10 Summer Idioms, Sayings, and Quotes in Portuguese
Portuguese is a language spoken by millions worldwide. From Portugal to Brazil, Africa to Asia, it connects diverse cultures. Learning its sayings and expressions is a gateway to understanding the Portuguese-speaking world.
These phrases reveal cultural nuances and showcase humor and wisdom. They tell about historical events, reflect national traditions, and highlight regional customs. Famous Portuguese quotes, in particular, emphasize the beauty and significance of the language.
Learning them is one of the best ways to sound more natural. When you do so, your communication skills improve. Besides, you connect with native speakers on a deeper level.
So, continue reading to discover your need-to-know summer idioms, sayings, and quotes in Portuguese!
10 European Portuguese Sayings and Expressions For The Summer
Portuguese is a language rich in expressive idioms. Below, you will find a collection of summer-related idioms, sayings, and quotes. These unique expressions, some of the most famous Portuguese quotes, showcase the language’s vibrant and colorful nature.
From European to Brazilian variations, these Portuguese sayings help you feel more at ease among natives. It does not matter if you are a language enthusiast or simply curious about Portuguese culture. Exploring these sayings will deepen your understanding and appreciation of this beautiful language.
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About the Heat
Está um calor de ananases!
Está um calor de ananases!
This expression evokes the vivid imagery of sweltering temperatures often associated with tropical climates. It’s commonly used in casual conversations during summer to emphasize the scorching heat in a light-hearted manner. Curiously, Portugal also has pineapple plantations in the Azores.
Estorrina do calor
Estorrina do calor
This Portuguese saying originated in the Alentejo. Some natives use only the first part of the expression. Upon hearing Estorrina
Estar com os bofes de fora
Estar com os bofes de fora
This idiom is common in everyday conversations, especially during the summer, because of the heat. Natives also use it after someone has engaged in activities like running or heavy lifting. But it suits any situation involving physical fatigue and breathlessness.
For example, were you climbing the hills while visiting Lisbon and need a minute to recompose? You can say Epá, tenho os bofes de fora!
Related to The Beach
Morrer na praia
With over 800 kilometers of the Atlantic coast, Portugal was bound to have some idioms about the beach. Morrer na praia
This idiom expresses the disappointment of falling short of success when it seemed within grasp. It is common to hear it when someone has invested significant effort only to falter at the final hurdle. Additionally, it is also one of the most popular national inspirational quotes.
You might know someone who puts much effort into an endeavor but feels discouraged and wants to give it all up. In that case, you can tell them Não vais morrer na praia!
Conseguir vender areia na praia
Conseguir vender areia na praia
It highlights the individual’s talent in convincing others to buy what they do not need. It is commonly employed in business contexts or when praising someone’s negotiating abilities. It emphasizes the art of persuasion and the ability to achieve the seemingly impossible through it.
About The Sea
Aproveitar a maré
Aproveitar a maré
As such, it suggests being proactive and making the most of advantageous situations. This Portuguese quote is often used in both personal and professional contexts. It emphasizes the importance of timing and initiative.
Nem muito ao mar, nem muito à terra
The literal translation of Nem muito ao Mar, nem muito à terra
It is one of the most meaningful quotes in Portuguese applied in real-life discussions about decision-making or lifestyle choices. It highlights the wisdom of avoiding excess and seeking equilibrium.
Quem vai ao mar avia-se em terra
Quem vai ao mar avia-se em terra
Its meaning underscores the importance of planning and readiness to ensure success. You can use it in professional and personal contexts. It might also feature among Portuguese inspiring quotes highlighting the necessity of being well-prepared before taking on new challenges.
Sayings and Other Expressions Used in The Summer
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Although unrelated to the summer, some idioms are largely applied during the hot season. Here are three examples.
