At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'equinócio' every day, but it's good to know it exists when talking about the calendar. Think of it as a special name for the first day of Spring or Autumn. In Portuguese, we say 'o equinócio'. It happens in March and September. You might see it on a calendar or hear it on the news. For now, just remember it is a masculine word and it relates to the seasons. You can practice saying 'O equinócio de primavera' to help remember the names of the seasons too. It is a big word, but don't be afraid of it! It is very similar to the English word 'equinox', so you are already halfway there. Just remember to add the 'io' at the end and emphasize the 'ó' sound. Learning this word early helps you understand how Portuguese names scientific events using Latin roots, which is a pattern you will see many times as you continue your studies. It's a great 'power word' to impress your teacher or Portuguese-speaking friends!
At the A2 level, you should be able to identify 'equinócio' in a sentence about the weather or the time of year. You are learning to describe the world around you, and the equinox is a key part of that. You might say, 'Em março, temos o equinócio.' This shows you understand that seasons change at specific times. You should also be aware that because Portuguese is spoken in both Portugal (Northern Hemisphere) and Brazil (Southern Hemisphere), the equinox means different things in different places. In March, it's the start of Spring in Lisbon but the start of Autumn in São Paulo. Using the word 'equinócio' correctly with its article 'o' and the preposition 'de' (e.g., 'o equinócio de outono') is a great way to show you are moving beyond basic vocabulary. You can also start to notice the word in simple news headlines or weather reports. It's a useful term for expanding your knowledge of 'o tempo' (the weather/time) and 'as estações do ano' (the seasons of the year).
At the B1 level, you are becoming more independent in your Portuguese. You should be able to explain what an 'equinócio' is using simple terms. For example: 'O equinócio é quando o dia e a noite têm a mesma duração.' You are also expected to handle the spelling and pronunciation more accurately, including the acute accent on the 'ó'. This is the level where you might encounter the word in a reading passage about geography or a documentary about nature. You should be able to distinguish between 'equinócio' and 'solstício' and use them in the correct contexts. If you are planning a trip to a Portuguese-speaking country, knowing this word helps you understand local festivals or the best times to visit certain natural landmarks. It's also a good time to start using the word in your own writing, perhaps when describing the climate of your hometown or a place you've visited. Remember to keep the gender masculine and pay attention to the specific dates (March 20/21 and September 22/23).
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'equinócio' in more complex discussions. You might talk about the astronomical reasons behind the event or its cultural significance in ancient times. You can use it in a sentence like: 'A orientação das pirâmides foi planejada para coincidir com o equinócio.' Your pronunciation should be clear, respecting the stress on the 'nó' and the diphthong at the end. You should also be aware of related terms like 'equador', 'hemisfério', and 'eclíptica'. At this level, you can understand news articles that discuss the equinox in the context of climate change or global weather patterns. You might also notice the word being used metaphorically in literature or high-level journalism to signify a period of balance or transition. Being able to use such precise terminology correctly is a hallmark of an upper-intermediate learner and will allow you to participate in more academic or professional conversations in Portuguese.
At the C1 level, 'equinócio' should be a natural part of your academic and technical vocabulary. You should understand its nuances, such as the difference between the 'equinócio vernal' and the 'equinócio outonal'. You are capable of following detailed scientific explanations in Portuguese about the Earth's axial tilt and its orbit around the sun. You can also appreciate the word's presence in classical Portuguese literature, where it might be used to evoke a specific mood or to ground a narrative in a particular time of year. Your use of the word in writing should be flawless, including the correct application of grammatical rules and stylistic conventions. You might even use the word in a professional context, such as teaching, research, or environmental consulting. At this level, you don't just know the word; you understand the entire scientific and cultural framework that surrounds it, allowing you to discuss the equinox with the same depth as a native speaker with a university education.
At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the word 'equinócio' and its various applications. You can discuss the precessional movement of the equinoxes ('precessão dos equinócios') and its impact on astronomical observations over millennia. You are familiar with the historical evolution of the word from Latin and how it has been used in Portuguese texts from the Middle Ages to the present day. You can use the word with absolute precision in any register, from highly technical scientific papers to evocative, poetic prose. You might also explore the philosophical implications of the equinox as a symbol of perfect symmetry and balance in your own creative or analytical writing. Your understanding is so deep that you can identify and correct subtle misuses of the term by others. For you, 'equinócio' is not just a vocabulary item, but a precise tool for articulating complex ideas about the universe, time, and the human experience within the natural world.

equinócio in 30 Sekunden

  • Equinócio is a masculine Portuguese noun referring to the twice-yearly astronomical event where day and night are of equal length worldwide.
  • It marks the official start of spring (equinócio de primavera) and autumn (equinócio de outono) in both hemispheres.
  • The word is primarily used in scientific, geographic, and news contexts, but also carries cultural and historical significance.
  • Key pronunciation tip: the stress is on the 'nó' syllable, and the 'qu' sounds like a 'k'.

