Fala, pessoal. Tudo bom? If you’ve checked as redes sociais (social media) lately, you probably noticed some of your amigos e parentes (friends and relatives) sharing an enigmatic picture composed of tiny coloful quadrados (squares). I was intrigued myself, until a friend introduced me to the captivating Wordle.
The story behind it is quite touching, actually. The jogo (game) took the world by storm, although it was originally intended as love gesture designed by engineer Josh Wardle, who wanted to create something unique for his word-game-loving girlfriend. And it was somehow out of passion, in this case for the Portuguese language, that tech developer Fernando Serboncini came up with our very own version, Termo (term in English).
Fiquei feliz com o meu resultado (Screen capture by author)
Como jogar | How to play
Termo works pretty much like Wordle does. Os jogadores (players) must find out a palavra certa (the right word) and they have seis tentativas (six attempts). They start out by typing any 5-letter-word into the grid. When they press ‘enter’, some letras (letters) might change. If they turn amarelo (yellow), it means that the letter belongs in the word, but it is na posição errada (in the wrong position). The ones that turned verde (green) both belong in the word and are in the right position. The cinzas (grey ones) do not belong in the word and should be avoided when you adivinhar (guess) again. So all you have to do is keep on trying until you get a resposta correta (the right answer). Simples assim!
It’s not just highly viciante (addictive), it’s also very educational too! And if you’re wondering whether your Portuguese nível (level) is good enough to suceed at (or have fun with) this game, maybe you could see it as an opportunity to expand seu conhecimento (your knowledge) by using an online dictionary. I would recommend Michaelis, Priberam or Dicio. And no, it’s not trapaça (cheating) if you’re still learning the language! It can help you conhecer novas palavras (get to know new words) while, well, increasing your chances of ganhar (winning) as well. No harm in that!
And don’t worry about desperdiçar seu tempo (wasting your time). New words are available only uma vez por dia (once a day), meaning that, no matter how tempting it is, you’ll only be able to play it once and then try again the next day. Feel like practicing Portuguese or testing your skills in the language? Hit the link below:
Want to learn more about Wordle? Don’t take my word for it! You can read what Gary has to say about it here:
Fala, pessoal! What’s up, you guys? Como está o clima onde vocês estão? What’s the weather like where you are? Fevereiro (February) means freezing cold temperatures in the northern hemisphere, but scorching quente (hot) weather for those down south, like us Brazilians. At least it’s a break from the raging tempestades (storms) we saw in janeiro (January). And sadly, as far as extreme weather is concerned, the event that influenced me to write this text was an unfortunate one.
Desastres naturais acontecem no mundo todo (Image by Keli Black from Pixabay)
You might have heard about the tragic desabamento de rochas (rockfall) in the touristic city of Capitólio last month. The incident made the international headlines, featuring a striking video where you can see a large cliffside rock formation collapsing onto three barcos (boats). Ten people were mortas (killed) and 32 others left feridas (injured) as a result of the impact. Firefighters believe that the continuously heavy chuva (rain) affecting the area might be largely responsible. If you want to read more about it, find further information in Portuguese here or in English here.
Although recent climatic adversities have been linked to the effects aquecimento global (global warming), desastres naturais (natural disasters) have always been a part of history. Today’s post will expand on this one from 2012 with a few different phenomena and other examples. Vamos nessa!
drought – seca
Israel has been suffering from its longest drought on record | Israel está passando pela sua seca mais longa já registrada.
Terremotos podem ser devastadores (Image by Angelo Giordano from Pixabay)
hurricane – furacão
Hurricane Katrina is said to be one of the worst catastrophes of the century | O furacão Katrina é considerado uma das piores catástrofes do século.
blizzard – nevasca
Over 12 people were killed in the avalanche, caused by a blizzard | Mais de 12 pessoas morreram na avalanche, causada por uma nevasca.
heatwave – onda de calor
The heatwave sweeping across Europe is predicted to reach France next week | A onda de calor passando pela Europa está prevista para chegar à França na próxima semana.
flood – enchente
Secas ocorrem em climas quentes (Image by Sven Lachmann from Pixabay)
All meteorologists agree that heavy rain and floods can be expected this season | Todos meteorologistas concordam que chuvas fortes e enchentes podem ser esperadas nesta estação.
earthquake – terremoto
The 2011 earthquake in Japan claimed tens of thousands of lives and over 300 billion in property damage | O terremoto de 2011 no Japão custou dezenas de milhares de vidas e mais de 300 bilhões em danos materiais.
landslide – deslizamento de terra
The school’s roof caved in during the landslide | O telhado da escola desabou durante o deslizamento de terra.
