Welcome to this comprehensive guide on expressing the phrase “you smell” in Portuguese! In this article, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this message. Please note that while Portuguese is mainly spoken in Portugal and Brazil, some regional variations may exist. However, we will focus on the most widely used standard Portuguese. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
Formal language is generally used in professional settings, when speaking to people you don’t know well, or to show respect. Here are a few ways to say “you smell” politely:
1. “Cheiras Mal”
This is a common phrase in Portugal and can be directly translated as “you smell bad.” The verb “cheirar” means “to smell” and “mal” means “bad.” Remember to use the formal pronoun “você” when addressing someone formally, usually used in Portugal, or in a more formal context in Brazil.
2. “O Seu Cheiro Não Está Bom”
If you prefer a more indirect way to convey the message, you can say “O seu cheiro não está bom,” which means “your smell is not good.” This phrase maintains a polite tone by using the possessive pronoun “seu” (your) and the formal “você” pronoun.
3. “Sinto Mau Cheiro”
Another option is “Sinto mau cheiro,” meaning “I sense a bad smell.” This phrase avoids directly pointing out the person and instead focuses on the smell itself, which can be more tactful in formal situations.
Informal Expressions
Informal language is used among friends, family members, or in less formal settings. Here are a few ways to express that someone smells in a less formal manner:
1. “Tu Cheiras Mal”
In more informal contexts, such as among friends or close acquaintances, you can say “tu cheiras mal” to mean “you smell bad.” “Tu” is the informal pronoun for “you” in Portugal. In Brazil, the informal pronoun is “você.” In a more casual context, you can even drop the pronoun altogether and simply say “cheiras mal.”
2. “Você Está Fedendo”
If you want to emphasize the strong smell, you can say “você está fedendo.” This translates to “you’re stinking.” While it may sound a bit harsh, it is commonly used among close friends in an informal setting.
3. “Você Está Com Mau Cheiro”
A more indirect way to express that someone smells is to say “você está com mau cheiro,” which means “you have a bad smell.” This phrase can help you address the issue without being overly confrontational.
Tips for Expressing “You Smell” in Portuguese
1. Use Appropriate Pronouns
Remember to adjust your choice of pronouns based on the formality and regional variations. In Portugal, “tu” is informal, while “você” is formal but also used in Brazil in less formal settings. Use “você” formally in Brazil.
2. Be Mindful of Context
Consider the context in which you’re addressing someone. The degree of familiarity and the setting can determine whether to use formal or informal expressions. Adjust accordingly to maintain a respectful tone.
3. Non-Verbal Cues
In some cases, it might be best to rely on non-verbal cues rather than directly expressing that someone smells. This can include offering mints or subtly opening a window to improve the situation.
Remember, politeness and tact are key when discussing sensitive topics. Consider the feelings of others and choose your words wisely.
Now armed with these expressions, you’ll be able to communicate that someone smells in Portuguese, both formally and informally. Remember to be mindful of the context, use appropriate pronouns, and always maintain a warm and respectful tone. Happy learning!
