At the A1 level, you just need to know that 'bombom' means a chocolate candy. You should be able to recognize it on a menu or in a shop. It's a masculine noun, so you say 'o bombom'. You might use it in very simple sentences like 'Eu gosto de bombom' (I like chocolate candy) or 'Um bombom, por favor' (A chocolate candy, please). At this stage, don't worry too much about the plural form, but try to remember it's a sweet treat you eat for dessert or as a snack. It's one of those fun words that sounds a bit like what it is—something good! You will mostly see it in supermarkets in Brazil, where they sell big boxes of them. Just remember: if it's chocolate and it's small, it's probably a bombom.
At the A2 level, you should start using the plural form correctly: 'bombons'. Remember the rule: words ending in 'm' change to 'ns' in the plural. You should also be able to describe what kind of bombom you like using 'de'. For example, 'bombom de morango' (strawberry) or 'bombom de chocolate'. You might use it when talking about gifts, like 'Eu dei um bombom para ela' (I gave a chocolate to her). You'll also encounter it in social situations, like being offered one at someone's house. You should understand the difference between 'bombom' (chocolate) and 'bala' (hard candy). This level is about using the word in daily life and basic social interactions.
At the B1 level, you can use 'bombom' in more complex sentences and understand its role in Brazilian and Portuguese culture. You might talk about your favorite brands or the 'caixa de bombons' tradition during holidays like Easter or Christmas. You should be comfortable using verbs like 'rechear' (to fill) to describe how they are made. You can also start using the word in the diminutive 'bombonzinho' to sound more like a native speaker when expressing affection for the treat. You'll understand more nuanced contexts, such as the 'bombom de travessa' recipe, and be able to follow basic instructions on how to make them. Your pronunciation should also be more accurate, focusing on the nasal 'om' sound.
At the B2 level, you can discuss the 'bombom' industry, including artisanal versus industrial production. You might talk about the ingredients in detail, such as 'manteiga de cacau' (cocoa butter) or 'leite condensado' (condensed milk). You can use the word metaphorically to describe someone's personality or appearance in a playful way. You should be able to compare 'bombons' with other sweets like 'trufas' or 'brigadeiros' using precise vocabulary. You might also read news articles about chocolate consumption in Brazil or Portugal where the word appears. Your ability to use the word in different registers—from informal talk with friends to a more formal description of a product—should be well-developed.
At the C1 level, you understand the historical and social nuances of the word. You might explore the etymology (from the French 'bonbon') and how it integrated into the Portuguese language. You can use 'bombom' in creative writing or sophisticated conversation to evoke specific imagery or nostalgia. You'll recognize the word in literature or poetry where it might represent temptation, childhood, or sweetness. You can discuss the economic impact of 'bombom' sales during 'Páscoa' and the marketing strategies used by major brands. Your command of the word includes its use in complex grammatical structures and idiomatic expressions, even if they are less common, and you can explain these nuances to others.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'bombom'. You can discuss the word's place in the broader Lusophone gastronomic heritage. You might analyze how the concept of a 'bombom' differs between Portugal and Brazil due to historical influences and local ingredients (like tropical fruits). You can engage in high-level debates about food industry regulations regarding what can legally be labeled a 'bombom' based on cocoa content. You understand every subtle connotation the word carries in various dialects and can use it with perfect precision in any context, whether academic, professional, or highly informal. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a cultural touchstone you navigate with ease.

bombom في 30 ثانية

  • A bombom is a small, individually wrapped or portioned chocolate-covered candy with a filling.
  • The word is masculine (o bombom) and its plural is 'bombons', changing 'm' to 'ns'.
  • It is a central part of Brazilian gift-giving culture, especially during Easter and birthdays.
  • Distinguish it from 'bala' (hard candy) and 'chocolate' (which can refer to a large bar).

The Portuguese word bombom refers to a specific type of confectionery that holds a special place in the hearts of Portuguese speakers, particularly in Brazil and Portugal. While an English speaker might broadly use the word 'candy' or 'chocolate' to describe various sweets, bombom is much more specific. It refers to a small, individual piece of chocolate, typically filled with something delicious like fruit, liqueur, caramel, nuts, or a creamy ganache. It is the equivalent of what a British person might call a 'chocolate' from a selection box or an American might call a 'chocolate truffle' or 'filled chocolate.'

Cultural Significance
In Brazil, the 'caixa de bombons' (box of chocolates) is a ubiquitous gift. It is the go-to present for teachers, secret Santas, or a simple 'thank you' to a neighbor. Brands like Garoto, Nestlé, and Lacta have become cultural icons through their specific bombom varieties.

Understanding when to use bombom versus bala is a key milestone for A2 learners. A bala is usually a hard candy or a gummy, something you might suck on for a long time. A bombom, however, is almost always chocolate-based and meant to be bitten into to reveal its center. You wouldn't call a lollipop a bombom, nor would you call a simple bar of chocolate a bombom. The 'bombom' is the individual unit of indulgence.

