What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative form of dormir (to sleep) and the adverb bem (well).
Which one should you use?
Use durma bem when addressing someone as você or when you want to be polite/neutral, whereas dorme bem is more intimate and used with tu.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Durma Bem is the go-to way of expressing 'sleep well' in Portugal. Dorme Bem is commonly used in Brazil.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form durma bem uses the imperative mood of the verb dormir (to sleep) in the third-person singular, which is used for both você (you) and formal address. The form dorme bem uses the imperative of the verb dormir in the second-person singular (tu), used in informal settings or specific regions like Portugal and parts of Brazil.
When do people say it?
The phrase bons sonhos is a common alternative used when wishing someone a good night's rest.
Did you know?
- The verb dormir is used in the expression dormir no ponto, which means to miss an opportunity because you were not paying attention.
- While durma bem is standard in Portugal, a Brazilian might prefer to say durma com os anjos, which translates to 'sleep with the angels'.
- The word sonho, found in the alternative phrase bons sonhos, refers to both a 'dream' and a 'goal' or 'ambition' in Portuguese.
Examples in context
- Durma bem, Timmy.Sleep well, Timmy.This sentence shows how to use durma bem when addressing someone by name.Tatoeba #395115 by brauliobezerra, translation #4402239 by hakkeb
- Dorme bem, meu amigo!Sleep well, my friend!
- Durma bem e descanse.Sleep well and rest.
Example conversation
Beatriz and Lucas are saying goodnight before going to their separate rooms.
- BeatrizBoa noite, Lucas.Good night, Lucas.
- LucasBoa noite, Beatriz.Good night, Beatriz.
- BeatrizDurma bem!Sleep well!
- LucasObrigado, você também.Thank you, you too.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
