At the A1 level, the word 'semelhante' might be a bit advanced, but it's very useful for simple comparisons. You can think of it as a more formal way to say 'like' or 'similar.' At this stage, you should focus on its basic meaning: when two things are not the same, but they look or act the same. For example, 'Esta cor é semelhante' (This color is similar). Don't worry too much about complex grammar yet; just recognize it when you see it in descriptions of objects, people, or places. It's a 'neutral' adjective, which means it doesn't change if the noun is a boy or a girl. This makes it easier for you to use! Just remember that if you have more than one thing, you add an 's' to make it 'semelhantes.' Practice using it to describe your clothes or your house to build confidence.
As an A2 learner, you are starting to make more detailed comparisons. 'Semelhante' is a great tool for your vocabulary toolbox because it allows you to describe relationships between things more precisely than just using 'igual' (equal/same). At this level, you should start using the preposition 'a' with it. For example, 'O meu carro é semelhante ao seu' (My car is similar to yours). Notice how 'a' combines with 'o' to become 'ao.' You will see this word often in short texts, advertisements, and basic news stories. It's also the time to learn its plural form 'semelhantes' and ensure it agrees with your nouns. Try to use it when you are talking about your hobbies, your family members' personalities, or comparing two different cities you have visited.
At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more abstract topics and express opinions. 'Semelhante' becomes very useful for comparing ideas, plans, or situations. You should be comfortable using it in phrases like 'de forma semelhante' (in a similar way) to connect your thoughts in a conversation or a short essay. You will also begin to notice the word used at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis, such as 'Semelhante comportamento não será tolerado' (Such behavior will not be tolerated). At this stage, you should also be aware of the difference between 'semelhante' and 'parecido.' While they are often interchangeable, 'semelhante' sounds a bit more professional and is better suited for workplace environments or academic discussions. You can also start using it as a noun to refer to 'fellow human beings' in social or ethical contexts.
By B2, you should have a firm grasp of the nuances of 'semelhante.' You can use it to build complex arguments and make sophisticated comparisons. You should be able to use it with a variety of prepositions and in different positions within a sentence to change the emphasis. For instance, you might use it in a formal report: 'Os resultados obtidos são semelhantes aos observados em estudos anteriores, validando a nossa hipótese' (The results obtained are similar to those observed in previous studies, validating our hypothesis). At this level, you should also recognize its use as a demonstrative qualifier meaning 'such,' and use it correctly in your writing to add rhetorical weight. You are also expected to know its synonyms like 'análogo' or 'equivalente' and choose the most appropriate one based on the context, showing a higher level of lexical control.
At the C1 level, you use 'semelhante' with total precision and stylistic flair. You understand that 'semelhante' can imply not just a surface-level similarity, but a deeper structural or functional correspondence. You might use it in literary analysis, legal arguments, or high-level business negotiations. You are also comfortable with the nominalized form 'o semelhante' in philosophical or theological debates about the nature of humanity and social responsibility. Your use of the word is natural and varies across different registers. You can effortlessly switch between 'semelhante,' 'parecido,' 'análogo,' and 'congênere' to convey the exact degree of similarity you intend. You also use the word to create cohesion in long, complex texts, using it in transitional phrases that guide the reader through your logic smoothly.
At the C2 level, 'semelhante' is a tool you use with the mastery of a native speaker. You are aware of its historical roots and how its usage has evolved in Portuguese literature. You can use it to create subtle irony, emphasis, or to evoke specific cultural connotations. You might use it in a highly formal speech or a complex academic treatise, where every word choice is deliberate. You understand the rhythmic and phonetic qualities of the word and how it fits into the prosody of your sentences. Whether you are discussing the 'semelhança' (similarity) between two complex legal frameworks or using 'semelhante' as a powerful rhetorical device in a political manifesto, your usage is flawless, nuanced, and perfectly adapted to the most demanding communicative contexts. You can also identify and interpret the word in archaic or highly specialized texts without difficulty.

semelhante in 30 Sekunden

  • Semelhante means 'similar' or 'alike' and is used to compare things that share characteristics without being identical.
  • It is gender-neutral (semelhante for both masc/fem) but must agree in number (semelhantes for plural).
  • When comparing two things, use the preposition 'a' (e.g., semelhante ao, semelhante à).
  • It is more formal than 'parecido' and can mean 'such' when placed before a noun.

