li>
 <li>Meaning: undefined fling or complicated situation</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Churras
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “barbecue” (short for churrasco)</li>
 <li>Meaning: casual BBQ gathering</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Pagode
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: name of a samba sub‑genre</li>
 <li>Meaning: samba party vibe</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Zuera / Zueira
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: from zoar, “messing around”</li>
 <li>Meaning: playful banter or prank</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Grana
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “grain”</li>
 <li>Meaning: money</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Bufunfa
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: coin‑clinking onomatopoeia</li>
 <li>Meaning: cash / dough</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Troco
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “change”</li>
 <li>Meaning: coins or small bills</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Migué
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: folk name turned slang</li>
 <li>Meaning: flimsy excuse / dodgy trick</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Bagulho
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “thing / trinket”</li>
 <li>Meaning: stuff; context can imply weed</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Crush
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: same as English “crush”</li>
 <li>Meaning: romantic interest</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Shippar
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: from “relationship”</li>
 <li>Meaning: to root for a (fictional) couple</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Ranço
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “rancid smell”</li>
 <li>Meaning: strong dislike / ick factor</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>Top
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: “top”</li>
 <li>Meaning: excellent / awesome</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>KKKKK / RSRS
 <ul>
 <li>Literal translation: keyboard onomatopoeia for laughter</li>
 <li>Meaning: LOL / haha</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
</ol>

If you need a refresher on everyday pleasantries before diving into slang, check out our list of <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/15-portuguese-greetings-for-every-day">Portuguese greetings</a>. And for your trip to Portugal, don’t miss our complete guide to <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/portuguese-slang">Portuguese slang</a>.

<h2>Wrapping Up: Your Ticket to Effortless Small Talk</h2>
Brazilian slang is the secret handshake of the Lusophone world. Sprinkle these expressions into your next conversation and watch doors—and hearts—swing open. Ready to put theory into practice? Download <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> today and start swapping voice notes with Brazilians who’ll happily correct (and cheer on) your every zuera. Boa sorte e até a próxima!

Master 30 Brazilian Portuguese slang words—from “beleza” to “ranço”—and learn how Brazilian slang differs from European Portuguese before traveling.

brazilian slang words

30 Brazilian Slang Words and What They Mean

brazilian slang words1

Brazilian slang draws heavily on Indigenous, African, and U.S. English influences and favors open‑vowel words, while European Portuguese slang clips vowels and borrows from French. A term like “massa” (awesome) is everyday in Brazil but rare in Portugal.

What is the difference between Brazilian Portuguese slang and European Portuguese slang?

Literally “beauty,” but used like “All good?” or “Hey, how are you?” as a casual greeting.

What does “beleza” mean in Brazilian Portuguese?

Portuguese slang words hold a unique place in everyday conversations, painting the language with colorful expressions and offering deep insights into the cultural tapestry of Portuguese-speaking countries. Whether you’re used to Portuguese from Portugal or Brazil, slang can be your secret superpower for blending in seamlessly. From informal chats to social media posts, these expressions are practically everywhere. They bridge linguistic gaps and help you connect with native speakers on a more personal level. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s start diving into the fascinating world of Portuguese slang.

 <h2>Portuguese Slang 101</h2>
 Before we jump into our extensive list of Portuguese slang words and phrases, it’s crucial to understand the cultural background that shapes them. Each slang term reflects elements of the Portuguese-speaking world’s mindset, history, and daily life. By learning these fun, sometimes quirky phrases, you’ll gain a deeper sense of belonging during casual conversations—be it in a bustling café in Lisbon or a laid-back beach in Rio de Janeiro.
 Learning Portuguese slang isn’t just about speaking like a native; it’s also about immersing yourself in the vibe and rhythm of the language. Along the way, you’ll discover new and interesting expressions that make you sound more natural and approachable in various settings. For example, if you want to spice up your daily routine, check out <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/15-portuguese-greetings-for-every-day">15 Portuguese greetings</a> to greet friends like a pro.

