estou bem
/isˈto(w) ˈbẽj̃/word by word
estou bem is the Portuguese phrase for "I am doing well".
The phrase estou bem is used to indicate that you are doing well, which can mean you are feeling healthy or happy.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the first-person singular present of the verb estar (to be in a temporary state) and the adverb bem (well).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In casual spoken Portuguese, the es- prefix is often dropped, resulting in the contraction tô bem.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, Tô bem. is used to mean "I'm good." In Angola, Tá fixe. is used to mean "It's okay/good."
How does it change in a sentence?
Because it uses the verb estar instead of ser, it implies a temporary state of being rather than a permanent characteristic.
How do you pronounce it?
/isˈto(w) ˈbẽj̃/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use sou bem to describe your state of being, as it is grammatically incorrect. Use estou bem instead.
When do people say it?
A common natural response to someone saying estou bem is Que bom! to express pleasure at their well-being.
Did you know?
- The verb in estou bem comes from the Latin 'stō', which means 'to stand'. In its earliest forms, expressing that you were 'well' was actually a way of saying you were 'standing well' or 'standing firm'.
- While estou bem describes your state, Portuguese has a dedicated word, saudade, for the opposite feeling of longing or melancholy that cannot be translated as a single English word.
- In some regions of Brazil, a person might reply to estou bem with estou indo, which literally means 'I am going' but actually means 'I am getting by'.
Examples in context
- Estou bem, obrigado(a) pela oportunidade.I am well, thank you for the opportunity.
- Tudo beleza, e contigo?Everything's great, and with you?
- Eu estou bem, obrigado.I am well, thank you.
- Não se preocupe, estou bem.Don't worry, I am fine.
- Hoje estou bem e feliz.Today I am well and happy.
Example conversation
Felipe and Mariana meet in a park.
- FelipeOi Mariana, como você está?Hi Mariana, how are you?
- MarianaOi Felipe, estou bem, e você?Hi Felipe, I am well, and you?
- FelipeEu também estou bem.I am also well.
- MarianaQue bom!That's good!
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (estou, bem) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bem, estou, CC BY-SA 4.0.
