Stepping off the sun-drenched beaches of Brazil or the historic cobblestone streets of Lisbon, you’ll want to leave a lasting impression with a perfect “goodbye” in Portuguese. More than just a formality, bidding farewell in the local language demonstrates respect and a genuine connection with the culture. However, simply uttering “tchau” might not always suffice. The Portuguese language, rich in nuance and expression, offers a diverse range of farewells depending on the context and your relationship with the person you’re leaving. From informal parting words exchanged with friends to more formal expressions used in professional settings, mastering the art of saying goodbye in Portuguese can significantly enhance your interactions and leave a positive mark long after you’ve departed. So, whether you’re planning a future trip or simply seeking to expand your linguistic repertoire, understanding the various ways to say goodbye in Portuguese is a worthwhile endeavor. Prepare to unlock the secrets of Portuguese farewells and discover the perfect expression for every occasion.
First and foremost, let’s begin with the most common and versatile farewell: “tchau.” Comparable to the English “bye” or “ciao” in Italian, “tchau” is suitable for most informal situations. Furthermore, you can amplify its warmth by adding “até logo,” which translates to “see you later.” This combination, “tchau, até logo,” is a friendly and widely accepted way to bid farewell to friends, family, and acquaintances. Additionally, for a more casual setting, you might opt for “até já,” meaning “see you soon.” This phrase implies a shorter time frame before your next encounter. Alternatively, when parting ways in the evening, “boa noite” (good night/good evening) serves as a polite and appropriate farewell. Moreover, if you’re unsure when you’ll see the person again, “até a próxima” (until next time) is a fitting choice. Ultimately, selecting the right farewell depends on the context and your relationship with the individual. By understanding these nuances, you can navigate social interactions with grace and cultural sensitivity.
Finally, in more formal settings, such as a business meeting or a conversation with an elder, a more respectful approach is warranted. Instead of “tchau,” consider using “adeus,” a formal equivalent of “goodbye.” While less common in everyday conversation, “adeus” carries a sense of finality and is generally reserved for more serious occasions. Consequently, it’s important to use it judiciously. Another formal option is “tenha um bom dia/tarde/noite” (have a good day/afternoon/night), which demonstrates politeness and consideration. In addition, when departing from a group, saying “com licença” (excuse me) allows you to politely excuse yourself. Likewise, if you’re leaving a shop or restaurant, expressing gratitude with “obrigado/a” (thank you - masculine/feminine) is customary. Therefore, by understanding the different levels of formality in Portuguese farewells, you can ensure that your interactions are both respectful and culturally appropriate. This demonstrates not only your language skills but also your sensitivity to Portuguese customs.
Formal Farewells: Showing Respect in Portuguese
When you’re interacting in Portuguese, especially in more formal settings, using the right goodbye can make a real difference. It shows you understand and respect the social nuances of the language. Here’s a breakdown of some common formal farewells:
Adeus (Goodbye)
This is the most standard and versatile formal farewell. It’s appropriate for almost any situation where you’d use “goodbye” in English. Think business meetings, formal dinners, or saying farewell to someone you don’t know very well. It’s a safe bet if you’re unsure which goodbye to use.
Até logo (See you later)
“Até logo” translates directly to “see you later.” It implies you expect to see the person again soon, maybe even later the same day. This makes it a good choice when leaving a shop, a formal appointment, or a work meeting where you anticipate future interaction.
Tenha um bom dia/tarde/noite (Have a good day/afternoon/night)
These phrases are the equivalent of wishing someone a good day, afternoon, or night. They are extremely common and show politeness and consideration. You choose the phrase depending on the time of day. “Tenha um bom dia” is used until noon. From noon until evening, use “Tenha uma boa tarde.” And from evening onwards, use “Tenha uma boa noite.” Notice the subtle shift from “um” (masculine) to “uma” (feminine) to agree with “tarde” and “noite.” Choosing the right one shows you’re paying attention to the details. While these are polite and appropriate in most settings, they can also be used in more informal contexts. Imagine checking out of a hotel; you might say “Tenha uma boa tarde” to the receptionist. Or if you’re concluding a business meeting late in the day, “Tenha uma boa noite” is a perfect way to wrap things up. It’s a thoughtful way to end an interaction, showing genuine courtesy. It’s also important to remember that these phrases are directed at the person you are speaking to. If you want to address a group, you would use the plural forms: “Tenham um bom dia/tarde/noite.” This slight change ensures you’re addressing everyone present respectfully. This attention to detail can significantly enhance your interactions in Portuguese. Lastly, while less common in formal situations, you might also hear “Tenha uma boa semana” (Have a good week), especially on a Friday or before a holiday. It’s a pleasant way to extend your well wishes beyond the immediate day.