The Portuguese word semelhante is a versatile adjective that primarily translates to "similar" or "alike" in English. While it shares much of its semantic territory with the more common word parecido, semelhante often carries a slightly more formal or precise weight, making it a favorite in academic, legal, and professional contexts. Understanding its usage is crucial for any learner moving beyond basic conversational Portuguese into more nuanced communication.

Core Concept
At its heart, semelhante describes two or more things that share common characteristics, features, or qualities without being identical. It suggests a degree of correspondence that allows for comparison.
The Prepositional Link
When you want to say something is similar to something else, you must use the preposition a. For example: "Este caso é semelhante ao anterior" (This case is similar to the previous one).

In everyday life, you might hear this word when people are comparing products, discussing family resemblances, or analyzing trends. It is a gender-neutral adjective in its singular form, ending in -e, which simplifies its agreement with nouns—whether the noun is masculine (o carro semelhante) or feminine (a casa semelhante), the form remains the same. The plural is simply semelhantes.

"Eles têm gostos semelhantes em relação à música clássica."

— Translation: They have similar tastes regarding classical music.

Beyond simple physical similarity, semelhante can also be used as a noun in certain philosophical or religious contexts to refer to "one's fellow human being" or "neighbor." In the phrase "amar o próximo como a si mesmo," the word próximo is often interchanged with semelhante in discussions about empathy and social duty. This adds a layer of depth to the word, connecting the concept of "similarity" to the shared human experience.

When used before a noun, semelhante can also act as an intensifier or a demonstrative qualifier, similar to "such" in English. For instance, "Nunca vi semelhante confusão!" translates to "I have never seen such a mess!" This specific usage is quite common in literature and emphatic speech, showcasing the word's flexibility in expressing surprise or indignation.

"Não posso aceitar semelhante comportamento nesta empresa."

— Translation: I cannot accept such behavior in this company.
Register and Tone
While perfectly fine for daily use, it shines in written reports, news articles, and debates. It signals that the speaker is making a considered comparison rather than a quick observation.

Mastering the syntax of semelhante involves understanding its role as an adjective and its specific prepositional requirements. In Portuguese, adjectives usually follow the noun, and semelhante is no exception when it is used to describe a quality of similarity. However, its placement can change its meaning slightly, as seen in emphatic constructions.

Standard Placement (Adjective)
When describing a noun, place it after: "Procuro um emprego semelhante ao meu anterior." (I am looking for a job similar to my previous one.)
Pre-nominal Placement (Emphasis)
When placed before the noun, it often means "such" or "that kind of": "Como você pôde dizer semelhante coisa?" (How could you say such a thing?)

The agreement of semelhante is straightforward because it is a uniform adjective for gender. It only changes for number. If the subject is singular, use semelhante; if plural, use semelhantes. This simplicity makes it a very accessible word for A2 learners to start using in their writing.

"As duas cidades têm arquiteturas semelhantes."

— Translation: The two cities have similar architectures.

One of the most common errors for English speakers is forgetting the preposition a (or its contractions ao, à, aos, às). In English, we say "similar TO." In Portuguese, we also use a "to" equivalent. If you are comparing two specific things, you must link them. "A minha situação é semelhante à sua" (My situation is similar to yours). Notice the contraction of the preposition a with the feminine article a.

In more complex sentences, semelhante can be part of an adverbial phrase like "de forma semelhante" (in a similar way) or "de maneira semelhante" (similarly). These phrases are excellent for transitions in essays or formal speeches. For example: "De maneira semelhante, a economia global está sofrendo com a inflação." (Similarly, the global economy is suffering from inflation.)

"Eles agiram de modo semelhante durante a crise."

— Translation: They acted in a similar manner during the crisis.
Common Contexts
Mathematics (similar triangles), Biology (similar species), Law (similar cases), and everyday comparisons of objects or ideas.

You will encounter semelhante across a wide spectrum of Portuguese-speaking environments, from the nightly news in Lisbon to a business meeting in São Paulo. Its frequency is high because it serves both as a precise technical term and a rhetorical tool for emphasis.

In the media, journalists often use semelhante to draw parallels between current events and historical precedents. You might hear: "Uma tempestade semelhante não era vista há décadas" (A similar storm hadn't been seen for decades). Here, the word provides a comparative anchor for the audience, helping them understand the scale of an event.

