Whether you’re traveling to a Portuguese-speaking country or simply trying to expand your language skills, knowing how to express the concept of “expect” in Portuguese is essential. In this guide, we will walk you through various ways to express this word in both formal and informal settings. We will also provide useful tips, examples, and highlight regional variations whenever necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Expect” in Portuguese
Let’s start with the formal ways of expressing “expect” in Portuguese:
1. Esperar
The most common translation of “expect” in Portuguese is “esperar.” This verb is widely used in both Portugal and Brazil. Here’s an example:
Eu espero encontrar o meu amigo no aeroporto.
(I expect to meet my friend at the airport.)
2. Aguardar
Another formal equivalent of “expect” is “aguardar.” This verb is often used in official or professional contexts. Here’s an example:
Aguardo a sua resposta com interesse.
(I expect your reply with interest.)
Informal Ways to Say “Expect” in Portuguese
Now, let’s explore some informal alternatives to express the idea of “expect” in Portuguese:
1. Contar com
An informal but widely used way to convey the meaning of “expect” is by using the phrase “contar com.” This expression is more common in Brazil. Here’s an example:
Eu conto com a sua ajuda.
(I expect your help.)
2. Esperar por
Another informal option is to use the verb “esperar por.” This construction is more commonly heard in spoken Portuguese across different regions. For example:
Espero por uma resposta em breve.
(I expect a reply soon.)
Tips for Using “Expect” Appropriately
Here are some important tips to help you use the word “expect” correctly in Portuguese:
1. Pay Attention to Verb Conjugations
Remember to conjugate the verbs based on the subject and tense. In Portuguese, verb conjugations can vary based on the person (I, you, he/she), number (singular or plural), and tense (past, present, future).
2. Context Matters
The appropriate translation for “expect” also depends on the surrounding context. Always consider the specific situation to choose the most suitable translation.
3. Practice Listening and Speaking
Listening to native Portuguese speakers and engaging in conversations will help you better understand the nuances of using the word “expect” in the right context.
Variations Across Portuguese-Speaking Regions
Portuguese is spoken across several regions, each with its unique expressions and accents. While the formal ways of expressing “expect” mentioned earlier are widely understood and accepted, informal alternatives may vary. Here’s an example of how the informal expression “I expect your reply” may differ:
Brazilian Portuguese:
Eu conto com a sua resposta.
European Portuguese:
Espero pela sua resposta.
These regional variations give Portuguese its rich diversity, so embrace the local flavors whenever you can!
Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to say “expect” in Portuguese, practice using these expressions in different situations. The more you immerse yourself in the language, the more fluent you’ll become. Enjoy your language-learning journey, and best of luck!
