When writing emails and letters in Portuguese, having a varied vocabulary is essential to communicate effectively and professionally. Here are some words and phrases that will help you compose your written communications with ease and confidence.
Prezado(a)
This is a formal way of saying “dear” and is often used when addressing someone respectfully in emails and letters.
Prezado Sr. Silva, gostaria de agendar uma reunião para próxima semana.
Cordialmente
This translates as “cordially” and is a common way to close a formal email or letter.
Aguardo sua resposta. Cordialmente, Joana.
Atenciosamente
Similar to “cordially,” this phrase means “sincerely” and it is another polite way to end a correspondence.
Atenciosamente, um cliente fiel.
Anexo
An “attachment” in correspondence; used when you have included additional documents or files.
Conforme solicitado, segue em anexo o relatório financeiro.
Assunto
Used to indicate the “subject” line in emails, or the main topic of a letter.
Assunto: Proposta de Colaboração.
Destinatário
This means “recipient,” the person to whom the email or letter is addressed.
O destinatário não foi encontrado no endereço fornecido.
Remetente
The “sender” of the email or letter.
O remetente deve assegurar que todos os campos estejam preenchidos corretamente.
CC
Stands for “carbon copy,” used when you want someone else to receive a copy of the email for their information.
Por favor, inclua a Sra. Pereira em CC neste e-mail.
Encaminhar
Means “to forward” an email or letter, sending it on to another person.
Encaminhei o e-mail para você verificar as informações.
Responder
Simply “to reply” to an email or letter that you have received.
Por favor, responda este e-mail com sua disponibilidade para a reunião.
Saudações
A more general “greetings,” often used at the beginning or end of less formal emails.
Saudações a todos os participantes do seminário.
Para sua referência
Used when providing information that the reader may need to refer to.
Envio em anexo o catálogo de produtos para sua referência.
Conforme discutido
“Following our discussion,” a phrase to refer back to a previous conversation.
Conforme discutido, estou enviando as datas disponíveis para o evento.
Por gentileza
Meaning “please,” this is a polite addition to requests or instructions.
Por gentileza, confirme o recebimento deste e-mail.
Ao seu dispor
Translates as “at your disposal,” often used to offer help or services to the recipient.
Qualquer dúvida, estou ao seu dispor.
Peço desculpas
Saying “I apologize,” which is used for conveying regrets or apologies in a formal way.
Peço desculpas pelo inconveniente causado.
Grato(a)
A formal “thank you,” conveyed at the end of an email or letter to express gratitude.
Grato pela atenção dispensada.
By integrating these words and phrases into your Portuguese emails and letters, you will be able to craft messages that are professional, clear, and respectful. It’s important not only to understand their meanings but also to feel comfortable using them in the appropriate context. With practice, your written Portuguese will improve, and you’ll communicate more efficiently with native speakers.