"O governo propôs uma medida semelhante à adotada no ano passado."

— Translation: The government proposed a measure similar to the one adopted last year.

In academic and scientific settings, semelhante is indispensable. Whether a biologist is comparing DNA sequences or a sociologist is discussing behavioral patterns across different cultures, the word allows for the expression of non-identical correspondence. It is a staple of the "academic register," appearing frequently in textbooks and research papers.

In retail and consumer environments, you'll see this word on price tags or in marketing materials. "Produtos semelhantes" (similar products) is a common category in online stores, helping shoppers find alternatives. If you're shopping for a specific brand and it's out of stock, a clerk might say, "Temos algo semelhante em estoque" (We have something similar in stock).

"Você tem um vestido semelhante a este, mas em azul?"

— Translation: Do you have a dress similar to this one, but in blue?
Legal and Formal Use
In legal documents, semelhante is used to cite precedents or to describe actions that fall under the same category of law. It avoids the absolute claim of "identical" while maintaining a strong logical connection.

Finally, in literature and storytelling, semelhante is used to build imagery. An author might describe a character's eyes as being semelhantes to the sea, or a landscape that is semelhante to a dream. Its slightly elevated tone compared to parecido makes it better suited for poetic or descriptive prose.

Even though semelhante is a relatively straightforward word, English speakers often stumble on a few specific points of grammar and usage. Recognizing these pitfalls early will help you sound more like a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Forgetting the Preposition 'A'
In English, we say "similar TO." In Portuguese, many learners mistakenly say "semelhante com" (similar with) or just omit the preposition entirely.
Wrong: Este livro é semelhante este.
Right: Este livro é semelhante ao este (or a este).
Mistake 2: Gender Agreement Confusion
Learners often try to change the ending to '-a' for feminine nouns. Remember, semelhante is an adjective that ends in '-e', meaning it is invariable for gender.
Wrong: Uma ideia semelhanta.
Right: Uma ideia semelhante.

Another frequent issue is the overuse of semelhante in very casual contexts where parecido would be more natural. While not grammatically wrong, saying "Você é muito semelhante ao seu pai" (You are very similar to your father) sounds a bit like a scientific observation. In a casual conversation, "Você é muito parecido com o seu pai" is the standard way to go.

"A sua letra é semelhante à minha."

— Correct use of 'à' (preposition 'a' + article 'a').

The emphatic use of semelhante (meaning "such") can also be tricky. Learners often forget that when used this way, it usually precedes the noun. If you say "Eu nunca vi uma confusão semelhante," it means "I've never seen a similar mess (to one mentioned before)." But if you say "Eu nunca vi semelhante confusão," it means "I've never seen such a mess!" The nuance is subtle but powerful.

Finally, watch out for the pluralization. While the singular is gender-neutral, the plural must agree with the noun. "Problemas semelhantes" is correct, but many beginners forget the 's' at the end of the adjective when the noun is plural. Ensuring adjective-noun agreement is a hallmark of reaching the B1 level and beyond.

To truly enrich your Portuguese vocabulary, it's important to know the synonyms of semelhante and how they differ in nuance and register. Choosing the right word can change the tone of your sentence entirely.

Parecido
The most common alternative. It is used for physical resemblances and casual comparisons. Unlike semelhante, it usually takes the preposition com (e.g., parecido com).
Análogo
A very formal, academic term meaning "analogous." It implies a functional or structural similarity rather than just looking alike.
Idêntico
Much stronger than semelhante. It means "identical" or exactly the same. Use this only when there are no differences.

If you want to describe things that are similar in a consistent way, you might use uniforme (uniform) or equivalente (equivalent). Equivalente is particularly useful in mathematics, finance, and logic, where two things have the same value or function even if they aren't the same thing.

"As duas situações são análogas, embora ocorram em tempos diferentes."

— Example of using 'análogo' for a formal comparison.

In a literary context, you might see congênere. This word refers to things that belong to the same genus or kind. It's very formal and often used in official reports or scientific classifications. For example, "A empresa e suas congêneres" (The company and its similar counterparts/peers).

When you want to express that things are "along the same lines," the phrase na mesma linha is a great idiomatic alternative. It’s common in professional discussions: "O seu comentário vai na mesma linha do que eu estava pensando." (Your comment is along the same lines as what I was thinking.) This adds flavor and variety to your speech.