Chuvas intensas causam enchentes (Image by LucyKaef from Pixabay)
volcanic eruption – erupção vulcânica
A volcanic eruption warning has been issued in Iceland | Um alerta de erupção vulcânica foi emitido na Islândia.
wildfire – incêndio florestal, queimada
A large portion of the area’s native greenery was destroyed in the wildfire | Uma grande parte da vegetação nativa da área foi destruída na queimada.
hailstorm – tempestade de granizo
The southern provinces of Chine were hit by a severe hailstorm, which brought serious losses | As províncias do sul da China foram atingidas por uma forte tempestade de granizo, que trouxe sérias perdas.
Do you know how to falar sobre o tempo (talk about the weather) in Portuguese? Don’t miss out on these previous posts:
Fala, pessoal! Tudo bem? Sério mesmo? Learning about collocations and idioms is the best way to achieve fluency and communicating in a natural way in a foreign language. And using the word sério(serious) properly can certainly help. Today’s post will round up some examples of how to use the term and their meanings. And if you want to dig deeper into the topic of expressions in Portuguese, check out these related posts here, here or here. So it’s time to get serious!
Por que você está tão sério? (Image by Ольга Бережна from Pixabay )
First of all, sério means the same as in English, as in something bad, severe or as a person who is quiet and not into jokes:
Remember that “sério” as an adjective should therefore be modified according to gender and number:
Você está falando sério? (Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels)
You can even go a little further and try sério mesmo, which is a little more emphatic but also a bit informal and can be translated as for real:
É sério que já acabou? But don’t worry, there is more to come next week! Tenham uma ótima semana.
Ei, gente! Prontos para o fim de semana? Mas agora é hora de falar sério! But now it’s time to get serious and move on with our previous post about the word sério in Portuguese. Today we are going to cover a few more idioms and examples related to this very interesting term in our language. Vem dar uma olhada!
Por que você está tão séria? (Photo by Karolina Grabowska)
Brazilians are usually very friendly and like to smile. So if you’re not really in a cheerful mood as we so often are, you will likely hear this phrase.
And as a bonus treat for learners, here is a classic song from the 2000s featuring Brazilian popular rap group Charlie Brown Jr. and R&B singer Negra Li, Não É Sério, so you can boost your language skills as you sing:
Olá, pessoal! Como estão? When living in a país estrangeiro (foreign country), we often catch ourselves struggling to find the right words in the most unusual situations. I was hosting um chá de bebê (a baby shower) for a friend and, as I don’t speak the local language, finding exactly what I needed to buy took a lot of Googling and translating.
I definitely wish I could have had more help, which prompted me to put together this useful guide on how to navigate the magical world of infância (childhood) in Portuguese. You don’t have to be a parent to have a criança (child) in your life. You might be an aunt, uncle, grandparent, neighbor or even have a colleague at work who has childen. Showing that you care goes a long way in any relationship, and knowing how to express yourself in the language can be really helpful. Então venham comigo!
Sempre levo meus filhos no parquinho (Photo by Orione Conceição from Pexels)
parquinho | playground
escorregador, balanço, gangorra, caixa de areia | slide, swing, see saw, sand pit
Levo meus filhos no parquinho todas às tardes | I take my children to the playground every afternoon.
pega-pega, pique-esconde | play tag, hide and seek
Do you want to play tag or hide and seek with us? | Você quer brincar de esconde-esconde ou pega-pega com a gente?
chupeta | binkie, pacifier
Chupetas são uma boa ideia para acalmar bebês | Pacifiers are a good ideia to calm babies down.
mamadeira | baby bottle
É hora de alimentar o bebê, você pode pegar a mamadeira para mim? | It’s time to the feed the baby, can you get the baby bottle for me?
babador | bib
Ainda bem que o bebê estava com o babador, ele se sujou todo de comida | Good thing the baby had his bib on, he good food all over himself.
