When visiting Portugal or interacting with Portuguese speakers, it’s always valuable to learn some basic phrases. One of the most common phrases you’ll come across is “good evening.” In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to say “good evening” in Portugal, providing tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say Good Evening
Formal greetings are generally used when addressing people older than you, in business settings, or in more traditional social situations. Here are some formal ways to say “good evening” in Portugal:
1. Boa Tarde (Good Afternoon)
Although technically meaning “good afternoon,” “Boa Tarde” can also be used as a formal way to say “good evening” in Portugal, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours. It can be used to greet someone for the first time in a more formal setting.
Example: Luís: Boa tarde, meu nome é Luís. Prazer em conhecê-lo. (Good afternoon, my name is Luís. Nice to meet you.)
2. Boa Noite (Good Night)
“Boa Noite” is the most commonly used formal way to say “good evening” in Portugal. It is appropriate to use this greeting from late afternoon until bedtime. Additionally, it is also used to say “good night” when parting ways at the end of the evening.
Example: Ana: Boa noite, senhor Silva. Até logo. (Good evening, Mr. Silva. See you later.)
Informal Ways to Say Good Evening
Informal greetings are typically used when interacting with friends, family, or peers. They convey a more relaxed and friendly tone. Here are some informal ways to say “good evening” in Portugal:
1. Boa Tarde (Good Afternoon)
Just like in formal situations, “Boa Tarde” can also be used informally as a way to say “good evening” among friends or acquaintances. It is less common in this context, but it is still understood.
Example: Carlos: Oi, Pedro! Boa tarde! (Hi, Pedro! Good afternoon/evening!)
2. Boa Noite (Good Night)
Using “Boa Noite” informally signifies that it is later in the day, closer to bedtime, or you are addressing close friends or family. This greeting is commonly used during social gatherings or when meeting friends in the evening.
Example: Sara: Boa noite, pessoal! Estou feliz por estar aqui com todos vocês. (Good evening, folks! I’m happy to be here with all of you.)
Regional Variations
Portugal has several regional variations in the way people greet each other. While “Boa Noite” and “Boa Tarde” are generally understood across the country, some variations might be more prevalent in specific regions. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Buona Sera (Good Evening) – Alentejo Region
In the Alentejo region, located in the south of Portugal, there is a particular regional variation where some people say “Buona Sera” instead of “Boa Noite.” This phrase was influenced by the proximity to Spain and the Spanish language.
Example: Maria: Buona sera, todos! Como estão passando a tarde? (Good evening, everyone! How is your afternoon going?)
2. Boas (Hi/Hello) – Azores Islands
In the Azores Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, it is quite common for locals to greet each other with the word “Boas.” This informal greeting is used throughout the day, including in the evening.
Example: João: Boas, malta! Vamos sair hoje à noite? (Hi, guys! Are we going out tonight?)
Summary
In summary, it’s important to know the appropriate ways to say “good evening” in Portugal, both formally and informally. In formal situations, “Boa Tarde” (good afternoon) and “Boa Noite” (good night) are commonly used. For more casual interactions, among friends or peers, the same greetings can be used. However, it’s important to remember that regional variations may exist, such as “Buona Sera” in the Alentejo region or “Boas” in the Azores Islands.
Learning these basic Portuguese greetings will help you make a positive impression and create connections with locals during your visit to Portugal. So, next time you’re in a social setting, don’t forget to greet others with a warm “Boa Tarde” or “Boa Noite.”