The Portuguese word equinócio refers to a specific astronomical event that happens twice a year, where the center of the visible Sun is directly over the Equator. For a learner of Portuguese, understanding this word is not just about science; it is about understanding the transition of seasons in the Lusophone world, which spans both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. When an equinócio occurs, day and night are of approximately equal length all over the world. This balance is reflected in the etymology of the word itself, which comes from the Latin 'aequus' (equal) and 'nox' (night). In daily conversation, you might not use this word as often as 'sol' or 'chuva', but it is essential for discussing the calendar, geography, and the natural cycles that govern life in Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and beyond.

Grammatical Gender
Masculine (o equinócio, os equinócios). It follows the standard pattern for Portuguese nouns ending in -o.
Scientific Context
Used by astronomers and geographers to mark the start of spring and autumn. In the Southern Hemisphere (like Brazil), the March equinox marks autumn, while in the Northern Hemisphere (like Portugal), it marks spring.
Cultural Significance
Associated with harvest festivals or the awakening of nature. Many ancient monuments in the Portuguese-speaking world are aligned with the sun during this event.

O equinócio de outono traz dias mais curtos e noites mais longas progressivamente.

Muitas culturas celebram o equinócio como um tempo de renovação e equilíbrio.

Durante o equinócio, o sol nasce exatamente no leste e se põe no oeste.

Cientificamente, o equinócio é o momento em que o plano do equador da Terra passa pelo centro do Sol.

O equinócio de março marca o início do outono no Brasil.

In a broader sense, the word can be used metaphorically to describe a state of perfect balance or a tipping point. However, its primary use remains firmly in the realm of geography and astronomy. When you are learning Portuguese, mastering such specific terms allows you to engage with more academic and sophisticated materials, such as news reports on climate change, documentaries about the solar system, or classical literature that often uses celestial movements to set a scene. The word 'equinócio' is a beautiful bridge between the Latin roots of the language and modern scientific understanding, providing a clear example of how Portuguese preserves historical linguistic structures while applying them to precise, modern concepts.

Using the word equinócio correctly requires an understanding of its role as a noun and the specific prepositions that usually accompany it. Most commonly, it is paired with the prepositions 'de' (of) to specify which season is beginning, or 'em' (in) to indicate the time of occurrence. Because it is a masculine noun, it always takes the article 'o' or 'um'. In formal writing, such as a meteorological report, you will see it used with precise verbs like 'ocorrer' (to occur) or 'marcar' (to mark).

With Seasons
Equinócio de primavera (Spring equinox) or Equinócio de outono (Autumn equinox). Note that 'primavera' and 'outono' are not capitalized in Portuguese unless at the start of a sentence.
With Dates
O equinócio ocorre por volta do dia 21 de março. (The equinox occurs around March 21st.)
Scientific Precision
O equinócio vernal é um termo técnico para o equinócio de primavera.

Nós vamos observar as estrelas na noite do equinócio.

O equinócio é o momento ideal para ajustar o relógio solar.

A luz solar atinge ambos os hemisférios igualmente no equinócio.

In literature, you might encounter 'equinócio' used to describe a time of change. For example, 'O equinócio da minha vida' could poetically refer to a middle age or a period of transition where things are in balance before a major shift. However, in 99% of cases, you will be using it in its literal, astronomical sense. If you are describing a trip to Portugal in late March, you might say: 'Eu cheguei a Lisboa exatamente no equinócio de primavera.' This level of detail shows a high command of the language and an awareness of the natural world.

While equinócio is a somewhat technical term, it appears frequently in specific contexts within Lusophone media and education. You will most likely hear it on the evening news during the weather segment (a previsão do tempo). Meteorologists use it to explain why the weather is changing or why the days are getting noticeably longer or shorter. It is also a staple in the Portuguese and Brazilian education systems; every student learns about the equinócio and the solstício in their geography and science classes.

O apresentador do tempo anunciou que o equinócio ocorrerá amanhã às dez horas.

