Lorraine Maddison
Introduction:
Are you looking to expand your Portuguese vocabulary and learn how to say “computer” in this beautiful language? Look no further! In this guide, we will provide you with various ways to express this term, both formally and informally. We’ll also share some regional variations when necessary. Whether you’re a traveler, a language enthusiast, or just curious about Portuguese, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Formal Ways to Say Computer in Portuguese
If you’re in a formal setting or you prefer using more polite language, here are some formal ways to say “computer” in Portuguese:
- Computador: This is the most common and formal term for “computer” in Portuguese. It is widely used and understood throughout Portuguese-speaking countries.
- Máquina de computação: This is a more elaborate and technical way of referring to a computer in a formal context. It emphasizes the computational aspect of the device.
Now that you know the formal ways to refer to a computer in Portuguese, let’s explore some informal and colloquial expressions!
Informal Ways to Say Computer in Portuguese
When you’re in a casual or informal setting, using these terms to say “computer” in Portuguese will make you sound like a local:
- Computador: Yes, we mentioned this term earlier as a formal way to say “computer,” but it’s worth noting that Portuguese speakers often use it informally as well. It has become widely accepted in all contexts.
- PC: Similar to English, Portuguese speakers also use the abbreviation “PC” as an informal way to refer to a computer.
- Máquina: This term, meaning “machine” in English, is another common and informal way of referring to a computer in Portuguese. It is frequently heard in everyday conversations.
- Notebook: Instead of saying “laptop” explicitly, Portuguese speakers often use the term “notebook” to refer to their portable computers.
Now that we’ve covered the most common ways to say “computer” in Portuguese, let’s look into some regional variations that you might encounter:
Regional Variations
Portuguese is spoken in various countries across the globe, so naturally, some regional variations exist. Here are a few examples:
In Brazil: In Brazil, the most commonly used term for “computer” is “computador.” However, you might also come across the word “micro” (pronounced “meek-roh”) in informal conversations, especially among older generations.
In Portugal: In Portugal, “computador” is the dominant term for “computer” both formally and informally. However, don’t be surprised if you hear the word “computa” being used colloquially as a shortened and more informal version.
Remember, these regional variations don’t cause communication barriers, as the main term “computador” is universally understood across Portuguese-speaking communities. Now, let’s move on to some useful phrases and examples!
Useful Phrases and Examples
Now that you know various ways to say “computer” in Portuguese, let’s take a look at some practical phrases and examples to solidify your understanding:
- “Eu comprei um novo computador ontem.” (I bought a new computer yesterday.)
- “Preciso consertar meu PC urgente.” (I need to fix my PC urgently.)
- “Você tem um notebook que eu possa usar?” (Do you have a laptop I can use?)
- “Onde posso encontrar lojas de computadores por aqui?” (Where can I find computer stores around here?)
By using these phrases and examples, you can confidently express yourself when talking about computers in Portuguese.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You’ve now expanded your Portuguese vocabulary by learning how to say “computer” in various formal and informal ways. Remember that “computador” is the most commonly used term across Portuguese-speaking countries. Feel free to use this guide as a reference whenever you need it. Practice, immerse yourself in the language, and soon you’ll become a fluent Portuguese speaker. Boa sorte!
