Are you interested in learning how to say “child” in Portuguese? Whether you’re planning to visit or live in a Portuguese-speaking country, it’s always helpful to know the local language. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to refer to a child in Portuguese, providing you with various tips and examples along the way. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Child in Portuguese
When speaking in a formal context or with people you are not familiar with, you can use the following expressions to refer to a child:
1. Criança:
“Criança” is the most common and neutral way to say “child” in Portuguese. It is used to refer to both boys and girls, regardless of their age.
Example: A criança está brincando no parque. (The child is playing in the park.)
2. Menino:
Although “menino” usually translates to “boy” in English, it can also be used in a formal context to refer to a child in general. However, keep in mind that it specifically means “boy” rather than “child” when used alone.
Example: O menino é muito inteligente. (The child/boy is very intelligent.)
3. Menina:
“Menina” is the formal equivalent of “menino” but specifically refers to a girl. It is also used to refer to a child in formal situations when their gender needs to be emphasized.
Example: A menina está aprendendo a ler. (The child/girl is learning to read.)
Informal Ways to Say Child in Portuguese
When speaking in informal settings, with friends or family members, you can use more casual expressions to refer to a child:
1. Miúdo:
“Miúdo” is commonly used in informal conversations in Portuguese-speaking countries such as Brazil. It is an affectionate and familiar way to refer to a child, similar to calling them “little one” or “kid” in English.
Example: Vem cá, miúdo. (Come here, kid.)
2. Garoto:
In Brazil, “garoto” is a widely used word to refer to a child or a boy in a casual manner. However, note that in European Portuguese, “garoto” usually means “teenager” rather than “child.”
Example: Esse garoto é muito esperto. (This child/boy is very clever.)
3. Guria:
In some regions of Brazil, particularly in the south, “guria” is used to refer to a girl or a child in informal conversations. It is similar to “miúdo” but more regional.
Example: Essa guria é muito simpática. (This child/girl is very friendly.)
Regional Variations
While the above expressions are widely understood throughout Portuguese-speaking countries, it’s essential to note that there might be regional variations in certain areas. These variations are often influenced by local dialects or accents. Nevertheless, it’s always safe to use the more standard terms mentioned above in most contexts to avoid confusion.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned various ways to say “child” in Portuguese, both formally and informally, you’ll be able to communicate effectively and connect with native speakers in Portuguese-speaking countries. Remember to adapt your choice of words based on the formality of the situation and the familiarity with the person you’re speaking to. Practice these expressions, and you’ll soon become confident in your ability to refer to children in Portuguese!