 <h2>Common Portuguese Slang Words and Phrases</h2>
 Below is a comprehensive list of some of the most commonly used Portuguese slang words and phrases. We’ll provide the slang term, its literal translation, and how it’s used in modern contexts. Feel free to adopt them at your own pace, and remember: practice makes perfect!

 <ol>
 <li>
 Tá
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: It is</li>
 <li>Meaning: Short for “Está,” often meaning “OK,” “Alright,” or simply confirming something.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Valeu
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: It was worth it</li>
 <li>Meaning: A casual way to say “Thanks!” or “Appreciate it!”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 E aí?
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: And there?</li>
 <li>Meaning: Equivalent to “What’s up?” or “How’s it going?”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Cara
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Face</li>
 <li>Meaning: Slang for “dude” or “man,” used to address someone informally, similar to “bro.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Beleza?
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Beauty?</li>
 <li>Meaning: A quick way to ask “All good?” or “Cool?” and can also be used to say “Okay, great.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Maneiro
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Handy or Cool (depending on context)</li>
 <li>Meaning: Conveys a sense of “Cool” or “Awesome.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Tipo
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Type</li>
 <li>Meaning: A filler word similar to “like” in English, often used to pause or reflect on what to say next.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Poxa
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Doesn’t have a direct English counterpart</li>
 <li>Meaning: Expresses disappointment or regret, like “Oh man!” or “Dang!”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Bora
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Let’s go</li>
 <li>Meaning: A casual way to say “C’mon,” “Let’s do it,” or “Let’s go!”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Ficar
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: To stay</li>
 <li>Meaning: In slang contexts, it can mean “to hook up” or “to make out” with someone. Context matters here!</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 </ol>

 If you’re loving these Portuguese slang words and want to use them in real-life conversations, download <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> and start chatting with native Portuguese speakers today.

 <ol start="11">
 <li>
 Tranquilo (often shortened to Tranks in text messages)
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Peaceful</li>
 <li>Meaning: Used to say “Chill,” “Don’t worry,” or “It’s all good.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Show
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Show (as in a performance)</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Great!” or “That’s fantastic!”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Grana
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: No direct equivalent</li>
 <li>Meaning: Slang for “money.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Rolê
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Roll</li>
 <li>Meaning: A casual outing, hangout, or night out with friends.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Zoar
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: To mock</li>
 <li>Meaning: “To tease,” “to joke around,” or “to mess with someone.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Mão-de-vaca
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Cow’s hand</li>
 <li>Meaning: Describes someone who is cheap or stingy.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Fechou
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Closed</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Deal!” or “Agreed!”—perfect when finalizing plans.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Fome?
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Hunger?</li>
 <li>Meaning: A casual way of asking if someone is hungry, as in “Hungry yet?”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Fala sério!
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Speak seriously!</li>
 <li>Meaning: “You’re kidding!” or “No way!”—used for disbelief or surprise.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Mandar bem
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: To send well</li>
 <li>Meaning: “To do something well” or “Nicely done!”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Demorou
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: It took a while</li>
 <li>Meaning: Slang for “Sure thing,” “Deal,” or “Got it.” Ironically, it conveys a quick agreement rather than implying something is taking too long.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Partiu
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: (He/She) left</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Let’s go” or “I’m out.” Commonly used when you’re ready to leave or start an activity.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Pagar mico
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: To pay a marmoset (a small monkey)</li>
 <li>Meaning: To embarrass oneself or do something cringe-worthy.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 A toa
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: At the silly/foolish</li>
 <li>Meaning: To be doing nothing special or just being idle, like saying “I’m just chilling.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 De boa
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Of good</li>
 <li>Meaning: “No worries,” “All good,” or “Chill.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Bolado
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Wrapped or rolled up</li>
 <li>Meaning: Slang for being upset, angry, or sometimes impressed, depending on context.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Sinistro
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Sinister</li>
 <li>Meaning: Can mean “scary” or “wicked” but is also used to describe something really cool or impressive. Context is key.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 É osso
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: It’s bone</li>
 <li>Meaning: Used to say something is tough or complicated, like “That’s rough.”</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Vacilar
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: To vacillate or waver</li>
 <li>Meaning: “To mess up” or “to slip up,” often implying someone made a silly mistake or acted carelessly.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 <li>
 Pirado
 <ul>
 <li>Literal Translation: Gone crazy</li>
 <li>Meaning: “Crazy” or “nuts,” usually in a playful sense.</li>
 </ul>
 </li>
 </ol>

