Which one should you use?
Relaxa is a casual way to say 'relax' or 'take it easy'. For a more polite or formal tone, you can use fique tranquilo to mean 'stay calm' or 'don't worry'. If you want to suggest someone proceed with more composure, the colloquial phrase vai com calma means 'go with calmness'. Finally, tenha calma is the formal way to say 'have calm'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Relaxa is very casual and informal. For a more polite or formal approach, use fique tranquilo or tenha calma. Vai com calma is considered colloquial, while fica tranquilo/a is an informal way to say 'stay calm'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, the informal phrase fica tranquilo is commonly used to say 'take it easy'.
How does it change in a sentence?
Relaxa is the imperative (command) form used when speaking to a friend or someone you are on familiar terms with. If you are telling a group of people to take it easy, you should use the form relaxem instead of relaxa.
Did you know?
- In some Portuguese-speaking contexts, saying fica frio (literally 'stay cold') is a slangy way to tell someone to 'take it easy' or 'stay cool'.
- In Brazil, the word relaxa is often used as a standalone response to an apology, similar to saying 'no worries' or 'don't sweat it'.
- While relaxa is a verb, many Brazilians use the slang term relaxo to describe a state of laziness or a lack of seriousness in a person.
Examples in context
- Seu voo foi cancelado, mas tenha calma, resolveremos isso rapidamente.Your flight has been canceled, but take it easy, we will solve this quickly.
- Você está preocupado com a prova? Fica tranquilo, você vai se sair bem.Are you worried about the exam? Take it easy, you'll do fine.
- Está com medo de errar? Relaxa, é apenas uma conversa entre amigos.Are you afraid of making a mistake? Take it easy, it's just a conversation among friends.
- Está ansioso para o encontro? Vai com calma, seja você mesmo.Are you anxious about the date? Take it easy, be yourself.
- Relaxa, o trabalho pode esperar.Take it easy, the work can wait.
- Relaxa um pouco durante as férias.Relax a little during the holidays.
- Não se estresse, apenas relaxa.Don't stress, just take it easy.
Example conversation
Beatriz is working too hard at her desk.
- RodrigoBeatriz, você precisa de uma pausa.Beatriz, you need a break.
- BeatrizEu ainda tenho muito para fazer, Rodrigo.I still have a lot to do, Rodrigo.
- RodrigoRelaxa, a saúde é mais importante.Take it easy, health is more important.
- BeatrizVocê tem razão, vou parar agora.You are right, I will stop now.