Another place you will find this word is in cultural and historical documentaries. Portugal has many megalithic structures, like the Cromeleque dos Almendres, where the sun's position during the equinox was of great importance to ancient peoples. Guides and narrators will use the word to explain the architectural alignment of these sites. Furthermore, if you are interested in gardening or agriculture in Portugal or Brazil, you will hear farmers or hobbyists mention the equinox as a marker for planting or harvesting certain crops.

In Brazil, because of its vast size and location mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, the equinox is a key concept in understanding the different climates across the country. While the Amazon region doesn't experience seasons as drastically as the South of Brazil or Portugal, the term is still used in academic and environmental discussions regarding the solar cycle's impact on tropical ecosystems. In summary, while it's not a word for ordering coffee, it's a word for understanding the world and the way Portuguese speakers describe the passage of time on a global scale.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when learning the word equinócio is related to its spelling and pronunciation. In English, 'equinox' ends in an 'x' sound, but in Portuguese, it ends in '-cio'. Forgetting the 'i' before the 'o' (writing 'equinóco') is a common spelling error. Another major hurdle is the accent mark. The acute accent on the 'ó' is mandatory because it is a proparoxytone word (stressed on the third-to-last syllable), or more accurately, a paroxytone ending in a diphthong where the stress is shifted. Without the accent, the pronunciation would change entirely.

Confusion with Solstice
Many learners confuse 'equinócio' with 'solstício'. Remember: Equi = Equal (day/night), Sol = Sun (longest/shortest day).
Gender Errors
Thinking it is feminine because it relates to 'natureza' or 'estação'. It is always 'o equinócio'.
Hemisphere Confusion
Calling the March equinox 'equinócio de primavera' when speaking to a Brazilian in March. For them, it is the 'equinócio de outono'.

Errado: A equinócio de primavera. Correto: O equinócio de primavera.

Pronunciation is another area where errors occur. English speakers often want to pronounce the 'qu' as a 'kw' sound (like in 'quick'). In Portuguese, before an 'i' or 'e', the 'qu' is often just a 'k' sound. However, in 'equinócio', the 'u' is actually silent for many speakers, or very subtle. The most important part is the 'ó' sound, which is an open 'o' like in the English word 'hot' but shorter and sharper. Practicing the transition from the 'nó' to the 'cio' is key to sounding like a native speaker.

While equinócio is the precise term, there are other words you might use depending on the context. If you are talking about the start of a season more generally, you might simply say 'o início da primavera' or 'o começo do outono'. However, these phrases lack the scientific specificity of 'equinócio'. Understanding the relationship between these terms is crucial for expanding your vocabulary.

Solstício
The counterpart to the equinox. It occurs in June and December, marking the longest and shortest days of the year.
Zênite
The highest point reached by a celestial object. During the equinox, the sun is at the zenith of the equator at noon.
Equador
The imaginary line around the middle of the earth, which is central to the definition of an equinox.

In a more poetic or literary sense, you might hear 'equilíbrio' (balance) used as a synonym for what the equinox represents. Poets might write about the 'equilíbrio entre o dia e a noite' instead of using the technical term. In astronomical texts, you might also see 'ponto vernal' (vernal point), which specifically refers to the position of the sun at the spring equinox. Comparing 'equinócio' with 'mudança de estação' (change of season) is also helpful; the equinox is the *event*, while the change of season is the *process*.

O equinócio é um evento astronômico; o solstício é o seu oposto sazonal.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word has remained remarkably stable for over 2,000 years, moving from Latin into almost all Romance languages with very little change in meaning.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˌɛkwɪˈnɒksi.əʊ/
US /ˌɛkwəˈnɑːksioʊ/
The stress is on the penultimate syllable 'nó'.
Reimt sich auf
negócio sócio ócio sacerdócio consórcio divórcio propício vício
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'qu' as 'kw'. It should be a hard 'k' sound.
  • Missing the accent on the 'ó'.
  • Pronouncing the final 'o' as a strong 'oh' instead of a soft 'oo' sound.
  • Stressing the first syllable instead of the 'nó'.
  • Forgetting the 'i' in the '-cio' ending.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate.

Schreiben 4/5

Tricky spelling with the accent and the '-cio' ending.

Sprechen 4/5

Requires practice for the 'qu' and 'ó' sounds.

Hören 3/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to spot in news.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

sol dia noite estação março

Als Nächstes lernen

solstício hemisfério eclíptica astronomia órbita

Fortgeschritten

precessão zênite nadir equador celeste perigeu

Wichtige Grammatik

Proparoxytone Accents

Words like e-qui-NÓ-ci-o are accented on the third-to-last syllable.

