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A2 noun 12 Min. Lesezeit

chávena de café

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At the A1 level, you learn the most basic nouns for everyday objects. 'Chávena' is a key word for survival Portuguese. You will use it to identify a cup in a kitchen or to ask for one in a café. At this stage, focus on the gender (feminine: 'uma chávena') and the simple connection between the cup and the coffee ('de café'). You don't need to worry about complex grammar; just focus on the phrase as a single unit of meaning to get what you need in a restaurant or home. You will likely hear it when someone offers you a drink: 'Queres um café?' (Do you want a coffee?). Even if they don't say the word 'chávena', the object they hand you is one. Learning this word helps you build a foundation for ordering food and drinks, which is a primary goal for beginners. Practice saying 'uma chávena de café, por favor' until it feels natural.
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At the A2 level, you begin to describe objects and use them in more varied sentences. You should be able to specify the state of the 'chávena de café'. Is it hot (quente)? Is it empty (vazia)? Is it on the table (em cima da mesa)? You also start to understand the difference between 'chávena' and 'copo' (glass). At this level, you can handle simple interactions in a café, such as asking for a specific type of cup or complaining politely if a cup is dirty. You will also begin to see the plural form 'chávenas' and use it with numbers (duas, três, quatro). This is the stage where you move from just 'pointing and naming' to 'describing and requesting' with more detail. You are also introduced to the European vs. Brazilian distinction, knowing that 'chávena' is what you use in Portugal.
At the B1 level, you use 'chávena de café' in the context of social habits and routines. You can talk about your morning routine: 'Bebo sempre uma chávena de café antes de sair de casa.' You also start to understand the cultural significance. You know that 'tomar uma chávena de café' is a social invitation. You can use prepositions more accurately, such as 'numa' (in a) or 'com' (with). For example, 'Gosto do café numa chávena pequena'. You are also capable of following recipes that might use 'chávena' as a measurement, although this is more common in older texts. Your vocabulary expands to include adjectives like 'partida' (broken), 'suja' (dirty), or 'estimada' (cherished). You can participate in longer conversations about coffee culture and the types of cups people prefer.
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At the B2 level, you can use 'chávena de café' in more abstract or detailed descriptions. You might describe the material of the cup—porcelain, ceramic, or clay—and how it affects the taste of the coffee. You can discuss the aesthetics of a 'serviço de café' (coffee set) and its role in interior design or tradition. Your grammar is more fluid, allowing you to use the phrase in complex sentences with relative clauses: 'A chávena de café que me deste é muito bonita.' You also understand idiomatic uses and can distinguish between the literal cup and the 'cup' as a social event. You might use the phrase in professional contexts, such as describing the hospitality industry or the quality of service in a hotel. You are comfortable with the nuances of regional terms like 'bica' and 'cimbalino' and when to use the more formal 'chávena'.
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At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the stylistic and historical nuances of 'chávena de café'. You can use the word in literary or formal writing to evoke specific imagery. You might analyze the etymology (from the Arabic 'shabbana' via the East) and its place in Portuguese colonial history. You can discuss the sociology of the Portuguese café and how the 'chávena de café' acts as a catalyst for political and intellectual discussion. You are sensitive to the register; you know that 'chávena' sounds more sophisticated than 'caneca' and can choose your words to match the tone of the conversation. You can also use the phrase in metaphors or as part of a larger narrative about 'saudade' or Portuguese identity. Your command of the language allows you to discuss the physics of the cup—heat retention, ergonomics—using technical vocabulary.
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At the C2 level, your mastery is near-native. You can use 'chávena de café' in any context, from the most technical ceramic engineering discussion to the most abstract poetry. You understand the subtle emotional weight the phrase can carry in different regions of the Lusophone world. You can effortlessly switch between European and Brazilian terminology depending on your audience. You might engage in high-level debates about the evolution of the word or its usage in classical Portuguese literature (e.g., Eça de Queirós). You can use the phrase to create humor, irony, or pathos in your speech and writing. For you, 'chávena de café' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile tool for expression that reflects a profound connection to the Portuguese language and its diverse cultures.
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chávena de café in 30 Sekunden

  • A 'chávena de café' is a small coffee cup, typically used for espresso in Portugal.
  • It is a feminine noun phrase (a chávena), requiring feminine adjectives and articles.
  • In Portugal, it is the standard term, whereas 'xícara' is the Brazilian equivalent.
  • It is a central object in Portuguese social life, symbolizing hospitality and breaks.

The term chávena de café is a fundamental noun phrase in European Portuguese, specifically referring to the physical vessel—the cup—and its contents or intended purpose. While the English word 'cup' can be generic, the Portuguese chávena carries a specific connotation of elegance and tradition, often associated with porcelain or ceramicware used in domestic settings or traditional cafés. In the context of Portuguese culture, coffee is not just a drink; it is a social ritual, a break from work, and a gesture of hospitality. Understanding how to use this phrase involves more than just knowing the translation; it requires an appreciation for the 'cultura do café' (coffee culture) that permeates every corner of Portugal, from the bustling streets of Lisbon to the quiet villages of the Alentejo.

