If you’re a food lover, one of the first words you’ll want to learn when visiting Brazil or speaking with Brazilian Portuguese speakers is how to say “delicious.” Knowing how to express your enjoyment of food in their language will not only make you sound more fluent but also allow you to connect with locals on a deeper level. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “delicious” in Brazilian Portuguese, both formally and informally. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Delicious
When it comes to formal settings, such as fine dining establishments or professional conversations, it’s important to use appropriate language. Here are some formal expressions used to describe delicious food in Brazilian Portuguese:
- Gostoso(a) – This is the most commonly used word to say “delicious” in Brazilian Portuguese. It can be used for both food and drinks. For example:
“Esse prato está muito gostoso.” (This dish is very delicious.)
- Saboroso(a) – This word has a similar meaning to “gostoso(a)” and is often used in more refined settings. For instance:
“A refeição estava realmente saborosa.” (The meal was truly delicious.)
- Delicioso(a) – Borrowed from English, this word has become widely used in Brazil and can be used in both formal and informal situations. For example:
“O bolo de chocolate está delicioso.” (The chocolate cake is delicious.)
Informal Ways to Say Delicious
In more casual and everyday conversations, Brazilians often use different expressions to describe something as delicious. Here are some informal ways you can express your enjoyment of tasty food when speaking Brazilian Portuguese:
- Massa – Literally meaning “dough,” Brazilians use this word often to describe something as delicious. It’s a common slang term and can be used for food, drinks, or even general situations. For example:
“Esse macarrão está muito massa!” (This pasta is very delicious!)
- Bão demais – This phrase is a shortened version of “Muito bom demais” (Very, very good) and is often used to express extreme taste satisfaction. For instance:
“Essa pizza tá bão demais!” (This pizza is extremely delicious!)
- Maravilha – Although it literally means “wonder” or “marvel,” Brazilians often use “maravilha” to say something is delicious. It’s a versatile term used for different situations as well. For example:
“Que comida maravilha!” (What delicious food!)
Regional Variations
Brazilian Portuguese has several regional variations, each with its own unique vocabulary, slang, and expressions. While the words mentioned above are widely understood throughout Brazil, it’s worth noting some regional variations as well. Let’s take a look:
Southern Brazil
In the southern regions of Brazil, people have adopted some Portuguese words from neighboring countries like Uruguay and Argentina. For example:
- Barbaridade – Used to express something as delicious or amazing, particularly in Rio Grande do Sul state, which shares a border with Uruguay and Argentina.
- Suresha – Commonly used in southern Brazil, it expresses enthusiasm for the flavor of a dish. It comes from a Guarani Indian word that means taste, and it strongly represents the local culture.
North/Northeast Brazil
In the northern and northeastern regions of Brazil, different words and expressions are used. Some popular options include:
- Arretado(a) – A term from the northeastern states, it can mean something is both awesome and delicious. It reflects the vibrant culture of the region.
- Gostosão(a) – Commonly used in the northern states, it means something tastes really good and carries a stronger connotation of sexual appeal while referring to food.
Conclusion
When it comes to expressing your appreciation for delicious food in Brazilian Portuguese, there are several phrases and words to choose from. Whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, you can use expressions like “gostoso(a),” “saboroso(a),” “delicioso(a),” “massa,” “bão demais,” or “maravilha.” Additionally, regional variations may add unique flavor to your conversations. Brazilian people will undoubtedly appreciate your efforts to speak their language and connect with their culture. So go ahead and immerse yourself in the delicious world of Brazilian cuisine with confidence!