Hora de trocar a fralda (Photo by Polina Tankilevitch from Pexels)
fralda, trocar fralda | diaper, change diaper
Oh, as fraldas do Jimmy estão fedendo! Acho que é hora de trocar a fralda | Oh, Jimmy’s diapers stink! I think it’s time for adiaper change.
amamentar | to breastfeed
A amamentação oferece muitos benefícios para a saúde, tanto para a mãe quanto para a criança | Breastfeeding offers a lot of health benefits both for the mother and the child.
carrinho de bebê | stroller
Estou levando minha filha de dois anos ao parque em um carrinho de bebê porque ela é nova demais para andar muito | I’m taking my two-year-old to the park on a stroller because she is too young to walk around for long.
boneca | doll
Eu tive várias bonecas Barbie quando era criança | I had several Barbie dolls when I was a kid.
bichinho de pelúcia, ursinho | stuffed animals, teddy bear
Luke está chateado porque ele esqueceu seu ursinho de pelúcia favorito no jardim de infância | Luke is upset because he forgot his favorite teddy bear in the kindergarten.
A cama de Lisa está cheia de bichinhos de pelúcia de todos os tamanhos e cores | Lisa’s bed is covered in stuffed animals of all sizes and colors.
engatinhar |to crawl
Minha filha começou a engatinhar ontem! Em breve ela estará dando seus primeiros passos | My baby daughter started crawling yesterday! Soon she will be taking her first steps.
fazer xixi na cama |wet your bed
Reduzir a ingestão de líquidos à noite pode ajudar as crianças a parar de fazer xixi na cama | Reducing the intake of fluids at night can help children stop wetting their beds.
O jardim de infância é um bom lugar para fazer amigos (Photo by cottonbro from Pexels)
creche, jardim de infância | day care, kindergarten
No início, meu filho não parava de chorar quando o deixava na creche. Depois ele acabou se acostumando! | At first, my son couldn’t stop crying when I dropped him off at day care. Then he got used to it!
Nos mudamos para esse parte da cidade porque eles tem jardins-de-infância melhores| We moved to this part of town because they have better kindergartens.
crescer | grow up
Eu cresci em Boston | I grew up in Boston.
Aproveite esses momentos, eles crescem tão rápido! | Enjoy these moments, they grow up so fast!
And first things first! Before infância (childhood), comes gravidez (pregnancy). If you’d care to learn more about this life stage, confira abaixo or see our related posts here and here:
WARNING: As of today, the Portuguese blog will be discontinued. I would like to thank all readers. It has been great writing about my language as culture over the years. Hope you enjoyed it too!
Portuguese classes might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about learning a second language. However, with over 220 million native speakers, Portuguese is one of the most spoken languages worldwide. Whether you’re planning to visit Brazil or simply want to broaden your language skills, taking Portuguese classes can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
At Caminhos Language Centre, we offer various options for Portuguese learners, including in-person classes, Portuguese online courses, and immersive experiences in Rio de Janeiro. Here’s why Caminhos is the perfect place for your Portuguese classes.
Portuguese Classes to learn portuguese
Choosing to study in Brazil offers many advantages. Firstly, Brazil is a vibrant country with a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and warm people. By taking Portuguese classes in Rio de Janeiro, you are not just learning a language—you are living the experience.
Caminhos Language Centre gives you the opportunity to explore the city and immerse yourself in the culture while practicing your Portuguese. Whether you’re enjoying a beach day at Copacabana or hiking through Tijuca Forest, you’ll have countless opportunities to interact with locals and use the language daily.
Portuguese Classes at Caminhos Language Centre
At Caminhos, we offer Portuguese courses for all levels—beginners to advanced. Our teachers are native speakers who create engaging and interactive classes to make learning fun and effective. The main course options include:
Group classes: Learn Portuguese in small groups with other students from around the world. You’ll practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing while making new friends. Private lessons: These customized lessons offer you the flexibility to focus on your personal goals and work at your own pace. Portuguese online courses: If you can’t come to Brazil, don’t worry! Our online classes allow you to learn Portuguese from anywhere in the world, with the same immersive experience. The Best Way to Learn Portuguese Online Learning Portuguese online is a convenient option for many students. With our online Portuguese courses, you’ll receive personalized attention from our experienced teachers, interactive lessons, and plenty of resources to enhance your language journey.
Our Portuguese online courses are flexible, so you can study at your own pace and choose the schedule that fits your lifestyle. Plus, you’ll still have access to cultural tips, online activities, and social events, keeping the experience immersive even from afar.
Immersive Language Learning in Rio de Janeiro
If you’re looking for a unique experience, Caminhos Language Centre also offers immersive Portuguese courses in Rio de Janeiro. You can learn the language while exploring one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Participate in local activities, engage with the community, and enjoy the Brazilian lifestyle—all while improving your Portuguese skills. Our school organizes regular cultural tours and events, giving you a taste of authentic Brazil.
