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B1 Substantivo masculino #34 am häufigsten 12 Min. Lesezeit

segundinho

Top 34

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn basic nouns and how to modify them. You likely know the word 'segundo' (second) as a unit of time. 'Segundinho' is simply the 'little' version of that. At this stage, you should recognize it as a polite way someone says 'wait a moment.' You don't need to worry about the complex social nuances yet; just know that if a waiter or a friend says 'um segundinho,' they want you to wait for a very short time. It is a helpful word to add to your basic survival vocabulary because you will hear it constantly in shops and restaurants. Think of it as a friendlier version of 'espere.' Even if you can't use it perfectly in a sentence yet, understanding it when you hear it is a great first step. You might notice the '-inho' ending, which you will soon learn is used for many things in Portuguese to make them sound smaller or cuter. For now, just treat 'um segundinho' as a single phrase that means 'one second, please.' It's a great way to start sounding more natural and less like a textbook.

By A2, you are becoming more familiar with the diminutive suffix '-inho' and how it's used to show affection or small size. You can start using 'segundinho' yourself in simple situations. For example, if you are looking for your wallet to pay, you can say 'só um segundinho' to the cashier. This shows you are moving beyond basic translations and starting to use idiomatic Portuguese. You should also understand that 'segundinho' isn't a literal second. It's a flexible amount of time. At this level, you can begin to use it with verbs like 'esperar' (to wait) or 'dar' (to give). Phrases like 'Espera um segundinho' or 'Me dá um segundinho' are perfect for your level. You are also starting to hear the difference between 'um segundo' (more neutral) and 'um segundinho' (more friendly/casual). Using the diminutive helps you build rapport with people you interact with daily. It's a small word that makes a big difference in how 'Brazilian' or 'Portuguese' you sound. Practice the 'nh' sound, as it's a key part of this word and many others you are learning now.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'segundinho' in a variety of social contexts. You understand that it's a 'pragmatic marker'—a word used to manage social interaction rather than just convey information. You use it to soften requests, apologize for minor delays, and make your speech sound more fluid and natural. You can now use it in more complex sentences, such as 'Eu volto num segundinho' or 'Você tem um segundinho para me ajudar?'. You also recognize that the word carries a certain cultural weight, reflecting the informal and friendly nature of Lusophone cultures. You are beginning to notice that 'segundinho' is often used to minimize the perceived effort of a task. If you say 'Eu faço isso num segundinho,' you are signaling that the task is easy and you are happy to do it. You should also be aware of the register; you know when to use 'segundinho' (with friends, in shops) and when to use 'um momento' (in a formal meeting). This level is about mastering the 'social feel' of the word.

At B2, you have a nuanced understanding of 'segundinho' and its alternatives like 'minutinho' or 'momentinho.' You can choose between them based on exactly how much time you think you'll need and how much you want to 'soften' the wait. You understand that 'segundinho' can sometimes be used ironically or to downplay a significant delay, and you can pick up on these subtle cues in conversation. Your pronunciation is natural, and you use the word effortlessly as a filler or a transition. You might also start to notice how 'segundinho' is used in media and literature to establish a character's tone. You can use it to negotiate social space—for example, using 'só um segundinho' to interrupt a conversation politely. You are also aware of regional differences, knowing that while 'segundinho' is universal, the frequency of its use might vary. At this stage, the word is a tool in your arsenal for sounding like a sophisticated, culturally-aware speaker who understands the 'rhythm' of Portuguese life.

By C1, you use 'segundinho' with the same subconscious ease as a native speaker. You understand the deep psychological impact of the diminutive in Portuguese—how it creates a sense of proximity and reduces social distance. You can use 'segundinho' to manage complex social situations, such as de-escalating a tense moment or adding a touch of warmth to a professional interaction where appropriate. You are fully aware of the 'elasticity' of time that 'segundinho' represents and can navigate this culturally without frustration. You might even use it in creative writing or advanced presentations to create a specific atmosphere. You understand the historical and linguistic development of the diminutive in the Romance languages and how Portuguese has uniquely expanded its use into the pragmatic realm. You can explain these nuances to others and can identify when a non-native speaker is using the word slightly 'off'—perhaps with the wrong intonation or in a context that is just a bit too formal or too casual.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'segundinho' is complete. You don't just use the word; you inhabit the cultural mindset that created it. You understand the finest shades of meaning—how a slightly elongated 'segundiiiiiinho' can signal that the wait might actually be a bit longer, or how a quick, clipped 'segundinho' shows urgent efficiency. You can use the word in any context, from the most casual slang-filled conversation to high-level diplomatic or business settings where you might use it strategically to build rapport. You are aware of the word's role in the broader linguistic landscape of the Lusophone world, including its use in different dialects and its evolution over time. For you, 'segundinho' is not just a vocabulary item; it's a tiny window into the soul of the Portuguese language, representing its warmth, its flexibility, and its focus on human connection. You use it with perfect timing, intonation, and social awareness, indistinguishable from a native speaker who has used it their entire life.

Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps

segundinho in 30 Sekunden

A diminutive of 'segundo' meaning a very brief moment.
Used to soften requests for waiting and sound more polite.
Extremely common in casual and service-oriented Portuguese.
Reflects a cultural preference for informal and friendly communication.

The word segundinho is a fascinating example of how the Portuguese language uses the diminutive suffix -inho to alter not just the size of an object, but the social weight and perceived duration of an action. At its core, it is the diminutive form of segundo (second). However, in the vibrant tapestry of Lusophone communication, it rarely refers to a literal period of one thousand milliseconds. Instead, it serves as a pragmatic tool to soften a request for time, making the wait seem negligible and the speaker appear more polite and approachable.

Pragmatic Function: It functions as a 'social lubricant,' reducing the friction caused by making someone wait. By saying 'segundinho,' you are psychologically preparing the listener for a brief interruption while signaling that you value their time.

Me dá só um segundinho para terminar este e-mail?

In Brazil, the use of the diminutive is ubiquitous. It transforms a cold, mathematical unit of time into something warmer and more flexible. When a waiter says 'um segundinho,' they are acknowledging your presence while they finish another task. It is a way of saying 'I see you, I haven't forgotten you, and I will be with you shortly.' This usage is deeply tied to the cultural concept of jeitinho and the general preference for indirectness in social interactions to maintain harmony.

Cultural Nuance: In European Portuguese, while also used, it might be slightly less frequent than in Brazil, where the diminutive is applied to almost everything to convey intimacy or informality. In Portugal, 'um momento' or 'um segundo' might be preferred in slightly more formal contexts, whereas 'segundinho' remains firmly in the realm of casual, friendly interaction.

Espera um segundinho, esqueci minha chave lá dentro!

Furthermore, the word can be used to emphasize the speed with which something will be done. If you tell your boss, 'Faço isso num segundinho,' you are promising a very quick turnaround. It demonstrates confidence and a desire to be helpful. However, one must be careful; overusing this in a strictly professional or legal environment might come across as overly casual or even dismissive of the seriousness of the time required.

Grammatical Note: The suffix -inho is masculine because 'segundo' is a masculine noun. It follows standard diminutive rules, but its semantic expansion into the realm of politeness is what makes it a B1-level vocabulary essential.

Só mais um segundinho e o café estará pronto.

Você tem um segundinho para falar comigo?

In summary, segundinho is more than just a small second; it is a linguistic hug, a way to bridge the gap between needing time and not wanting to be a burden. It reflects the warmth and relational focus of Portuguese-speaking cultures, where time is often viewed through the lens of human connection rather than just the ticking of a clock.

Using segundinho correctly involves understanding its role as an adverbial phrase of time, even though it is technically a noun. It almost always appears in the context of requesting a pause or promising a quick action. The most common structure is [Verb] + um segundinho. For example, 'Espera um segundinho' (Wait a tiny second). Here, the diminutive softens the imperative 'espera,' which can sometimes sound harsh or demanding.

Common Verb Pairings: Verbs like esperar (to wait), dar (to give), ter (to have), and levar (to take) are the most frequent companions of this word. 'Me dá um segundinho' is a very common way to ask for a moment of someone's time.

Pode me dar um segundinho? Preciso atender essa ligação.

Another common pattern is using it with the preposition em (in), often contracted to num (in a). 'Eu volto num segundinho' (I'll be back in a tiny second). This emphasizes the speed of the return. It is a staple of customer service in Brazil. If you are at a pharmacy and the clerk needs to check the stock, they will almost certainly say, 'Só um segundinho, vou ver se tem no estoque.' This usage reassures the customer that the service is efficient.

Syntactic Flexibility: While usually a noun, it acts like an adverb of time. It can be placed at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis: 'Um segundinho, por favor!' or at the end to soften a statement: 'Vou ali e volto num segundinho.'

Num segundinho eu resolvo esse problema para você.