Aguentar-se nas canetas
Aguentar-se nas canetas
It might describe someone managing to maintain their composure despite difficulties. It also highlights a person’s ability to endure challenges and remain steady during adversity. However, it is also a way to indicate that someone can endure a physically challenging activity. For example, if you go hiking with someone and find a steep hill, you might ask Aguentas-te nas canetas?
Maior fosse o dia, maior a romaria
Maior fosse o dia, maior a romaria
It might apply when describing someone with a busy lifestyle or who goes out all the time. During the summer, you might hear natives jokingly criticizing younger ones for wanting to party until late. Parents also use this saying when their children want to fit too much into a single vacation day.
Some Idiomatic expressions in Brazilian Portuguese
A Portuguese proverb often reflects deep cultural insights. The same is safe to say about proverbs from other languages, such as French or Spanish. Thus, while the language is similar in Portugal and Brazil, the sayings used in each country differ. Not only because of changes in grammar and vocabulary but mainly because of cultural differences.
Besides, you can easily say the summer is a year-long season in some parts of Brazil. Thus, you would expect Portuguese speakers there to have many sayings about the hot season and weather. Here are some.
O mar não está para peixe
This fisherman’s quote means The sea is not for fish. It means that conditions are not favorable for a particular activity or endeavor. O mar não está para peixe indicates the current situation is challenging or unproductive. You can compare it to that of a fisherman for whom the conditions (the moon, temperature, tide, etc.) are unfavorable to fishing.
It transmits the picture that it is best to wait for a more opportune moment. It can also express the idea that success depends on approaching the task differently due to adverse circumstances.
Vai dar praia
Vai dar praia translates to It is going to give beach. It means that something will be successful or it is a good idea. This expression conveys optimism and the expectation of a positive outcome. Brazilians apply it in anticipation of enjoyable events or favorable results.
This phrase is most common in casual conversation. Calling upon the idea of a beautiful beach day is similar to saying We will have a good time or It will be a hit.
Céu de brigadeiro
Céu de brigadeiro is an expression you will only hear in Brazil. It refers to a clear, blue sky without any clouds. Additionally, it can also symbolize a trouble-free situation or a period of calm and peace.
Brigadeiro is the same as the English term Brigadier. In Brazil, it is a high Air Force military rank corresponding to an army general. On days with clear skies, these army officials found perfect conditions for flying.
Thus originating from aviation terminology, it evokes imagery of smooth, uninterrupted flights. In everyday conversation, it signifies a time of tranquility and ease, where everything is going smoothly. Curiously, the word Brigadeiro is also the name of one of the most iconic and delicious sweets in Brazil.
The Weight of Expressions for The Portuguese Language
Idiomatic phrases often encapsulate centuries of history, traditions, and collective experiences. The Portuguese quotes you learned have a significant cultural and communicative significance.
They deliver insights into crucial themes such as life, hope, and human relations. At the same time, they can apply to everyday conversations and situations like tiredness. Thus, through them, learners can better understand the Portuguese-speaking communities they interact with.
Learning Portuguese Expressions Deepens Your Connection With The Culture
Learning Portuguese expressions offers a window into the Lusophone culture. It reveals nuanced insights into societal values, humor, and worldviews. Mastering these expressions will help you enhance your linguistic proficiency and gain valuable cultural competence.
These abilities will lead to more authentic and meaningful connections with native speakers. You will also feel more comfortable speaking Portuguese and interacting in the language. Your communication skills will improve and you will sound more like a native speaker.
Use Portuguese Idiomatic Expressions Related to The Summer
Portuguese idioms bring summer to life. They paint vivid pictures and reveal unique cultural insights. Besides being essential for effective communication, they showcase humor and wisdom. Using them makes you sound more natural. It deepens your connection with native speakers and helps you make new friends.
From “pineapple heat” to “selling sand on the beach” each phrase tells a story. It reflects traditions and customs. Learning these idioms is more than language practice. Now you know when and how to use these unique Portuguese sayings.
So, what are your favorite Portuguese summer idiomatic expressions? Comment them with us below!
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