The Vessel vs. The Volume
A chávena specifically refers to a cup with a handle, usually accompanied by a pires (saucer). This distinguishes it from a copo (glass), which is sometimes used for specific types of coffee like a galão (coffee with milk in a tall glass).
Regional Distinction
Crucially, chávena is the standard term in Portugal. In Brazil, the word xícara is used almost exclusively. If you use chávena in Rio de Janeiro, you will be understood, but it will sound distinctly European or archaic.
The Smallness of the Coffee
When a Portuguese person asks for a chávena de café, they are usually referring to what Americans call an espresso. It is a small, concentrated dose of caffeine served in a petite, thick-walled ceramic cup designed to retain heat.

"Aceita uma chávena de café enquanto espera?"

Translation: Would you like a cup of coffee while you wait?

The phrase is used in a variety of registers. In a formal setting, a host might offer a chávena de café after a dinner party. In a casual setting, friends might meet 'para tomar uma chávena de café,' though they often shorten it simply to 'tomar um café.' The specificity of the word chávena emphasizes the physical object, often used when discussing table settings, purchasing kitchenware, or describing the aesthetic of the drink. For example, 'uma chávena de porcelana' (a porcelain cup) evokes a sense of quality that 'um copo' simply does not.

"Esta chávena de café é uma recordação da minha avó."

Translation: This coffee cup is a souvenir from my grandmother.
Metaphorical Use
While less common than in English, the 'cup' can represent a unit of measure in older recipes, though 'decilitros' or 'gramas' are more common in modern Portuguese cooking.

Historically, the word chávena is linked to the introduction of tea and coffee in Europe. It arrived in the Portuguese language via the East, reflecting Portugal's history as a maritime power. Today, it remains a word that signals a certain level of linguistic refinement. While slang terms for coffee abound (like bica in Lisbon or cimbalino in Porto), the chávena remains the dignified vessel that holds them all.

"Pode trazer-me outra chávena de café, por favor?"

Translation: Can you bring me another cup of coffee, please?

Using chávena de café correctly requires understanding its grammatical role as a feminine noun phrase. Because chávena is feminine, all accompanying adjectives and articles must agree in gender. This section explores the various ways to integrate this phrase into your daily Portuguese, from simple requests to descriptive narratives.

Agreement and Articles
You must use uma (a) or a (the). For example: "A chávena está quente" (The cup is hot). Never say 'o chávena'. Even though 'café' is masculine, the head of the phrase is 'chávena', so the gender is feminine.
Ordering in a Café
When ordering, you can be specific about the cup itself. "Quero um café numa chávena escaldada" (I want a coffee in a scalded/pre-heated cup). Or, if you prefer a larger serving, "Quero um café numa chávena grande."

"Ela segura a chávena de café com as duas mãos para se aquecer."

Translation: She holds the cup of coffee with both hands to warm herself.

In a domestic context, you might talk about the set of cups. "Este conjunto tem seis chávenas de café." (This set has six coffee cups). Notice how the plural chávenas changes, but de café remains the same because it describes the type of cup.

"Pus a chávena de café em cima da mesa de cabeceira."

Translation: I put the coffee cup on the bedside table.

Descriptive adjectives often follow the noun. You can have a chávena de café vazia (empty coffee cup), a chávena de café cheia (full coffee cup), or a chávena de café partida (broken coffee cup). The adjective agrees with 'chávena'.

"Não há nada melhor do que uma chávena de café fumegante logo de manhã."

Translation: There is nothing better than a steaming cup of coffee first thing in the morning.
Prepositional Nuance
Using 'de' vs 'com': 'Uma chávena de café' is the standard way to name the object or the serving. However, if you are describing the contents specifically, you might say 'uma chávena com café' (a cup with coffee in it), though 'de' is much more common for both meanings.

Finally, consider the verb 'beber' (to drink) or 'tomar' (to take/drink). While both are used, 'tomar um café' is the most idiomatic way to describe the act of having coffee. 'Beber uma chávena de café' sounds slightly more literal and descriptive.

"O empregado trouxe a chávena de café acompanhada por um pequeno biscoito."

Translation: The waiter brought the cup of coffee accompanied by a small biscuit.

If you walk into any pastelaria or café in Portugal, you are entering the natural habitat of the chávena de café. The sound of ceramic clinking against saucers and the hiss of the espresso machine form the soundtrack of Portuguese daily life. You will hear this word in various social contexts, each with its own rhythm and expectation.

At the Pastelaria
This is the most common place. You might hear a customer say, "Queria um café, se faz favor," and the waiter might clarify, "Na chávena fria ou escaldada?" Hearing the word chávena here is part of the professional service dialogue.
In the Home
When visiting a Portuguese home, the offer of coffee is nearly universal. "Vais querer uma chávena de café?" or "Queres que te sirva uma chávena de café?" It's a sign of hospitality and a way to extend a conversation.

