In Portuguese, “smell” can be translated as “cheiro” or “odor.” These words are used in both formal and informal contexts across Portugal and Brazil, the two primary Portuguese-speaking countries. However, there may be some regional variations in the usage or local slang terms. In this guide, we will explore how to say “smell” in Portuguese, covering formal and informal ways, while providing various tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say Smell
When speaking formally in Portuguese, you can use the following expressions to convey the sense of smell:
a) “Cheiro” – This is the most common and standard translation for “smell” in Portuguese. It is used universally in both Portugal and Brazil. For example:
Examples:
- O cheiro das flores é encantador. (The smell of flowers is enchanting.)
- Qual é o cheiro desse perfume? (What is the smell of this perfume?)
b) “Odor” – This is another formal term for “smell” that can be used interchangeably with “cheiro.” It is more commonly used in formal writing or scientific discussions. For example:
Examples:
- O odor do gás é bem forte. (The smell of gas is very strong.)
- Os pesquisadores estudam os diferentes odores dos alimentos. (Researchers study the different smells of food.)
2. Informal Ways to Say Smell
When speaking informally or casually in Portuguese, you can use the following expressions to describe smells:
a) “Cheirinho” – This term is an informal and affectionate way to refer to a pleasant or nice smell, often used in Brazil. It adds a friendly and warm tone to the conversation. For example:
Examples:
- Que cheirinho gostoso de bolo! (What a nice smell of cake!)
- Essa loção tem um cheirinho delicioso. (This lotion has a delicious smell.)
b) “Fedorento” – This slang term is used to describe a bad or foul smell colloquially in both Portugal and Brazil. It is used informally among friends or in casual situations. For example:
Examples:
- Essa comida está fedorenta, não conseguirei comê-la. (This food is smelly, I won’t be able to eat it.)
- Por favor, coloque as meias fedorentas no cesto de roupa suja. (Please put the smelly socks in the laundry basket.)
3. Regional Variations
While “cheiro” and “odor” are used universally in Portuguese, there may be some regional variations in slang or local expressions related to smell. Here are a couple of examples:
a) In some regions of Brazil, particularly in the Northeast, “cheiro” may be pronounced as “xêro” due to regional accents.
b) In Portugal, people might also use the word “perfume” to refer to a pleasant smell, such as the perfume of flowers or scented objects.
Examples:
- Ela tem um xêro maravilhoso. (She has a wonderful smell.)
- O perfume das rosas é encantador. (The perfume of roses is enchanting.)
Conclusion
In conclusion, “smell” can be expressed as “cheiro” or “odor” in Portuguese, both in formal and informal contexts. While “cheiro” is the most common and standard term used in both Portugal and Brazil, “odor” is more often utilized in formal or scientific discussions. When speaking informally, “cheirinho” can be used to express a pleasant smell, while “fedorento” conveys a bad or foul smell. Regional variations may exist in pronunciation or the addition of local slang terms for smell, such as “xêro” in some Brazilian regions or “perfume” in Portugal. Remember to adapt your language to the context and audience to ensure effective communication in Portuguese.
