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A2 noun #5,000 am häufigsten 9 Min. Lesezeit

gentileza

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Erklärung gentileza in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should recognize 'gentileza' as a very polite way to say 'kindness' or 'please.' You will mostly see it in the phrase 'Por gentileza,' which is used just like 'Por favor' but sounds a bit more 'fancy' or respectful. Imagine you are at a cafe and want to be extra polite to the waiter; you might say 'Um café, por gentileza.' It's a great word to know because it makes you sound very well-mannered from the start. You don't need to worry about the deep philosophical meanings yet, just think of it as the 'gold standard' of being polite. It is a feminine word, so you say 'uma gentileza.' Even at this basic level, using 'obrigado pela gentileza' (thank you for the kindness) after someone helps you will make a wonderful impression on native speakers. It's a simple noun that adds a lot of value to your basic interactions. You will also see it on signs in public places, encouraging people to be nice to each other. It's one of those 'magic words' that opens doors and makes people smile.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use 'gentileza' more actively to describe people and actions. You can now say things like 'Ele é uma pessoa de muita gentileza' (He is a person of much kindness). You understand that it's a noun related to the adjective 'gentil' (kind). You might use it to describe small acts of service, like 'fazer uma gentileza' (to do a kindness/favor). At this level, you should also be comfortable using it in slightly longer sentences, such as 'Agradeço a sua gentileza' (I appreciate your kindness). You are starting to see the difference between just being polite ('educado') and being truly kind ('gentil'). You might also encounter the famous Brazilian slogan 'Gentileza gera gentileza' and understand that it means kindness creates more kindness. This is a level where you can start using 'por gentileza' in your emails to make them sound more professional and less like a direct translation from English. It's a versatile word that helps you bridge the gap between basic survival Portuguese and more natural, culturally aware communication.

At the B1 level, you can explore the nuances of 'gentileza' compared to similar words like 'bondade' or 'cordialidade.' You understand that 'gentileza' often refers to the social expression of kindness—manners, helpfulness, and courtesy—while 'bondade' might refer to a deeper moral quality. You can use 'gentileza' to talk about social issues, such as 'a falta de gentileza nas grandes cidades' (the lack of kindness in big cities). You are also becoming familiar with more complex structures like 'ter a gentileza de + infinitive' (to have the kindness to...). For example: 'Você teria a gentileza de me explicar isso novamente?' (Would you have the kindness to explain this to me again?). This shows a high level of social competence. You might also start using the plural 'gentilezas' to describe pleasantries exchanged during a conversation. Your ability to use 'gentileza' in various contexts—formal, informal, and descriptive—shows that you are moving toward a more intermediate mastery of the language's social registers.

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At the B2 level, 'gentileza' becomes a tool for sophisticated social navigation. You can use it to discuss abstract concepts of altruism and social harmony. You might analyze literature or news articles where 'gentileza' is used to describe a character's nobility or a society's decay. You understand the historical and cultural significance of the word, including the story of Profeta Gentileza in Rio de Janeiro, and you can explain this to others. You are comfortable using 'gentileza' in professional settings to soften criticisms or to make firm requests without sounding aggressive. For instance, 'Peço a gentileza de revisarem os prazos' (I ask for the kindness of you all reviewing the deadlines). You also recognize the ironic or sarcastic use of the word in certain contexts, though this is less common. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use 'gentileza' alongside its synonyms like 'amabilidade' or 'prestatividade' to avoid repetition and add precision to your speech and writing. You are now using the word with the same ease and variety as a native speaker.

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At the C1 level, you have a deep, intuitive grasp of 'gentileza.' You can use it to discuss the philosophy of ethics, comparing 'gentileza' with concepts like 'alteridade' (alterity) or 'empatia' (empathy). You are aware of the word's archaic roots and how they influence its current 'noble' connotation. In your writing, you use 'gentileza' to create specific moods—perhaps a sense of old-world charm or a critique of modern coldness. You can navigate the most formal levels of Portuguese, where 'gentileza' might be replaced by even more formal terms like 'vênia' or 'obsequiosidade,' but you know exactly when 'gentileza' is the most effective choice. You can participate in complex debates about whether 'gentileza' is an inherent trait or a social construct. Your use of the word is not just about communication; it's about style, tone, and cultural resonance. You understand the subtle differences in how the word is used in different Lusophone countries, such as the slightly more formal tone it might carry in a Lisbon law firm versus a more casual but still respectful use in a Salvador market.