Eu comprei um bombom de cereja para você.

The word itself is an onomatopoeic loanword from the French 'bonbon,' which literally means 'good-good.' This repetition emphasizes the delight associated with the treat. In Portuguese, it follows the standard rule for words ending in 'm': when pluralized, the 'm' changes to 'n' and you add 's', resulting in bombons. This is a common stumbling block for beginners who might try to say 'bomboms'.

Common Varieties
You will often find 'bombom de morango' (strawberry), 'bombom de licor' (liqueur), and the famous 'bombom de travessa', which is a layered dessert served in a large dish that mimics the flavors of a single chocolate candy.

Não coma todos os bombons de uma vez só!

In a metaphorical sense, bombom can occasionally be used as a term of endearment or to describe someone very attractive or sweet, similar to calling someone 'honey' or 'sweetie' in English, though 'docinho' is more common for this purpose. However, calling a small child a 'bombom' is quite common among older relatives. The word evokes feelings of comfort, celebration, and the simple joy of a small reward after a long day.

Aquele bebê é um bombom de tão fofo.

Register and Usage
The word is neutral. It is used by children, adults, in marketing, and in literature. It is neither overly formal nor slang, making it a safe and essential part of your basic Portuguese vocabulary.

A loja de bombons artesanais abriu no centro.

In summary, when you think of a bombom, think of a small, chocolate-enveloped surprise. It is a staple of Brazilian social etiquette and a delightful treat that you will encounter in every supermarket, bakery, and convenience store across the Lusophone world.

Using the word bombom correctly involves understanding its grammatical gender, its plural form, and the typical verbs that accompany it. As a masculine noun, it is always preceded by 'o', 'um', 'os', or 'uns'. For example, o bombom (the chocolate) or um bombom (a chocolate).

The Plural Rule
This is the most critical grammatical point. In Portuguese, words ending in 'm' must change to 'ns' in the plural. Therefore, 'bombom' becomes bombons. You will frequently see the phrase 'caixa de bombons' (box of chocolates). Avoid the common error of saying 'bomboms'.

When describing what is inside the treat, we use the preposition 'de'. This is very similar to the English 'of'. For instance, if you want to specify the flavor, you would say bombom de licor (liqueur chocolate), bombom de coco (coconut chocolate), or bombom de amendoim (peanut chocolate).

Você prefere bombom de chocolate ao leite ou amargo?

Verbs commonly associated with bombom include comer (to eat), dar (to give), ganhar (to receive/win), oferecer (to offer), and rechear (to fill). If you are talking about the act of making them, you would use fazer or preparar.

Quantifying Bombons
Since they are individual items, they are countable. You can say 'um bombom', 'dois bombons', etc. However, they are often sold in 'caixas' (boxes) or 'pacotes' (packets). If you are at a party, someone might ask: 'Quer um bombom?' (Do you want a chocolate?)

Ganhei uma caixa de bombons do meu namorado.

In more advanced structures, you might use bombom as an adjective in a compound noun, although this is rare. More common is using it in the diminutive form: bombonzinho. This is used to emphasize that the chocolate is small, cute, or particularly precious. 'Vou comer só um bombonzinho' implies a small, guilt-free indulgence.

O bombom estava tão gostoso que comi três.

When describing the texture of a bombom, you might use adjectives like crocante (crunchy), macio (soft), cremoso (creamy), or recheado (filled). For example: 'Eu adoro bombons recheados com caramelo' (I love chocolates filled with caramel).

Sentence Structure Patterns
1. [Subject] + [Verb] + [Article] + bombom. (Ex: Ela comeu o bombom.)
2. [Article] + bombom + [Verb] + [Adjective]. (Ex: O bombom é delicioso.)
3. [Quantity] + bombons + de + [Flavor]. (Ex: Dez bombons de avelã.)

Sempre guardo um bombom para depois do almoço.

Finally, in a social context, offering a bombom is a gesture of hospitality. If someone visits your house, you might say: 'Aceita um bombom?' (Would you like a chocolate?). It’s a simple, effective way to use the word in daily conversation while practicing your polite 'você' or 'tu' forms.

The word bombom is part of the daily soundscape in Portuguese-speaking countries. You don't have to look far to find it. From the bustling aisles of a 'supermercado' to the intimate setting of a romantic dinner, this word pops up in various contexts that reflect the local culture's love for sweets.

At the Supermarket
In Brazil, supermarkets often have entire sections dedicated to 'caixas de bombons'. You will hear shoppers asking: 'Onde ficam os bombons?' (Where are the chocolates?) or comparing prices: 'Esta caixa de bombons está em promoção' (This box of chocolates is on sale).

One of the most common places to hear the word is during festive seasons. During Easter, the focus is on 'ovos de Páscoa,' but everyone knows that the best part is the bombons inside. In the weeks leading up to Easter, the word is everywhere in advertisements on TV and radio. You'll hear phrases like 'Ovo com bombons sortidos' (Egg with assorted chocolates).

Na Páscoa, as crianças procuram os bombons escondidos.