Masculine Nouns in -o

O equinócio follows the standard 'o' gender rule.

Preposition Contractions

No equinócio (em + o), do equinócio (de + o).

Adjective Agreement

O equinócio vernal (masculine singular).

Capitalization of Seasons

Seasons are usually lower-case: equinócio de primavera.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

O equinócio é em março.

The equinox is in March.

Simple subject-verb-complement structure.

2

Hoje é o equinócio.

Today is the equinox.

Use of the definite article 'o' for masculine nouns.

3

Eu gosto do equinócio de primavera.

I like the spring equinox.

Contraction 'do' (de + o).

4

O equinócio traz o sol.

The equinox brings the sun.

Third person singular verb 'traz'.

5

O dia é longo no equinócio.

The day is long on the equinox.

Adjective 'longo' matching the masculine noun 'dia'.

6

Quando é o equinócio?

When is the equinox?

Interrogative sentence.

7

O equinócio de outono é bonito.

The autumn equinox is beautiful.

Adjective 'bonito' matching 'equinócio'.

8

Temos dois equinócios por ano.

We have two equinoxes per year.

Plural form 'equinócios'.

1

O equinócio marca o início da nova estação.

The equinox marks the beginning of the new season.

Verb 'marcar' used in a seasonal context.

2

No equinócio, o dia e a noite são iguais.

On the equinox, day and night are equal.

Prepositional phrase 'No equinócio' (em + o).

3

O equinócio de março é o começo do outono no Brasil.

The March equinox is the beginning of autumn in Brazil.

Proper nouns (Brasil) and seasonal vocabulary.

4

Muitas pessoas celebram o equinócio.

Many people celebrate the equinox.

Quantifier 'muitas' with 'pessoas'.

5

O sol atravessa o equador no equinócio.

The sun crosses the equator on the equinox.

Scientific vocabulary 'equador'.

6

Você sabe a data do equinócio este ano?

Do you know the date of the equinox this year?

Direct question with 'saber'.

7

O equinócio de primavera é em setembro no hemisfério sul.

The spring equinox is in September in the southern hemisphere.

Geographical term 'hemisfério sul'.

8

Nós estudamos o equinócio na escola primária.

We studied the equinox in primary school.

Past tense 'estudamos'.

1

O equinócio é um fenômeno astronômico fascinante.

The equinox is a fascinating astronomical phenomenon.

Use of the adjective 'fascinante' and noun 'fenômeno'.

2

Durante o equinócio, a luz solar é distribuída igualmente.

During the equinox, sunlight is distributed equally.

Passive voice 'é distribuída'.

3

O equinócio de outono traz uma mudança na temperatura.

The autumn equinox brings a change in temperature.

Noun 'mudança' and 'temperatura'.

4

Os agricultores observam o equinócio para planejar as colheitas.

Farmers observe the equinox to plan the harvests.

Infinitive 'planejar' after 'para'.

5

Existem vários monumentos antigos alinhados com o equinócio.

There are several ancient monuments aligned with the equinox.

Verb 'existir' and adjective 'alinhados'.

6

O equinócio de primavera costuma ser comemorado com festivais.

The spring equinox is usually celebrated with festivals.

Auxiliary verb 'costumar'.

7

Não confunda o equinócio com o solstício de verão.

Don't confuse the equinox with the summer solstice.

Imperative negative 'não confunda'.

8

A palavra 'equinócio' vem do latim e significa 'noite igual'.

The word 'equinox' comes from Latin and means 'equal night'.

Etymological explanation using 'vem de'.

1

A precisão matemática do equinócio impressionou os astrônomos antigos.

The mathematical precision of the equinox impressed ancient astronomers.

Abstract noun 'precisão' and past tense 'impressionou'.

2

O equinócio vernal ocorre quando o Sol cruza o equador celeste.

The vernal equinox occurs when the Sun crosses the celestial equator.

Technical term 'equador celeste'.

3

Muitas tradições pagãs estão ligadas ao simbolismo do equinócio.

Many pagan traditions are linked to the symbolism of the equinox.

Adjective 'pagãs' and 'ligadas'.

4

O equinócio de outono marca a transição para meses mais frios.

The autumn equinox marks the transition to colder months.

Noun 'transição' and comparative 'mais frios'.

5

A duração do dia aumenta gradualmente após o equinócio de primavera.

