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B1 noun #1,000 más común 11 min de lectura

assunto

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos assunto en 30 segundos

Explicación assunto in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'assunto' is a word you will use to identify what something is about in a very simple way. You might use it to ask 'Qual é o assunto?' (What is the topic?) when you see people talking or when you are looking at a book cover. It is a basic building block for understanding context. At this stage, you should focus on the fact that it is a masculine noun ('o assunto') and that it usually corresponds to 'subject' or 'topic' in English. You will see it in simple phrases like 'O assunto da aula' (The subject of the lesson). It helps you categorize information. Even with a limited vocabulary, knowing 'assunto' allows you to participate in basic classroom interactions or follow simple instructions. You don't need to worry about complex idioms yet; just focus on using it to define the 'what' of a situation. For example, if you are learning colors, the 'assunto' is 'cores'. If you are learning numbers, the 'assunto' is 'números'. It is a functional word that provides a label for your learning activities. Practice saying it clearly, with the stress on the second syllable: as-SUN-to. This will make your basic Portuguese sound more natural and organized.

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As an A2 learner, you can start using 'assunto' in more complete sentences and common daily expressions. You will likely encounter it when writing emails—specifically in the 'Assunto' (Subject) line. This is a practical application that reinforces the word's meaning as the 'main point.' You can also use it to express your interests: 'Eu gosto deste assunto' (I like this subject). At this level, you should also learn the phrase 'mudar de assunto' (to change the subject), which is very useful when you want to steer a conversation toward something you feel more comfortable talking about in Portuguese. You might also hear 'assunto sério' (serious matter), which helps you understand the tone of a conversation. You are moving beyond just labeling things and starting to describe the nature of the topics you encounter. You can use 'assunto' to ask for clarification: 'Pode explicar esse assunto de novo?' (Can you explain that subject again?). This shows you are actively engaging with the language and trying to understand the substance of what is being taught or discussed. It is a bridge to more complex communication.

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At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'assunto' in a variety of contexts, including professional and social situations. You will start to notice nuances, such as the difference between 'assunto' and 'tema.' You can use 'assunto' to manage conversations more effectively, using phrases like 'Voltando ao assunto...' (Returning to the subject...) or 'Para entrar no assunto...' (To get into the subject...). This level requires you to handle more abstract topics, and 'assunto' is the perfect tool for that. You might discuss 'assuntos polêmicos' (controversial subjects) or 'assuntos de interesse geral' (subjects of general interest). You should also be aware of the idiomatic expression 'ficar sem assunto' (to run out of things to talk about), which is common in social descriptions. In a work environment, you will use 'assunto' to refer to pending tasks or specific issues: 'Temos muitos assuntos para resolver hoje.' Your ability to use the word in the plural ('assuntos') to denote a list of matters shows a higher level of grammatical control. You are now using the word not just to identify, but to organize and direct communication.

By the B2 level, your use of 'assunto' should be fluid and precise. You can use it to discuss complex issues with a degree of sophistication. You will understand and use expressions like 'assunto encerrado' (closed matter) to indicate that a discussion has reached its conclusion. You can also use 'estar por dentro do assunto' to describe your expertise or current knowledge on a topic. At this stage, you should be able to distinguish between 'assunto' and more formal terms like 'pauta' (agenda) or 'questão' (issue/problem). You might use 'assunto' in more formal writing, such as reports or essays, to introduce the scope of your work: 'O presente assunto reveste-se de grande importância...' (The present subject is of great importance...). You are also capable of understanding the word in different registers, from the slangy 'dar assunto' (to encourage someone to talk) to the formal 'assuntos de Estado' (matters of State). Your vocabulary is rich enough to qualify 'assunto' with a wide range of adjectives and to use it in complex sentence structures involving various prepositions and clauses. You are moving toward a native-like grasp of how topics are framed in Portuguese.