"O som da chávena de café a bater no pires é típico das manhãs portuguesas."

Translation: The sound of the coffee cup hitting the saucer is typical of Portuguese mornings.

In television shows, movies, and literature set in Portugal, the chávena de café often serves as a prop for character reflection. A character might stare into their chávena while contemplating a life decision. It represents a moment of pause. You'll also hear it in commercials for coffee brands like Delta or Sical, where the visual of a perfectly poured 'bica' into a white chávena is iconic.

"Ele deixou a chávena de café esquecida em cima do balcão."

Translation: He left the coffee cup forgotten on the counter.

In work environments, the 'coffee break' is often referred to as 'ir beber um café,' but if someone is bringing drinks to a meeting, they might ask, "Quem quer uma chávena de café?" It's more descriptive in this plural or collective context. In shopping malls or department stores like El Corte Inglés, you'll see signs for 'Artigos de Cozinha' where chávenas de café are sold in sets.

"No Natal, recebi um conjunto lindo de chávenas de café pintadas à mão."

Translation: At Christmas, I received a beautiful set of hand-painted coffee cups.
Formal Events
At weddings or formal dinners, the 'serviço de café' is a specific part of the meal. The waiter will ask if you desire a chávena de café after dessert, often served with a 'digestivo'.

Finally, in the arts, particularly Fado music, the café environment is a common theme. While the lyrics might not always explicitly say 'chávena,' the imagery of sitting at a small table with a cup of coffee is central to the 'saudade' (longing) and atmosphere of the genre.

"A empregada limpou a mesa e levou a chávena de café vazia."

Translation: The waitress cleaned the table and took the empty coffee cup away.

Learning Portuguese involves navigating regional differences and grammatical nuances. When using chávena de café, English speakers and Brazilian Portuguese learners often fall into specific traps. Recognizing these early will help you sound more like a native speaker in Portugal.

Confusing 'Chávena' with 'Xícara'
If you have studied Brazilian Portuguese, you likely learned xícara. In Portugal, xícara is almost never used. Using it in Lisbon won't make you misunderstood, but it will immediately mark you as someone using Brazilian vocabulary. Stick to chávena in Europe.
Gender Agreement Errors
Because 'café' is masculine (o café), many learners accidentally say 'um chávena de café'. Remember that the article must agree with the first noun, chávena, which is feminine. It is always uma chávena.

"Errado: O chávena de café. Correto: A chávena de café."

Another common mistake is using copo (glass) when you mean chávena (cup). In English, we might say 'a cup of water' and 'a cup of coffee' interchangeably, but in Portuguese, water always goes in a copo. Coffee only goes in a copo if it's a specific drink like a galão or a mazagran (iced coffee). For a standard espresso, always use chávena.

"Errado: Quero um copo de café. Correto: Quero uma chávena de café."

Learners also struggle with pluralization. When you have multiple cups, only the noun chávena becomes plural: chávenas de café. Do not pluralize 'café' unless you are talking about different types of coffee beans or blends.

"Duas chávenas de café, por favor."

Translation: Two cups of coffee, please.
Spelling Confusion
Note the accent on the 'á' in chávena. It is an acute accent, indicating an open 'a' sound. Forgetting the accent is a common writing error. Also, ensure you use 'v' and not 'b', although in some northern Portuguese dialects, 'v' and 'b' can sound similar.

Finally, don't confuse chávena with caneca. A caneca is a mug—larger, usually without a saucer, and used for tea or large quantities of filter coffee (which is less common in Portugal). If you are in a traditional café, asking for a caneca de café might result in a confused look or a very large, non-standard serving.

"Ele bebeu uma caneca de café? Não, ele bebeu uma chávena pequena."

While chávena de café is the standard term, Portuguese is rich with alternatives depending on the size of the cup, the type of coffee, and the region. Understanding these synonyms and related terms will greatly expand your vocabulary and help you navigate menus with ease.

Xícara
The Brazilian equivalent. While identical in meaning, it is geographically distinct. Use it if you are in Brazil or speaking to Brazilians to fit in better.
Caneca
A mug. Used for larger drinks. If you want a 'big cup' of coffee, you might ask for it in a caneca, though this is more common for tea or hot chocolate.
Copo
A glass. Some people prefer their espresso in a small glass (café no copo). It's a stylistic choice often found in older, more traditional tascas.

"Prefiro beber o meu café numa caneca grande quando estou em casa."

Translation: I prefer to drink my coffee in a large mug when I am at home.

When discussing the contents rather than the vessel, you have many options. In Lisbon, a chávena de café is often called a bica. In Porto, it is a cimbalino. These words refer to the espresso itself, but they are always served in a chávena.

"Queres uma bica?"

Translation: Do you want an espresso (Lisbon style)?

For coffee with milk, the vessel size changes. A meia-de-leite is served in a chávena grande (large cup), while a galão is served in a copo alto (tall glass). Knowing the correct vessel for the drink is a sign of advanced cultural fluency.

