If you’re interested in learning how to say “bum” in Portuguese, whether for conversational purposes or just curious about different languages, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover the formal and informal ways to express this concept, without forgetting to mention any regional variations along the way. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Bum” in Portuguese
In formal contexts, it’s important to use polite language. Here are some formal alternatives to express the idea of “bum” in Portuguese:
1. Desocupado(a)
Desocupado(a) is a polite way to say “bum” in Portuguese. It translates to “unoccupied” or “idle” in English and can refer to someone who doesn’t have any work or engagements.
Mayra é uma pessoa desocupada, raramente a vejo trabalhando. (Mayra is an idle person; I rarely see her working.)
2. Preguiçoso(a)
Preguiçoso(a) is another safe option to describe someone as “bum” in a formal tone. It means “lazy” in English and can be used to refer to individuals who lack motivation or drive.
O funcionário é preguiçoso, nunca realiza suas tarefas no prazo. (The employee is lazy; he never completes his tasks on time.)
Informal Ways to Say “Bum” in Portuguese
Informal situations call for more casual language. Here are some less formal ways to convey the meaning of “bum” in Portuguese:
1. Folgado(a)
Folgado(a) is a commonly used term to describe someone as a “bum” in a more relaxed context. It can be translated as “freeloader” or “slacker” in English.
João é muito folgado, sempre pedindo dinheiro emprestado. (João is such a freeloader, always asking for money.)
2. Vagabundo(a)
Vagabundo(a) is a stronger term to express the concept of a “bum” in Portuguese, often used when someone lacks ambition or purpose. It can be translated as “good-for-nothing” or “deadbeat” in English.
Essa pessoa é um vagabundo, nunca faz nada de útil. (That person is a good-for-nothing, never does anything useful.)
Regional Variations
While the previously mentioned options are widely understood and used throughout the Portuguese-speaking world, it’s worth noting that regional variations exist.
Brazilian Portuguese
In Brazil, you might hear the colloquial term “mão-de-vaca” to refer to a “bum.” It can be translated as “cheapskate” or “tightwad” in English. However, keep in mind that this term is informal and somewhat pejorative.
European Portuguese
In European Portuguese, “toupeira” or “abécula” are occasionally used to describe someone as a “bum.” Both terms can be translated as “dummy” or “idiot” in English and have a more light-hearted nuance.
Examples
Let’s see some examples using the expressions mentioned above:
- Pedro está desocupado – Translation: Pedro is unoccupied.
- Essa pessoa é muito preguiçosa – Translation: That person is very lazy.
- José é um folgado – Translation: José is a freeloader.
- Não dê dinheiro para aquela vagabunda – Translation: Don’t give money to that deadbeat.
Remember to use these terms in their appropriate contexts to ensure effective communication.
Learning different expressions in other languages allows you to understand diverse cultures and communicate more effectively with native speakers. We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights on the various ways to say “bum” in Portuguese. Enjoy expanding your language skills and using them in the appropriate situations!
