When you first learn a new language the very first word you want to master is the greeting.
If you’re wondering how to say hello in Portuguese you’re already on the right path because this single word can open doors, spark conversations, and make locals smile.
Maybe you’re traveling to Brazil soon or you’ve just met someone who speaks Portuguese. Whatever your reason this guide is written just for you.
By the end you’ll know exactly what to say, how to say it, and when to use each greeting with confidence 😊.
The Most Common Way to Say Hello in Portuguese
Olá | The Universal “Hello”
Olá (oh-LAH) is the simplest and most common way to greet someone.
You can use it with friends, strangers, coworkers, or anyone you meet.
Example:
- Olá! Tudo bem? — “Hello! Everything good?”
Where to use it: Everywhere. It works in both Portugal and Brazil.
Casual Ways to Say Hello
Oi | Friendly and Informal
If you want a relaxed, friendly greeting say Oi (oy).
It’s short, cute, and very common in Brazil.
Example:
- Oi! Como você está? — “Hi! How are you?”
Use this with: People your age, friends, neighbors, or casual situations.
Time Based Greetings
In Portuguese people use time-based greetings more than English speakers. They sound polite and natural.
Bom dia | Good Morning
Pronunciation: bohn JEE-ah
Use it from sunrise until noon.
Example:
- Bom dia! Dormiu bem? — “Good morning! Did you sleep well?”
Boa tarde | Good Afternoon
Pronunciation: BOH-ah TAR-jee
Used from noon until sunset.
Example:
- Boa tarde! Precisa de ajuda? — “Good afternoon! Do you need help?”
Boa noite | Good Evening / Good Night
Pronunciation: BOH-ah NOY-chee
Used for both greeting and leaving at night.
Example:
- Boa noite! Que bom ver você. — “Good evening! Good to see you.”
Polite and Formal Greetings
Como vai? | How do you do?
Pronunciation: KOH-moo VAI
Use this if you want to sound polite or respectful.
Example:
- Olá, como vai? — “Hello, how do you do?”
Perfect for professional or formal situations.
Cultural Note 🇵🇹🇧🇷
Just like in English Portuguese greetings change depending on the country. In Portugal, people often say Olá and Bom dia more often. In Brazil people use Oi all the time and it feels very warm and welcoming. Brazilians also tend to greet with a smile or light cheek kiss between close friends.
Follow Up Phrases You Should Know
After saying hello you’ll likely want to keep the conversation going. Here are helpful follow-ups:
- Tudo bem? — “All good?”
- Como você está? — “How are you?”
- Prazer em conhecer você. — “Nice to meet you.”
- Até logo. — “See you later.”
- Tchau! — “Goodbye!”
Mini Vocabulary Table
| Portuguese Phrase | Pronunciation | Meaning |
| Olá | oh-LAH | Hello |
| Oi | oy | Hi (informal) |
| Bom dia | bohn JEE-ah | Good morning |
| Boa tarde | BOH-ah TAR-jee | Good afternoon |
| Boa noite | BOH-ah NOY-chee | Good evening/night |
| Tudo bem? | TOO-doo BENG | Everything good? |
| Tchau | chow | Bye |
When to Use Formal vs Informal Greetings
Formal (Olá, Bom dia, Como vai?)
Use these:
- at work
- with older people
- in professional settings
- with strangers you want to respect
Informal (Oi, Tudo bem?, Tchau)
Use these:
- with friends
- classmates
- coworkers you know well
- family
Just like in English choosing the right tone shows respect and friendliness.
Quick Pronunciation Tips 🎤
- Portuguese vowels are softer than English.
- Words often end with a gentle “ah” or “ee” sound.
- Don’t overstress syllables. Keep your tone smooth and musical.
- Listen to native speakers if possible to catch the rhythm.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to say hello in Portuguese in any situation. Practice these greetings out loud because the more you repeat them the more natural they’ll feel. Use them with friends, coworkers, or anyone who speaks Portuguese. A simple “Oi” or “Olá” can turn into a great conversation so go ahead and try it today! 🌟
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