meus pêsames
In Portuguese, "sorry for your loss" is expressed as meus pêsames.
Meus pêsames is the most common and standard way to offer condolences in Portuguese-speaking countries when someone has died.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase meus pêsames literally translates to "my condolences".
Which one should you use?
While meus pêsames is a standard formulaic expression, the phrase sinto muito (I'm sorry) is more personal and can be used in less formal, more intimate settings.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Sinto muito pela sua perda is a more descriptive and formal way to express sympathy compared to the standard meus pêsames.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, Meus pêsames is a common alternative to Meus sentimentos.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because the word pêsames is a plural noun, the possessive adjective meus must also be used in its plural form.
Did you know?
- While meus pêsames is standard, the phrase meus sentimentos is often preferred in Brazil because it translates to 'my feelings', which sounds more empathetic and less like a cold formality.
- When offering meus pêsames, it is customary in many Portuguese-speaking cultures to accompany the words with a light touch on the arm or a brief embrace.
- The word pêsames is almost exclusively used in the plural. Using the singular form is considered grammatically incorrect in the context of condolences.
Examples in context
- Meus pêsames.I'm sorry for your loss.This sentence shows how to use meus pêsames to express sympathy.Tatoeba #4702605 by carlosalberto, translation #2545914 by CK
- Acabei de saber da sua perda. Sinto muito pela sua perda.I just heard about your loss. I'm so sorry for your loss.
- Só queria entrar em contato e dizer o quanto lamento pela sua perda. Meus sentimentos.I just wanted to reach out and say how sorry I am for your loss. My condolences.
- Receba meus pêsames neste momento difícil.Please accept my condolences in this difficult time.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Beatriz meet at a funeral service.
- GabrielBeatriz, meus pêsames pela sua perda.Beatriz, I am sorry for your loss.
- BeatrizObrigada, Gabriel. É um momento difícil.Thank you, Gabriel. It is a difficult time.
- GabrielSe precisar de qualquer coisa, estou aqui.If you need anything, I am here.
- BeatrizEu agradeço muito o seu apoio.I really appreciate your support.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