You will also hear it in the 'bomboniere'. While this word refers to the shop itself (a candy store), it is also the name of the glass jar used at home to store sweets. A grandmother might say: 'Pega um bombom lá na bomboniere' (Grab a chocolate from the candy jar). This is a classic scene in many Brazilian and Portuguese households.

In the Kitchen
If you enjoy cooking shows or browsing recipes online (like on 'TudoGostoso'), you'll encounter 'bombom de travessa'. It's a popular dessert made with layers of condensed milk cream, fresh fruit (usually grapes or strawberries), and a chocolate ganache topping. It's called a 'bombom' because it tastes like a giant version of the candy.

Vou levar um bombom de travessa para o jantar de domingo.

In schools or workplaces, bombons are often used as rewards or small tokens of appreciation. A teacher might give a bombom to a student who did well on a test, or a boss might leave a small bag of bombons on employees' desks for 'Dia do Trabalhador'. You'll hear: 'Obrigado pelo bombom!' (Thanks for the chocolate!).

A secretária distribuiu bombons para todos na reunião.

Lastly, you might hear it in music or soap operas (telenovelas). Because of its sweet connotation, songwriters often use it to describe a love interest or a 'sweet' moment. While it’s not as common as 'meu amor' or 'querida', it adds a playful, sugary tone to the dialogue. Hearing 'Você é meu bombom' is a very informal, affectionate way of speaking.

At the Cinema
At the concession stand, alongside popcorn (pipoca), you'll often see 'bombons' or 'caixas de bombons'. People often buy them to snack on during the movie. 'Quer pipoca ou um bombom?' is a standard question at the theater.

Comprei um bombom para comer durante o filme.

Learning Portuguese involves navigating several false friends and specific grammatical rules. For English speakers, the word bombom presents a few unique challenges that can lead to confusion if not addressed early on.

Mistake 1: The 'Bala' vs. 'Bombom' Confusion
In English, 'candy' covers everything from a Snickers bar to a Jolly Rancher. In Portuguese, if you ask for a 'bala' but want a chocolate-filled treat, you will be disappointed. A 'bala' is a hard or chewy candy (like a fruit drop or caramel). A 'bombom' MUST be chocolate-covered. Using them interchangeably is a very common beginner mistake.

Another frequent error is the pluralization. English speakers often want to add a simple 's' to the end of words. However, in Portuguese, words ending in 'm' are special. You must replace the 'm' with 'n' before adding the 's'.

Incorrect: Eu quero dois bomboms.

Correct: Eu quero dois bombons.

Pronunciation is the third major hurdle. In English, the word 'bonbon' is often pronounced with a clear 'n' sound and stress on the first syllable. In Portuguese, the 'om' is a nasal vowel. You don't actually touch your tongue to the roof of your mouth for an 'm' or 'n' sound at the end; you simply nasalize the 'o'. Furthermore, the stress is on the second syllable: bom-BOM.

Mistake 2: Using 'Bombom' for a Chocolate Bar
If you are eating a large bar of Hershey's or Milka, that is a 'barra de chocolate'. Calling it a 'bombom' would be confusing to a native speaker. A 'bombom' is always small, usually bite-sized, and often individually wrapped within a larger box.

Comi uma barra de chocolate, não um bombom.

There is also a gender error to watch out for. Because it ends in 'm', some learners mistakenly think it might be feminine. It is decisively masculine: o bombom. Using 'a bombom' is a sign of an A1/A2 level learner still grappling with noun genders.

Mistake 3: Confusing 'Bombom' with 'Bonbon' (French)
While they share an origin, the usage differs. In some European contexts, 'bonbon' might refer to any sweet. In Portuguese, stick to the 'chocolate-covered' definition to be most accurate, especially in Brazil.

A criança pediu uma bala, mas o pai deu um bombom.

Finally, be careful with the word 'doce'. 'Doce' is a very broad term meaning 'sweet' or 'dessert'. While a bombom is a type of doce, not all doces are bombons. If you want to be specific about that chocolatey goodness, use the right word!

To truly master Portuguese, you need to know the nuances between bombom and its sugary cousins. Depending on the texture, ingredients, and even the occasion, you might choose a different word.

Bombom vs. Trufa
A trufa (truffle) is often considered a higher-end version of a bombom. While a bombom can have a hard chocolate shell and a variety of fillings (like a wafer or a whole nut), a 'trufa' is typically made of a soft chocolate and cream mixture (ganache) dusted in cocoa powder or dipped in chocolate. In Brazil, 'trufas' sold in shops are usually larger and richer than the 'bombons' found in supermarket boxes.

Then we have the brigadeiro. This is the king of Brazilian sweets. It's made of condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. While it looks like a bombom (small and round), it doesn't have a hard chocolate shell. It's soft all the way through and usually covered in chocolate sprinkles (granulado).

Na festa tinha brigadeiro, beijinho e bombom.

