pedra-papel-tesoura
masculine
Rock paper scissors in Portuguese is pedra-papel-tesoura. Wiktionary also lists joquempô.
Meaning: popular child's game (noun)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| pedra-papel-tesoura | masculine | |
| joquempô | /ʒɔ.kẽˈpo/ (Brazil) | Brazil, masculine |
What does it mean word for word?
The term pedra-papel-tesoura is a literal translation of the English name, using the Portuguese words pedra (rock), papel (paper) and tesoura (scissors).
Which one should you use?
joquempô is an alternative name used specifically in certain contexts.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, it is common to refer to the game as joquempô, a name derived from the Japanese name for the game.
How does it change in a sentence?
Both pedra-papel-tesoura and joquempô are masculine nouns.
Did you know?
- The word tesoura (scissors) is a feminine noun, meaning you would say a tesoura, but the game itself, pedra-papel-tesoura, is treated as a masculine noun phrase.
- When playing joquempô, Brazilians often chant the name of the game in unison to time the reveal of their hand signs.
- In many parts of Brazil, the game is not just for children but is frequently used by adults as a quick way to settle disputes or decide who goes first.
Examples in context
- Vamos jogar jokenpô?Let's play Rock Paper Scissors?
- Vamos jogar pedra-papel-tesoura?Shall we play rock paper scissors?
- Eu ganhei no pedra-papel-tesoura.I won at rock paper scissors.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Mariana are deciding who will take out the trash.
- GabrielEu não quero levar o lixo.I don't want to take out the trash.
- MarianaEntão vamos resolver no pedra-papel-tesoura!Then let's resolve it with rock paper scissors!
- GabrielTudo bem, Mariana. No três!Alright, Mariana. On three!
- MarianaUm, dois, três e já!One, two, three, and go!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “rock paper scissors” translations and entries pedra-papel-tesoura, joquempô, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