 <h2>Why Learn Portuguese Slang?</h2>
 Learning Portuguese slang words stretches beyond a typical vocabulary boost. It provides you with cultural insights and allows you to participate more authentically in conversations. Whether you’re ordering a pastel in São Paulo or discussing weekend plans in Porto, sprinkling slang into your speech makes you feel at home. For those wanting to dive even deeper, you might explore the <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/tutor-tips-difference-european-brazilian-portuguese">difference between European and Brazilian Portuguese</a> to fine-tune your usage based on region.

 <h3>Cultural Insights</h3>
 Each Portuguese-speaking region has its own blend of slang terms that can differ dramatically. Just as English slang varies between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, so does Portuguese across Portugal, Brazil, and other Lusophone countries. This variety makes learning slang an adventure, unveiling facets of local humor, social norms, and history that you wouldn’t catch in formal language lessons.

 <h3>Connection and Confidence</h3>
 Nothing forges a connection quite like speaking someone’s language as it’s actually used day-to-day. Tossing in Portuguese slang terms helps you sound more like a friend than a dictionary. Even advanced speakers can benefit from expanding their slang vocabulary, as it breathes life into conversations and showcases a genuine interest in the culture. For even more advanced and colorful expressions, check out these <a href="https://tandem.net/blog/impressive-idioms-to-make-you-sound-like-a-native-speaker">fun multi-lingual idioms</a>.

 <h2>Using Slang Appropriately</h2>
 While slang can be a blast, context is everything. Certain phrases that are perfectly normal among friends might come off as too informal for a business meeting. The same expression can also shift its meaning depending on the location. In Rio de Janeiro, “maneiro” is practically an everyday term, whereas in other parts of Brazil, people might use different slang words to express the same idea. Always keep your audience in mind, and remember that a little humility goes a long way in new cultural environments.

 <h2>Regional Variations: Brazil vs. Portugal</h2>
 Brazilian Portuguese slang tends to have a more rhythmic, melodic pronunciation, and often reflects that casual vibe. In Portugal, slang can differ not just in terms of vocabulary, but also in pronunciation and phrasing. However, some slang words overlap or at least mirror each other in spirit. If your goal is to communicate effectively in both contexts, focus on the slang that appears most universally across Portuguese-speaking communities, and then add region-specific terms as needed.

 <h2>Ready to Expand Your Portuguese Vocabulary Further?</h2>
 If you’re already adding these slang terms to your mental lexicon and eager to practice them with real people, you’re on the right track. You can use flashcards, sticky notes, or any memory technique that works for you. Engage in conversations online and in person, ask for feedback, and keep refining your usage. Don’t forget to keep an open mind to the cultural backdrop—after all, the quirks and traditions bring slang to life.

 Ready to take your Portuguese conversation skills to new heights? Download <a href="https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u">Tandem</a> and connect with Portuguese speakers worldwide. Embrace the unique charm of these slang expressions, and watch your fluency grow day by day!

Dive into Portuguese slang words and phrases, their literal translations, and cultural nuances to start speaking confidently like a native today!

Portuguese slang

30 European Portuguese Slang Words and What They Mean

Portuguese slang1

Use Portuguese slang in casual settings, like talking with friends or informal online chats. Understanding each term’s cultural context is essential to ensure you’re using it appropriately. When in doubt, observe how native speakers use slang in everyday conversation.

How can I use Portuguese slang effectively?

While both countries share the same base language, Brazilian Portuguese tends to sound more melodic and includes slang often influenced by regional culture. European Portuguese has its own set of local expressions and can differ in pronunciation, vocabulary, and formality.