Summary of Choice
Choose semelhante for a balanced, slightly formal comparison. Choose parecido for friends and family. Choose análogo or congênere for your PhD thesis or a legal brief.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The root 'sim-' is found in many English words too, like 'similar,' 'simile,' and 'simulate.' In Portuguese, the transition from 'similis' to 'semelhante' involved the characteristic shift of 'li' to 'lh'.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /sɨ.mɐ.ˈʎɐ̃.tɨ/
US /se.me.ˈʎɐ̃.tʃi/
The stress is on the penultimate syllable: se-me-LHAN-te.
Reimt sich auf
brilhante adiante bastante importante constante visitante estudante durante
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'lh' as a simple 'l' (it should be like the 'lli' in 'million').
  • Ignoring the nasalization of the 'an' in 'lhan'.
  • Pronouncing the final 'e' as a strong 'ay' (it should be reduced to 'ee' in Brazil or 'uh' in Portugal).
  • Stress on the wrong syllable (e.g., SE-me-lhante).
  • Failing to pronounce the 'm' clearly.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize due to its similarity to the English 'similar'.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires attention to the preposition 'a' and plural agreement.

Sprechen 3/5

The 'lh' sound can be tricky for beginners to master perfectly.

Hören 2/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to catch in context.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

igual diferente parecido como coisa

Als Nächstes lernen

semelhança assemelhar-se análogo equivalente comparar

Fortgeschritten

verossimilhança concomitante homólogo consubstancial

Wichtige Grammatik

Adjective Agreement

O carro semelhante / As casas semelhantes.

Preposition 'A' with Comparison

Semelhante ao meu pai.

Contractions with 'A'

Semelhante à ideia (a + a).

Adjective Placement for Emphasis

Semelhante erro! (Such an error!)

Nominalization of Adjectives

Devemos ajudar o semelhante.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Esta casa é semelhante.

This house is similar.

'Semelhante' describes the house.

2

O gato é semelhante.

The cat is similar.

The adjective remains 'semelhante' for masculine nouns.

3

Eles são semelhantes.

They are similar.

Plural form of the adjective.

4

Eu tenho uma caneta semelhante.

I have a similar pen.

Adjective following the noun.

5

As cores são semelhantes.

The colors are similar.

Plural agreement with the feminine noun 'cores'.

6

O meu livro é semelhante.

My book is similar.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

7

Você tem um carro semelhante?

Do you have a similar car?

Interrogative sentence using the adjective.

8

As duas fotos são semelhantes.

The two photos are similar.

Plural feminine subject.

1

Este problema é semelhante ao meu.

This problem is similar to mine.

Use of 'ao' (preposition 'a' + article 'o').

2

Ela tem um vestido semelhante ao seu.

She has a dress similar to yours.

Comparing objects using 'ao'.

3

Os resultados são semelhantes.

The results are similar.

Plural masculine agreement.

4

Eu vi uma situação semelhante ontem.

I saw a similar situation yesterday.

Using 'semelhante' to describe an event.

5

As opiniões deles são semelhantes.

Their opinions are similar.

Plural feminine agreement.

6

Este vinho é semelhante àquele que bebemos.

This wine is similar to that one we drank.

Use of 'àquele' (preposition 'a' + demonstrative 'aquele').

7

Buscamos uma solução semelhante.

We are looking for a similar solution.

Direct object with an adjective.

8

As regras são semelhantes em todo o país.

The rules are similar across the whole country.

Adjective describing a plural noun in a general context.

1

De forma semelhante, o projeto foi aprovado.

In a similar way, the project was approved.

Adverbial phrase 'de forma semelhante'.

2

Nunca ouvi semelhante disparate na minha vida!

I've never heard such nonsense in my life!

'Semelhante' used before the noun for emphasis (meaning 'such').

3

Devemos tratar o nosso semelhante com respeito.

We must treat our fellow human being with respect.

'Semelhante' used as a noun.

4

A estrutura é semelhante à de um átomo.

The structure is similar to that of an atom.

Complex comparison using 'à de'.

5

Eles agiram de maneira semelhante à nossa.

They acted in a way similar to ours.

Adverbial phrase with prepositional link.

6

O clima aqui é semelhante ao de Portugal.

