nefasto
/neˈfas.tu/
The English word 'nefarious' can be translated into Portuguese as nefasto.
Nefasto is used to describe something that is sinful, villainous, criminal or wicked, particularly when those characteristics are noteworthy or notorious.
Meaning: sinful, villainous, criminal, or wicked, especially when noteworthy or notorious for such characteristics (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective nefasto must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. It changes to nefasta for feminine nouns, nefastos for masculine plural nouns and nefastas for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /neˈfas.tu/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- The root of nefasto is linked to the Latin fas, meaning 'divine law'. Therefore, the word literally describes something that is 'contrary to divine will'.
- In Portuguese, the word nefasto can describe not just a person's character, but also a physical effect, like a nefasto aroma meaning a foul or noxious smell.
- The word nefasto comes from the Latin nefāstus, which originally referred to days on the Roman calendar when no legal or official business could be conducted.
Examples in context
- Nada é mais nefasto do que a desesperança.Nothing is more nefarious than hopelessness.Tatoeba #1377814 by tulio, translation #10018500 by Nylez
- A atitude foi maligna e causou danos irreparáveis.The attitude was nefarious and caused irreparable damage.
- Aquele político é conhecido por suas ações maldosas.That politician is known for his nefarious actions.
- Aquele lugar tem uma influência maléfica sobre as pessoas.That place has a nefarious influence on people.
- Ele foi punido por seu plano nefasto.He was punished for his nefarious plan.
- O vilão revelou seu objetivo nefasto.The villain revealed his nefarious goal.
Example conversation
Lucas and Juliana are discussing a crime documentary.
- LucasO que você achou daquele crime?What did you think of that crime?
- JulianaFoi um ato verdadeiramente nefasto.It was a truly nefarious act.
- LucasO plano dele era muito cruel.His plan was very cruel.
- JulianaSim, Lucas, foi algo terrível.Yes, Lucas, it was something terrible.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nefarious” translations and entries nefasto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nefasto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