Using these phrases in combination
You can even combine these farewells for added politeness. For example, after a meeting you could say, “Até logo, tenha uma boa tarde” (See you later, have a good afternoon). This is a common practice and demonstrates a good grasp of Portuguese etiquette.
Quick Reference Table
| Farewell | Meaning | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Adeus | Goodbye | General formal farewells |
| Até logo | See you later | When you expect to see the person again soon |
| Tenha um bom dia | Have a good day | Before noon |
| Tenha uma boa tarde | Have a good afternoon | From noon to evening |
| Tenha uma boa noite | Have a good night | From evening onwards |
Saying Goodbye at Different Times of Day: From “Bom Dia” to “Boa Noite”
Just like in English, how you say goodbye in Portuguese changes depending on the time of day. Matching your farewell to the appropriate greeting adds a touch of politeness and shows you’re aware of the cultural nuances.
Using “Tchau” - The All-Around Goodbye
“Tchau” is your go-to, all-purpose goodbye in Portuguese. Think of it as the Portuguese equivalent of “bye” or “goodbye.” It’s informal and friendly, suitable for most everyday situations. You can use it with friends, family, and even in casual business settings. While it’s not as formal as some other options, it’s widely accepted and understood.
Formal Farewells: “Adeus” and Beyond
While “tchau” covers most casual situations, “adeus” is a more formal way to say goodbye. You’ll likely hear it less frequently than “tchau,” and it’s generally reserved for more serious or emotional farewells. Think of it as a more weighty goodbye, perhaps used when you don’t expect to see the person again soon, or in situations of loss or parting. Beyond “adeus,” you might encounter phrases like “até logo” (see you later) or “até já” (see you soon). These are useful when you expect to see the person again relatively quickly.
Saying Goodbye at Different Times of Day: From “Bom Dia” to “Boa Noite”
Portuguese speakers often use greetings as farewells, adding a polite touch to their goodbyes. This is where understanding the time of day comes into play. The table below illustrates how these greetings transition into farewells:
| Greeting | Time of Day | Farewell Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Bom dia (Good morning/day) | From sunrise to noon | Used as a goodbye throughout the morning. It subtly implies “Have a good rest of your day.” |
| Boa tarde (Good afternoon/evening) | From noon to sunset | Serves as a goodbye throughout the afternoon and early evening. Similar to “bom dia,” it suggests “Have a good rest of your evening.” |
| Boa noite (Good night/evening) | From sunset to sunrise | Used as a farewell from sunset onwards. While it can mean “good evening” upon meeting someone, it primarily signifies “good night” and is appropriate when parting ways for the night. |
A Deeper Dive into Time-Based Farewells
Let’s explore using time-based greetings as farewells in more detail. While seemingly simple, understanding the nuances can help you communicate more effectively and show respect for Portuguese customs.
Bom dia: Starting your day with “bom dia” and ending it with the same phrase within the morning hours creates a sense of continuity and politeness. Imagine leaving a morning meeting; saying “bom dia” as you depart is a polite way of wishing your colleagues well for the remainder of their day. It’s a subtle way of saying “Have a good rest of your morning/day.”
Boa tarde: As the sun climbs higher and midday approaches, “bom dia” gives way to “boa tarde.” This transition usually occurs around noon. Similar to “bom dia,” using “boa tarde” as a goodbye implies “Have a good rest of your afternoon/evening.”
Boa noite: As the sun begins to set, “boa noite” takes over. While “boa noite” can mean “good evening” when you greet someone after sunset, it’s most commonly used as a farewell, meaning “good night.” Using “boa noite” as you leave signifies that you are parting ways for the rest of the night. You wouldn’t typically use it if you were planning to see the person later that same evening.
By understanding the subtle shift in meaning between “bom dia,” “boa tarde,” and “boa noite,” you can choose the most appropriate farewell for any time of day, demonstrating both your language skills and cultural sensitivity. It’s a simple yet effective way to leave a positive impression.
Saying Goodbye to Loved Ones: Expressing Affection in Portuguese
Saying goodbye in Portuguese goes beyond a simple “tchau.” The language is rich with nuanced expressions that reflect the close-knit nature of Portuguese-speaking cultures, especially within families and among close friends. Let’s explore some heartfelt ways to bid farewell to your loved ones in Portuguese.