If you are looking for something non-chocolate, you use bala. This refers to hard candies, caramels, or gummies. If you are sucking on it, it's a 'bala'. If you are chewing a soft, fruit-flavored square, it's also a 'bala' (specifically a 'bala mastigável').

Other Alternatives
  • Chocolate: The general term for the substance. 'Quero chocolate' is vague; 'Quero um bombom' is specific.
  • Guloseima: A generic, slightly childish word for 'treats' or 'goodies'.
  • Confeito: Usually refers to smaller candies used for decoration or small sugar-coated pills.
  • Pastilha: Often used for mints or small medicinal lozenges.

Troquei as balas por bombons na lancheira.

When buying a gift, you might choose between a 'caixa de bombons' and a 'caixa de chocolates'. The latter often implies a more premium selection or perhaps thin squares of chocolate, whereas 'bombons' specifically suggests the filled, individual pieces.

Comparison Table
WordMain IngredientTexture
BombomChocolateHard shell, soft center
BalaSugar/SyrupHard or chewy
TrufaChocolate/CreamVery soft/Rich
BrigadeiroCondensed MilkSticky/Soft

Prefiro bombons artesanais aos industriais.

How Formal Is It?

رسمي

"A empresa presenteou os funcionários com bombons finos."

محايد

"Você quer um bombom?"

غير رسمي

"Cara, esse bombom é bom demais!"

Child friendly

"Se você comer tudo, ganha um bombom!"

عامية

"Aquela garota é um bombom."

حقيقة ممتعة

The word entered Portuguese in the 19th century as French culture and gastronomy became highly influential in the Brazilian and Portuguese courts.

دليل النطق

UK /ˌbɒmˈbɒm/
US /ˌbɑmˈbɑm/
The stress is on the second syllable: bom-BOM.
يتقافى مع
tom som bom batom garçom cupom marrom moletom
أخطاء شائعة
  • Stressing the first syllable (BOM-bom) like the English word.
  • Pronouncing the 'm' clearly by closing the lips, rather than nasalizing the vowel.
  • Using a hard 'n' sound in the middle.
  • Failing to nasalize the final 'om'.
  • Pronouncing it as 'bum-bum' (which means 'butt' in Portuguese!).

مستوى الصعوبة

القراءة 1/5

The word is short and appears frequently in simple contexts like menus and advertisements.

الكتابة 2/5

The plural form 'bombons' requires remembering the m-to-ns rule.

التحدث 3/5

Nasal vowels and the specific stress on the second syllable can be tricky for English speakers.

الاستماع 2/5

Easily recognizable, but must be distinguished from 'bom' or 'bum-bum'.

ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك

المتطلبات الأساسية

chocolate doce bom comer querer

تعلّم لاحقاً

trufa sobremesa recheio crocante amargo

متقدم

confeitaria ganache organoléptico cacauicultura temperagem

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Plural of words ending in -m

bombom -> bombons, jardim -> jardins

Nasal vowels with -om

The 'om' in bombom is a single nasal sound, not an 'o' followed by a 'm'.

Preposition 'de' for flavors

bombom de coco, bombom de uva

Masculine noun gender

O bombom (never a bombom)

Diminutives ending in -zinho

bombom -> bombonzinho (the 'm' changes back to 'n' before 'z')

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

Eu quero um bombom.

I want a chocolate candy.

Use 'um' because 'bombom' is masculine.

2

O bombom é doce.

The chocolate candy is sweet.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

3

Você gosta de bombom?

Do you like chocolate candy?

The verb 'gostar' always requires the preposition 'de'.

4

O bombom é de chocolate.

The chocolate candy is made of chocolate.

Use 'de' to indicate the material or flavor.

5

Tem um bombom na mesa.

There is a chocolate candy on the table.

'Tem' is used colloquially for 'there is'.

6

Eu como um bombom.

I eat a chocolate candy.

Present tense of the verb 'comer'.

7

O bombom é pequeno.

The chocolate candy is small.

Adjective agreement with masculine noun.

8

Obrigado pelo bombom.

Thanks for the chocolate candy.

'Pelo' is the contraction of 'por' + 'o'.

1

Comprei uma caixa de bombons.

I bought a box of chocolates.

Plural of 'bombom' is 'bombons'.

2

Estes bombons são para você.

These chocolates are for you.

'Estes' is the masculine plural demonstrative pronoun.

3

Eu prefiro bombons de morango.

I prefer strawberry chocolates.

Plural agreement throughout the sentence.

4

Não temos mais bombons em casa.

We don't have any more chocolates at home.

Negative sentence with 'mais' meaning 'anymore'.

5

O bombom de licor é forte.

The liqueur chocolate is strong.

Describing flavor and intensity.

6

Ela ganhou muitos bombons no aniversário.

She got many chocolates on her birthday.

'Muitos' agrees with the masculine plural 'bombons'.

7

Vou dividir meu bombom com você.

I will share my chocolate with you.

Future intent with 'vou' + infinitive.

8

Onde está o papel do bombom?

Where is the chocolate wrapper?