You can also use it to ask for permission to interrupt. 'Você tem um segundinho?' is the equivalent of 'Do you have a sec?' It is less formal than 'Você teria um momento?' but more polite than just starting to talk. It acknowledges that the other person is busy.

Com licença, você tem um segundinho para uma pergunta rápida?

In more complex sentences, it can be used to describe how fast time passes. 'A vida passa num segundinho' (Life passes in a tiny second). Here, it takes on a more poetic or philosophical tone, emphasizing the fleeting nature of existence.

Register and Tone: The tone is always informal or semi-formal. It is perfect for friends, family, and everyday commercial interactions. Avoid it in formal speeches, legal writing, or when delivering very serious news where a diminutive might seem inappropriate or disrespectful.

Não se preocupe, isso vai levar só um segundinho.

Só um segundinho, estou quase terminando de me arrumar.

By mastering these patterns, you will sound much more like a native speaker, as you are adopting the pragmatic nuances that textbooks often overlook.

To truly understand segundinho, you have to step out of the classroom and into the streets of Lisbon, Rio de Janeiro, or Luanda. This word is the soundtrack of daily life. You will hear it in the padaria (bakery) when the attendant is grabbing your pão de queijo. You will hear it in the office when a colleague wants to ask you a quick question. You will hear it on the phone when someone puts you on hold.

The Service Industry: This is perhaps the most common place to encounter the word. It is the standard response for 'I'll be right with you.' Whether it's a bank teller, a waiter, or a shop assistant, 'um segundinho' is the polite way to manage customer flow without sounding dismissive.

Aguarde um segundinho na linha, por favor.

In domestic settings, it's used constantly between family members. If a mother calls her child for dinner, the child might yell back, 'Só um segundinho, mãe! Estou salvando o jogo!' It acts as a buffer, a way to negotiate time in a culture that often views schedules as flexible suggestions rather than rigid laws.

Social Gatherings: At a party, if someone asks you for a drink, you might say, 'Claro, me dá um segundinho para falar com o João e eu já pego para você.' It allows for smooth transitions between social interactions.

Oi! Você tem um segundinho para me ajudar com essa caixa?

Media and entertainment also reflect this usage. In Brazilian telenovelas, characters use 'segundinho' to build suspense or to show a character's casual, friendly nature. It is a word that conveys 'ordinariness' and 'accessibility.' If a character is portrayed as very stiff and formal, they would likely avoid the word, opting for 'um momento.' Thus, hearing the word can also give you clues about the social standing or personality of the person speaking.

Gente, só um segundinho que o microfone caiu.

Regional Variations: While 'segundinho' is universal, some regions might favor other diminutives like 'minutinho' or 'instantinho.' However, 'segundinho' remains the most common for very brief interruptions. In the south of Brazil, you might hear it with a slightly different intonation, but the meaning remains identical.

Espera um segundinho que eu já te abro a porta.

Só um segundinho, estou terminando de ler esta página.

Ultimately, you hear this word wherever there is a need for a small, polite delay. It is the verbal equivalent of a 'please wait' sign, but much friendlier.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with segundinho is taking it too literally. If a Brazilian says 'um segundinho,' and you start counting to one, you will likely be disappointed. The biggest 'mistake' is a cultural one: failing to understand that this is a relative term. It can mean anything from five seconds to five minutes. Expecting mathematical precision will lead to frustration.

Literal Interpretation: Avoid getting angry if the 'segundinho' lasts longer than a second. It's a social convention, not a timer. If you are the one saying it, ensure you don't use it for something that will obviously take half an hour, as that can eventually seem dishonest or rude.

Não diga 'um segundinho' se você sabe que vai demorar uma hora.

Another mistake is using it in overly formal contexts. While Portuguese is generally more comfortable with diminutives than English, there are limits. In a legal deposition, a formal business presentation to a board of directors, or a serious medical consultation, 'segundinho' might sound unprofessional or as if you are not taking the situation seriously. In these cases, use 'um momento' or 'um instante.'

Register Mismatch: Using diminutives like 'segundinho' in a highly formal setting can undermine your authority. It's important to match the level of informality to the environment. If everyone else is using formal language, stick to 'um segundo' or 'um momento.'

Em uma reunião formal, prefira dizer 'um momento' em vez de 'um segundinho'.

Pronunciation can also be a hurdle. The 'nh' sound (/ɲ/) is often difficult for English speakers. A common mistake is pronouncing it like 'n-y' (segund-y-o) or just 'n' (segundino). The 'nh' should be a single sound, similar to the 'ny' in 'canyon' but more nasal. Practicing this sound is crucial for being understood.