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At the C2 level, 'gentileza' is a word you can play with. You understand its every nuance, from its most literal meanings to its most abstract applications in poetry and philosophy. You can use it in highly specialized contexts, such as legal documents, high-level diplomacy, or literary criticism. You might write an essay on the evolution of 'gentileza' from the Latin 'gentilis' to the modern urban murals of Rio. You can detect even the slightest hint of insincerity when someone uses 'gentileza' as a mask, and you can use the word yourself to convey complex emotional states. For you, 'gentileza' is not just a vocabulary word; it's a cultural concept that you can manipulate and discuss with absolute authority. You are capable of translating the concept into other languages while explaining why no single English word perfectly captures the full weight of the Portuguese 'gentileza.' Your mastery is such that you could teach the cultural and linguistic history of this word to native speakers, providing insights into its role in shaping the social fabric of the Portuguese-speaking world.

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Gentileza is the Portuguese noun for kindness, courtesy, and politeness, used in both everyday and formal situations.
It is a feminine noun ('a gentileza') and is often used in the polite request phrase 'Por gentileza'.
Culturally, it is famous in Brazil due to the 'Profeta Gentileza' and his mural 'Gentileza gera gentileza'.
It is synonymous with amability and politeness, but focuses on the outward expression of good manners.

The Portuguese word gentileza is a multifaceted noun that translates most directly to 'kindness' or 'courtesy' in English. However, its usage in Lusophone cultures carries a specific weight of social grace and proactive politeness that often goes beyond simple 'being nice.' When you use the word gentileza, you are referring to an act or a quality of being noble, refined, and thoughtful toward others. It is derived from the adjective 'gentil,' which originally related to being of noble birth (gentle), but evolved to describe the behavior expected of such status: being helpful, soft-spoken, and considerate. In modern Brazil and Portugal, gentileza is considered a social lubricant. It is the difference between simply performing a task and performing it with a smile or an extra layer of care. You will hear this word in formal requests, in expressions of gratitude, and in philosophical discussions about how society should function. One cannot talk about this word without mentioning the famous Brazilian figure, 'Profeta Gentileza,' who spent decades painting messages of peace and the iconic phrase 'Gentileza gera gentileza' (Kindness begets kindness) across Rio de Janeiro. This phrase has become a national mantra, emphasizing that polite behavior creates a positive cycle in human interactions.

Social Context: Gentileza is often used to describe small, selfless acts like holding a door open, offering a seat on the bus, or using polite language in a difficult situation.

A sua gentileza ao ajudar a senhora com as compras foi notável e inspiradora para todos nós.

Etymological Root: From the Latin 'gentilis,' referring to those belonging to the same clan or family, implying a level of respect and shared dignity.

Ele sempre trata os clientes com extrema gentileza, garantindo que todos se sintam bem-vindos no estabelecimento.

Não custa nada praticar uma pequena gentileza todos os dias para melhorar o ambiente de trabalho.

Cultural Impact: In Brazil, there is a whole movement centered around 'gentileza urbanda' which promotes better coexistence in crowded cities.

A gentileza é uma virtude que abre portas onde a força bruta falha miseravelmente.

Agradeço imenso pela sua gentileza em me enviar os documentos tão rapidamente.

To master 'gentileza' is to understand the heart of Portuguese-speaking social interactions: it is about the warmth and the intentionality of being good to one another. Whether you are ordering coffee or negotiating a business deal, invoking 'gentileza' signals that you are a person of character and respect.

Using gentileza correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its common prepositional pairings. Most frequently, you will see it paired with the preposition 'de' or 'com.' For instance, 'ter a gentileza de' (to have the kindness to) is a standard high-register way to ask someone to do something. If you say, 'Você teria a gentileza de abrir a janela?', you are being much more polite than a simple 'Pode abrir a janela?'. Another common structure is 'com gentileza' (with kindness/gently), describing the manner in which an action is performed. When you are thanking someone, you might say 'Obrigado pela sua gentileza' (Thank you for your kindness). This is particularly effective when someone has gone out of their way to help you. It is also important to note that 'gentileza' can be pluralized—'gentilezas'—referring to multiple kind acts or polite exchanges. In a sentence like 'Eles trocaram gentilezas antes da reunião,' it means they engaged in polite small talk or pleasantries.