Chávena de Chá
A tea cup. These are usually wider and shallower than coffee cups. It's important to distinguish them when setting a table or buying gifts.

In summary, while chávena de café is your 'safe' and grammatically correct term for all of Portugal, being aware of xícara (Brazil), caneca (mug), and regionalisms like bica will make you a much more versatile speaker. Each word carries a slightly different 'flavor' of the Portuguese experience.

"Servi o café em chávenas de porcelana para os convidados."

Translation: I served the coffee in porcelain cups for the guests.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

Portugal was one of the first European nations to introduce coffee to its colonies, specifically Brazil, which eventually became the world's largest producer. The 'chávena' is the direct descendant of the bowls used in the first coffee houses of the 1700s.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈʃavunɐ dɨ kɐˈfɛ/
US /ˈʃɑvənə deɪ kəˈfeɪ/
Primary stress on 'chá' in 'chávena' and 'fé' in 'café'.
Reimt sich auf
chávena: sávana, caravana (approximate) café: boné, maré, jacaré, chulé, fé, pé, rapé, galé
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'ch' as 'tch' (like 'chair'). It should be 'sh'.
  • Making the 'v' sound like a 'b'.
  • Stress on the wrong syllable in 'chávena' (should be the first).
  • Closing the final 'e' in 'café' too much.
  • Forgetting the nasalization of the final 'a' in 'chávena' in some dialects.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The word is phonetically consistent but has an accent that must be remembered.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires remembering the acute accent and the 'v' instead of 'b'.

Sprechen 2/5

The 'sh' sound is easy for English speakers, but the stress placement is key.

Hören 2/5

Easily recognizable in the context of a café.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

café água copo mesa querer

Als Nächstes lernen

pires açúcar colher pastelaria pequeno-almoço

Fortgeschritten

porcelana escaldada moagem torrefação aromático

Wichtige Grammatik

Nouns ending in -a are usually feminine.

A chávena, a mesa, a cadeira.

Preposition 'de' indicates purpose or content.

Chávena de café (for coffee), Garrafa de água (of water).

Adjective agreement in gender and number.

Chávenas pequenas, cafés quentes.

Contraction of 'em' + 'a' = 'na'.

O café está na chávena.

Use of 'tomar' vs 'beber' for drinks.

Vou tomar um café (habitual/social) vs Beber um café (action).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Uma chávena de café, por favor.

A cup of coffee, please.

Feminine singular 'uma'.

2

Onde está a minha chávena?

Where is my cup?

Possessive 'minha' agrees with 'chávena'.

3

Eu bebo café na chávena.

I drink coffee in the cup.

Preposition 'na' (em + a).

4

A chávena é pequena.

The cup is small.

Adjective 'pequena' is feminine.

5

Esta é uma chávena de café.

This is a coffee cup.

Demonstrative 'esta' is feminine.

6

Queres uma chávena de café?

Do you want a cup of coffee?

Interrogative sentence.

7

A chávena de café está aqui.

The cup of coffee is here.

Verb 'estar' for location.

8

Não tenho uma chávena de café.

I don't have a cup of coffee.

Negative 'não' before the verb.

1

A chávena de café está muito quente.

The coffee cup is very hot.

Adverb 'muito' modifying 'quente'.

2

Podes lavar esta chávena de café?

Can you wash this coffee cup?

Verb 'poder' + infinitive.

3

Eu prefiro uma chávena de café grande.

I prefer a large cup of coffee.

Adjective 'grande' is gender-neutral but agrees in number.

4

Ela comprou seis chávenas de café novas.

She bought six new coffee cups.

Plural 'chávenas' and 'novas'.

5

A chávena de café caiu no chão.

The coffee cup fell on the floor.

Past tense 'caiu'.

6

Põe a chávena de café no pires.

Put the coffee cup on the saucer.

Imperative 'põe'.

7

A minha chávena de café está vazia.

My coffee cup is empty.

Adjective 'vazia'.

8

O empregado trouxe a chávena de café.

The waiter brought the cup of coffee.

Definite article 'a'.

1

Sempre que acordo, bebo uma chávena de café.

Whenever I wake up, I drink a cup of coffee.

Conjunction 'sempre que'.

2

Gostaria de uma chávena de café com pouco açúcar.

I would like a cup of coffee with a little sugar.

Conditional 'gostaria'.

3

Esta chávena de café é feita de porcelana fina.

This coffee cup is made of fine porcelain.

Passive voice 'é feita'.

4

Não consigo trabalhar sem a minha chávena de café.

I can't work without my cup of coffee.

Preposition 'sem'.

5

Ele ofereceu-me uma chávena de café e um bolo.

He offered me a cup of coffee and a cake.

Clitic pronoun '-me'.

6

A chávena de café ainda está a fumegar.

The coffee cup is still steaming.

Continuous 'está a fumegar'.

7

Precisamos de mais uma chávena de café para o convidado.

