What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the possessive pronoun meus (my) and the plural noun pêsames (condolences/sympathies).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more common and slightly less formal way to express sympathy in everyday conversation, you can use sinto muito. If you need a highly formal tone, you can use Apresento as minhas condolências (I present my condolences).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, meus sentimentos and sinto muito are commonly used to convey condolences. In Portugal, Lamento imenso can be used to express deep sympathy in a more formal setting.
When do people say it?
To express sympathy, Brazilians may use the phrase Que Deus conforte o seu coração (May God comfort your heart). Other common ways to express sympathy include Os meus sentimentos (My feelings) and Sinto muito pela sua perda (I'm sorry for your loss).
Did you know?
- In Brazil, it is common to accompany these phrases with a long, tight hug, which is more physically intimate than a typical English condolence gesture.
- Portuguese speakers may use the phrase meus sentimentos to acknowledge a tragedy that is not a death, such as a devastating bankruptcy or a severe illness.
- In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, the gesture of a light touch on the arm or a hug often accompanies sinto muito more frequently than it does with the more rigid meus pêsames.
Examples in context
- Se não souber o que dizer, diga apenas "meus pêsames".If you don't know what to say, just say "my condolences."This example shows how to use meus pêsames when you are unsure of what to say.Tatoeba #1702434 by alexmarcelo, translation #2758995 by mervert1
- Meus pêsames!My condolences!This example demonstrates the phrase meus pêsames used as a direct exclamation.Tatoeba #2454298 by marcospcruz, translation #629043 by Eldad
- Apresento as minhas sinceras condolências pela sua perda. Que encontre força e conforto durante este período tão difícil.I present my heartfelt condolences for your loss. May you find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
- Meus sentimentos por essa grande perda. Que Deus conforte o seu coração e lhe dê forças para enfrentar esse momento tão difícil.My condolences for this great loss. May God comfort your heart and give you strength to overcome this challenging time.
- Receba meus pêsames pela sua perda.Please accept my condolences for your loss.
Example conversation
Rodrigo is visiting Mariana at her home after her grandfather passed away.
- RodrigoSinto muito pela sua perda, Mariana.I am so sorry for your loss, Mariana.
- MarianaObrigada, Rodrigo. É um momento difícil.Thank you, Rodrigo. It is a difficult time.
- RodrigoMeus pêsames a você e à sua família.My condolences to you and your family.
- MarianaAgradeço o seu apoio.I appreciate your support.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
