Sim
standard, Portugal
The standard word for "yes" in Portugal is Sim. In conversation people also say Pois or Pois é, which show agreement, as in "right" or "that is true".
Meaning: affirmative answer (adverb)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| Sim | standard, Portugal |
| Pois | informal, Portugal |
| Pois é | informal, Portugal |
Use Sim when you answer a direct question. Use Pois é to agree with a comment like "it is hot today".
Which one should you use?
Brazilians say Sim too, but often answer Claro or É in casual speech.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Pois alone can mean mild agreement and not always a firm yes, so use sim when you need a clear answer.
Did you know?
- Portuguese does not usually answer a yes or no question with just sim. People often repeat the verb, for example Queres café? Quero.
Examples in context
- Sim, quero um café.Yes, I want a coffee.
- Pois é, está muito calor.That is true, it is very hot.
- Sim, claro.Yes, of course.
Example conversation
Miguel asks his neighbor Graça about the weather in Faro.
- MiguelEstá muito calor hoje, não está?It is very hot today, isn't it?
- GraçaPois é, demais.Yes, indeed, too much.
- MiguelQuer um copo de água? Sim?Do you want a glass of water? Yes?
