Ways to say it
| Portuguese | IPA |
|---|---|
| a quem possa interessar | |
| a quem de direito | /a ˈkẽj̃ d͡ʒi d͡ʒiˈɾej.tu/ (word by word) |
a quem possa interessar is used to begin a formal letter or document when the specific recipient is unknown. This is most common in formal letters of recommendation or certificates, such as a proof of employment, where the writer does not know exactly who will be reading the document.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase a quem possa interessar literally translates to "to whom it may interest".
Which one should you use?
While a quem possa interessar is a general way to address an unknown recipient, a quem de direito means "to whom it is a right" or "to the person entitled". The latter is often used in legal or official contexts to refer specifically to the person who has the legal right or authority regarding the matter at hand.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
a quem possa interessar is a highly formal opening used for letters or documents.
Did you know?
- While a quem possa interessar sounds like a standard greeting, it is almost never used in emails today, as digital communication favors more direct or slightly less archaic formal openings.
- In traditional Brazilian bureaucracy, these phrases are often used in 'declarações', which are single-page declarations that serve as official proof for various administrative needs.
- Using a quem de direito in a non-legal context can sound accidentally aggressive or overly demanding, as it implies a strict legal obligation.
Examples in context
- A quem possa interessar, informo que o documento foi enviado.To whom it may concern, I inform you that the document was sent.
- O aviso começa com: a quem possa interessar.The notice begins with: to whom it may concern.
Example conversation
Camila and Felipe are discussing how to format a formal letter for work.
- CamilaComo devo começar esta carta formal, Felipe?How should I start this formal letter, Felipe?
- FelipeVocê pode escrever: a quem possa interessar.You can write: to whom it may concern.
- CamilaEntendi, vou usar essa expressão na minha carta.I see, I will use that expression in my letter.
- FelipeÓtimo, isso soa muito profissional.Great, that sounds very professional.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “to whom it may concern” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (a, quem, de, direito) and can differ in connected speech.