Requesting Formally: Use 'Por gentileza' at the start or end of a request to elevate the level of politeness significantly.

Por gentileza, aguarde um momento enquanto verifico as informações no sistema.

Describing Character: When describing someone, use 'uma pessoa de muita gentileza' to emphasize their inherent character trait.

A gentileza dele é o que mais cativa as pessoas ao seu redor.

Trate todos com gentileza, pois você não sabe as batalhas que cada um enfrenta.

The Plural Form: 'Gentilezas' often refers to the formal pleasantries or small talk used in social settings.

Faça uma gentileza a si mesmo e descanse um pouco hoje.

Quero agradecer a gentileza do convite para o jantar.

Whether you are writing a letter, speaking to a stranger, or describing a friend, 'gentileza' is your go-to word for expressing the beauty of human consideration. It is a word that sounds as soft and pleasant as its meaning, and using it will immediately improve how native speakers perceive your Portuguese level.

You will encounter gentileza in a wide variety of settings, ranging from the most formal to the surprisingly everyday. In professional environments, it is the standard for polite correspondence. Customer service representatives in Brazil and Portugal will frequently use 'Por gentileza' to guide you through a process. For example, 'Por gentileza, informe o seu CPF' (Please, provide your tax ID). In public transport, you might see signs that say 'Demonstre sua gentileza: ofereça o assento a quem precisa' (Show your kindness: offer the seat to those who need it). Beyond the utilitarian, the word is deeply embedded in the cultural consciousness. In Rio de Janeiro, the 'Gentileza' murals under the viaducts are a historical landmark, making the word a part of the city's visual identity. You will also hear it in literature and music; many Brazilian MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) songs use the word to evoke a sense of peace and civilized living. It is a word that carries a nostalgic touch for some, representing a time when people were more 'gentil' to one another.

Customer Service: Used as a polite command or request softener in banks, airports, and shops.

Senhores passageiros, por gentileza, mantenham os corredores livres.

Public Service Announcements: Used to encourage civic behavior and respect for elderly or disabled people.

A gentileza no trânsito salva vidas e evita muitos conflitos desnecessários.

Obrigado pela sua gentileza, o senhor foi muito prestativo.

Art and Music: The word is a favorite for poets and songwriters describing an ideal, harmonious world.

Sua gentileza é como um raio de sol em um dia nublado.

Peço a gentileza de não fumar neste recinto.

In summary, 'gentileza' is everywhere. It is in the way people talk to their elders, the way businesses address their clients, and the way activists dream of a better world. It is a word of high social value.

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make with gentileza is confusing it with the English word 'gentleness' exclusively. While they share an etymological root, 'gentileza' is much broader and often means 'kindness' or 'politeness.' If you want to describe a soft touch, you might use 'suavidade' or 'delicadeza,' though 'gentileza' can work in certain poetic contexts. Another mistake is using the masculine 'o gentileza.' Remember, nouns ending in '-eza' (like beleza, tristeza, pureza) are almost always feminine in Portuguese. Therefore, you must use 'a gentileza,' 'muita gentileza,' or 'esta gentileza.' Learners also sometimes struggle with the phrase 'Por gentileza.' They might try to say 'Por favor gentileza' which is redundant. Just 'Por gentileza' is enough and is actually more formal than 'Por favor.' Additionally, don't confuse 'gentileza' with 'gentilezas' (plural) when talking about a single act. If someone does one nice thing, it's 'uma gentileza.' If you are talking about the general exchange of pleasantries, then 'gentilezas' is appropriate.

Gender Agreement: Mistake: 'Muito gentileza'. Correct: 'Muita gentileza'. The noun is feminine.

Escrevi um bilhete de agradecimento por tanta gentileza recebida.

Redundancy: Mistake: 'Por favor, por gentileza...'. Correct: Choose one. 'Por gentileza' is the more elegant choice.

Foi uma gentileza inesperada que mudou o meu dia para melhor.

Eles trocaram gentilezas antes de começar a discussão técnica.