The climate here is similar to that of Portugal.

Comparing abstract concepts like climate.

7

Existem casos semelhantes registrados no passado.

There are similar cases recorded in the past.

Plural adjective following the noun.

8

A sua voz é muito semelhante à da sua mãe.

Your voice is very similar to your mother's.

Comparison of sensory qualities.

1

A nova lei é semelhante, em espírito, à anterior.

The new law is similar, in spirit, to the previous one.

Parenthetical insertion 'em espírito'.

2

Não podemos ignorar semelhante injustiça.

We cannot ignore such injustice.

Emphatic use before the noun.

3

Os sintomas são semelhantes aos de uma gripe comum.

The symptoms are similar to those of a common flu.

Technical comparison in a medical context.

4

O autor utiliza um estilo semelhante ao de Machado de Assis.

The author uses a style similar to that of Machado de Assis.

Literary comparison.

5

As duas empresas operam em mercados semelhantes.

The two companies operate in similar markets.

Business context.

6

A proposta é semelhante à que discutimos na semana passada.

The proposal is similar to the one we discussed last week.

Linking to a relative clause 'à que'.

7

Houve uma reação semelhante por parte do público.

There was a similar reaction on the part of the public.

Abstract noun modified by 'semelhante'.

8

Os triângulos são semelhantes se os seus ângulos forem iguais.

Triangles are similar if their angles are equal.

Mathematical definition.

1

A conjuntura política atual é semelhante à do período pós-guerra.

The current political situation is similar to that of the post-war period.

Sophisticated historical comparison.

2

É imperativo que ajudemos o nosso semelhante em tempos de crise.

It is imperative that we help our fellow man in times of crisis.

Formal ethical statement using the noun form.

3

O tecido social desta cidade é semelhante ao de uma metrópole global.

The social fabric of this city is similar to that of a global metropolis.

Metaphorical use in sociology.

4

Semelhante audácia raramente é vista nestas paragens.

Such audacity is rarely seen in these parts.

High-register emphatic placement.

5

A metodologia aplicada é semelhante à preconizada pela OMS.

The methodology applied is similar to that recommended by the WHO.

Formal academic/scientific register.

6

As consequências de semelhante decisão podem ser catastróficas.

The consequences of such a decision could be catastrophic.

Predictive formal statement.

7

O seu raciocínio é semelhante ao meu, mas as conclusões divergem.

Your reasoning is similar to mine, but the conclusions diverge.

Comparing abstract cognitive processes.

8

A fauna local é semelhante à encontrada em regiões subtropicais.

The local fauna is similar to that found in subtropical regions.

Scientific description of biodiversity.

1

A arquitetura barroca em Minas é semelhante, conquanto distinta, à de Portugal.

The Baroque architecture in Minas is similar, albeit distinct, to that of Portugal.

Nuanced comparison with contrastive conjunction.

2

Pode-se traçar um paralelo entre semelhante fenômeno e a queda de Roma.

One can draw a parallel between such a phenomenon and the fall of Rome.

Advanced historiographical analysis.

3

A tessitura da obra é semelhante à de um intrincado tapete persa.

The texture of the work is similar to that of an intricate Persian rug.

High-level literary metaphor.

4

Não creio que semelhante argumento colha junto do tribunal.

I do not believe that such an argument will hold water with the court.

Legal register with idiomatic verb 'colher'.

5

O destino dos dois impérios foi semelhante, selado por intrigas palacianas.

The fate of the two empires was similar, sealed by palace intrigues.

Dramatic historical narrative style.

6

A abordagem é semelhante àquela que outrora fora criticada.

The approach is similar to that which was once criticized.

Use of 'outrora' and 'fora' (pluperfect) for high register.

7

Semelhante proeza exige uma têmpera que poucos possuem.

Such a feat requires a mettle that few possess.

Elevated vocabulary ('proeza', 'têmpera').

8

A morfologia das línguas românicas é, em muitos aspetos, semelhante.

The morphology of Romance languages is, in many aspects, similar.

Linguistic technical description.

Synonyme

parecido análogo idêntico equivalente uniforme paralelo congênere conforme

Gegenteile

diferente distinto divergente oposto

Häufige Kollokationen

casos semelhantes
situação semelhante
gostos semelhantes
características semelhantes
resultados semelhantes
de forma semelhante
de maneira semelhante
triângulos semelhantes
produtos semelhantes
condições semelhantes

Häufige Phrasen

algo semelhante

— Something similar. Used when you can't be specific.

