Whether you’re planning a trip to a Portuguese-speaking country or simply looking to expand your language skills, knowing how to say “leap year” in Portuguese can be a useful addition to your vocabulary. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this term, along with some tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary. Let’s jump right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expression
In formal contexts, you can use the following phrase to say “leap year” in Portuguese:
“Ano bissexto”
This straightforward expression, “ano bissexto,” is commonly used in official or academic settings. It literally translates to “bisexual year,” indicating its connection to the additional day, February 29th, which appears every four years in the Gregorian calendar.
Informal Expressions
If you find yourself in a more casual conversation or prefer a less formal approach, you can try using the following expressions to refer to a leap year:
1. Ano com 366 dias
This phrase means “year with 366 days,” clearly specifying the extra day present in a leap year. It is widely understood and used in everyday conversations.
2. Ano que tem fevereiro com vinte e nove dias
This expression translates to “year that has February with twenty-nine days,” creating a descriptive phrase that accounts for the unique length of a leap year. While a bit longer than other options, it is perfectly appropriate for informal situations.
Regional Variations
Portuguese is spoken in various countries around the world, and there may be slight regional differences in terms and pronunciations. However, when it comes to the concept of a leap year, the previously mentioned expressions should be widely understood across Portuguese-speaking regions. It’s always a good idea to adapt your vocabulary to local preferences when possible.
Tips and Examples
To reinforce your understanding of how to say “leap year” in Portuguese, here are some additional tips and examples:
Tips:
- Practice pronouncing the words clearly, with a focus on correct accents and intonation.
- When in doubt, opt for the more formal expression “ano bissexto” initially and adapt based on the context and formality of the conversation.
- Pay attention to the gender of the word “ano” (year), which is masculine; therefore, any accompanying adjectives or articles should reflect this.
Examples:
Here are a few sentences using different expressions related to “leap year” in Portuguese:
Example 1: Este ano é bissexto, então temos um dia a mais em fevereiro. (This year is a leap year, so we have an extra day in February.)
Example 2: Não esqueça de que 2024 será um ano com 366 dias! (Don’t forget that 2024 will be a year with 366 days!)
Example 3: Meu aniversário só cai em um ano que tem fevereiro com vinte e nove dias. (My birthday only falls on a year that has February with twenty-nine days.)
By using these tips and examples, you’ll be able to discuss leap years confidently in Portuguese, whether in formal or informal situations.
