Sim
neutral
The plain word for "yes" in Brazilian Portuguese is Sim. In daily talk you also hear Claro, Isso and the casual Aham.
Meaning: affirmative answer (adverb)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| Sim | neutral |
| Claro | everyday |
| Isso | everyday |
| Aham | casual, spoken |
Claro means "of course" and is a warm, strong yes. Isso means "exactly" or "that is right" and confirms what someone just said.
Which one should you use?
Aham is a relaxed sound close to "uh-huh" and belongs to friends and family. In writing or formal talk use Sim.
When do people say it?
Brazilians often answer a yes or no question by repeating the verb. Asked Você gosta?, they say Gosto for yes.
Did you know?
- The word sim comes from the Latin sic, meaning "thus" or "so".
Examples in context
- Sim, eu moro em Salvador.Yes, I live in Salvador.
- Claro, pode entrar.Of course, come in.
- Isso mesmo, é aqui.Exactly, it is here.
Example conversation
Paula asks her coworker Marcos if he is coming to lunch with the team.
- PaulaMarcos, você vai almoçar com a gente?Marcos, are you having lunch with us?
- MarcosSim, vou sim.Yes, I am.
- PaulaBeleza, saímos às meio-dia.Great, we leave at noon.