Literal Translation: Mistake: Using 'gentileza' for 'gentle' (adjective). Correct: Use 'gentil' for the person and 'gentileza' for the quality.

A gentileza gera gentileza, como dizia o profeta.

Você poderia ter a gentileza de baixar o volume da música?

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you will sound much more natural. Remember that 'gentileza' is about social interaction and moral quality, not just physical softness.

While gentileza is a powerful word, Portuguese offers several alternatives depending on the nuance you want to convey. 'Bondade' is perhaps the closest synonym, but it implies a deeper, more moral 'goodness' or 'kindness' of the soul, whereas 'gentileza' is often about the outward expression and manners. 'Educação' is another frequent alternative; in Portuguese, being 'bem-educado' means having good manners and being polite, which is a core component of 'gentileza.' 'Cordialidade' suggests a warm, heart-felt politeness, often used in business or diplomatic settings (e.g., 'Tratamos o assunto com cordialidade'). 'Amabilidade' is very similar to 'gentileza' but sounds slightly more formal or old-fashioned. 'Delicadeza' is used when the kindness involves a certain tact, sensitivity, or physical softness. If someone is very helpful, you might also use 'prestatividade' (helpfulness). Understanding these differences allows you to choose the perfect word for every social situation.

Gentileza vs. Bondade: Gentileza is about manners and social acts; Bondade is about the inherent goodness of a person's character.

Sua gentileza ao abrir a porta foi apreciada, mas sua bondade em ajudar os pobres é o que realmente define você.

Gentileza vs. Cordialidade: Cordialidade implies a professional but warm rapport; Gentileza is more about specific kind actions.

A gentileza do anfitrião fez com que todos se sentissem em casa.

Agradeço a amabilidade com que fui recebido na vossa empresa.

Gentileza vs. Delicadeza: Delicadeza focuses on sensitivity and avoiding offense; Gentileza focuses on being helpful and polite.

É uma gentileza que não esquecerei tão cedo.

Ele agiu com muita gentileza ao ceder seu lugar.

Exploring these synonyms will enrich your vocabulary and help you navigate the subtle social hierarchies of Portuguese-speaking cultures.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word is part of a group of Portuguese nouns ending in '-eza' that transform an adjective into an abstract quality (e.g., belo -> beleza).

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ʒẽ.ti.ˈle.zɐ/

US /ʒen.ti.ˈle.za/

The stress is on the penultimate syllable 'le'.

Reimt sich auf

beleza tristeza natureza certeza pureza firmeza esperteza leveza

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'g' like 'g' in 'go' instead of 'zh'.
Forgetting to nasalize the 'en' sound.
Stressing the first or last syllable.
Pronouncing the 'z' as an 's'.
Pronouncing the 't' with a heavy English aspiration instead of a soft dental 't'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize due to English cognates like 'gentle'.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires knowledge of the '-eza' ending and feminine gender.

Sprechen 3/5

Nasal 'en' and 'zh' sound can be tricky for beginners.

Hören 2/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to catch.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

gentil favor obrigado pessoa muito

Als Nächstes lernen

educação amabilidade cordialidade respeito solidariedade

Fortgeschritten

altruísmo filantropia urbanidade polidez etiqueta

Wichtige Grammatik

Feminine nouns in -eza

Beleza, tristeza, gentileza.

Nasal vowels (en)

G-en-tileza sounds like 'en' in 'French'.

Formal requests with 'Peço'

Peço a gentileza de...

Adjective-Noun agreement

Muita gentileza (not muito).

Preposition 'de' after gentileza

A gentileza de ajudar.

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Beispiele nach Niveau

Por gentileza, onde fica o banheiro?

Please, where is the bathroom?

'Por gentileza' is a formal alternative to 'Por favor'.

Obrigado pela sua gentileza.

Thank you for your kindness.

'Gentileza' is feminine, hence 'sua'.

Ela é uma pessoa de muita gentileza.

She is a person of much kindness.

Use 'muita' (feminine) to modify 'gentileza'.

Uma pequena gentileza faz a diferença.

A small kindness makes a difference.

'Pequena' agrees with the feminine 'gentileza'.

Você pode me ajudar, por gentileza?

Can you help me, please?

Adding 'por gentileza' makes the request more polite.

A gentileza é importante.

Kindness is important.

