Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “detour” in Portuguese. In this article, we will provide you with formal and informal ways to express this concept in Brazilian Portuguese, focusing on mainland Portuguese variations only when necessary. We’ll feature numerous tips and example phrases to help you grasp this vocabulary. So let’s dive right in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Detour” in Portuguese
When it comes to formal situations or professional contexts, it is essential to use appropriate and elevated language. Here are a few expressions you can rely on:
1. Desvio
The most common and formal way to say “detour” in Portuguese is “desvio.” It is a versatile term used in various regions, and it is recognized throughout the Portuguese-speaking world. Examples:
Exemplo: “Há um desvio na estrada principal.” (There is a detour on the main road.)
2. Caminho Alternativo
If you prefer a slightly more formal expression, you can use “caminho alternativo” which translates to “alternative path.” It provides a clear indication of the need to take an alternate route. Examples:
Exemplo: “Devido às obras, será necessário seguir um caminho alternativo.” (Due to construction work, it will be necessary to take a detour.)
Informal Ways to Say “Detour” in Portuguese
When talking with friends or in informal settings, you can opt for more relaxed and colloquial expressions to convey the notion of a detour. Here are a couple of common phrases:
1. Rota Alternativa
To keep it informal yet specific, “rota alternativa” is a good choice. It shows that there is an alternative route available. Examples:
Exemplo: “Vamos precisar pegar uma rota alternativa para evitar o trânsito.” (We’ll need to take a detour to avoid the traffic.)
2. Atalho
Another informal term that can be used to refer to a detour is “atalho,” which translates to “shortcut.” It implies taking a quicker or alternative route. Examples:
Exemplo: “Podemos fazer um atalho para chegar mais rápido?” (Can we take a detour to arrive faster?)
Regional Variations in Portugal and Brazil
Although the formal and informal terms mentioned above are commonly used in both Brazil and Portugal, there can be slight regional variations. Let’s take a quick look:
Mainland Portugal
In mainland Portugal, the term “desvio” is the most predominant and widely understood word for “detour.” The previously mentioned phrases can also be used, but “desvio” remains the preferred choice in formal and informal contexts.
Brazil
In Brazil, the terms “desvio” and “rota alternativa” are widely used across different regions. However, “atalho” is more colloquial and frequently employed in spoken Brazilian Portuguese, particularly in informal conversations.
Tips and Examples
To help you further, here are some additional tips and examples related to the usage of “detour” in Portuguese:
- When giving directions, phrases like “Siga pela rua ao lado” (Go down the street next to it) are useful to indicate detours.
- In informal settings, you can simply say “Vamos dar uma volta” (Let’s take a tour) to suggest taking a detour.
- If you come across a sign indicating a detour in Portuguese-speaking countries, it will most likely say “Desvio” to provide clear directions.
Exemplo: “Sempre siga as placas de ‘Desvio’ quando necessário.” (Always follow the ‘Detour’ signs when necessary.)
Remember, understanding the context and adapting your language accordingly is crucial when communicating in Portuguese. This guide provides you with formal and informal options to express the concept of a detour, both in mainland Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese. By using the suggestions, phrases, and tips presented, you will be able to navigate conversations smoothly, receive accurate directions, and understand signs indicating detours in Portuguese-speaking countries.