Cuidado com a pronúncia: é 'se-gun-di-nho', não 'se-gun-di-no'.

Learners also sometimes confuse 'segundinho' with 'segundinha.' While 'segundinho' is a small second, 'segundinha' is a slang term (mostly in Brazil) for a Monday that feels like a continuation of the weekend or a lazy Monday. They are not interchangeable!

Gender Confusion: Always use the masculine 'o segundinho' when referring to time. The feminine 'a segundinha' refers to Monday (segunda-feira) and has a completely different social connotation.

Não confunda 'um segundinho' (tempo) com 'uma segundinha' (gíria para segunda-feira).

Finally, don't forget the 'um.' Saying just 'segundinho' can sound a bit clipped or even rude. 'Só um segundinho' or 'um segundinho' is the standard, polite way to phrase it.

Um segundinho, por favor, o sistema está lento.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you'll use the word with the same ease and social grace as a native speaker.

While segundinho is incredibly common, Portuguese offers a variety of ways to express the concept of a 'short time,' each with its own nuance. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the right word for the right situation.

Minutinho: This is the diminutive of 'minuto' (minute). It is used almost identically to 'segundinho' but implies a slightly longer wait. If 'segundinho' is 30 seconds, 'minutinho' might be two minutes. It's often used when you know the task will take more than just a moment.

Pode esperar um minutinho? Preciso terminar de imprimir isso.

Momento / Momentinho: 'Um momento' is the standard, more formal way to say 'one moment.' Adding the diminutive 'momentinho' makes it more casual and friendly, similar to 'segundinho.' 'Momentinho' is very common in Portugal.

Só um momentinho, vou chamar o gerente.

Instante / Instantinho: 'Instante' sounds a bit more precise or formal. 'Num instantinho' is a common phrase meaning 'in a flash.' It emphasizes the extreme speed of an action even more than 'num segundinho.'

Eu resolvo isso num instantinho, não se preocupe.

Vapt-vupt: This is an onomatopoeic slang term used in Brazil to describe something done very quickly. It's very informal. You wouldn't use it to ask someone to wait, but rather to describe how fast you'll do something. 'É vapt-vupt!' (It's quick as a flash!).

Vou ali na loja, é vapt-vupt!

Você prefere esperar um segundinho ou quer que eu te ligue depois?

Pulo / Pulinho: Literally 'a jump' or 'a little jump.' In Brazil, 'dar um pulinho' means to go somewhere quickly and come back. 'Vou dar um pulinho na padaria.' It's a spatial way of expressing a 'segundinho' of time spent elsewhere.

Vou dar um pulinho ali e já volto, espera um segundinho.

Só um segundinho, estou quase lá.

Understanding these synonyms allows you to vary your speech and understand the subtle differences in how Portuguese speakers perceive and communicate about time.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

"Poderia aguardar um momento, por favor?"

Neutral

"Um segundo, por favor, já volto."

Informell

"Só um segundinho, tô terminando!"

Child friendly

"Espera um segundinho que a mamãe já vai."

Umgangssprache

"É vapt-vupt, num segundinho eu faço."

Wusstest du?

In Portuguese, the diminutive '-inho' is one of the most productive suffixes. It's used not just for size, but for 'pragmatic softening'—making commands sound like suggestions and waits sound shorter.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /se.ɡũ.ˈdĩ.ɲu/

US /se.ɡũ.ˈdĩ.ɲoʊ/

The stress is on the penultimate syllable: se-gun-DI-nho.

Reimt sich auf

sozinho caminho carinho vizinho vinho passarinho devagarinho pedacinho

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'nh' as 'n' (segundino).
Failing to nasalize the 'u' and 'i' before the 'n' and 'nh'.
Stressing the wrong syllable (e.g., SE-gun-di-nho).
Pronouncing the final 'o' as a hard 'O' instead of a soft 'u' sound.
Making the 'g' sound too harsh.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'segundo'.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires correct spelling of the 'nh' sound.

Sprechen 4/5

The nasal 'nh' sound and the pragmatic timing can be tricky.

Hören 3/5

Often spoken quickly in casual conversation.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

segundo um só esperar tempo

Als Nächstes lernen

minutinho momentinho instantinho devagarinho agora

Fortgeschritten

pragmática diminutivo de cortesia expressões de tempo registro informal

Wichtige Grammatik

Formation of Diminutives

segundo -> segundinho; casa -> casinha

Contractions with 'em'

em + um = num; em + o = no

Use of 'Só' as an Adverb

Só um segundinho (Just a second)

Imperative Mood Softening

Espera (Wait) vs. Espera um segundinho (Wait a sec)

Nasal Vowels before 'nh'

The 'i' in 'segundinho' is nasalized.