The article 'A' is used because the noun is feminine.

Ele fez uma gentileza para mim.

He did a kindness for me.

'Fazer uma gentileza' is a common verb-noun pair.

Muita gentileza da sua parte!

Much kindness on your part! (Very kind of you!)

A common exclamation of gratitude.

Agradeço a gentileza do convite.

I appreciate the kindness of the invitation.

Direct object of the verb 'agradecer'.

Por gentileza, assine o seu nome aqui.

Please, sign your name here.

Commonly used in administrative contexts.

Ele sempre trata os outros com gentileza.

He always treats others with kindness.

'Com gentileza' functions as an adverbial phrase.

A gentileza gera gentileza no dia a dia.

Kindness begets kindness in daily life.

The famous proverb by Profeta Gentileza.

Você teria a gentileza de me emprestar uma caneta?

Would you have the kindness to lend me a pen?

A very polite conditional request.

Ela retribuiu a gentileza com um sorriso.

She returned the kindness with a smile.

'Retribuir a gentileza' means to pay back the kindness.

Não esqueça de agir com gentileza.

Don't forget to act with kindness.

'Agir com' is a common way to describe behavior.

Sua gentileza me deixou muito feliz.

Your kindness made me very happy.

Possessive adjective 'sua' matches 'gentileza'.

A gentileza urbana é essencial para a convivência nas cidades.

Urban kindness is essential for coexistence in cities.

'Urbana' is an adjective modifying 'gentileza'.

Peço a gentileza de aguardarem na recepção.

I ask for the kindness of you all waiting in the reception.

Formal request using 'Peço a gentileza de'.

A falta de gentileza pode tornar o ambiente de trabalho tóxico.

The lack of kindness can make the work environment toxic.

'Falta de' is a common noun phrase.

Eles trocaram gentilezas durante o jantar de negócios.

They exchanged pleasantries during the business dinner.

Plural 'gentilezas' refers to polite small talk.

Sua gentileza é um exemplo para todos nós da equipe.

Your kindness is an example for all of us on the team.

Used to describe a positive leadership trait.

É uma gentileza que eu nunca vou esquecer.

It is a kindness that I will never forget.

Relative clause 'que eu nunca vou esquecer'.

Por gentileza, não fume nesta área.

Please, do not smoke in this area.

Standard polite prohibition.

Tive a gentileza de avisar sobre o atraso.

I had the kindness to warn about the delay.

'Ter a gentileza de' followed by an infinitive.

A gentileza não deve ser confundida com fraqueza.

Kindness should not be confused with weakness.

Passive voice 'ser confundida'.

O autor descreve a gentileza como a maior das virtudes.

The author describes kindness as the greatest of virtues.

Abstract usage in literary analysis.

Sua gentileza extrema às vezes parece artificial.

Your extreme kindness sometimes seems artificial.

'Extrema' emphasizes the noun.

A política de gentileza da empresa aumentou a satisfação dos clientes.

The company's kindness policy increased customer satisfaction.

Compound noun phrase 'política de gentileza'.

Peço a gentileza de que todos desliguem os celulares.

I ask for the kindness that everyone turns off their cell phones.

Formal request with a 'que' clause.

Foi por pura gentileza que ele me ofereceu carona.

It was out of pure kindness that he offered me a ride.

'Por pura gentileza' emphasizes the motive.

Muitos filósofos debatem a origem da gentileza humana.

Many philosophers debate the origin of human kindness.

Academic context.

As gentilezas trocadas escondiam uma profunda rivalidade.

The pleasantries exchanged hid a deep rivalry.

Plural noun used to denote superficial politeness.

A gentileza, em sua essência, transcende meras convenções sociais.

Kindness, in its essence, transcends mere social conventions.

Philosophical use with parenthetical phrase.

O diplomata agiu com uma gentileza calculada para desarmar o oponente.

The diplomat acted with a calculated kindness to disarm the opponent.

Adjective 'calculada' adds a layer of strategy.

Subjaz a esse gesto uma gentileza que poucos conseguem perceber.

Underlying this gesture is a kindness that few can perceive.

Inverted sentence structure for literary effect.

A retórica da gentileza é frequentemente usada para mascarar interesses escusos.

The rhetoric of kindness is often used to mask shady interests.