'Papel' here refers to the wrapper.

1

Sempre comemos um bombom depois do jantar.

We always eat a chocolate after dinner.

Habitual action in the present tense.

2

Aquele bombom recheado é o meu favorito.

That filled chocolate is my favorite.

Using 'recheado' as a past participle adjective.

3

Você já provou o bombom de cupuaçu?

Have you already tried the cupuaçu chocolate?

Present perfect context using 'já' + past tense.

4

Quero aprender a fazer bombons artesanais.

I want to learn how to make handmade chocolates.

'Artesanais' is the plural of 'artesanal'.

5

Ele me deu um bombonzinho para me animar.

He gave me a little chocolate to cheer me up.

Diminutive form 'bombonzinho' adds emotional nuance.

6

A caixa de bombons estava na promoção hoje.

The box of chocolates was on sale today.

Imperfect tense 'estava' for a state in the past.

7

Cuidado para não derreter o bombom no sol.

Be careful not to melt the chocolate in the sun.

Use of 'para não' + infinitive for warning.

8

Qual é o bombom mais caro da loja?

Which is the most expensive chocolate in the shop?

Superlative construction 'o mais [adjective]'.

1

A textura desse bombom é incrivelmente crocante.

The texture of this chocolate is incredibly crunchy.

Advanced descriptive vocabulary.

2

Os bombons finos são decorados manualmente.

The fine chocolates are decorated manually.

Passive voice 'são decorados'.

3

Dizem que o chocolate desse bombom é belga.

They say the chocolate in this candy is Belgian.

Indefinite subject 'dizem que'.

4

A produção de bombons aumenta muito na Páscoa.

The production of chocolates increases a lot during Easter.

Discussing economic/industrial trends.

5

Se eu soubesse que você queria um bombom, teria comprado.

If I had known you wanted a chocolate, I would have bought one.

Third conditional structure.

6

O recheio do bombom é feito com frutas silvestres.

The chocolate filling is made with wild berries.

Compound noun 'frutas silvestres'.

7

A embalagem do bombom é feita de material reciclado.

The chocolate's packaging is made of recycled material.

Passive construction and environmental vocabulary.

8

Apesar de ser um bombom, não é muito calórico.

Despite being a chocolate, it's not very caloric.

Concessive clause with 'apesar de'.

1

A sofisticação do bombom reside no equilíbrio dos sabores.

The sophistication of the chocolate lies in the balance of flavors.

Abstract and formal language.

2

O bombom tornou-se um símbolo de afeto nas relações modernas.

The chocolate has become a symbol of affection in modern relationships.

Pronominal verb 'tornar-se' in the formal past.

3

Há uma vasta gama de bombons para paladares exigentes.

There is a wide range of chocolates for demanding palates.

Using 'há' and 'vasta gama' for formal variety.

4

A doçura do bombom contrastava com o amargor do café.

The sweetness of the chocolate contrasted with the bitterness of the coffee.

Literary description using contrast.

5

O mercado de bombons premium tem crescido exponencialmente.

The premium chocolate market has been growing exponentially.

Compound perfect tense for ongoing action.

6

Cada bombom é uma pequena obra de arte gastronômica.

Each chocolate is a small work of gastronomic art.

Metaphorical and elevated language.

7

A indústria alimentícia investe pesado no design dos bombons.

The food industry invests heavily in the design of chocolates.

Adverbial use of 'pesado'.

8

O bombom evoca memórias de infância em muitos brasileiros.

The chocolate evokes childhood memories in many Brazilians.

Using 'evocar' for psychological connection.

1

A análise sensorial revelou notas de avelã no bombom.

Sensory analysis revealed notes of hazelnut in the chocolate.

Technical/Scientific register.

2

O bombom, outrora um luxo, é hoje um bem de consumo massificado.

The chocolate, once a luxury, is today a mass-consumed good.

Use of the archaic/formal 'outrora'.

3

A cristalização do açúcar comprometeu a qualidade do bombom.

The sugar crystallization compromised the quality of the chocolate.

Highly specific culinary terminology.

4

Subjacente à simplicidade do bombom, há uma complexa cadeia produtiva.

Underlying the simplicity of the chocolate, there is a complex production chain.

Advanced sentence structure with 'subjacente'.

5

A embalagem hermética preserva as propriedades organolépticas do bombom.

The airtight packaging preserves the organoleptic properties of the chocolate.

Academic and technical vocabulary.

6

O autor utiliza o bombom como metáfora para a brevidade da vida.

The author uses the chocolate as a metaphor for the brevity of life.

Literary analysis register.

7

A regulamentação exige que o bombom contenha um teor mínimo de cacau.

Regulation requires that the chocolate contains a minimum cocoa content.

Subjunctive mood after 'exige que'.

8

A mística do bombom artesanal reside na sua imperfeição deliberada.

The mystique of the handmade chocolate lies in its deliberate imperfection.

Philosophical/Aesthetic discussion.