Caminhos Language Centre is the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have an excellent infrastructure, over 15 experienced Brazilian teachers, and a friendly multilingual support staff. We are the only school in Brazil able to offer Portuguese group courses throughout the year on10 different levels. Moreover, our school also offers more than just Portuguese lessons for foreigners, we offer you the complete Rio de Janeiro experience. Every day we organize 100% free and fun activities for you to socialize and practice your Portuguese. We can also help you with a student visa for Brazil and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Follow us onInstagram for some Portuguese tips and news.
When learning a new language, greetings are among the first phrases you’ll master. Knowing how to say “good morning” is essential for starting the day on the right foot. In Portuguese, whether you’re in Brazil, Portugal, or another Lusophone country, knowing how to greet people properly can make a huge difference in your interactions. In this blog post, we’ll explore not only how to say “good morning” in Portuguese but also the cultural nuances that come with it.
The direct translation of “good morning” in Portuguese is “bom dia”. Here’s a quick breakdown:
So, “bom dia” literally means “good day,” but it’s used exclusively in the morning, typically until noon or just after.
Pronunciation Tip:
“Bom” is pronounced like bõ, with a nasal sound.
“Dia” is pronounced jee-ah, with a soft d that almost sounds like j.
2. When to Use “Bom Dia”
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, “bom dia” is used to greet someone early in the day. You can use it in both formal and informal settings, whether you’re talking to a friend, a shopkeeper, or even a stranger in passing. Brazilians, in particular, are known for their friendliness and are likely to greet you with a cheerful “bom dia” whenever you meet in the morning.
Using “bom dia” is polite and expected in most social interactions. Even in a professional setting, it’s common to greet your coworkers or clients with a “bom dia” when you arrive in the morning.
3. Beyond “Bom Dia”: Other Morning Greetings
If you’re feeling a bit more creative or want to expand your vocabulary, there are a few variations and alternatives to “bom dia” that you can use:
“Tenha um bom dia” – This means “Have a good day.” It’s a slightly more formal or complete version of “bom dia.”
“Bom dia, tudo bem?” – A friendly way to say “Good morning, how are you?” It’s common to add a little extra to your greeting, especially in Brazil, where people enjoy small talk.
“Um ótimo dia para você” – This translates to “A great day for you.” It’s a warm and friendly wish for someone to have a really good day.
4. Cultural Context: Morning Greetings in Brazil
In Brazil, greeting someone with “bom dia” goes beyond mere words; it’s an important part of daily social interactions. Brazilians are generally warm and hospitable, and starting the day with a smile and a “bom dia” is seen as a way to foster good relationships. Whether you’re grabbing coffee at a local café or entering an office building, saying “bom dia” sets a positive tone for the rest of your encounter.
Unlike in some cultures where people may skip morning greetings altogether, Brazilians make a point of greeting everyone they meet, even in passing. So, if you’re living in or visiting Brazil, be ready to exchange a lot of “bom dias”!
5. Morning Greetings in Portugal and Other Lusophone Countries
While the phrase “bom dia” is universal across Portuguese-speaking countries, the way it’s used can vary slightly from country to country. In Portugal, for example, people tend to be a bit more reserved, but greeting someone with “bom dia” is still considered polite and appropriate. In Angola, Mozambique, and other Portuguese-speaking countries, the same rule applies—greetings are important, and starting the day with “bom dia” is essential.
6. Conclusion: The Power of “Bom Dia”
Mastering greetings like “bom dia” is a crucial step in your Portuguese learning journey. Not only does it help you communicate effectively, but it also allows you to connect with people on a more personal level. Whether you’re in Brazil, Portugal, or another Lusophone country, a friendly “bom dia” can go a long way in making a great first impression.
So, the next time you find yourself in a Portuguese-speaking environment, don’t hesitate to start the day with a cheerful “bom dia!” It’s simple, yet powerful, and a key to embracing the warmth and friendliness of the Portuguese language.
Caminhos Language Centre is the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have an excellent infrastructure, over 15 experienced Brazilian teachers, and a friendly multilingual support staff. We are the only school in Brazil able to offer Portuguese group courses throughout the year on10 different levels. Moreover, our school also offers more than just Portuguese lessons for foreigners, we offer you the complete Rio de Janeiro experience. Every day we organize 100% free and fun activities for you to socialize and practice your Portuguese. We can also help you with a student visa for Brazil and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Follow us onInstagram for some Portuguese tips and news.
