When it comes to expressing the word “spoiled” in Portuguese, you have several options depending on the context, formality, and regional variations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying “spoiled” in Portuguese, providing you with useful tips, a variety of examples, and even some regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Spoiled”
If you’re looking for a formal way to say “spoiled” in Portuguese, you can use the following terms:
- Estragado/a – This is the most common translation for “spoiled” in the formal context. It can be used for food, products, or even someone who has a privileged and pampered lifestyle.
Exemplo: Esta comida está estragada. (This food is spoiled.)
Exemplo: Ela é uma criança mimada e estragada. (She is a spoiled and pampered child.)
- Empapado/a – This word is often used to describe something that has been spoiled due to excessive moisture or soaking.
Exemplo: O papel ficou empapado na chuva. (The paper got spoiled in the rain.)
Informal Ways to Say “Spoiled”
When it comes to informal ways of saying “spoiled” in Portuguese, the language offers a few colorful and expressive options:
- Estragadaço/estragadona – These are informal and emphatic variations of “estragado/a” and can be used to convey a stronger sense of something being spoiled.
Exemplo: Aquela festa foi estragadona, tudo deu errado. (That party was a total disaster, everything went wrong.)
- Estraga-prazeres – Literally meaning “spoiler of joys,” this term is used to describe someone who constantly ruins the fun or enjoyment of others.
Exemplo: Não seja um estraga-prazeres, vamos aproveitar a festa. (Don’t be a spoilsport, let’s enjoy the party.)
Regional Variations
Depending on the region within Portuguese-speaking countries, you may come across some variations in how “spoiled” is expressed. Here are a few regional differences:
- Empesteado/a (Brazil) – This word is particularly used in some regions of Brazil to describe something or someone that is spoiled or rotten.
Exemplo: Deixe as frutas no lixo, estão empesteadas. (Throw the fruits in the trash, they are spoiled.)
- Malcriado/a (Portugal) – In Portugal, “malcriado/a” is often used to describe someone who is spoiled or ill-mannered.
Exemplo: Essa criança é realmente malcriada, não sabe respeitar os mais velhos. (That child is really spoiled, doesn’t know how to respect elders.)
Remember that regional variations are not always necessary to communicate the concept of “spoiled” in Portuguese, but they can add nuance and depth to your language skills.
Whether you choose formal or informal expressions, it is crucial to consider the context and your relationship with the person or situation you are referring to. Understanding the cultural connotations and appropriateness of each term is vital to effective communication.
By now, you’ve learned how to say “spoiled” in Portuguese in both formal and informal ways, explored a few regional variations, and discovered various examples to help you better grasp the subtleties of the language. Remember to practice these terms in real-life situations to become more confident and fluent. Enjoy the journey of mastering Portuguese!