What’s the difference between Portuguese in Brazil vs. Portugal?

Start with common everyday terms such as ‘Tá’, ‘Valeu’, and ‘Bora’, which mean ‘OK’, ‘Thanks’, and ‘Let’s go’ respectively. These words are frequently used in casual conversations and can help you blend in quickly with native speakers.

Which Portuguese slang words should I learn first?

Do you know your _sumo_ from your _suco_? Your _gelado_ from your _sorvete_? We interviewed one of our Portuguese members, Nana, to find out more about Portuguese and the difference between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese.

![Nana-portugues-tandem.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6LER69jkR8t2rqZK30CPyv/edb400a33a90402699f8f08699101066/Nana-portugues-tandem.jpg)

### First off - why learn Portuguese?

You might not know that Portuguese is actually one of the most [widely spoken languages in the world](https://www.tandem.net/learn-portuguese-online/)! It’s the official language of both Portugal and Brazil, with over 218 million speakers worldwide. But aside from that, by learning Portuguese you get to connect with the fantastic culture of both Portugal and my home country, Brazil!

### But is Brazilian Portuguese the same as European Portuguese?

It’s easy to assume that the [Portuguese](https://www.tandem.net/practice-speaking-portuguese) spoken in Portugal is pretty similar to that spoken in Brazil. After all, Brazil was once a colony of Portugal, and there is a lot of shared culture between the two countries. Even when I was growing up as a native Portuguese speaker in Brazil, I never saw Portugal as very different. Sure, it’s far away, but we speak the same language, how different could it be? It’s true that the grammar is pretty similar whichever variety you are speaking. And, disregarding some words and grammar structures, written Portuguese isn’t hugely different wherever you are. 

It wasn’t until I moved to Porto to do my PhD that I started to see the real differences between the language I grew up with and the language I suddenly was struggling to understand!! The first time I really realised the difference was in a bakery on one of my first days in Portugal. I couldn’t understand anything - and they couldn’t understand me! Yet, we were speaking the same language! It just goes to show how different the two languages actually sound when spoken.

![porto houses azulejos Portugal](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/62t12L2BnyPAcTb4cnbaPp/973248762439da102dc8c69d68bb0f76/samuel-zeller-83614_small.jpg)

### But which is the best Portuguese to learn?

Now this is a very difficult and complex question. An international orthographic agreement by authorities from [Portugal](https://www.tandem.net/partner/portugal) and [Brazil](https://www.tandem.net/partner/brazil) was proposed in a bid to manage the changes seen in the language and to create a more unified Portuguese for people to learn. However, this agreement wasn't well received by some people in Portugal. Or in Brazil for that matter! For the Portuguese in particular, who are very proud of their language and don’t want it to change, the agreement was seen as very political and controversial. So basically, there’s no “real” Portuguese. As a learner, what you need to do is decide where you want to go and make sure you tell your Tandem partner. Otherwise you could be learning words or pronunciation that no-one will understand when you finally arrive at your destination!

### Which language is easier to learn?

It should be noted that Portuguese people are way better at understanding Brazilians than we are understanding them. This is a bit strange when you consider that Portuguese existed in Portugal first! There are a few different reasons for this. 

Firstly, I think Portuguese people are quite used to meeting people from Brazil - there is a lot of immigration from Brazil to Portugal - whereas many people in Brazil will never meet a foreigner from Europe. Secondly - Brazilian culture is very integrated into Portuguese life. Brazilian music can be heard everywhere, and samba is incredibly popular. But actually, I was exposed to a lot of European Portuguese writing when I was growing up. I just didn’t realise it was from Europe. For example, I loved the writing of [Fernando Pessoa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fernando_Pessoa), [José Saramago](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/José_Saramago) and [José Maria de Eça de Queiroz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/José_Maria_de_Eça_de_Queirós). I was very surprised to learn later on that these were not famous Brazilian writers - they are of course Portuguese! The best way to learn Portuguese is to be in touch with **both** language variations, and its people and culture. And, of course, take any opportunity to visit both countries! Truly, the easiest way to learn any language is by being motivated. For sure you will find your motivation by visiting Portugal or Brazil and learning more about our culture!