Nunca vi algo semelhante antes.

nada semelhante

— Nothing similar / Nothing like it.

Não há nada semelhante no mercado.

muito semelhante

— Very similar. Used for strong correspondence.

O estilo dele é muito semelhante ao meu.

pouco semelhante

— Not very similar / Little similarity.

Este modelo é pouco semelhante ao original.

em termos semelhantes

— In similar terms / In a similar way.

Eles falaram em termos semelhantes sobre a crise.

por algo semelhante

— For something similar.

Eu trocaria isto por algo semelhante.

semelhante a isso

— Similar to that.

Eu quero um casaco semelhante a isso.

em circunstâncias semelhantes

— In similar circumstances.

Qualquer um faria o mesmo em circunstâncias semelhantes.

de modo semelhante

— In a similar fashion/manner.

A empresa cresceu de modo semelhante à concorrência.

nada mais semelhante

— Nothing more similar / Just like.

Não há nada mais semelhante a um sonho do que esta viagem.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

semelhante vs igual

Igual means exactly the same; semelhante means similar but with differences.

semelhante vs mesmo

Mesmo means 'the same one' (identity); semelhante means 'of the same kind' (similarity).

semelhante vs parecido

Parecido is more casual and usually takes 'com'; semelhante is more formal and takes 'a'.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"amar o próximo como a si mesmo"

— To love your neighbor (fellow man) as yourself. Uses 'próximo', often explained via 'semelhante'.

A base da ética é amar o seu semelhante.

Religious/Philosophical
"nunca vi semelhante coisa"

— I've never seen such a thing! Expresses shock or disbelief.

O preço subiu tanto? Nunca vi semelhante coisa!

Informal/Emphatic
"fazer o mesmo ou semelhante"

— To do the same or something similar. To follow suit.

Se ele sair, eu farei o mesmo ou semelhante.

Neutral
"em linhas semelhantes"

— Along similar lines. Sharing a common logic.

O projeto segue em linhas semelhantes ao anterior.

Professional
"dar o semelhante"

— To give back in kind (rare/literary).

Ele recebeu o semelhante pelo que fez.

Literary
"tratar como semelhante"

— To treat someone as an equal.

Ele trata todos os funcionários como semelhantes.

Neutral
"semelhante atrai semelhante"

— Like attracts like.

Dizem que, na amizade, semelhante atrai semelhante.

Proverbial
"semelhante tal qual"

— Exactly like / Just like (emphatic).

Ele é semelhante tal qual o pai era na juventude.

Colloquial
"não há semelhante"

— There is no equal / It is unique.

A beleza desta ilha? Não há semelhante.

Poetic
"de semelhante quilate"

— Of similar caliber/quality.

Precisamos de profissionais de semelhante quilate.

Formal

Leicht verwechselbar

semelhante vs Semelhança

It is the noun form (similarity).

Semelhante is an adjective (similar); semelhança is the noun (similarity).

Há uma semelhança entre eles. Eles são semelhantes.

semelhante vs Assemelhar

It is the verb form.

Assemelhar is the action of making or becoming similar.

Ele tenta assemelhar o seu estilo ao meu.

semelhante vs Simultâneo

Starts with 'Sim-'.

Simultâneo refers to time (happening at the same time), not appearance.

Os ataques foram simultâneos.

semelhante vs Símile

Linguistic term.

A símile is a literary figure of speech using 'como'.

O autor usou uma símile para descrever a cena.

semelhante vs Verossímil

Contains the root.

Means 'likely' or 'plausible' (truth-like), not necessarily similar to something else.

A história não parece verossímil.

Satzmuster

A1

[Noun] é semelhante.

Este livro é semelhante.

A2

[Noun] é semelhante a [Noun].

Este carro é semelhante ao meu.

B1

De forma semelhante, [Clause].

De forma semelhante, ele desistiu.

B1

Nunca vi semelhante [Noun].

Nunca vi semelhante confusão.

B2

[Noun] apresenta características semelhantes a [Noun].

O vírus apresenta características semelhantes ao da gripe.

C1

É dever de todos respeitar o seu semelhante.

É dever de todos respeitar o seu semelhante.