How Will AI Transform Language Learning, and Why Human Connections Still Matter in How to Learn Portuguese?
While these technological advancements increase usefulness and accessibility, human connections remain irreplaceable for developing language proficiency and cultural understanding. If you’re wondering “How to Learn Portuguese” effectively, keep reading to explore the balance between AI tools and human interaction.
It’s indisputable that AI has improved how we work, search for information, communicate, and learn. In the field of language learning, these platforms are driven by databases that optimize learning paths and user engagement.
From Chatbots to Big Data: The AI Innovations
Personalized Learning with Big Data
According to Babbel Magazine, AI is built by a vast database to create personalized learning methods customized to individual goals and learning styles. These platforms analyze user behavior to identify weaknesses and adapt exercises. This adaptability is key to helping students stay motivated and achieve their goals.
AI for Instant Practice
Natural Language Processing (NLP) it’s a type of artificial intelligence that makes computers understand, process, and manipulate human language. These tools imitate human interactions, enabling a practical way to improve fluency and sentence construction. Chatbots like ChatGPT are increasing their sophistication in creating natural conversations, making them helpful tools for language practice.
Gamification and Multisensory Approaches
An article from TechCrunch explains how gamification can increase learner retention and make the process easier. Gamified learning methods transform language lessons into engaging activities with points, rewards, and challenges. What also makes the learning process more dynamic is the use of multisensory platforms that combine visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements to catch the user’s attention.
2 Reasons Human Connections Matter in How to Learn Portuguese:
While AI offers innovative solutions, it lacks human interaction’s emotional intelligence and adaptability.
To learn Brazilian Portuguese, immersion is key, and spending time in Brazil is the best way to achieve this. At Caminhos Language Centre, we provide group classes, cultural experiences, daily language practice, and opportunities to explore Rio de Janeiro. We also offer accommodation, making it easier for you to immerse yourself fully in the language, culture, and unique diversity of Brazil.
Emotional and Cultural Depth: Language is directly connected to learning a new culture and emotion. When you talk to a native speaker, it provides nuanced insights into idioms, humor, and cultural contexts that AI can’t replace. And we are constantly changing the way we communicate, with new words and mannerisms. Cultural immersion through real conversations enhances language learning results.
Problem-Solving Beyond Algorithms: The blog Psychology Today states that pre-programmed rules do not make human intelligence. Humans need to be motivated by emotional evaluations and situational understanding to resolve problems, which increases a more holistic approach to language learning.
Adaptability: Humans can adjust teaching styles and explanations based on the learner’s immediate needs and based on the space in which they are located.
Cultural Exchange: Learning from locals provides immersive exposure to traditions, gestures, and social norms.
Soft Skills Development: Conversations with native speakers build communication skills, emotional intelligence, and confidence.
The Role of Social Interaction in Learning
Research consistently shows that human interaction significantly enhances language acquisition:
Social Learning Theory by Albert Bandura emphasizes that observation and interaction are critical for effective learning.
Studies published in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience highlight the brain’s response to social cues, showing improved retention when language learning involves real-world interactions.
AI and Human Connections: A Collaborative Approach
The future of language learning lies in blending AI’s technological efficiency with the richness of human interaction. Combining these elements ensures learners benefit from personalized resources while engaging in meaningful cultural exchanges.
AI is undeniably reshaping language education, offering tools that make learning accessible and adaptive. However, the human element remains unparalleled in developing authentic communication skills and cultural fluency. By leveraging both AI and human connections, language learners can achieve a holistic and enriching experience.
Caminhos also offers online classes, so you can learn Portuguese wherever you are with native teachers and exclusive material.
Caminhos Language Centre is the largest and most exciting Portuguese school in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have an excellent infrastructure, over 15 experienced Brazilian teachers, and a friendly multilingual support staff. We are the only school in Brazil able to offer Portuguese group courses throughout the year on10 different levels. Moreover, our school also offers more than just Portuguese lessons for foreigners, we offer you the complete Rio de Janeiro experience. Every day we organize 100% free and fun activities for you to socialize and practice your Portuguese. We can also help you with a student visa for Brazil and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro. Follow us onInstagram for some Portuguese tips and news.
Portuguese Classes to learn portuguese
2. When to Use “Bom Dia”