Beispiele nach Niveau

Só um segundinho, por favor.

Just a tiny second, please.

Basic use of 'só' + 'um' + noun.

Espera um segundinho.

Wait a tiny second.

Imperative 'espera' softened by the diminutive.

Um segundinho, estou aqui!

One tiny second, I'm here!

Used as an exclamation to signal presence.

Me dá um segundinho?

Give me a tiny second?

Informal request using 'me dá'.

O café leva um segundinho.

The coffee takes a tiny second.

Using 'levar' to express duration.

Só mais um segundinho.

Just one more tiny second.

Adding 'mais' to indicate a small additional wait.

Um segundinho, vou abrir a porta.

One tiny second, I'm going to open the door.

Future intention with 'vou' + infinitive.

Pode esperar um segundinho?

Can you wait a tiny second?

Polite question with 'pode'.

Eu volto num segundinho, não saia daí.

I'll be back in a tiny second, don't leave.

Contraction 'num' (em + um).

Você tem um segundinho para falar?

Do you have a tiny second to talk?

Standard way to ask for a brief moment.

Só um segundinho que eu já te ajudo.

Just a tiny second and I'll help you.

Use of 'que' to link the wait to the following action.

Isso vai demorar só um segundinho.

This will take just a tiny second.

Using 'demorar' (to take time/delay).

Espera só um segundinho, esqueci meu celular.

Wait just a tiny second, I forgot my phone.

Common everyday scenario.

Um segundinho, vou pegar o troco.

A tiny second, I'm going to get the change.

Service industry context.

Ele disse que volta num segundinho.

He said he'll be back in a tiny second.

Reported speech with 'disse que'.

Pode me dar um segundinho da sua atenção?

Can you give me a tiny second of your attention?

Slightly more formal request.

Se você me der um segundinho, eu resolvo isso agora.

If you give me a tiny second, I'll solve this now.

Conditional sentence with future subjunctive 'der'.

A vida passa num segundinho, temos que aproveitar.

Life passes in a tiny second, we have to enjoy it.

Metaphorical use of the word.

Só um segundinho, estou terminando de salvar o arquivo.

Just a tiny second, I'm finishing saving the file.

Present continuous 'estou terminando'.

Você poderia esperar um segundinho na recepção?

Could you wait a tiny second in the reception?

Conditional 'poderia' for extra politeness.

Num segundinho a gente chega lá, é pertinho.

In a tiny second we'll get there, it's very close.

Use of 'a gente' for 'we'.

Me dá um segundinho para pensar na sua proposta.

Give me a tiny second to think about your proposal.

Using the word to ask for thinking time.

Só um segundinho, o sistema está um pouco lento hoje.

Just a tiny second, the system is a bit slow today.

Common excuse in professional settings.

Vou ali num segundinho e já trago o que você pediu.

I'll go there in a tiny second and bring what you asked for.

Promising a quick errand.

Eu sei que você está ocupado, mas você teria um segundinho?

I know you're busy, but would you have a tiny second?

Acknowledging the other person's state.

Ela faz tudo num segundinho, é a pessoa mais eficiente que conheço.

She does everything in a tiny second, she's the most efficient person I know.

Using the word to describe a personality trait.

Aguarde só um segundinho enquanto eu verifico seus dados.

Wait just a tiny second while I verify your data.

Formal imperative 'aguarde' softened by 'segundinho'.

Parece que foi ontem, o tempo voa num segundinho.

It feels like it was yesterday, time flies in a tiny second.

Idiomatic expression about time.

Se eu tivesse um segundinho a mais, teria terminado a prova.

If I had a tiny second more, I would have finished the exam.

Past unreal conditional (subjunctive + conditional).

Só um segundinho, preciso conferir se fechei a janela.

Just a tiny second, I need to check if I closed the window.

Expressing a quick doubt/check.

Num segundinho a chuva para e a gente pode sair.

In a tiny second the rain will stop and we can go out.

Predicting a quick change in weather.

Dê-me um segundinho para organizar meus pensamentos antes de começar.

Give me a tiny second to organize my thoughts before starting.

Formal object pronoun placement 'Dê-me'.

