Boa noite
greeting, Brazil
In Brazil "good evening" is Boa noite. The same phrase also means "good night". It is also called Tenha uma boa noite.
Meaning: greeting used after dark (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| Boa noite | greeting, Brazil |
| Tenha uma boa noite | wish, polite |
Say Boa noite when you arrive in the evening and when you leave for bed. The context shows which meaning is meant.
Which one should you use?
Brazilians start using Boa noite around sunset, not at a fixed hour. Before that, the greeting is Boa tarde.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
It fits both formal and casual meetings, such as a restaurant or a work dinner.
Did you know?
- Because Portuguese uses one phrase for both, Boa noite can be a greeting or a farewell in Brazil.
Examples in context
- Boa noite, tudo bem?Good evening, how are you?
- Boa noite, mesa para dois?Good evening, a table for two?
- Tenha uma boa noite!Have a good evening!
Example conversation
A couple arrives at a restaurant in Rio de Janeiro.
- CasalBoa noite. Temos reserva.Good evening. We have a reservation.
- GarçomBoa noite! Qual é o nome?Good evening! What is the name?
- CasalSilva, para as oito.Silva, for eight.
