1. Every language has words and concepts with no single equivalent in other languages.
Sometimes the definition and translation can be found in the dictionary, but the context and cultural connotations these words are used make hard for non-native speakers to understand their real meaning. But don’t worry.
is here to help!
We have compiled a list of some beautiful Portuguese words that have no direct equivalent in English.
Hopefully they will boost your vocabulary!
2. Cafuné: The act of running one’s fingers through someone’s hair. Yes, there’s a word in Portuguese for that!
3. Saudade: this is the world’s 7th most difficult word to translate according to a list compiled by BBC. It is the for something or someone. It’s , feelings, experiences or places that once brought excitement. This word is used a lot by Brazilians and Portuguese speakers alike.
5. Friorento(a): a person sensitive to cold weather, who obviously will have a very hard time living in NY
6. Farofa: it’s a toasted manioc flour, and a tasty accompaniment for churrasco (barbecue) and feijoada – a typical Brazilian dish.
7. Malandro: this one is quite tricky to translate. It’s a , and a swindler. Its meaning is not entirely a negative.
It depends on the context. A malandro can be a clever and wit person.
8. Malemolência: This word has few meanings, depending on the context. It can refer to , wiggle and how the samba dancers move. It also represents flexibility and creativity when handling different kind of situations.