![Brazil football](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5eS68pZGX1d5I8alhmNiBW/900f960bee99a71ee6cab62c3b5e0d76/pexels-photo-58461.jpeg)

### How does the pronunciation differ?

The pronunciation is one of the biggest differences between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese. Brazilians pronounce words in a very open way; Portuguese people sound a lot more closed. Portuguese people do not pronounce all the words completely as we Brazillian do. For example the word "excellent_"_ in English, The Portuguese would pronounce it "xcelent" while we would say "excelente".

With other words that have the syllables “di”, “ti”, “te”, “de”, most of the time Brazilians pronounce these quite sweetly, I would say. For example, the word “bom dia”: good morning”. In general, Portuguese people would pronounce “di” like this ði, and Brazilians would pronounce di: dʒi. The same happens with the sound ti. Portuguese: just “ti” Brazilian: "tʃi" Of course, Brazil is a huge country and this can be different in some regions. For example in the North of Brazil, they pronounce the syllables “ti” and “di” in a similar way to Portuguese people. It’s the same even in Portugal, a far smaller country: people from the north and south sometimes sound totally different! 

Another thing to look out for is how we pronounce “L” when it isn’t followed by another vowel, as in the word “Brasil” or “Alguém” (someone). Brazilian people will pronounce it as “u” but Portuguese pronounce the “l” quite clearly. So it sounds like: Portuguese: Brasil, alguém Brazilian: Brasiu, auguém The sound of “s” is another big difference. While Portuguese say it “ʃ” we (aside from people from Rio de Janeiro) will say just “s”. For me, and other Brazilians, it is very cute when Portuguese people say words like “piscina” - swimming pool - because they will pronounce the “s” like“ʃ”. 

One final thing - I believe Brazilian Portuguese in general is more musical than European Portuguese. I can’t really write it down, but you can definitely recognise it when you hear people speak. I could say that the Portuguese speak in a straight line, and we in curves :)

![Portugal bridge](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2G2sCx9JQ4oPRxmuhoC65o/5d9de40fcfe558a6b029be6afbe6b32c/pexels-photo-290141.jpeg)

### Which words are different?

There are many words that change, depending on which kind of portuguese you are speaking. Some of these, like "abacaxi" (BR) vs "ananas" (PT) - pineapple in English - are because of the influence of indigenous culture in Brazil. Some are more grammatical - like that Brazilians prefer to use the gerund of the verb when describing continuous situations, whereas European Portuguese speakers use the infinitive. Sometimes, getting the wrong word can be REALLY embarrassing. One notable example is the word for “girl” in European Portuguese - "rapariga". If you use this word in Brazil, people are likely to get offended… because it is a VERY rude word for a woman! Yikes.

### Any final tips on how to learn Portuguese?

If you like singing and dancing, this is the right language for you! Whether Brazilian or European, almost every Portuguese speaker knows [Chico Buarque](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suia_i5dEZc), [Caetano Veloso](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9UbE1slI-Q), [Ivete Sangalo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tafa3b6OFI) and [Seu Jorge](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3bUU7U8oPo). Listening to their music is a great way to learn more about the language. And of course, make sure you have a [Tandem partner to practice](https://www.tandem.net/practice-speaking-portuguese/) with :)

Thanks Nana, you are a superstar!

Is the Portuguese spoken in Brazil the same as the Portuguese in Portugal? We find out the differences in an interview with one of our Portuguese members, Nana.

water-with-boats-brazil-mountains-in-distance-351283

Is the Portuguese spoken in Brazil the same as the Portuguese in Portugal? We find out the differences in an interview with our Tutor for Portuguese, Nana.

The Difference Between European and Brazilian Portuguese

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What’s the Difference Between European and Brazilian Portuguese?

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