تلازمات شائعة

caixa de bombons
bombom recheado
bombom de licor
bombom de morango
bombom artesanal
bombom de travessa
ganhar um bombom
papel de bombom
fazer bombom
comer um bombom

العبارات الشائعة

Aceita um bombom?

— A polite way to offer someone a chocolate candy. Used when hosting guests.

Entre, por favor. Aceita um bombom?

Cadê meu bombom?

— A playful way to ask where one's treat is, often used between friends or family.

Você foi ao mercado? Cadê meu bombom?

Um bombom por um sorriso.

— A charming phrase used to cheer someone up by offering a sweet.

Não fique triste. Um bombom por um sorriso?

Só um bombom não faz mal.

— A justification for having a small treat while on a diet.

Vou comer, afinal, só um bombom não faz mal.

A vida é como uma caixa de bombons.

— The Portuguese translation of the famous Forest Gump quote.

Como diz o filme, a vida é como uma caixa de bombons.

Escolher a dedo o bombom.

— To choose a chocolate very carefully from a selection.

Ela escolheu a dedo o bombom de cereja.

O bombom da festa.

— Can refer to the most popular person or the best part of an event.

Aquele show foi o bombom da festa.

Bombom de graça até injeção na testa.

— A humorous rhyme meaning people will take anything if it's free.

Ele pegou cinco; bombom de graça até injeção na testa.

Guardar o melhor bombom para o final.

— To save the best part of something for the end.

Eu sempre guardo o melhor bombom para o final.

Trocar figurinha por bombom.

— A child's way of negotiating or trading items.

Eles estão trocando figurinhas por bombons no recreio.

يُخلط عادةً مع

bombom vs bala

Bala is hard/chewy candy; bombom is always chocolate.

bombom vs chocolate

Chocolate is the substance; bombom is the specific small unit.

bombom vs bom

Bom is the adjective 'good'; bombom is the noun 'chocolate candy'.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"Ser um bombom"

— To be a very sweet, kind, or physically attractive person.

Sua filha é um bombom, muito educada.

informal
"Ficar um bombom"

— To look very good or cute, often said about clothes or a makeover.

Essa roupa ficou um bombom em você!

informal
"Bombom de licor (metaphor)"

— Something that looks sweet on the outside but has a 'kick' or surprise inside.

Aquela notícia era um bombom de licor; parecia boa, mas era complicada.

informal
"Comer o bombom antes da hora"

— To rush into something or enjoy a reward prematurely.

Não comemore ainda, não coma o bombom antes da hora.

informal
"Dividir o último bombom"

— To show great friendship or love by sharing something precious.

Eles são tão amigos que dividiriam o último bombom.

informal
"Bombom recheado de vento"

— Something that looks substantial but is actually empty or disappointing.

A promessa do político foi um bombom recheado de vento.

slang/informal
"Dar um bombom para a criança parar de chorar"

— To give a small bribe or distraction to solve a problem temporarily.

O bônus foi só um bombom para os funcionários pararem de reclamar.

informal/cynical
"Olho no bombom"

— To be very focused on a desired prize or treat.

Ele está com o olho no bombom desde que chegou.

informal
"Bombom da sorte"

— A treat that brings good luck or a positive turn of events.

Aquele encontro foi meu bombom da sorte.

informal
"Vender bombom no sinal"

— A common sight in Brazil where people sell candy at traffic lights to make a living.

Ele começou a vida vendendo bombom no sinal.

neutral/descriptive

سهل الخلط

bombom vs bala

Both are 'candy' in English.

Bala is sugar-based and hard/chewy. Bombom is cocoa-based with a soft filling.

Eu quero uma bala de menta e um bombom de chocolate.

bombom vs trufa

Both are small chocolate treats.

Trufa is typically richer, softer, and more artisanal. Bombom is a broader category including mass-produced items.

Esta trufa é mais cremosa que o bombom.

bombom vs brigadeiro

Both are small, round Brazilian sweets.

Brigadeiro has no hard shell and is made of condensed milk. Bombom has a chocolate coating.

Na festa comi brigadeiro e bombom.

bombom vs biscoito

Both are snacks/treats.

Biscoito is a cookie/biscuit; bombom is a chocolate candy.

Comi um biscoito no café e um bombom de sobremesa.

bombom vs confeito

Both relate to confectionery.

Confeito usually refers to small sprinkles or sugar-coated pills; bombom is a larger, filled chocolate.

O bombom estava decorado com confeitos coloridos.

أنماط الجُمل

A1

Eu quero [um/o] bombom.

Eu quero um bombom.

A2

Eu tenho [número] bombons.

Eu tenho cinco bombons.

B1

Este bombom é de [sabor].

Este bombom é de caramelo.

B2

O bombom está recheado com [ingrediente].

O bombom está recheado com nozes.

C1

Apesar de ser apenas um bombom, [consequência].

Apesar de ser apenas um bombom, ele mudou meu humor.

C2

A sutiliza do bombom reside em [detalhe].

A sutiliza do bombom reside em sua crosta fina.

