expiação
/is.pi.aˈsɐ̃w̃/
The English word "atonement" is translated into Portuguese as expiação.
expiação is used to describe the act of making amends to restore a damaged relationship.
Meaning: amends to restore a damaged relationship (noun)
Which one should you use?
While expiação is the standard translation, penitência can also be used as a formal way to express the concept of atonement.
How does it change in a sentence?
expiação is a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/is.pi.aˈsɐ̃w̃/. The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 4th syllable.
Did you know?
- While expiação is the direct translation, in casual Brazilian Portuguese, people might use the phrase limpar a barra to mean making amends or fixing a bad reputation.
- The word penitência shares a root with penitente, a term used to describe the hooded figures who perform public acts of atonement during Holy Week processions in Portugal and Brazil.
- The word expiar can also be used for 'serving a sentence' in prison, meaning the act of atonement is often linked to the concept of time served.
Examples in context
- Em algumas culturas, a expiação é considerada uma importante forma de redenção.In some cultures, atonement is considered an important form of redemption.
- A penitência é uma forma de buscar a expiação pelos erros cometidos.Penance is a way to seek atonement for the mistakes made.
- Ele buscou a expiação pelo erro cometido.He sought atonement for the mistake committed.
Example conversation
Rodrigo and Camila are discussing a past conflict.
- RodrigoEu quero fazer algo como expiação.I want to do something as atonement.
- CamilaEu agradeço, Rodrigo, mas já perdoei.I appreciate it, Rodrigo, but I already forgave you.
- RodrigoAinda sinto que preciso de expiação.I still feel that I need atonement.
- CamilaTudo bem, Camila aceita o seu pedido.It is okay, Camila accepts your request.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry expiação, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