Daylight duration increases gradually after the spring equinox.

Adverb 'gradualmente'.

6

É possível observar o efeito do equinócio em sombras projetadas.

It is possible to observe the equinox effect on projected shadows.

Impersonal expression 'É possível'.

7

O equinócio é um ponto de referência crucial para a navegação.

The equinox is a crucial reference point for navigation.

Adjective 'crucial' and 'referência'.

8

Cientificamente, o equinócio resulta da inclinação do eixo da Terra.

Scientifically, the equinox results from the tilt of the Earth's axis.

Adverb 'Cientificamente' and verb 'resultar de'.

1

A precessão dos equinócios altera a posição das estrelas ao longo dos séculos.

The precession of the equinoxes alters the position of the stars over centuries.

Technical astronomical term 'precessão'.

2

O equinócio serve como um lembrete da harmonia cíclica da natureza.

The equinox serves as a reminder of nature's cyclic harmony.

Metaphorical use of 'lembrete' and 'harmonia'.

3

No equinócio, a refração atmosférica faz o dia parecer ligeiramente mais longo.

At the equinox, atmospheric refraction makes the day seem slightly longer.

Scientific term 'refração atmosférica'.

4

A importância do equinócio na arqueoastronomia é inegável.

The importance of the equinox in archaeoastronomy is undeniable.

Complex noun 'arqueoastronomia'.

5

O autor utiliza o equinócio como uma metáfora para o equilíbrio emocional.

The author uses the equinox as a metaphor for emotional balance.

Literary analysis context.

6

A data exata do equinócio pode variar devido a irregularidades orbitais.

The exact date of the equinox can vary due to orbital irregularities.

Modal verb 'pode' and 'devido a'.

7

Durante o equinócio, o terminador terrestre passa pelos polos geográficos.

During the equinox, the Earth's terminator passes through the geographic poles.

Technical term 'terminador'.

8

O equinócio outonal é frequentemente associado à introspecção e colheita.

The autumnal equinox is often associated with introspection and harvest.

Passive construction 'é associado'.

1

O equinócio simboliza a efêmera paridade entre as forças da luz e das trevas.

The equinox symbolizes the ephemeral parity between the forces of light and darkness.

Elevated vocabulary: 'efêmera', 'paridade', 'trevas'.

2

A determinação do equinócio foi fundamental para a reforma do calendário gregoriano.

The determination of the equinox was fundamental to the reform of the Gregorian calendar.

Historical/Legal context: 'reforma do calendário'.

3

Sob uma perspectiva cosmológica, o equinócio é um mero instante numa vasta órbita.

From a cosmological perspective, the equinox is a mere instant in a vast orbit.

Philosophical phrasing: 'sob uma perspectiva'.

4

A ressonância cultural do equinócio transcende fronteiras geográficas e temporais.

The cultural resonance of the equinox transcends geographical and temporal boundaries.

Abstract concept: 'ressonância cultural'.

5

O fenômeno do equinócio desafia a nossa percepção linear do tempo.

The phenomenon of the equinox challenges our linear perception of time.

Sophisticated verb 'desafia' and noun 'percepção'.

6

Nas entrelinhas da obra, o equinócio pressagia uma mudança drástica no destino do herói.

Between the lines of the work, the equinox foreshadows a drastic change in the hero's fate.

Literary idiom 'nas entrelinhas' and verb 'pressagia'.

7

O equinócio de primavera atua como um catalisador para o despertar da biodiversidade.

The spring equinox acts as a catalyst for the awakening of biodiversity.

Scientific metaphor 'catalisador'.

8

A observação do equinócio permitiu aos povos antigos uma compreensão profunda da mecânica celeste.

The observation of the equinox allowed ancient peoples a deep understanding of celestial mechanics.

Complex sentence structure with indirect object 'aos povos'.

Häufige Kollokationen

Equinócio de primavera
Equinócio de outono
Ocorrer o equinócio
Marcar o equinócio
Equinócio vernal
Equinócio outonal
Data do equinócio
Noite do equinócio
Celebrar o equinócio
Preceder o equinócio

Häufige Phrasen

No dia do equinócio

— On the day of the equinox. Used to specify a date.

No dia do equinócio, o sol nasce às 6 da manhã.

Equinócio e solstício

— The two main solar markers of the year. Often grouped together.

Aprendemos sobre equinócio e solstício na aula.

Aproxima-se o equinócio

— The equinox is approaching. Used in weather or news.