A2

Você me dá um bombom?

Você me dá um bombom?

B1

Não coma todos os bombons!

Não coma todos os bombons!

عائلة الكلمة

الأسماء

الأفعال

الصفات

مرتبط

كيفية الاستخدام

frequency

Very high in daily speech, especially in Brazil.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Eu quero um bomboms. Eu quero um bombom.

    You cannot use a plural noun with the singular article 'um'. If you want one, it's 'um bombom'.

  • A bombom é deliciosa. O bombom é delicioso.

    Bombom is a masculine noun. All associated articles and adjectives must be masculine.

  • Eu comprei dois bomboms. Eu comprei dois bombons.

    The plural of words ending in 'm' must end in 'ns'.

  • Vou chupar um bombom. Vou comer um bombom.

    You 'chupar' (suck) a 'bala' (hard candy), but you 'comer' (eat) a 'bombom'.

  • Eu gosto do bombom de chocolate bar. Eu gosto da barra de chocolate.

    Don't mix 'bombom' with 'barra'. A 'bombom' is the small piece; a 'barra' is the large block.

نصائح

Plural Mastery

Always remember the 'm' to 'ns' change. Practice writing 'um bombom, dois bombons' until it becomes second nature. This rule applies to many common words like 'homem' (homens) and 'jardim' (jardins).

Nasal Power

To get the nasal 'om' right, try saying 'oh' while partially blocking your nose. The sound should vibrate in your nasal cavity. Don't close your mouth fully at the end.

The Gift of Chocolate

If you are visiting a Brazilian home, a 'caixa de bombons' from the supermarket is a perfectly acceptable 'thank you' gift. It's affordable and culturally expected.

Specific Flavors

Learn the names of fruits like 'morango' (strawberry), 'uva' (grape), and 'coco' (coconut) to describe your favorite bombons. You'll use the pattern 'bombom de [fruit]'.

Offering Sweets

In Brazil, it's polite to offer what you are eating. If you open a box of bombons, always ask 'Aceita um?' to those around you before taking one yourself.

French Connection

Remembering that 'bombom' comes from the French 'bon' (good) helps you remember that it's a positive, sweet thing. It's literally 'good-good'!

Check the Box

When buying a 'caixa de bombons', look for the word 'sortidos' (assorted) to get a variety of flavors. This is the most common type of box sold.

Bombom de Travessa

Searching for 'bombom de travessa' recipes is a great way to practice reading Portuguese and learn about Brazilian home-style desserts.

Diminutives

Use 'bombonzinho' when speaking to children or when you want to sound particularly sweet or humble about the treat you are eating.

Avoid 'Bum-bum'

Be careful with the vowel sound. 'Bombom' uses a closed, nasal 'O'. If you use an 'U' sound, you are saying 'bum-bum' (butt), which might cause some laughter!

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Think of a 'BOMB' of flavor that is 'BOM' (good) in your mouth. BOM-BOM!

ربط بصري

Imagine a shiny golden wrapper being peeled back to reveal a rich chocolate sphere with a bright red cherry inside.

Word Web

Chocolate Recheio Caixa Presente Doce Páscoa Cacau Festa

تحدٍّ

Go to a local market and try to find three different types of 'bombons'. Read the labels and identify the 'recheio' (filling) of each one.

أصل الكلمة

Derived from the French word 'bonbon', which is a reduplication of 'bon' (good).

المعنى الأصلي: Literally 'good-good', used to describe a treat for children.

Indo-European (Romance branch via French).

السياق الثقافي

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that 'bum-bum' (pronounced similarly by English speakers) means 'buttocks', so focus on the nasal 'O' sound to avoid embarrassment.

In the US and UK, 'bonbon' is a bit old-fashioned or refers specifically to sugar-dusted sweets. In Portuguese, 'bombom' is the current, everyday word for filled chocolates.

The brand 'Sonho de Valsa' is the most famous bombom in Brazil. The movie 'Forrest Gump' quote about the box of chocolates is widely known in translation. The song 'Bombom' by various Brazilian artists often uses the word as a metaphor for sweetness.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

Birthday Parties

  • Onde estão os bombons?
  • Pode pegar um bombom?
  • A mesa de bombons está linda.
  • Quantos bombons eu posso comer?

Supermarket

  • Qual é o preço da caixa de bombons?
  • Tem bombom de cereja?
  • Vou levar dois bombons.
  • Esses bombons são novos?

Gifts

  • Trouxe um bombom para você.
  • É apenas um bombom, um mimo.
  • Espero que você goste desse bombom.
  • Obrigado pelo bombom!

Recipes

  • Como faz o recheio do bombom?
  • Precisa derreter o chocolate do bombom.
  • Coloque o bombom na geladeira.
  • O bombom de travessa é fácil.

Easter

  • O ovo vem com bombons?
  • Quais bombons tem dentro?
  • Prefiro bombons a ovos de Páscoa.
  • A caixa de bombons é mais barata.

بدايات محادثة

"Qual é o seu bombom favorito da caixa?"

