Olá
everyday
The everyday way to say hi in Portugal is Olá. Among friends you will also hear Viva and the very casual Boas.
Meaning: casual greeting (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| Olá | everyday |
| Viva | casual, Portugal |
| Boas | casual, Portugal |
Boas is short for boas tardes or boas noites and is used among young people and colleagues.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Oi is the usual "hi" in Brazil. It is understood in Portugal, but Olá and Viva feel more natural there.
When do people say it?
Close friends in Portugal usually greet with two kisses on the cheek, and men often shake hands or hug.
Did you know?
- Boas is a clipped form that Portuguese speakers use even in text messages.
Examples in context
- Olá, tudo bem?Hi, how are you?
- Boas, pessoal!Hi, everyone!
- Viva, quanto tempo!Hi, long time no see!
Example conversation
Hugo runs into his friend Bia at a café in Braga.
- HugoBoas, Bia!Hi, Bia!
- BiaViva, Hugo! Então, tudo bem?Hi, Hugo! So, all good?
- HugoTudo bem. E contigo?All good. And with you?