A Simple “Goodbye”
The most common way to say goodbye in Portuguese is “tchau” (pronounced like “chow”). It’s informal and equivalent to the English “bye” or “ciao.” You can use it in most everyday situations with friends, family, and acquaintances.
Formal Farewells
In more formal settings, like saying goodbye to a colleague or someone you’ve just met, “adeus” (pronounced “ah-DEUS”) is appropriate. It translates to “goodbye” or “farewell.” Although considered somewhat formal, it’s still used quite frequently in everyday conversations.
Saying “See You Later”
When you expect to see the person again soon, you can use phrases like “até logo” (pronounced “a-TEH LO-go”), meaning “see you later,” or “até amanhã” (pronounced “a-TEH ah-muh-NYAH”), meaning “see you tomorrow.” These are common and friendly ways to depart.
Informal Goodbyes
For close friends and family, you might use more casual expressions. “Até já” (pronounced “a-TEH zhah”) is a shortened version of “até logo” and conveys a sense of familiarity. Another informal option is “falou” (pronounced “fah-LO”), similar to the English “later.” It’s very casual, typically used among young people.
Expressing Affection
Adding a touch of affection to your goodbyes is common in Portuguese. “Beijos” (pronounced “BAY-zhoos”) means “kisses” and is frequently used between friends and family, both male and female. “Abraço” (pronounced “ah-BRA-soo”) translates to “hug” and is another warm way to say goodbye. You can combine them as “beijos e abraços” (kisses and hugs) for an extra dose of affection.
Saying Goodbye to Loved Ones: Expressing Affection in Portuguese
Saying goodbye to loved ones in Portuguese often involves more heartfelt expressions that convey deeper emotions. While “tchau” and “adeus” are perfectly acceptable, they can sometimes feel a bit impersonal when parting with someone dear. Instead, consider using phrases that specifically express affection and care. For instance, “fique bem” (pronounced “FEE-kee bayng”) means “stay well” or “take care,” offering a genuine sentiment of concern for their wellbeing. Another option is “cuide-se” (pronounced “KWEE-duh-see”), which similarly translates to “take care of yourself.” Beyond those general well-wishes, you can personalize your goodbye with phrases like “te amo” (pronounced “chee AH-moo”), meaning “I love you,” typically reserved for very close relationships. For family members, “amo você” (pronounced “AH-moo vo-SAY”) carries the same meaning and is equally appropriate. If “I love you” feels too strong, you can express your fondness with “gosto muito de você” (pronounced “GOS-too MWEE-too djee vo-SAY”), which translates to “I like you very much” or “I care for you deeply.” This is a wonderful way to express affection without the intensity of “I love you,” especially suitable for close friends or extended family. To add a touch of warmth, consider adding a diminutive to their name. For example, if saying goodbye to someone named “Maria,” you could say “tchau, Mariazinha” (pronounced “chow, Ma-ree-uh-ZEEN-yah”). This adds a layer of endearment, making the goodbye feel more personal and affectionate. Similar endearments can be used with other names, like “Joãozinho” (pronounced “zhoh-ow-ZEEN-yoo”) for “João.” These nuances help create a deeper sense of connection and show that you care about the person you’re bidding farewell to.
| Portuguese Phrase | English Translation | Level of Formality |
|---|---|---|
| Tchau | Bye/Ciao | Informal |
| Adeus | Goodbye/Farewell | Formal |
| Até logo | See you later | Informal/Formal |
| Até amanhã | See you tomorrow | Informal/Formal |
| Beijos | Kisses | Informal |
| Abraço | Hug | Informal |
Saying Goodbye in Specific Situations: Phone Calls, Emails, and Letters
Phone Calls
Saying goodbye on the phone in Portuguese depends a bit on the context and your relationship with the person you’re speaking to. For informal calls with friends and family, a simple “Tchau” (Ciao) is perfectly acceptable. It’s quick, easy, and everyone understands it. You can also use “Até logo” (See you later), which is a bit more formal but still friendly.
For more formal phone calls, especially in business settings, you might want to opt for something a little more polished. “Obrigado/a” (Thank you – masculine/feminine form depending on who you’re talking to) followed by “Até logo” or “Tenha um bom dia/tarde/noite” (Have a good day/afternoon/night) is a polite way to end the conversation. Remember to adjust “bom dia/tarde/noite” depending on the time of day.