C1

A conjuntura é semelhante à de [Time Period].

A conjuntura é semelhante à de 2008.

C2

Semelhante [Abstract Noun] não encontra paralelo na história.

Semelhante audácia não encontra paralelo na história.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

semelhança (similarity)
semelhante (fellow man)

Verben

assemelhar (to make similar)
assemelhar-se (to look like/resemble)

Adjektive

semelhante (similar)
verossimilhante (plausible)

Verwandt

símile
similitude
simulacro
simultâneo
assimilável

So verwendest du es

frequency

Highly frequent in both written and spoken Portuguese.

Häufige Fehler
  • Este livro é semelhante com o outro. Este livro é semelhante ao outro.

    You must use the preposition 'a', not 'com'.

  • Uma ideia semelhanta. Uma ideia semelhante.

    'Semelhante' does not change for gender.

  • Eles são semelhante. Eles são semelhantes.

    The adjective must agree in number with the plural subject.

  • Eu nunca vi uma semelhante confusão. Eu nunca vi semelhante confusão.

    When used as 'such', the article 'uma' is often omitted or the order is changed for natural flow.

  • A cor é semelhante o céu. A cor é semelhante à do céu.

    You need the preposition 'a' and often a reference to the quality (the color of the sky).

Tipps

Preposition Match

Always pair 'semelhante' with 'a'. Just like in English you say 'similar to', in Portuguese you say 'semelhante a'.

Formal vs Informal

Use 'parecido' with friends and 'semelhante' in your work emails or university essays.

The 'LH' Sound

Don't say 'seme-lante'. Make sure to get that 'y' sound in the 'lh' – it's crucial for being understood.

Emphasis Trick

Place 'semelhante' before the noun to express surprise or shock, like 'such a' in English.

Nasal Sounds

The 'an' in 'lhan' is nasal. Practice breathing out through your nose while saying it.

Fellow Man

Remember that 'o semelhante' (the noun) is a beautiful way to talk about humanity.

Plural Power

Always check if your noun is plural. If it is, the adjective must be 'semelhantes'.

Math Context

If you see 'triângulos semelhantes', it means they have the same angles but different sizes.

Brazilian 'TE'

If you are in Brazil, pronounce the final 'te' as 'chi' to sound more local.

Context Clues

If 'semelhante' follows a noun, it's a comparison. If it precedes it, it's usually an intensifier.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of the 'SEM' in 'SEMelhante' as being like 'SIM' in 'SIMilar.' They both start with 'S' and talk about things being the 'Same-ish.'

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine two identical-looking twins standing next to each other. They are 'semelhantes.'

Word Web

similar parecido igual análogo equivalente gêmeo cópia reflexo

Herausforderung

Try to find three things in your room that are 'semelhantes' and describe them in Portuguese using the word 'semelhante' at least once.

Wortherkunft

Derived from the Latin word 'similis' (meaning 'like' or 'resembling'), through the Vulgar Latin *similians, -antis.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Having the same nature or appearance as something else.

It belongs to the Romance family, with cognates in Spanish (semejante), French (semblable), and Italian (simigliante).

Kultureller Kontext

When using 'o nosso semelhante' as a noun, ensure the context is one of respect and empathy.

English speakers often use 'similar' for everything. In Portuguese, learn to distinguish between the casual 'parecido' and the more formal 'semelhante'.

Used in the Portuguese translation of the Bible (e.g., 'amar o próximo/semelhante'). Frequently appears in the lyrics of Fado and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) when comparing feelings or fates. Common in the works of José Saramago to describe social patterns.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Shopping

  • Você tem algo semelhante?
  • Um modelo semelhante
  • Preço semelhante
  • Cor semelhante

Academic/Research

  • Resultados semelhantes
  • Metodologia semelhante
  • Estudo semelhante
  • De forma semelhante

Legal/Official

  • Casos semelhantes
  • Medida semelhante
  • Lei semelhante
  • Em circunstâncias semelhantes

Social/Ethics

  • O nosso semelhante
  • Tratar o semelhante
  • Respeito ao semelhante
  • Gostos semelhantes

Mathematics

  • Triângulos semelhantes
  • Figuras semelhantes
  • Razão de semelhança
  • Ângulos semelhantes

Gesprächseinstiege

"Você já teve uma experiência semelhante à minha?"