Aproxima-se o equinócio e os dias estão mudando.

Por volta do equinócio

— Around the time of the equinox. General time reference.

As aves migram por volta do equinócio.

Desde o equinócio

— Since the equinox. Used to show elapsed time.

Não chove desde o equinócio de outono.

Até o equinócio

— Until the equinox. Setting a deadline or duration.

Vamos ficar aqui até o equinócio.

O equinócio deste ano

— This year's equinox. Specific reference.

O equinócio deste ano será no domingo.

Equinócio solar

— Solar equinox. Redundant but used for clarity.

O equinócio solar é um evento global.

Ritual do equinócio

— Equinox ritual. Common in spiritual contexts.

Eles participaram de um ritual do equinócio.

O equinócio passou

— The equinox has passed. Indicating a change in season.

O equinócio passou e o inverno está vindo.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

equinócio vs Solstício

The solstice marks the longest/shortest days, while the equinox marks equal days.

equinócio vs Equador

The equator is the location, the equinox is the event that happens over it.

equinócio vs Eclíptica

The ecliptic is the path of the sun, which intersects the equator at the equinox.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Viver num equinócio constante"

— To live in a state of perfect balance, though rarely used literally.

Ele vive num equinócio constante, nunca se estressa.

Poetic/Metaphorical
"O equinócio da alma"

— A period of personal transition or inner balance.

Ela sentiu que estava no equinócio da alma.

Literary
"Como o sol no equinócio"

— To be perfectly centered or unbiased.

O juiz agiu como o sol no equinócio.

Formal/Poetic
"Esperar pelo equinócio"

— To wait for a significant change or a new beginning.

Estamos apenas esperando pelo equinócio para agir.

Metaphorical
"Equinócio de ideias"

— A meeting point of different thoughts where they are balanced.

O debate foi um verdadeiro equinócio de ideias.

Abstract
"Mudar com o equinócio"

— To change one's habits or life with the seasons.

Eu costumo mudar com o equinócio.

General
"Frio de equinócio"

— A specific type of chill that comes right at the start of autumn.

Este é o típico frio de equinócio.

Colloquial
"Luz de equinócio"

— The golden, even light seen during these times of year.

A luz de equinócio é a melhor para fotos.

Artistic
"Equinócio da vida"

— Middle age; the point where life is balanced between youth and old age.

Cheguei ao equinócio da vida com gratidão.

Poetic
"No rastro do equinócio"

— Following the natural changes brought by the season.

No rastro do equinócio, as flores desabrocharam.

Literary

Leicht verwechselbar

equinócio vs Equação

Both start with 'equa-' meaning equal.

An equation is a mathematical statement; an equinox is an astronomical event.

Resolvi a equação, mas ainda não sei a data do equinócio.

equinócio vs Equilíbrio

The equinox is a time of balance.

Equilíbrio is the state of balance; equinócio is the specific solar event.

O equinócio representa o equilíbrio da natureza.

equinócio vs Estação

The equinox marks the start of a season.

Estação is the season itself (spring, summer, etc.); equinócio is the starting point.

A estação mudou logo após o equinócio.

equinócio vs Equador

Phonetically similar and related.

Equador is the geographic line; equinócio is the time the sun crosses it.

O sol está sobre o equador no equinócio.

equinócio vs Equitativo

Related root 'equi-'.

Equitativo means fair or equitable; equinócio is astronomical.

A divisão da luz é equitativa no equinócio.

Satzmuster

A1

O equinócio é em [Mês].

O equinócio é em março.

A2

No equinócio, o dia e a noite são [Adjetivo].

No equinócio, o dia e a noite são iguais.

B1

O equinócio de [Estação] marca o início de [Estação].

O equinócio de primavera marca o início da primavera.

B2

Diz-se que o equinócio ocorre quando [Explicação].

Diz-se que o equinócio ocorre quando o Sol cruza o equador.

C1

A importância do equinócio reside no fato de que [Explicação].

A importância do equinócio reside no fato de que equilibra a luz solar.

C2

Embora o equinócio seja um evento astronômico, seu impacto cultural é [Adjetivo].

Embora o equinócio seja um evento astronômico, seu impacto cultural é imensurável.

B1

Muitos monumentos foram construídos para o equinócio.

Muitos monumentos foram construídos para o equinócio.

A2

Eu vi o equinócio na televisão.