Useful Phrases for Phone Calls
| Phrase | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tchau | Bye | Informal |
| Até logo | See you later | Informal/Formal |
| Obrigado/a | Thank you | Formal |
| Tenha um bom dia/tarde/noite | Have a good day/afternoon/night | Formal |
Emails
When wrapping up an email in Portuguese, you have several options depending on the level of formality. For casual emails to friends, a simple “Tchau” or “Abraços” (Hugs) works well. If you want to convey a slightly warmer feeling, “Beijinhos” (Little kisses) is common, especially among female friends. For men, it’s more common to use “Abraço” (Hug – singular).
In more formal emails, you’ll want to adopt a more professional tone. “Atenciosamente” (Sincerely) is a standard closing, similar to “Sincerely” in English. “Com os melhores cumprimentos” (With best regards) is another excellent option. You can also use “Obrigado/a pela sua atenção” (Thank you for your attention) before your closing. This shows appreciation for the recipient’s time. For business emails where you anticipate further contact, you can use “Fico à espera do seu contato” (I look forward to hearing from you).
Useful Phrases for Emails
| Phrase | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tchau | Bye | Informal |
| Abraços | Hugs | Informal |
| Beijinhos | Little kisses | Informal (mostly female friends) |
| Atenciosamente | Sincerely | Formal |
| Com os melhores cumprimentos | With best regards | Formal |
Letters
Even in the digital age, handwritten letters still hold a special place, especially for personal correspondence. When concluding a letter in Portuguese, the formality really depends on your relationship with the recipient. For close friends and family, you can use warm and affectionate closings like “Com carinho” (With affection) or “Um grande abraço” (A big hug). You can also use “Beijos” (Kisses) if you have a close relationship with the recipient.
For more formal letters, especially business correspondence, the rules are similar to formal emails. “Atenciosamente” and “Com os melhores cumprimentos” are safe bets. You can also use “Respeitosamente” (Respectfully), though this is generally reserved for very formal situations or when addressing someone of significantly higher status. Before your sign-off, adding a phrase like “Agradeço a sua atenção” (I appreciate your attention) is always a nice touch. Remember to handwrite your signature after the closing for that personal touch.
Adding some personalized details before your closing can make your letters more meaningful. For instance, you could mention something specific you discussed in the letter, like looking forward to an upcoming visit. This shows you value the connection and makes the goodbye feel more genuine.
Useful Phrases for Letters
| Phrase | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Com carinho | With affection | Informal |
| Um grande abraço | A big hug | Informal |
| Atenciosamente | Sincerely | Formal |
| Com os melhores cumprimentos | With best regards | Formal |
| Respeitosamente | Respectfully | Very Formal |
Beyond “Goodbye”: Useful Parting Phrases in Portuguese
Saying “Goodbye” in Portuguese: The Basics
Let’s start with the most common way to say goodbye in Portuguese: “tchau” (pronounced like “chow”). It’s the equivalent of the English “bye” or “ciao” and works in most casual situations. You’ll hear it everywhere, from quick exchanges in shops to farewells between friends.
“Adeus”: A More Formal Farewell
“Adeus” (pronounced “ah-DEH-oos”) is a more formal way to say goodbye. While perfectly acceptable in everyday conversations, it carries a slightly more serious tone and is generally reserved for situations where you might not see the person again for a while, or when the situation calls for more formality.
“Até Logo”: See You Later
For those times when you expect to see the person again soon, “até logo” (pronounced “ah-TEH LO-goo”) is the perfect choice. It translates directly to “see you later” or “until later.” You can use it with friends, colleagues, or even acquaintances you expect to encounter again shortly.
“Até Já”: See You Soon
Even more immediate than “até logo” is “até já” (pronounced “ah-TEH zhah”). This translates to “see you soon” or “see you in a bit,” implying a very near future reunion. Think of it as something you’d say when parting ways with a colleague for a short while, or when popping out for a quick errand.
“Até Amanhã”: See You Tomorrow
As you might guess, “até amanhã” (pronounced “ah-TEH ah-mah-NYAH”) means “see you tomorrow.” Straightforward and simple, it’s useful in a variety of contexts, from saying goodbye to classmates to bidding farewell to your host family for the night. It’s a clear indication that you expect to see the person the following day.