"Quais cidades você acha que são semelhantes a Lisboa?"

"Você acha que o português é muito semelhante ao espanhol?"

"Você tem gostos semelhantes aos dos seus pais?"

"Você já viu algo semelhante a este monumento antes?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Descreva uma situação em que você teve que lidar com um problema semelhante ao de um amigo.

Pense em dois livros que você leu. De que forma eles são semelhantes?

Como você trata o seu semelhante no dia a dia?

Escreva sobre uma viagem que foi semelhante a um sonho que você teve.

Quais são as características semelhantes entre você e a pessoa que você mais admira?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 'semelhante' is a uniform adjective. It ends in 'e', so it stays the same for both masculine and feminine nouns. For example, 'o carro semelhante' and 'a casa semelhante'.

'Semelhante' is more formal and usually takes the preposition 'a'. 'Parecido' is more casual, used for physical looks, and usually takes the preposition 'com'.

Simply add an 's' to the end. 'Os problemas semelhantes' or 'as ideias semelhantes'.

Yes, when placed before a noun, it often means 'such' or 'that kind of'. For example, 'Nunca vi semelhante coisa!' (I've never seen such a thing!).

You should use the preposition 'a'. If the next word is a masculine noun with an article, it becomes 'ao'. If it's feminine, it becomes 'à'.

Yes, it is a technical term in geometry. 'Triângulos semelhantes' are triangles that have the same shape but different sizes.

Yes, as a noun ('o meu semelhante'), it means 'my fellow man' or 'my neighbor' in a social or moral sense.

Yes, it is used throughout the Portuguese-speaking world, though Brazilians might use 'parecido' more often in casual speech.

It's a palatal sound, similar to the 'll' in 'million' or the 'gl' in Italian 'famiglia'. Your tongue should touch the palate.

The most common opposite is 'diferente'. You could also use 'distinto' or 'divergente' depending on the context.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using 'semelhante' to compare two books.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'They have similar tastes in music.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'semelhante' as a noun in a short sentence.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Create an emphatic sentence starting with 'Nunca vi semelhante...'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using the plural form 'semelhantes'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'In a similar way, the economy is growing.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Compare your car (or a friend's) to another using 'semelhante ao'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a formal sentence about research results using 'semelhante'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe two people you know using 'semelhantes'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I am looking for a similar dress.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'semelhante' to describe a situation you experienced.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The two cases are similar in many aspects.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about similar triangles.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'How could you say such a thing?' using 'semelhante'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'semelhante' to compare the weather in two places.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using 'semelhante à'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We have similar problems.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'semelhante' to describe a movie you saw.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about similar products in a store.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Such a decision was unexpected.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce 'semelhante' clearly.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce the plural 'semelhantes'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'O meu carro é semelhante ao seu.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Nunca vi semelhante coisa!' with emphasis.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'De forma semelhante, eu concordo.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Os problemas são semelhantes.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Ame o seu semelhante.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Temos gostos semelhantes.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'A situação é semelhante à de ontem.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Não há nada semelhante aqui.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Este preço é semelhante ao outro.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'As cores são semelhantes.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Agimos de maneira semelhante.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Semelhante audácia é rara.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Eles são muito semelhantes.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'O estilo dele é semelhante ao meu.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Buscamos uma solução semelhante.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'As duas ideias são semelhantes.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'O clima é semelhante ao de Portugal.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Não vi semelhante beleza.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Identify the word 'semelhante' in a sentence about two twins.

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

Is the word 'semelhante' or 'diferente' used in the audio?

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

Identify if the adjective is singular or plural in the audio.

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

Listen for the preposition used after 'semelhante'.

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

Does the speaker sound surprised (using 'semelhante' as 'such')?

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

Identify the noun being described as 'semelhante' in the audio.

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

Which word is used: 'semelhante' or 'parecido'?

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

Count how many times 'semelhante' is used in the short clip.

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

Identify the register: formal or informal?

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

Is 'semelhante' used as a noun or adjective in the audio?

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

Listen and transcribe the phrase containing 'semelhante'.

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

Identify the gender of the noun 'semelhante' is describing.

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

What is being compared in the audio?

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

Is the speaker using 'semelhante' to describe a physical object?

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

Identify the final sound of 'semelhante' (Portugal vs Brazil style).

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

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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