We need one more coffee cup for the guest.

Verb 'precisar de'.

8

Ela segura a chávena de café com muita elegância.

She holds the coffee cup with much elegance.

Noun 'elegância' with 'com'.

1

A temperatura da chávena de café influencia o sabor.

The temperature of the coffee cup influences the flavor.

Complex subject phrase.

2

Apesar de estar com pressa, tomou a sua chávena de café.

Despite being in a hurry, he had his cup of coffee.

Concession clause 'Apesar de'.

3

O design desta chávena de café é verdadeiramente inovador.

The design of this coffee cup is truly innovative.

Adverb 'verdadeiramente'.

4

Ela deixou uma mancha circular da chávena de café no papel.

She left a circular stain from the coffee cup on the paper.

Descriptive adjective 'circular'.

5

Servir numa chávena de café fria estraga a bebida.

Serving in a cold coffee cup ruins the drink.

Gerund-like infinitive as subject.

6

O aroma que sai da chávena de café é inconfundível.

The aroma coming from the coffee cup is unmistakable.

Relative clause 'que sai'.

7

Encontrei uma chávena de café antiga na feira da ladra.

I found an old coffee cup at the flea market.

Past tense 'encontrei'.

8

Ele entornou a chávena de café sobre os documentos importantes.

He spilled the coffee cup over the important documents.

Preposition 'sobre'.

1

A chávena de café tornou-se um símbolo da hospitalidade lusa.

The coffee cup has become a symbol of Portuguese hospitality.

Pronominal verb 'tornar-se'.

2

Perdeu-se em pensamentos enquanto olhava para a chávena de café.

He got lost in thought while looking at the coffee cup.

Reflexive 'perdeu-se'.

3

A delicadeza daquela chávena de café contrastava com a rudeza do ambiente.

The delicacy of that coffee cup contrasted with the roughness of the environment.

Imperfect tense for description.

4

Nada substitui o prazer de uma chávena de café lida com o jornal.

Nothing replaces the pleasure of a coffee cup (taken) with the newspaper.

Abstract noun 'prazer'.

5

O tilintar da colher na chávena de café quebrava o silêncio da sala.

The clinking of the spoon in the coffee cup broke the silence of the room.

Onomatopoeic noun 'tilintar'.

6

É imperativo que a chávena de café seja escaldada previamente.

It is imperative that the coffee cup be pre-heated.

Subjunctive 'seja'.

7

A herança cultural reside, por vezes, numa simples chávena de café.

Cultural heritage sometimes resides in a simple cup of coffee.

Verb 'residir'.

8

A chávena de café, embora pequena, continha uma energia imensa.

The coffee cup, although small, contained immense energy.

Concessive 'embora'.

1

A onipresente chávena de café serve de pretexto para tertúlias infindáveis.

The omnipresent coffee cup serves as a pretext for endless intellectual gatherings.

Advanced vocabulary 'tertúlias'.

2

Eça de Queirós descrevia com mestria o ritual da chávena de café na alta sociedade.

Eça de Queirós masterfully described the ritual of the coffee cup in high society.

Historical/Literary reference.

3

A ergonomia da chávena de café evoluiu para potenciar a experiência sensorial.

The ergonomics of the coffee cup evolved to enhance the sensory experience.

Technical term 'ergonomia'.

4

Subjaz à chávena de café uma complexa teia de relações comerciais globais.

Underlying the coffee cup is a complex web of global commercial relations.

Verb 'subjazer'.

5

O fumo que se desprende da chávena de café evoca memórias de outrora.

The smoke rising from the coffee cup evokes memories of yesteryear.

Archaic/Poetic 'outrora'.

6

A chávena de café é o epítome do quotidiano urbano contemporâneo.

The coffee cup is the epitome of contemporary urban daily life.

Advanced noun 'epítome'.

7

A porosidade da cerâmica na chávena de café pode alterar a perceção do amargor.

The porosity of the ceramic in the coffee cup can alter the perception of bitterness.

Scientific vocabulary.

8

Não se trata apenas de uma chávena de café; trata-se de um momento de introspeção.

It's not just about a cup of coffee; it's about a moment of introspection.

Idiomatic 'trata-se de'.

Synonyme

xícara de café bica cimbalino cafézinho expresso chávena pequena meia-de-leite pingo

Gegenteile

chávena de chá copo de água caneca garrafa

Häufige Kollokationen

chávena escaldada
chávena de porcelana
chávena vazia
beber uma chávena
chávena de café fumegante
conjunto de chávenas
chávena partida
chávena suja
encher a chávena
chávena de café curta

Häufige Phrasen

Tomar uma chávena de café

— To have a cup of coffee. The most common way to describe the act.

Vamos tomar uma chávena de café?

Uma chávena de café, por favor

— The standard polite way to order a coffee in a restaurant.

Bom dia, uma chávena de café, por favor.

Oferecer uma chávena de café

— To offer someone a cup of coffee, a standard social gesture.