“Boa Noite”: Good Night
When parting ways in the evening or at night, “boa noite” (pronounced “BO-ah NOY-teh”) serves as both a greeting and a farewell, similar to “good evening” and “good night” in English. Use it when leaving a party, a restaurant, or any social gathering in the later hours.
“Tudo de Bom”: All the Best
For a more heartfelt goodbye, consider using “tudo de bom” (pronounced “TOO-doo deh BONG”), which means “all the best.” It expresses good wishes and is appropriate for a range of situations, from casual farewells to more formal departures. It’s a kind and thoughtful way to leave someone with a positive sentiment.
Adding a Personal Touch: Variations and Combinations
Portuguese, like any language, offers opportunities to personalize your goodbyes. You can combine phrases, for instance, “tchau, até amanhã” (bye, see you tomorrow), or add terms of endearment like “querido/a” (dear - masculine/feminine) for close friends or family. For example, you could say “Tchau, querida, até já!” (Bye, dear, see you soon!).
You can also add a bit more emotion with phrases like “fique bem” (pronounced “FEE-keh beng”), meaning “take care.” This adds a touch of warmth and concern to your goodbye. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what feels natural to you.
Here’s a handy table to summarize some common parting phrases:
| Phrase | Pronunciation (Approximate) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Tchau | chow | Bye |
| Adeus | ah-DEH-oos | Goodbye |
| Até logo | ah-TEH LO-goo | See you later |
| Até já | ah-TEH zhah | See you soon |
| Até amanhã | ah-TEH ah-mah-NYAH | See you tomorrow |
| Boa noite | BO-ah NOY-teh | Good night / Good evening |
| Tudo de bom | TOO-doo deh BONG | All the best |
| Fique bem | FEE-keh beng | Take care |
By learning these various ways to say goodbye in Portuguese, you can add nuance and depth to your interactions, making them more meaningful and culturally appropriate. So next time you’re parting ways with a Portuguese speaker, try out some of these phrases and see how they enhance your communication.
Perfecting Your Pronunciation: Sounding Like a Native Speaker
So, you’ve learned how to say goodbye in Portuguese, which is fantastic! But let’s take it a step further. Saying “tchau” is a great start, but mastering the nuances of Portuguese pronunciation will truly elevate your language skills and impress native speakers. It’s like the difference between playing a simple melody on the piano and performing a complex sonata – both are music, but one showcases a deeper understanding and skill. Here’s how to fine-tune your pronunciation to sound more natural and fluent.
Vowel Sounds
Portuguese vowels differ significantly from English. Pay close attention to how long you hold each vowel and the subtle shifts in your mouth shape. For example, the “a” in “adeus” (goodbye) is more open and relaxed than the “a” in “cat.” Practice distinguishing between open and closed vowels, nasal vowels (like in “são”), and diphthongs (like in “tchau”).
Consonant Sounds
Some Portuguese consonants have no direct English equivalent. The “r” sound, for instance, can be tricky. Depending on its placement in a word, it can be a guttural sound (like the French “r”), a single tap of the tongue (like in Spanish), or a soft, almost silent sound. Similarly, the “nh” sound (as in “senhor”) is similar to the “ny” in “canyon.” Mastering these sounds takes dedicated practice.
Stress and Intonation
Portuguese words typically have a predictable stress pattern, often falling on the second-to-last syllable. However, there are exceptions, so consult a dictionary or online resource to learn the correct stress for each word. Intonation, the rise and fall of your voice, also plays a crucial role in conveying meaning and sounding natural. Listen to native speakers and try to mimic their intonation patterns.
The “Schwa” Sound
The “schwa” sound, a neutral vowel sound represented by the upside-down “e” (ə) in phonetic transcription, is common in Portuguese. It often appears in unstressed syllables and can be subtle, but paying attention to it will make your speech sound more authentic.
Mimicking Native Speakers
One of the best ways to improve your pronunciation is to immerse yourself in the language. Listen to Portuguese music, podcasts, and movies, paying close attention to how words are pronounced. Try to mimic the sounds you hear, even if you don’t understand the meaning. Record yourself speaking and compare it to a native speaker to identify areas for improvement. Don’t be afraid to exaggerate the sounds at first – it can help you train your mouth and tongue to move in new ways.
Practice with Tongue Twisters
Tongue twisters are a fun and effective way to practice challenging sounds. Look for Portuguese tongue twisters online or in language learning books and repeat them slowly and deliberately, gradually increasing your speed. This will help you develop muscle memory and improve your pronunciation accuracy.
