Language & Communication
Brazilian Portuguese, useful phrases, translation tools and a few Bahia-specific words that make everyday interactions easier.
By Salvador Insider Editorial Team
Research, verification and editorial maintenance by Salvador Insider.
Brazil's official language is Portuguese. English is not universally spoken outside tourism-oriented businesses. Spanish speakers can often communicate with patience, but Portuguese and Spanish are different languages: slow down, use simple words and do not assume rapid Spanish will be understood.
Useful Portuguese
| Portuguese | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite | Good morning / afternoon / evening |
| Por favor | Please |
| Obrigado / Obrigada | Thank you |
| Quanto custa? | How much is it? |
| Cartão? | Card? |
| A conta, por favor | The bill, please |
| Sem pimenta, por favor | No chilli, please |
Words you will hear in Bahia
Acarajé, abará, dendê, moqueca, baiana, terreiro, orixá, axé, samba-reggae and bloco afro are not decorative vocabulary. They name foods, traditions, religious concepts and cultural forms that are part of everyday Salvador.
Download an offline Portuguese language pack in your preferred translation app. It is especially useful in taxis, markets and places with weak mobile signal.
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