Vou oferecer uma chávena de café aos vizinhos.

Pousar a chávena

— To set the cup down on a surface.

Ele pousou a chávena de café com cuidado.

Segurar a chávena

— To hold the cup.

Ela segura a chávena de café com as duas mãos.

Servir uma chávena

— To pour or present a cup of coffee.

A Maria serviu uma chávena de café ao patrão.

Chávena de café da manhã

— A breakfast cup of coffee (though 'pequeno-almoço' is used in Portugal).

A minha primeira chávena de café da manhã é sagrada.

Pedir uma chávena

— To ask for a cup.

Pode pedir uma chávena de café para mim?

Lavar as chávenas

— To wash the cups.

Depois do jantar, tenho de lavar as chávenas de café.

Chávena de café frio

— A cup of cold coffee (usually unwanted).

Ninguém gosta de uma chávena de café frio.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

chávena de café vs Xícara

Brazilian term. Identical meaning, different region.

chávena de café vs Copo

A glass. Used for cold drinks or specific coffee types like Galão.

chávena de café vs Caneca

A mug. Used for larger quantities, usually without a saucer.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Tempestade numa chávena de água"

— A storm in a teacup (though water is used here). Making a big deal out of nothing.

Não te preocupes, isso é apenas uma tempestade numa chávena de água.

Informal
"Ler a sina na borra do café"

— To read one's fortune in the coffee grounds at the bottom of the cup.

A cigana leu a minha sina na borra da chávena de café.

Folklore
"Estar como o café: quente e forte"

— To be full of energy and ready for action.

Hoje estou como uma boa chávena de café: quente e forte!

Informal
"Café de saco"

— Filter coffee (often considered inferior to espresso in a chávena).

Nesta casa só bebemos café de saco.

Neutral
"Ir ao café"

— To go to a café (not just to drink coffee, but for social reasons).

Depois do trabalho, vamos ao café.

Common
"Conversa de café"

— Idle talk or casual discussion typical of café settings.

Isso são apenas conversas de café, não têm fundamento.

Informal
"Pagar um café"

— To buy someone a coffee as a small favor or social gesture.

Deixa estar, eu pago-te o café.

Informal
"Café com cheirinho"

— Coffee with a drop of brandy or aguardente.

O meu avô gosta sempre de uma chávena de café com cheirinho.

Traditional
"Ficar em águas de bacalhau"

— To come to nothing (related to liquids, though not coffee specifically, often used in café talk).

O projeto da nova cafetaria ficou em águas de bacalhau.

Informal
"Beber o café até à última gota"

— To enjoy something completely to the very end.

Ele aproveitou as férias como quem bebe uma chávena de café até à última gota.

Metaphorical

Leicht verwechselbar

chávena de café vs Chá

The word 'chávena' starts with 'chá'.

'Chá' is tea; 'chávena' is the cup. You can have a 'chávena de chá' or a 'chávena de café'.

Bebo chá numa chávena de chá.

chávena de café vs Cafeteira

Both start with 'café'.

'Cafeteira' is the pot or machine that makes the coffee; 'chávena' is what you drink from.

A cafeteira está cheia, mas a minha chávena está vazia.

chávena de café vs Copo

Both are drinking vessels.

'Copo' is usually glass and has no handle; 'chávena' is ceramic/porcelain and has a handle.

Quero um copo de água e uma chávena de café.

chávena de café vs Pires

They are always seen together.

'Pires' is the small plate under the 'chávena'.

Põe a chávena no pires.

chávena de café vs Bica

In Lisbon, people say 'bica' for coffee.

'Bica' is the drink; 'chávena' is the cup. You drink a 'bica' in a 'chávena'.

Traz-me uma bica na chávena escaldada.

Satzmuster

A1

Quero uma [noun].

Quero uma chávena de café.

A2

A [noun] está [adjective].

A chávena de café está suja.

B1

Eu bebo [noun] quando [verb].

Eu bebo uma chávena de café quando estudo.

B2

Se eu tivesse uma [noun], eu [verb].

Se eu tivesse uma chávena de café, eu estaria feliz.

C1

Apesar de [verb], ele não dispensa a [noun].

Apesar de estar atrasado, ele não dispensa a chávena de café.

C2

A [noun] atua como [metaphor].

A chávena de café atua como o lubrificante da conversa.

A1

Onde está a [noun]?

Onde está a chávena de café?

A2

Podes trazer-me a [noun]?

Podes trazer-me a chávena de café?

Wortfamilie

Substantive

café (the drink/bean)
cafeeiro (the coffee plant)
cafetaria (the shop)
cafeteira (the pot)
cafeína (caffeine)

Verben

cafeinar (to caffeinate)
tomar café (to have coffee)

Adjektive

cafezeiro (coffee-loving)
cafeico (caffeic)
descafeinado (decaffeinated)

Verwandt

pires (saucer)
colher (spoon)
açúcar (sugar)
leite (milk)
bica (espresso)
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So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high in daily life and literature.

