irmã
neutral, Brazil
In Brazilian Portuguese "sister" is irmã. Brazilians also use the casual mana and the diminutive irmãzinha for a little sister.
Meaning: female sibling (noun)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| irmã | neutral, Brazil |
| mana | casual, Brazil |
| irmãzinha | little sister |
Mana is common in family talk and as a friendly way to address a female friend. Irmãzinha is affectionate and suggests a younger girl.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some regions of Brazil mana can be said to women who are not relatives, like e aí, mana?
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural irmãs means sisters, while irmãos means siblings or brothers. A mixed group of siblings is irmãos.
Did you know?
- The word irmã is also used for a nun, as in Irmã Maria.
Examples in context
- Minha irmã mora em Curitiba.My sister lives in Curitiba.
- Tenho duas irmãs.I have two sisters.
- Oi, mana, tudo bem?Hi, sis, how are you?
Example conversation
Joana calls her sister Letícia to talk about the weekend.
- JoanaOi, mana! Vai vir no domingo?Hi, sis! Are you coming on Sunday?
- LetíciaVou sim. Levo o bolo.I am. I will bring the cake.
- JoanaPerfeito, te espero.Perfect, I will wait for you.