A sutileza de pedir 'um segundinho' em vez de 'um minuto' faz toda a diferença na recepção do cliente.

The subtlety of asking for 'a tiny second' instead of 'a minute' makes all the difference in customer reception.

Linguistic analysis within the sentence.

O autor descreve como a felicidade pode ser encontrada num segundinho de distração.

The author describes how happiness can be found in a tiny second of distraction.

Abstract and literary usage.

Não me venha com esse 'segundinho', eu sei que isso vai levar horas!

Don't come to me with that 'tiny second' talk, I know this will take hours!

Using the word to challenge a social convention.

Num segundinho de hesitação, ele perdeu a oportunidade da sua vida.

In a tiny second of hesitation, he lost the opportunity of his life.

Emphasizing the impact of a brief moment.

Poderia me conceder um segundinho para uma breve errata?

Could you grant me a tiny second for a brief correction?

Highly formal verb 'conceder' paired with the informal diminutive.

Tudo o que eu precisava era de um segundinho de paz no meio de tanto caos.

All I needed was a tiny second of peace in the middle of so much chaos.

Expressing a deep emotional need.

A tecnologia evolui de tal forma que o que é novo hoje, torna-se obsoleto num segundinho.

Technology evolves in such a way that what is new today becomes obsolete in a tiny second.

Complex sentence structure with relative clauses.

Basta um segundinho de falta de atenção para um acidente acontecer.

Just a tiny second of lack of attention is enough for an accident to happen.

Using 'basta' to show sufficiency.

A maestria do orador reside em saber quando silenciar por um segundinho para enfatizar seu ponto.

The speaker's mastery lies in knowing when to be silent for a tiny second to emphasize their point.

Sophisticated vocabulary and structure.

Nesse segundinho infinitesimal entre o sonho e a vigília, a ideia surgiu.

In that infinitesimal tiny second between dream and wakefulness, the idea emerged.

Pairing 'segundinho' with high-level adjectives.

A cultura do 'segundinho' reflete uma percepção de tempo que prioriza a relação interpessoal sobre a precisão cronométrica.

The 'segundinho' culture reflects a perception of time that prioritizes interpersonal relationships over chronometric precision.

Sociolinguistic observation.

Ele manipulou o tempo, fazendo com que aquele segundinho de espera parecesse uma eternidade para os espectadores.

He manipulated time, making that tiny second of waiting seem like an eternity for the spectators.

Complex narrative structure.

A efemeridade da glória é tal que ela pode desvanecer num segundinho de má escolha.

The ephemerality of glory is such that it can vanish in a tiny second of a bad choice.

Philosophical and elevated tone.

Ao utilizar o diminutivo 'segundinho', o falante aciona um protocolo de cortesia profundamente enraizado na psique lusófona.

By using the diminutive 'segundinho', the speaker triggers a courtesy protocol deeply rooted in the Lusophone psyche.

Academic and analytical language.

Não houve um segundinho sequer em que eu duvidasse da sua integridade.

There wasn't even a single tiny second in which I doubted your integrity.

Emphatic negation with 'sequer'.

A transição entre os dois estados de consciência ocorre num segundinho quase imperceptível.

The transition between the two states of consciousness occurs in an almost imperceptible tiny second.

Scientific and precise description.

Häufige Kollokationen

só um segundinho

num segundinho

mais um segundinho

me dá um segundinho

ter um segundinho

levar um segundinho

esperar um segundinho

perder um segundinho

aquele segundinho

cada segundinho

Häufige Phrasen

Só um segundinho!

Num segundinho eu volto.

Você tem um segundinho?

Me dá um segundinho?

Espera um segundinho.

Leva só um segundinho.

Mais um segundinho e pronto.

Aguarde um segundinho.

Vou ali num segundinho.

Não demora nem um segundinho.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

segundinho vs segundinha

Slang for a lazy Monday or a Monday that feels like the weekend.

segundinho vs segundo

The literal unit of time; 'segundinho' is more flexible and polite.

segundinho vs segunda

Means 'second' (feminine) or 'Monday'.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Num segundinho"

Very quickly; in a heartbeat.

Ele resolveu o problema num segundinho.

informal

"A vida passa num segundinho"

Life is very short and goes by fast.

Aproveite hoje, pois a vida passa num segundinho.

poetic/common

"Não ter um segundinho de paz"

To be constantly busy or interrupted.

Nesta casa eu não tenho um segundinho de paz!

informal/expressive

"Por um segundinho"

For a very brief moment, often used with doubt or fear.