Eu vi o equinócio na televisão.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

equinócio

Verben

equinoccializar (rarely used)

Adjektive

equinocial

Verwandt

equador
equação
equilíbrio
equitativo
noite

So verwendest du es

frequency

Occurs twice a year in general media, but common in education.

Häufige Fehler
  • A equinócio O equinócio

    The word is masculine, so it requires masculine articles and adjectives.

  • Equinoco Equinócio

    Forgetting the 'i' in the final syllable is a common spelling error.

  • Equinócio de verão Solstício de verão

    Equinoxes only happen in spring and autumn. Summer and winter have solstices.

  • Pronouncing 'qu' as 'kw' Pronouncing 'qu' as 'k'

    Before 'i', the 'u' in 'qu' is usually silent in Portuguese.

  • Omitir o acento Usar o acento ó

    Without the accent, the word is misspelled and the stress would be wrong.

Tipps

Don't forget the accent!

The acute accent on 'equinócio' is essential for correct spelling and pronunciation. It marks the stressed syllable.

Hemisphere Check

Always check which hemisphere you are in before saying 'equinócio de primavera'. In Brazil, March is autumn!

The 'QU' sound

In Portuguese, 'qu' before 'i' is almost always a hard 'K' sound. Practice saying 'kee' instead of 'kwee'.

Global Event

The equinox is a great topic for international conversation because it happens to everyone at once.

Formal Writing

Use 'equinócio' in essays or reports to sound more precise than just saying 'início da estação'.

Equal Night

Link 'Equi' to 'Equal' and 'Noct' to 'Night' (like noctívago - nocturnal) to remember the meaning.

Calendar Terms

Learn 'equinócio' alongside 'solstício', 'trimestre', and 'semestre' to master time vocabulary.

Weather Reports

Watch Portuguese weather forecasts in March and September to hear the word used in context.

Solar Path

Visualizing the sun crossing the equator helps you remember the word's definition.

Vernal and Autumnal

Learn the adjectives 'vernal' and 'outonal' to specify which equinox you are talking about.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'EQUI' as in 'EQUAL' and 'NÓCIO' as in 'NIGHT'. Equal Night. The 'ó' with an accent is like the 'O' in 'Open' (equal and open).

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a scale (balance) with a sun on one side and a moon on the other, perfectly level. Underneath the scale, the word 'EQUINÓCIO' is written.

Word Web

Sol Lua Terra Equador Estações Primavera Outono Equilíbrio

Herausforderung

Try to use 'equinócio' in three different sentences today: one about a date, one about the weather, and one about a season.

Wortherkunft

From the Latin 'aequinoctium', which is a compound of 'aequus' (equal) and 'nox' (night).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The time when the night is equal to the day.

Indo-European (Latin branch).

Kultureller Kontext

Be mindful of the hemisphere! A 'spring' equinox in Portugal is an 'autumn' equinox in Brazil.

English speakers use 'equinox' in similar scientific ways, but Portuguese speakers are more likely to use the formal term in weather reports.

The alignment of the Almendres Cromlech in Portugal. Scientific documentaries by the ESA (European Space Agency) in Portuguese. Poetry by Fernando Pessoa often referencing celestial movements.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Weather Forecast

  • Previsão para o equinócio
  • Mudança de tempo no equinócio
  • Temperaturas amenas no equinócio
  • O equinócio chega amanhã

Geography Class

  • Definição de equinócio
  • O eixo da Terra no equinócio
  • Incidência solar no equinócio
  • Equinócio e as estações

Travel Planning

  • Viajar no equinócio
  • Luz ideal no equinócio
  • Festas de equinócio em Portugal
  • Melhor época: o equinócio

Astronomy Hobby

  • Observar o equinócio
  • Alinhamento solar no equinócio
  • Equinócio através do telescópio
  • Fotografar o equinócio

Agriculture

  • Plantar no equinócio
  • Sinal do equinócio
  • Colheita de equinócio
  • Ciclo solar e equinócio

Gesprächseinstiege

"Você sabia que o equinócio de primavera no Brasil é em setembro?"

"O que você costuma fazer para celebrar o equinócio?"

"Você acha que o equinócio afeta o seu humor ou energia?"

"Já visitou algum lugar histórico durante o equinócio?"

"Qual equinócio você prefere: o de primavera ou o de outono?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escreva sobre como a luz muda na sua cidade durante o equinócio de outono.

Como você se sente quando o equinócio de primavera chega? Descreva a renovação.

Imagine que você é um astrônomo antigo descobrindo o equinócio pela primeira vez.