Critical/sociological usage.

É imperativo resgatar a gentileza como valor fundamental da educação.

It is imperative to rescue kindness as a fundamental value of education.

Formal 'É imperativo' structure.

O texto explora a dicotomia entre a gentileza inata e a polidez adquirida.

The text explores the dichotomy between innate kindness and acquired politeness.

Academic/analytical vocabulary.

A gentileza de espírito é o que diferencia o sábio do erudito.

Kindness of spirit is what differentiates the wise from the scholarly.

A poetic expression 'gentileza de espírito'.

Agradecemos antecipadamente a vossa gentileza e colaboração.

We thank you in advance for your kindness and collaboration.

Very formal 'vossa' used in high-register Portuguese.

A fenomenologia da gentileza revela camadas de altruísmo muitas vezes ignoradas.

The phenomenology of kindness reveals layers of altruism often ignored.

Highly academic philosophical context.

Sua prosa é imbuída de uma gentileza melancólica, quase elegíaca.

His prose is imbued with a melancholic kindness, almost elegiac.

Literary criticism terminology.

Não se trata de polidez, mas de uma gentileza visceral e inabalável.

It's not about politeness, but about a visceral and unwavering kindness.

Strong adjectives 'visceral' and 'inabalável'.

A gentileza, quando institucionalizada, corre o risco de se tornar burocrática.

Kindness, when institutionalized, runs the risk of becoming bureaucratic.

Sociopolitical analysis.

O epítome da gentileza reside na capacidade de perdoar o imperdoável.

The epitome of kindness lies in the ability to forgive the unforgivable.

Use of 'epítome' and 'reside na'.

A obra de Gentileza, o profeta, é um palimpsesto de esperança urbana.

The work of Gentileza, the prophet, is a palimpsest of urban hope.

Metaphorical use of 'palimpsesto'.

Rogo a vossa senhoria a gentileza de considerar este pleito.

I beg your lordship the kindness to consider this plea.

Archaic/Very formal legal address.

A gentileza é o verniz que protege a civilização da sua própria barbárie.

Kindness is the varnish that protects civilization from its own barbarity.

Profound metaphorical statement.

Synonyme

amabilidade cordialidade educação cortesia bondade delicadeza afabilidade prestatividade

Gegenteile

grosseria indelicadeza rudeza hostilidade

Häufige Kollokationen

por gentileza

fazer uma gentileza

ter a gentileza de

agradecer a gentileza

extrema gentileza

retribuir a gentileza

gentileza urbana

trocar gentilezas

pedir a gentileza

muita gentileza

Häufige Phrasen

Gentileza gera gentileza.

— Kindness begets kindness. It means that if you are kind to someone, they are likely to be kind back.

Sempre tento ajudar, pois acredito que gentileza gera gentileza.

Por gentileza...

— A very polite way to start a request, similar to 'please'.

Por gentileza, pode me dizer que horas são?

Ter a gentileza de...

— To have the kindness to do something; used in formal requests.

Você teria a gentileza de fechar a porta?

Obrigado pela gentileza.

— Thank you for the kindness. A standard way to show appreciation.

Recebi as flores, obrigado pela gentileza.

Muita gentileza sua.

— Very kind of you. Used as a polite response to a favor.

Você me trouxe um café? Muita gentileza sua!

Fazer uma gentileza.

— To perform a kind act or favor for someone.

Vou fazer uma gentileza e lavar a louça para ela.

Com gentileza.

— Gently or politely.

Peça com gentileza para ele sair.

Peço a gentileza de...

— I ask for the kindness of... used in formal notices.

Peço a gentileza de não pisar na grama.

A gentileza em pessoa.

— Kindness in person. Refers to someone who is extremely kind.

A Maria é a gentileza em pessoa.

Retribuir uma gentileza.

— To return a favor or a kind act.

Ele me ajudou ontem, hoje vou retribuir a gentileza.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

gentileza vs gentileza vs. bondade

Bondade is inner goodness; gentileza is social manners/kindness.

gentileza vs gentileza vs. delicadeza

Delicadeza is about tact or softness; gentileza is about being helpful.

gentileza vs gentileza vs. educação

Educação is general good manners; gentileza is a specific act of kindness.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Gentileza gera gentileza"

— The central idiom of Brazilian kindness culture, popularized by Profeta Gentileza.

