What is the way to say “Merry Christmas” in Portuguese?

Holidays & Special Events

By Kristy Tolley

The Portuguese Language

Portuguese is a Romance language spoken by over 220 million people worldwide. It is the official language of Portugal, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, and São Tomé and Príncipe. Portuguese is a beautiful and melodious language that is known for its distinct pronunciation and unique vocabulary. It has a rich history and cultural significance, making it an important language to learn and appreciate.

Greetings in Portuguese Culture

In Portuguese culture, greetings are an important part of social interaction. It is customary to greet someone with a handshake or a kiss on each cheek. It is also polite to use formal titles, such as "Sr." or "Sra." when addressing someone you do not know well. Portuguese people are known for their warm and friendly nature, and it is common for them to engage in small talk before getting down to business. Overall, greetings are a way of showing respect and building relationships in Portuguese culture.

The Meaning of "Merry Christmas" in Portuguese

Christmas is a significant holiday in Portugal and Brazil, where the majority of the population is Catholic. It is a time for family gatherings, exchanging gifts, and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The Portuguese word for Christmas is "Natal," which comes from the Latin word "natalis," meaning "birth." The holiday season in Portugal and Brazil typically lasts from December 24th to January 6th, with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day being the most important days.

The Two Ways to Say "Merry Christmas" in Portuguese

In Portuguese, there are two main expressions used to say "Merry Christmas": "Feliz Natal" and "Boas Festas." Both expressions are widely used and convey a similar message of holiday cheer and goodwill.

The First Way: "Feliz Natal"

"Feliz Natal" is the most common way to say "Merry Christmas" in Portuguese. It literally translates to "Happy Christmas" and is used throughout Portugal and Brazil. It is a simple and straightforward expression that is well-known and easily understood by Portuguese speakers.

The Second Way: "Boas Festas"

"Boas Festas" is a more general expression that can be used to wish someone a happy holiday season. It translates to "Good Holidays" and can be used to refer to any holiday or festive occasion. In the context of Christmas, "Boas Festas" is often used alongside "Feliz Natal" to express a more comprehensive message of holiday cheer.

When to Use Each Expression of "Merry Christmas"

"Feliz Natal" and "Boas Festas" can both be used to wish someone a happy holiday season in Portuguese. However, "Feliz Natal" is more specific to Christmas and is appropriate to use throughout the month of December and on Christmas Day itself. "Boas Festas" is a more general expression that can be used to wish someone a happy holiday season throughout the entire month of December and into early January.

Regional Differences in Portugal and Brazil

While both "Feliz Natal" and "Boas Festas" are used throughout Portugal and Brazil, there may be regional differences in which expression is more commonly used. For example, in certain regions of Portugal, "Boas Festas" may be used more frequently, while in Brazil, "Feliz Natal" is more widely used. Nonetheless, both expressions are recognized and appreciated throughout the Portuguese-speaking world.

In addition to "Feliz Natal" and "Boas Festas," there are several other expressions that are commonly used during the Christmas season in Portuguese. These include "Feliz Ano Novo" (Happy New Year), "Presépio" (Nativity scene), "Missas do Galo" (Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve), and "Reis Magos" (Three Wise Men).

Other Holidays in Portugal and Brazil

Portugal and Brazil celebrate many other holidays throughout the year, including Carnaval, Easter, and São João (a midsummer festival). Each holiday has its unique traditions and cultural significance, making them fascinating to learn about and experience firsthand.

Conclusion: Spreading Holiday Cheer in Portuguese

Learning how to say "Merry Christmas" in Portuguese is a great way to spread holiday cheer and connect with Portuguese speakers around the world. Whether you use "Feliz Natal" or "Boas Festas," your message of goodwill and joy will be appreciated and valued. So, this Christmas season, spread some cheer in Portuguese and celebrate the magic of the holiday season with friends and family.

References and Further Reading

  • "Portuguese Language." Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., www.britannica.com/topic/Portuguese-language#ref124151.
  • "Greetings and Goodbyes in Portuguese." Transparent Language, 8 Dec. 2020, blogs.transparent.com/portuguese/greetings-and-goodbyes-in-portuguese/.
  • "Natal em Portugal." Portugalist, 8 Dec. 2020, www.portugalist.com/natal-em-portugal/.
  • "Brazilian Holidays & Festivals." Brazil for Life, 8 Dec. 2020, www.brazilforlife.com/brazilian-holidays-festivals/.
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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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