Reflita sobre o conceito de equilíbrio em sua vida usando o equinócio como metáfora.

Descreva um festival ideal para celebrar o equinócio em uma comunidade lusófona.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

O equinócio é um substantivo masculino. Dizemos 'o equinócio' e 'os equinócios'. Nunca use 'a equinócio'.

No Brasil, o equinócio de primavera ocorre em setembro, geralmente no dia 22 ou 23, marcando o fim do inverno.

O equinócio é quando o dia e a noite têm a mesma duração. O solstício é quando temos o dia mais longo ou a noite mais longa do ano.

Pronuncia-se eh-kee-NÓ-syoo. O 'qu' soa como 'k' e o 'ó' é aberto e tônico.

Vem do latim 'aequinoctium', que significa 'noite igual' (aequus + nox).

Acontece em março (equinócio vernal/outonal) e em setembro (equinócio outonal/vernal).

Não é um feriado oficial, mas é frequentemente mencionado nas notícias e em calendários culturais.

Sim, pode ser usado para descrever um momento de equilíbrio ou transição na vida de alguém.

Sim, é um evento global que ocorre no mesmo momento, embora a hora local varie conforme o fuso horário.

O plural é 'equinócios', mantendo o acento agudo no 'ó'.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Descreva o que acontece durante o equinócio em três frases.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explique a diferença entre o equinócio em Portugal e no Brasil em março.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Como o equinócio era importante para as civilizações antigas?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use a palavra 'equinócio' em uma frase poética.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escreva um pequeno parágrafo sobre a precessão dos equinócios.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O que você prefere: o equinócio de primavera ou o de outono? Por quê?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Imagine que você é um meteorologista anunciando o equinócio.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Descreva a sensação de estar em um lugar sagrado durante o equinócio.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Como o equinócio afeta a vida selvagem?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Qual a importância do equinócio para a navegação histórica?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Escreva uma frase usando 'equinócio' e 'equilíbrio'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Como você explica o equinócio para uma criança?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Relacione o equinócio com a mudança de temperatura.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O equinócio pode ser visto a olho nu?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O que significa 'equinocial'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Crie um diálogo curto entre dois amigos sobre o equinócio.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Por que o termo 'noite igual' é apropriado?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Descreva o equinócio vernal em termos astronômicos.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

O equinócio é importante para o seu trabalho ou hobby?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Quais são as datas aproximadas dos dois equinócios?

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga 'equinócio' três vezes em voz alta, focando na sílaba 'nó'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explique para um amigo o que é o equinócio em português.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronuncie a frase: 'O equinócio de primavera traz flores.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explique a diferença entre equinócio e solstício oralmente.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Descreva o clima do equinócio na sua cidade.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga 'equinócio de outono' e 'equinócio de primavera' rapidamente.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronuncie: 'A precessão dos equinócios é um ciclo longo.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Fale sobre uma tradição de equinócio que você conhece.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronuncie: 'O sol cruza o equador no equinócio vernal.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explique por que o equinócio é em meses diferentes para o Brasil e Portugal.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga: 'O equinócio marca o equilíbrio da natureza.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Como você soletra 'equinócio'? Diga em voz alta.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga: 'Hoje é o dia do equinócio.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explique o significado de 'noite igual' em português.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronuncie: 'As sombras desaparecem no equador durante o equinócio.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Fale uma frase poética com 'equinócio'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga: 'O equinócio de março é importante para o calendário.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explique o que é o 'ponto vernal'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Diga: 'Eu gosto do equinócio porque o tempo é ameno.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronuncie 'equinocialmente' devagar.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Ouça e identifique: O locutor disse 'equinócio' ou 'solstício'?

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

De acordo com o áudio, em que mês é o equinócio?

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

O locutor mencionou o equinócio de qual estação?

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

O áudio fala sobre o equinócio em qual país?

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

Qual é a duração do dia mencionada no áudio?

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

O locutor explicou a origem latina da palavra?

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

O áudio mencionou a palavra 'equador'?

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

O locutor estava falando de forma formal ou informal?

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

Quantas vezes a palavra 'equinócio' foi dita?

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

O áudio relacionou o equinócio com a agricultura?

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

O locutor mencionou o 'ponto vernal'?

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

O áudio discutiu a precessão dos equinócios?

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

Qual adjetivo foi usado para descrever o equinócio?

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

O locutor disse que o equinócio é um feriado?

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

O áudio mencionou pirâmides?

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

/ 200 correct

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