Não brigue no trânsito, lembre-se: gentileza gera gentileza.

popular

"Fazer as gentilezas da casa"

— To act as a host, making guests feel welcome and comfortable.

Enquanto eu cozinho, você faz as gentilezas da casa?

informal/neutral

"Trocar figurinhas e gentilezas"

— To exchange information and pleasantries in a friendly way.

Passamos a tarde trocando figurinhas e gentilezas sobre o novo projeto.

informal

"Pagar com gentileza"

— To respond to a situation (even a bad one) with kindness.

Ela foi rude, mas eu decidi pagar com gentileza.

neutral

"Gentileza de fachada"

— Fake kindness; politeness that is only on the surface.

Não confio nele, essa gentileza de fachada não me engana.

informal

"Um banho de gentileza"

— Being treated with an overwhelming amount of kindness.

Fomos recebidos no hotel com um verdadeiro banho de gentileza.

informal

"Sem gentileza"

— Rudely or directly without any softening.

Ele me disse a verdade, assim, sem gentileza nenhuma.

neutral

"A troco de gentileza"

— Doing something just for the sake of being kind, without expecting anything.

Ele me ajudou a troco de gentileza, não quis dinheiro.

neutral

"Gentileza de rei"

— Refers to a very grand or noble act of kindness.

Receber esse presente foi uma gentileza de rei.

literary

"Viver de gentilezas"

— To rely on the kindness of others for one's existence.

O andarilho vivia de gentilezas dos moradores locais.

literary

Leicht verwechselbar

gentileza vs gentil

It's the adjective form.

Gentil is 'kind' (adjective), Gentileza is 'kindness' (noun).

Ele é gentil. Ele tem gentileza.

gentileza vs suavidade

Both can mean 'gentleness'.

Suavidade is physical softness; Gentileza is social kindness.

A suavidade da seda. A gentileza do vizinho.

gentileza vs gentilezas

Plural vs Singular.

Gentileza is the trait; Gentilezas are the polite words/acts.

Trocar gentilezas.

gentileza vs gentio

Similar sound.

Gentio refers to 'gentiles' or non-religious people historically; nothing to do with kindness.

Os povos gentios.

gentileza vs gentileza-de-artur

Specific term.

A type of plant/flower in Portugal.

Vi uma gentileza-de-artur no jardim.

Satzmuster

Por gentileza, [objeto].

Por gentileza, um café.

Obrigado pela sua gentileza.

Obrigado pela sua gentileza em me ajudar.

Ter a gentileza de [verbo].

Você teria a gentileza de abrir a porta?

A falta de gentileza [verbo].

A falta de gentileza prejudica a convivência.

Peço a gentileza de que [subjuntivo].

Peço a gentileza de que todos cheguem no horário.

A gentileza como [conceito].

A gentileza como pilar da civilização moderna.

[Pessoa] é uma gentileza.

Minha avó é uma gentileza.

Agir com gentileza.

Sempre tente agir com gentileza no trânsito.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

gentileza

gentil-homem

Verben

gentilizar (rare)

Adjektive

gentil

gentílico

Verwandt

gentilezas

gentio

gentileza-de-artur

amabilidade

cortesia

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely frequent in both Brazil and Portugal.

Häufige Fehler

O gentileza → A gentileza
The noun is feminine.
Muito gentileza → Muita gentileza
Adjectives must agree with the feminine noun.
Using gentileza for 'soft touch' → Suavidade
Gentileza is about social behavior, not physical texture.
Por favor gentileza → Por gentileza
It's redundant to use both together.
Gentilezamente → Gentilmente
The adverb is formed from the adjective 'gentil', not the noun 'gentileza'.

Tipps

The Prophet of Kindness

If you are in Rio, look for the 'Gentileza' murals. They are a symbol of the city's spirit and the power of this word.

Feminine Ending

Nouns ending in '-eza' are feminine. This will help you with words like 'beleza' and 'certeza' too.

Polite Requests

Using 'Por gentileza' at the start of a request is a 'cheat code' to getting better service in Brazil.

Email Etiquette

Start a formal request with 'Peço a gentileza de...' to sound like a native professional.

