Learning how to describe physical appearances in different languages is a fun and useful way to expand your vocabulary. In this guide, we’ll explore how to say “skinny” in Portuguese, including formal and informal ways, and some regional variations if necessary. Get ready to dive into the world of Portuguese expressions!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say Skinny in Portuguese
When you need to use a more formal vocabulary, these expressions will be useful:
1. Magro (masc.) / Magra (fem.): This is the most commonly used word for “skinny” in Portuguese. It is applicable to both males and females. Example: Ele é muito magro. (He is very skinny.)
2. Esbelto (masc.) / Esbelta (fem.): Although it’s less common in everyday language, this word refers to someone who is slender or svelte. Example: Ela tem uma figura esbelta. (She has a slender figure.)
2. Informal Ways to Say Skinny in Portuguese
Informal language allows for more creativity and color when describing someone as skinny. Here are some extracurricular expressions that you can use:
1. Magrinho (masc.) / Magrinha (fem.): This is a colloquial way of saying “skinny” and has an affectionate undertone. Example: Olha só o magrinho ali. (Look at that skinny guy over there.)
2. Pau de virar tripa: This informal expression literally translates to “a stick that can turn a gut.” It’s a humorous way of describing someone who is extremely skinny. Example: O João é um pau de virar tripa. (João is a real skin-and-bones.)
3. Palito (masc.): This word, which translates to “matchstick,” is used to describe someone who is extremely thin. Example: Olha só aquele cara, um verdadeiro palito! (Look at that guy, a real matchstick!)
3. Regional Variations
Portuguese is spoken in several countries across the world, and each region might have its own unique expressions. Here are a few regional variations:
1. Em Portugal (In Portugal): In Portugal, people commonly use “magro” as the general term for skinny. However, you might come across the word “esguio,” which refers to someone who is slender or slim.
2. No Brasil (In Brazil): Brazilians often use “magro” or “magra” to describe someone as skinny. Additionally, they might use the expression “seco(a),” which translates to “dry,” to refer to a very thin person.
Tips for Using these Expressions
Here are some tips to help you use these expressions naturally:
- Context is key: Consider the context and the relationship you have with the person you’re describing before using a specific expression. Some expressions might be more appropriate among friends or in a casual setting, while others are better suited for formal situations.
- Pay attention to gender: Portuguese nouns and adjectives are gendered, so make sure to match the adjective with the appropriate gender marker when describing someone as skinny.
- Combine words: To make your descriptions more colorful and expressive, don’t hesitate to combine adjectives and expressions. For example, you could say “ele é magrinho como um palito” (he is skinny as a matchstick).
- Listen and learn: Pay attention to how native speakers use these expressions in everyday conversation. This will help you understand the proper context and usage of each term.
Now that you have a comprehensive guide to saying “skinny” in Portuguese, you’re ready to impress others with your language skills. Remember to choose the appropriate expression based on the formality of the situation and the regional variations if necessary. Practice using these expressions, and soon enough, you’ll feel confident incorporating them into your everyday Portuguese conversations. Boa sorte! (Good luck!)