"Você prefere bombom de chocolate branco ou preto?"

"Você já tentou fazer bombom em casa?"

"Qual marca de bombom você acha a melhor?"

"Você gosta de bombom com recheio de fruta ou de licor?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Descreva o melhor bombom que você já comeu na vida. Como era o recheio?

Se você pudesse criar um novo sabor de bombom, qual seria?

Por que você acha que as pessoas gostam tanto de dar bombons de presente?

Escreva sobre uma memória de infância que envolva um bombom ou um doce especial.

Você acha que um bombom por dia pode fazer alguém mais feliz? Por quê?

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

It is masculine: 'o bombom'. You should always use masculine articles and adjectives with it, such as 'um bombom gostoso' or 'os bombons pequenos'.

The plural of 'bombom' is 'bombons'. Note that the 'm' at the end of the singular word changes to 'n' before adding the 's'. This is a standard rule for Portuguese words ending in 'm'.

A 'bombom' is specifically a chocolate-covered treat with a filling. A 'bala' is a hard candy, gummy, or caramel. If you want chocolate, ask for a 'bombom'!

No, a chocolate bar is called a 'barra de chocolate'. 'Bombom' only refers to the small, individual pieces, usually found in a box or assortment.

It is a popular Brazilian dessert served in a large dish (travessa). It consists of layers of cream, fruit (like grapes or strawberries), and chocolate, mimicking the flavors of a bombom candy.

Yes, it can be! Calling someone a 'bombom' is like calling them 'sweetie' or 'honey', though it's a bit more informal and sometimes implies they are attractive or cute.

The most famous are Sonho de Valsa (by Lacta), Ouro Branco (by Lacta), and the various chocolates found in the Garoto and Nestlé yellow/red boxes.

It is pronounced bom-BOM. Both vowels are nasal, and the stress is on the second syllable. Avoid making a hard 'm' sound at the end; it should sound like a nasal 'o'.

It is a culturally affordable and universally liked gift. It's a simple way to show appreciation without the pressure of a high-cost item, making it perfect for casual acquaintances or teachers.

Yes, in a general sense, a truffle (trufa) is a type of bombom. However, 'trufa' usually implies a higher quality or a specific soft ganache center.

اختبر نفسك 200 أسئلة

writing

Escreva uma frase usando a palavra 'bombom'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase usando o plural 'bombons'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Descreva o seu bombom favorito.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Crie um pequeno diálogo oferecendo um bombom a um amigo.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Por que bombons são bons presentes?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

O que tem dentro de uma caixa de bombons sortidos?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva sobre uma vez que você ganhou bombons.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Como se faz um bombom artesanal? (Resumo)

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Qual a diferença entre bombom e bala?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use a palavra 'bombons' e 'Páscoa' na mesma frase.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase com 'bombonzinho'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Descreva a embalagem de um bombom famoso.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

O que você faz com o papel do bombom depois de comer?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Quantos bombons você consegue comer de uma vez?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva um anúncio curto para vender bombons.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

O que acontece se você deixar um bombom no sol?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Qual é o melhor momento do dia para comer um bombom?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Você prefere bombom de chocolate ao leite ou branco? Por quê?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase usando 'caixa de bombons'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Crie uma frase poética sobre um bombom.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Eu adoro bombom de morango.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Quantos bombons você quer?'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'A caixa de bombons está na mesa.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Vou comprar um bombom para você.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Explique em português o que é um bombom.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'O plural de bombom é bombons.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Este bombom de licor é muito bom.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Não coma todos os bombons de uma vez.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'O papel do bombom é azul.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Eu ganhei uma caixa de bombons.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Pergunte o preço de uma caixa de bombons.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga qual é o seu sabor de bombom favorito.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'O bombom derreteu no calor.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Prefiro bombons artesanais.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Sempre tem bombom na casa da vovó.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'O recheio é de caramelo salgado.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Vou levar dois bombons de coco.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Obrigado pelo bombom, estava uma delícia!'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'Você prefere bala ou bombom?'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga em voz alta: 'A vida é como uma caixa de bombons.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva a palavra: 'bombom'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva o plural: 'bombons'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Quantos bombons você ouviu na frase: 'Eu comi três bombons'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Qual o sabor mencionado: 'O bombom de uva é verde'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

O bombom é para quem: 'Este bombom é para o papai'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Escreva a frase: 'Ganhei um bombom'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Escreva a frase: 'A caixa está cheia de bombons'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Qual o adjetivo usado: 'O bombom é muito crocante'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Transcreva: 'Não tem mais bombom na bomboniere'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Qual o preço ouvido: 'A caixa de bombons custa dez reais'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Transcreva: 'O bombom de licor é para adultos'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Quem fez o bombom: 'Minha avó fez bombons de coco'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Transcreva: 'Escolhi o melhor bombom da caixa'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Qual a cor do papel: 'O papel do bombom é dourado'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Transcreva: 'Comprei bombons artesanais no centro'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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