Häufige Fehler
  • O chávena de café → A chávena de café

    Chávena is a feminine noun, so it must take the feminine article 'a' or 'uma'.

  • Uma xícara de café (in Portugal) → Uma chávena de café

    While 'xícara' is correct in Brazil, it is not used in Portugal. Using it will make you sound like a foreigner or a Brazilian.

  • Um copo de café → Uma chávena de café

    A 'copo' is a glass. Unless you specifically want coffee in a glass, use 'chávena'.

  • Chávena do café → Chávena de café

    Use the preposition 'de' to indicate the type of cup. 'Do' (de + o) would imply the cup belongs to a specific coffee.

  • Chávena de café quentes → Chávena de café quente

    The adjective 'quente' must agree with the singular 'chávena'. Only use 'quentes' if you have multiple 'chávenas'.

Tipps

The Saucer is Mandatory

In Portugal, a 'chávena' is almost never served without a 'pires' (saucer). Even in the most casual cafés, you will get both. It's considered incomplete and slightly rude to serve just the cup.

Gender Agreement

Always match your adjectives to the feminine 'chávena'. Say 'chávena bonita', not 'chávena bonito'. This is a quick way to show you know your grammar.

Ordering Like a Pro

If you want your coffee in a specific way, use 'na'. For example: 'Um café na chávena grande' (A coffee in a large cup). This is very common in Portugal.

Eastern Roots

The word 'chávena' is a reminder of Portugal's history in Asia. It comes from Malay and Chinese roots, showing how global trade shaped the Portuguese language.

Chávena vs. Xícara

If you are in Portugal, use 'chávena'. If you are in Brazil, use 'xícara'. Using the wrong one isn't a big deal, but it shows which version of the language you've studied.

The 'CH' Sound

Remember that 'ch' in Portuguese is always 'sh'. It's never 'tch' like in 'chocolate' (English pronunciation). Think of 'shávena'.

Gift Giving

A 'serviço de chávenas de café' (a set of coffee cups) is a very common and respected wedding or housewarming gift in Portugal.

The Coffee Invitation

If someone asks 'Queres ir tomar um café?', they are inviting you for a chat. You might not even drink coffee, but you'll still be sitting with a 'chávena' in front of you.

Don't Forget the Accent

The accent on the 'á' in 'chávena' is crucial. Without it, the word is spelled incorrectly and the pronunciation would change.

Look at the Material

Portuguese 'chávenas' are often thicker than those in other countries to help keep the small amount of espresso hot. Notice the weight next time you hold one.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a **Sha**man drinking **Vena** (vein) of coffee. Shá-vena. It’s the 'vein' of Portuguese life!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a tiny, steaming white cup sitting on a blue and white Portuguese tile (azulejo). The steam forms the word 'CHÁVENA'.

Word Web

Chávena Café Pires Bica Colher Açúcar Pastelaria Escaldada

Herausforderung

Go to a local café (or pretend) and order 'Uma chávena de café, por favor' three times today. Try to use it in a full sentence with an adjective like 'quente'.

Wortherkunft

The word 'chávena' comes from the Malay 'cawan' or the Chinese 'chá' (tea) + 'wan' (bowl), which entered Portuguese during the 16th-century maritime expansions in Asia. 'Café' comes from the Arabic 'qahwa', which traveled through Turkish 'kahve' and Italian 'caffè' before reaching Portuguese.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: 'Chávena' originally referred to a small bowl or cup specifically for tea before being adapted for coffee.

Romance (Portuguese) with significant Arabic and Asian loanword influences.

Kultureller Kontext

Always refer to it as 'chávena' in Portugal; calling it a 'xícara' is not offensive but sounds like you are ignoring the local culture in favor of Brazilian norms.

Unlike the large 'to-go' cups common in the US or UK, Portuguese coffee is almost always served in small ceramic cups and consumed on-site.

A Brasileira (Famous café in Lisbon) Fernando Pessoa (Poet often depicted with a cup of coffee) Delta Cafés (The most famous Portuguese coffee brand)

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At a Restaurant

  • A conta e uma chávena de café.
  • O café vem numa chávena fria.
  • Pode trocar esta chávena?
  • Quero o café na chávena grande.

At Home

  • Pus as chávenas na mesa.
  • Onde guardas as chávenas de café?
  • Esta chávena era da minha avó.
  • Queres que te sirva o café?

At the Office

  • Vamos fazer uma pausa para o café.
  • Alguém quer uma chávena de café?
  • Deixaste a tua chávena na cozinha.
  • A máquina de café está avariada.

Shopping

  • Quanto custa este conjunto de chávenas?
  • Procuro chávenas de café modernas.
  • Tem chávenas de café em azul?
  • Estas chávenas podem ir à máquina?

Socializing

  • Encontramo-nos para uma chávena de café.
  • Adoro conversar com uma chávena de café.
  • O café aqui é servido em chávenas lindas.
  • Obrigado pela chávena de café.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Como é que gostas da tua chávena de café? Curta ou cheia?"

