What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of boa noite (good night), meu (my) and querido (dear/beloved).
Which one should you use?
The phrase changes based on the gender and number of the people you are addressing. You can also use different terms of endearment to change the tone: meu bem is a common alternative used between romantic partners, which is slightly more colloquial and affectionate, while meu amor is used between couples or very close friends.
How does it change in a sentence?
You must adjust the phrase to match the gender and number of the recipient. If you are addressing a female, change the masculine meu querido to the feminine minha querida. To address a group of people or a mixed group, use the plural form meus queridos.
How do you pronounce it?
6 syllables: /ˈbo(w).ɐ ˈnoj.tʃi mew keˈɾi.du/. The stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- The word querido is the past participle of the verb querer, meaning 'to want' or 'to love'. Literally, calling someone 'dear' in Portuguese is like calling them 'wanted'.
- While querido is affectionate, using it with a stranger or a formal acquaintance in some Portuguese-speaking cultures can be perceived as overly familiar or even condescending.
- The term meu bem, mentioned as an alternative to meu querido, literally translates to 'my good' or 'my asset'.
Examples in context
- Descanse bem, boa noite meu querido.Rest well, good night my dear.
- Boa noite meu querido, até amanhã.Good night my dear, see you tomorrow.
Example conversation
A couple is saying good night before going to sleep.
- FelipeBoa noite meu querido.Good night my dear.
- JulianaBoa noite, meu amor.Good night, my love.
- FelipeVocê já desligou a luz?Did you already turn off the light?
- JulianaSim, já desliguei.Yes, I already did.