Beyond 'Nice'

Don't just say someone is 'legal' (cool). If they are truly kind, say they have 'muita gentileza'.

Small Acts

In Brazil, small 'gentilezas' like offering coffee are essential for building relationships.

Song Lyrics

Listen to Marisa Monte's song 'Gentileza' to hear the word used in a beautiful cultural context.

Noble Roots

Remember that 'gentileza' comes from 'noble'. It's about acting with the dignity of a noble person.

Avoid Redundancy

Don't say 'Por favor, por gentileza'. One is enough!

Daily Challenge

Try to identify one 'gentileza' you received today and describe it in Portuguese.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Gentle' person showing 'Ease' (Gentle-Eza). Kindness makes life easier for everyone.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine the green and white murals of Rio de Janeiro with the word 'Gentileza' written in artistic script.

Word Web

gentil beleza educação favor ajuda respeito amor paz

Herausforderung

Try to use 'Por gentileza' at least three times today when asking for something in Portuguese.

Wortherkunft

From the Latin 'gentilis', which referred to people belonging to the same 'gens' or clan. In the Middle Ages, it came to represent the qualities of the nobility.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Belonging to a noble family or clan; having the manners of a gentleman.

Romance (Latin root)

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful not to use 'gentileza' sarcastically, as it is a highly respected value. In some contexts, over-politeness can be seen as distancing.

English speakers might use 'kindness' or 'politeness' where Portuguese uses 'gentileza'. 'Gentileza' feels slightly more elevated than 'kindness'.

Profeta Gentileza (José Datrino) and his murals in Rio. The song 'Gentileza' by Marisa Monte. The book 'Gentileza' by Leonardo Boff.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At a restaurant

O cardápio, por gentileza.
Pode trazer a conta, por gentileza?
Obrigado pela gentileza no atendimento.
Muita gentileza sua me recomendar este prato.

In the office

Peço a gentileza de revisar o texto.
Agradeço a gentileza da sua resposta rápida.
Poderia ter a gentileza de me ajudar?
Sua gentileza com os clientes é exemplar.

On the street

Por gentileza, onde fica a farmácia?
Obrigado pela gentileza de segurar a porta.
Foi uma gentileza me ajudar com as sacolas.
Gentileza gera gentileza, senhor.

In a formal email

Venho agradecer a gentileza do contato.
Por gentileza, acuse o recebimento.
Agradecemos a vossa gentileza.
Peço a gentileza de aguardar.

Social gathering

Obrigado pela gentileza do convite.
Eles são a gentileza em pessoa.
Que gentileza nos receber assim!
Vamos trocar gentilezas e aproveitar a festa.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Você acha que a gentileza está diminuindo nas grandes cidades?"

"Qual foi a última gentileza que alguém fez para você?"

"Você conhece a história do Profeta Gentileza no Rio de Janeiro?"

"Para você, qual a diferença entre ser educado e ter gentileza?"

"Como podemos incentivar mais gentileza nas redes sociais?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escreva sobre uma vez em que uma pequena gentileza mudou o seu dia.

Como você pode praticar mais gentileza na sua rotina de trabalho?

Descreva uma pessoa que você considera um exemplo de gentileza.

O que a frase 'Gentileza gera gentileza' significa para você?

Reflita sobre a importância da gentileza urbana para a sociedade.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, while it is excellent for formal use, it is also common in everyday life to describe kind acts or to be extra polite with friends and family.

No, 'gentileza' is a noun. For the adjective 'gentle', use 'gentil' (for people) or 'suave' (for things like wind or touch).

It's not 'better', but it is more formal and elegant. In a restaurant or office, 'Por gentileza' sounds very professional.

It means 'Kindness begets kindness.' It's a famous Brazilian proverb about the positive cycle created by kind acts.

It is feminine: 'a gentileza', 'muita gentileza'.

No, because 'gentileza' is feminine, you must say 'Muita gentileza'.

There is 'gentilizar', but it is extremely rare. Usually, we use 'ser gentil' or 'fazer uma gentileza'.

It sounds like the 's' in 'pleasure' or 'measure' (/ʒ/).

Yes, it is used throughout the Portuguese-speaking world, though its cultural association with the 'Profeta' is specific to Brazil.

Common synonyms include 'amabilidade', 'cortesia', and 'cordialidade'.

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