"Sabias que em Lisboa chamam 'bica' a esta chávena de café?"

"Preferes beber o café numa chávena de porcelana ou de vidro?"

"Quantas chávenas de café bebes por dia para aguentar o trabalho?"

"Esta chávena de café é tão bonita! Onde é que a compraste?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Descreve o ritual da tua primeira chávena de café do dia. O que sentes?

Escreve sobre uma conversa importante que tiveste enquanto tomavas uma chávena de café.

Se fosses uma chávena de café, como serias? De que material e cor?

Compara a cultura da chávena de café em Portugal com a do teu país de origem.

Imagina que encontras uma chávena de café mágica. O que acontece quando bebes dela?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, Brazilians almost exclusively use 'xícara'. While they will understand 'chávena', it sounds very European or like it came from an old book. If you are traveling to Brazil, use 'xícara' to sound more natural.

It is a cup that has been rinsed with boiling water before the coffee is poured. This ensures the espresso stays hot for longer. It is a common request for coffee enthusiasts in Portugal who don't want their drink to cool down too quickly.

Yes! You just say 'chávena de chá'. However, tea cups are usually slightly larger and wider than the tiny cups used for Portuguese espresso.

It is feminine. You should always use 'a chávena' or 'uma chávena'. This is a common mistake because 'café' is masculine, but the gender of the phrase is determined by the first noun.

A 'chávena' is a formal cup with a handle and a saucer, usually small. A 'caneca' is a mug, which is larger, thicker, and used for more casual, larger drinks like filter coffee or milk.

You only pluralize the first word: 'chávenas de café'. You are talking about multiple cups, not multiple types of coffee.

The acute accent indicates that the 'a' is the stressed syllable and that it has an 'open' sound (like the 'a' in 'father').

It means an espresso served in a small glass instead of a ceramic cup. Some people prefer this as they believe it changes the experience or keeps the coffee at a different temperature.

'Chávena de café' is the name of the object or the standard way to order. 'Chávena com café' specifically emphasizes that there is coffee inside the cup at that moment.

It is a larger cup used for a 'meia-de-leite', which is half coffee and half milk. It's similar in size to a standard English tea cup.

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Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Escreva uma frase pedindo uma chávena de café num restaurante.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Descreva a sua chávena de café favorita.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O que acontece se uma chávena de café cair ao chão?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Por que é que os portugueses gostam de tomar uma chávena de café?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Como se prepara uma chávena de café?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escreva um pequeno diálogo entre um cliente e um empregado sobre um café.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Quais são os ingredientes que se podem pôr numa chávena de café?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Onde é que costuma guardar as suas chávenas de café?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Descreva o som de uma colher numa chávena de café.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O que é um 'café com cheirinho'?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escreva sobre a importância do café na cultura portuguesa.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Como se diz 'I drank two cups of coffee'?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Qual é a diferença entre uma chávena e um copo?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O que prefere: uma chávena de café ou de chá?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Descreva uma chávena de café antiga.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O que faz com a chávena depois de terminar o café?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escreva uma frase usando a palavra 'chávena' e 'pires'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Quantas chávenas de café bebes por dia?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

A chávena de café está quente ou fria?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Imagine que é um designer. Como seria a sua chávena de café perfeita?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Peça uma chávena de café ao balcão.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pergunte ao seu amigo se ele quer uma chávena de café.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga que a sua chávena de café está fria.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explique que prefere uma chávena de café grande.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Peça uma chávena de café escaldada.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga que partiu uma chávena de café sem querer.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ofereça café a um convidado em sua casa.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pergunte onde estão as chávenas de café.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga que o café nesta chávena cheira muito bem.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Peça duas chávenas de café e a conta.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Comente sobre a beleza de uma chávena de porcelana.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga que não gosta de beber café em copos de plástico.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pergunte se a chávena de café pode ir à máquina de lavar.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Descreva o ritual de tomar café na sua cidade.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga que a chávena de café está demasiado cheia.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Peça um café com um pouco de leite na chávena.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga que a chávena de café é um presente para a sua mãe.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pergunte se alguém quer mais uma chávena de café.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga que a chávena de café está suja com batom.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explique a diferença entre chávena e xícara a um amigo.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Uma chávena de café'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique o número: 'Três chávenas de café'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique o adjetivo: 'A chávena está quente'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e escreva a frase: 'Onde está a minha chávena?'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique o objeto: 'Põe o pires debaixo da chávena'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique o verbo: 'Vou tomar uma chávena de café'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Chávenas de porcelana'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique o estado: 'A chávena está partida'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Café na chávena grande'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique o local: 'A chávena está na mesa'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e escreva a pergunta: 'Aceita uma chávena de café?'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique o material: 'A chávena é de cerâmica'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Uma bica na chávena'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique a quantidade: 'Duas chávenas de café, por favor'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Lavar as chávenas sujas'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 200 correct

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