irmã mais velha
/iʁˈmɐ̃ ˈmajs ˈvɛ.ʎɐ/word by word
In Portuguese, the phrase for big sister is irmã mais velha.
The phrase irmã mais velha is used to refer to a sister who is older than the speaker or another person. In Portuguese, this term refers specifically to age seniority rather than the person's physical size.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of irmã (sister), mais (more) and velha (old), literally translating to sister more old.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural form, big sisters, both the noun and the adjective must take the plural suffix, resulting in irmãs mais velhas.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /iʁˈmɐ̃ ˈmajs ˈvɛ.ʎɐ/. It has 5 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- While irmã mais velha refers to age, Portuguese speakers may use the term irmã de leite to describe a 'milk sister' who was nursed by the same woman.
- In a religious context, irmã is the standard term for a 'nun', regardless of whether she has biological siblings.
- The word irmã shares an ancient root with the English word 'germane', which refers to something being closely related or belonging to the same family.
Examples in context
- Minha irmã mais velha é uma pessoa incrível.My big sister is an amazing person.
- Mana, vamos sair hoje à noite?Hey sis, let's go out tonight?
- A minha irmãzona é sempre a mais responsável da família.My big sis is always the most responsible one in the family.
- Ela é minha irmã mais velha.She is my big sister.
- Minha irmã mais velha mora em Lisboa.My big sister lives in Lisbon.
Example conversation
Camila and Rodrigo are talking about their families.
- CamilaVocê tem irmãos, Rodrigo?Do you have siblings, Rodrigo?
- RodrigoSim, eu tenho uma irmã mais velha.Yes, I have a big sister.
- CamilaEla é mais alta que você?Is she taller than you?
- RodrigoNão, ela é bem baixinha.No, she is very short.