Por um segundinho, achei que tinha perdido o voo.

neutral

"Cada segundinho conta"

Every little bit of time is important.

Na hora da prova, cada segundinho conta.

neutral

"Num segundinho de bobeira"

In a brief moment of inattention or carelessness.

Num segundinho de bobeira, ele deixou o celular cair.

informal

"Só mais um segundinho"

A classic procrastination phrase or a genuine request for a tiny bit more time.

Só mais um segundinho, estou quase terminando.

informal

"Aquele segundinho"

Refers to a specific, often crucial, brief moment.

Aquele segundinho antes do beijo foi mágico.

informal/romantic

"Em um segundinho"

Similar to 'num segundinho', meaning very soon.

Estarei aí em um segundinho.

neutral

"Nem por um segundinho"

Not even for a tiny second (strong negation).

Eu não acreditei nele nem por um segundinho.

emphatic

Leicht verwechselbar

segundinho vs minutinho

Both are diminutives of time units.

Minutinho implies a slightly longer wait than segundinho.

Espera um segundinho (30s) vs Espera um minutinho (2 min).

segundinho vs momentinho

Both mean 'a little moment'.

Momentinho is more common in Portugal; segundinho is universal but very Brazilian.

Só um momentinho, senhor.

segundinho vs instantinho

Both imply speed.

Instantinho emphasizes the 'flash' or 'instant' nature of the action.

Num instantinho eu chego aí.

segundinho vs segundão

It's the augmentative of 'segundo'.

Segundão usually refers to the second year of high school in Brazil.

Ele está no segundão.

segundinho vs segundamente

Sounds similar.

Means 'secondly' in a list of points.

Primeiramente... segundamente...

Satzmuster

Só um segundinho.

Só um segundinho, por favor.

Espera um segundinho.

Espera um segundinho, vou ali.

Eu volto num segundinho.

Vou pegar o carro e volto num segundinho.

Você tem um segundinho?

Oi, Maria, você tem um segundinho?

Me dá um segundinho para [verbo].

Me dá um segundinho para pensar.

Leva só um segundinho.

Não se preocupe, leva só um segundinho.

Num segundinho de [substantivo].

Num segundinho de coragem, ele se declarou.

Nem por um segundinho.

Eu não mudaria nada, nem por um segundinho.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very high in daily spoken Portuguese.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'segundinha' for time. → um segundinho
'Segundinha' is slang for Monday. 'Segundinho' is for time.
Pronouncing it 'segundino'. → segundinho
The 'nh' sound is essential. 'Segundino' sounds like a different word or a name.
Using it in a legal or medical document. → um momento / um instante
Diminutives are too informal for serious professional documentation.
Getting angry when it takes 2 minutes. → Be patient.
It's a cultural expression of 'short time,' not a literal second.
Omitting the 'um'. → Só um segundinho.
Saying just 'segundinho' can sound like you are barkng an order.

Tipps

Use it to soften commands

Instead of just saying 'Espera' (Wait), which can sound rude, say 'Espera um segundinho.' It sounds much friendlier and more natural.

Don't be too literal

If someone tells you 'um segundinho,' don't look at your watch. It's a social signal, not a mathematical promise. Relax and wait a few minutes.

Nasalize the vowels

The 'u' and 'i' in 'segundinho' are nasal. Try to let some air escape through your nose when you say them. This is a key part of the Portuguese accent.

Remember the 'um'

It's almost always 'um segundinho' or 'só um segundinho.' Using the word alone can sound a bit abrupt.

Great for interruptions

If you need to interrupt someone, 'Você tem um segundinho?' is one of the most polite and effective ways to do it.

Learn the family

Knowing 'segundo,' 'minutinho,' and 'momentinho' gives you a full range of options for talking about short periods of time.

Listen for the 'nh'

In fast speech, 'segundinho' can sound like 'sgundinho.' The 'nh' is the most distinct part of the word, so listen for that.

Informal only

Keep 'segundinho' for texts, WhatsApp, and casual emails. For anything formal, stick to 'um momento'.

The 'Só' trick

Adding 'só' (only/just) before 'um segundinho' makes the wait sound even smaller and you sound even more polite.

Embrace the diminutive

Using diminutives like this is a great way to show you are integrating into the culture and moving beyond basic translation.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Second' that is 'In' your 'Hand' (inho). It's so small you can hold it! 'Segund-inho'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a tiny, cute pocket watch that only shows one second. That's your 'segundinho'.