Using Online Resources
Numerous online resources can help you perfect your Portuguese pronunciation. Websites like Forvo and PortuguesePod101 offer audio recordings of native speakers pronouncing various words and phrases. You can also find pronunciation guides and tutorials on YouTube. Many language learning apps also incorporate pronunciation exercises and feedback.
Focus on Specific Sounds
If you’re struggling with a particular sound, dedicate extra time to practicing it. Break down the sound into its component parts and practice each part individually. You can also try exaggerating the sound at first to get a feel for the correct mouth position and tongue movement. Once you’ve mastered the individual components, gradually blend them together to form the complete sound.
Nasal Vowels and Diphthongs
Portuguese has several nasal vowels and diphthongs (combinations of two vowel sounds). These can be tricky for English speakers, so pay special attention to their pronunciation. For nasal vowels, practice directing air through both your nose and mouth. For diphthongs, focus on the smooth transition between the two vowel sounds. Here’s a helpful table:
| Sound | Example Word | English Approximation |
|---|---|---|
| ão | mão (hand) | Similar to “ow” in “town,” but nasalized |
| õe | põe (puts) | A nasalized sound between “o” and “e” |
| ai | pai (father) | Similar to “eye” |
| oi | oi (hi) | Similar to “oy” in “boy” |
Remember, perfecting your pronunciation is an ongoing process. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The more you practice, the more natural and fluent you’ll become. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the journey of learning this beautiful language!
Saying Goodbye in Portuguese: A Nuanced Approach
Bidding farewell in Portuguese goes beyond a simple “goodbye.” Like many languages, Portuguese offers a variety of expressions to suit different contexts and levels of formality. Choosing the right phrasing demonstrates cultural sensitivity and strengthens interpersonal connections. This overview explores common farewells and provides guidance on their appropriate usage.
The most common and versatile farewell is “Tchau” (pronounced “chow”). This informal expression is suitable for everyday situations with friends, family, and colleagues. It’s equivalent to the English “bye” or “ciao.” For more formal settings or when addressing someone you don’t know well, “Adeus” (pronounced “ah-DEUS”) is a respectful option. While literally meaning “to God,” its usage is secular and equivalent to the English “goodbye.”
Beyond these staples, Portuguese offers phrases like “Até logo” (pronounced “a-TEH LO-go”) meaning “see you later,” and “Até amanhã” (pronounced “a-TEH ah-muh-NYAH”) meaning “see you tomorrow.” These are appropriate when you anticipate seeing the person again soon. For phone conversations, “Até já” (pronounced “a-TEH zhah”) meaning “see you soon” is a common closing.
Mastering these farewells allows for clearer and more culturally appropriate communication in Portuguese, fostering stronger relationships and demonstrating respect for linguistic nuances.
People Also Ask About Saying Goodbye in Portuguese
Formal Farewells
What is a very formal way to say goodbye in Portuguese?
While “Adeus” is generally considered formal, a more traditional and arguably even more formal option is “Passe bem” (pronounced “PASS-ee bane”). This translates to “go well” and conveys a polite wish for the other person’s wellbeing. It is typically used in more formal settings or when addressing someone of higher status.
Informal Farewells
Besides “Tchau,” are there other informal ways to say goodbye?
Yes, several informal variations exist. “Falou” (pronounced “fah-LO”) is a very casual expression, similar to “later” in English. It is commonly used among close friends and young people. Another option is “Xau” (pronounced “chow”), which is essentially a phonetic spelling of “Tchau” and equally informal.
Regional Variations
Do different regions of Portugal and Brazil use different farewells?
While the core farewells like “Tchau” and “Adeus” are universally understood, regional variations do exist. For example, in some parts of Brazil, you might hear “Tchau, tchau” (pronounced “chow, chow”) as a more emphatic farewell. Researching specific regional dialects can provide further insight into local expressions.
Saying Goodbye in Specific Situations
How do you say goodbye on the phone in Portuguese?
As mentioned previously, “Até já” (see you soon) is a common closing for phone conversations. You could also use “Um abraço” (pronounced “oom ah-BRA-soo”) or “Um beijo” (pronounced “oom BAY-zhoo”) which translate to “a hug” and “a kiss” respectively. The appropriateness of these depends on the level of familiarity with the person you are speaking to. “Um abraço” is generally safer for professional or less personal calls, while “Um beijo” is reserved for closer friends and family.