Word Web

tempo rápido esperar polidez diminutivo momento agora breve

Herausforderung

Try to use 'segundinho' at least three times today: once when someone calls you, once when you are at a shop, and once when you need to check your phone.

Wortherkunft

From the Portuguese noun 'segundo' (second), which comes from the Latin 'secundus' (following, second). The diminutive suffix '-inho' is of Vulgar Latin origin (-inus), used extensively in Portuguese to denote smallness or affection.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A small second or a brief moment.

Romance (Indo-European).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful not to use it when a serious, long delay is expected, as it can be perceived as dismissive of the other person's time.

English speakers often use 'just a sec' or 'one second'. 'Segundinho' is the direct equivalent but carries more warmth due to the diminutive suffix.

Commonly heard in Brazilian 'telenovelas' to show casual dialogue. Used in many popular songs to describe fleeting moments of love. A staple of Brazilian comedy sketches involving bureaucracy.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At a restaurant

Só um segundinho, vou ver o cardápio.
Um segundinho, vou chamar o garçom.
Pode me dar um segundinho para decidir?
O prato sai num segundinho.

In the office

Você tem um segundinho para uma dúvida?
Só um segundinho, estou em outra linha.
Vou te enviar o e-mail num segundinho.
Me dá um segundinho para abrir o arquivo.

On the phone

Aguarde um segundinho, por favor.
Só um segundinho que a bateria está acabando.
Um segundinho, vou pegar um papel.
Volto num segundinho, não desliga.

With friends

Espera um segundinho, esqueci meu casaco.
Tô chegando num segundinho!
Me dá um segundinho para terminar de me arrumar.
Só mais um segundinho e a gente vai.

At a shop

Um segundinho, vou ver se tem o seu tamanho.
Só um segundinho, o sistema caiu.
Pode esperar um segundinho no caixa?
Leva só um segundinho para embrulhar.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Oi! Você teria um segundinho para me ajudar com uma coisa rápida?"

"Com licença, você tem um segundinho para uma pergunta sobre o projeto?"

"Só um segundinho, você sabe onde fica a farmácia mais próxima?"

"Ei, me dá um segundinho? Queria te mostrar uma foto legal."

"Você tem um segundinho para falar sobre o que aconteceu ontem?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Descreva uma situação em que você pediu um segundinho e acabou demorando muito mais.

Como você se sente quando alguém te pede 'só um segundinho' repetidamente?

Escreva sobre a importância de ter um segundinho de paz no seu dia a dia.

O que você consegue realizar em apenas um segundinho de inspiração?

Reflita sobre a expressão 'a vida passa num segundinho'. O que isso significa para você?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, it rarely means exactly one second. It is an idiomatic way to say 'a very short time' or 'just a moment.' In practice, it could be anything from a few seconds to a few minutes. It's more about being polite than being precise.

Yes, it is used in Portugal, though perhaps slightly less frequently than in Brazil. In Portugal, you might also hear 'um momentinho' or just 'um segundo.' However, 'segundinho' is perfectly understood and used in casual contexts across the Lusophone world.

It depends on your relationship. If your workplace is casual, it's fine. If it's very formal, it's better to use 'um momento' or 'um segundo.' The diminutive can sometimes sound too informal for high-stakes professional environments.

Linguistically, they are just diminutives of different units. Socially, 'minutinho' suggests you know the task will take a bit longer than a 'segundinho.' If you say 'segundinho' and take five minutes, people might get annoyed. 'Minutinho' buys you a little more time.

It's a nasal sound. Press the middle of your tongue against the roof of your mouth. It's similar to the 'ny' in 'canyon' or the Spanish 'ñ' in 'mañana.' Practice saying 'nho, nha, nhi' to get the hang of it.

The word 'segundo' is masculine, so its diminutive 'segundinho' is also masculine. 'Segundinha' exists but it's slang for 'Monday' (from segunda-feira) and is used in a completely different way.

It's a cultural trait called 'diminutivo de cortesia.' It makes requests sound less like orders and more like friendly suggestions. It reduces the 'burden' of the wait on the other person.

You can, but it's much less common than the singular 'um segundinho.' When people want to specify more time, they usually switch to 'minutos' or 'momentos.' 'Segundinho' is best kept in the singular for its idiomatic effect.

It's not exactly slang; it's informal/colloquial language. It's standard in spoken Portuguese but avoided in formal writing. Most native speakers use it daily regardless of their social class.

The best translations are 'Just a sec,' 'Just a moment,' or 'One second.' The key is that it's a polite, brief request for patience.