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At the C1 level, you use 'assunto' with the subtlety of a native speaker. You understand the deep cultural implications of the word, such as how 'não dar assunto' can be a social strategy to avoid unwanted interactions. You can navigate highly technical or academic discussions where 'assunto' might be used to define the boundaries of a field of study. You are comfortable with legal and bureaucratic uses, such as 'assunto jurídico' or 'assunto administrativo.' Your ability to use 'assunto' as a rhetorical device—for example, to dismiss a point or to emphasize the gravity of a situation—is well-developed. You can analyze texts where 'assunto' is used metaphorically or in complex idioms. You might use it in sophisticated arguments: 'Independentemente do assunto em questão, a ética deve prevalecer.' This shows you can integrate the word into high-level moral and philosophical discourse. You are also sensitive to the register of the word, knowing exactly when 'assunto' is too informal and when a word like 'temática' or 'problemática' would be more appropriate for a scholarly context. Your mastery is evident in your ability to switch between these terms seamlessly.

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At the C2 level, 'assunto' is a tool you wield with complete precision and stylistic flair. You have a comprehensive understanding of its etymological roots and how its meaning has evolved in the Portuguese language. You can use it in creative writing, poetry, or high-level journalism to create specific effects. You are fully aware of the most obscure idioms and regional variations in how 'assunto' is used across the Lusophone world. Whether you are discussing the 'assunto' of a classical Portuguese novel or the 'assuntos' of a modern political crisis, your usage is impeccable. You can engage in meta-discussions about the 'assunto' itself—how topics are constructed, framed, and manipulated in public discourse. You might use the word in complex legal or diplomatic negotiations where every nuance of 'matter' or 'subject' carries significant weight. Your command of the language allows you to use 'assunto' to convey irony, authority, or intimacy, depending on the context. At this level, the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile instrument for sophisticated thought and expression, fully integrated into your mastery of Portuguese.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

assunto en 30 segundos

Assunto is the primary Portuguese word for 'subject' or 'topic' in almost any context, from casual talk to formal emails.
It is a masculine noun ('o assunto') and is frequently used with prepositions like 'de' and 'sobre' to define content.
Common expressions include 'mudar de assunto' (change the subject) and 'assunto encerrado' (matter closed), which are essential for conversation flow.
In professional settings, it appears as the 'Subject' line in emails and refers to the agenda items in meetings.

The Portuguese word assunto is a versatile and essential noun that every learner must master to navigate both casual and professional conversations. At its core, it translates to 'subject,' 'topic,' 'matter,' or 'issue.' Unlike some English synonyms that might sound overly formal, assunto is the standard, go-to word for describing what a conversation, a book, an email, or a meeting is about. It is masculine, preceded by the article 'o' (o assunto).

General Topic: When you are discussing the theme of a movie or a lesson, you use assunto. For example, 'O assunto da aula de hoje é história' (The subject of today's class is history).

Eu não entendo nada sobre esse assunto específico de física quântica.

In a professional context, assunto is frequently seen in the 'Subject' line of an email. It signals the main point of the correspondence. If a colleague says, 'Temos um assunto pendente,' they mean there is an unresolved matter or issue that needs attention. It carries a weight of importance but remains neutral enough for various settings. It is also used when someone wants to change the direction of a conversation: 'Mudando de assunto...' (Changing the subject...).

Personal Matters: It can also refer to private or serious matters. 'Isso é um assunto particular' means 'That is a private matter.' It implies that the topic is not for public consumption.

Precisamos conversar sobre um assunto muito sério hoje à noite.

Culturally, Brazilians and Portuguese speakers often use the phrase 'dar assunto' to mean giving someone a reason to keep talking or encouraging a conversation. If you 'não dá assunto' to someone, you are being brief or dismissive to avoid further interaction. This nuance shows how the word moves beyond a simple noun into the realm of social dynamics.

Problematic Issues: Sometimes, assunto refers to a problem or a 'case.' In legal or bureaucratic terms, an 'assunto jurídico' is a legal matter. It encompasses the entirety of the situation being discussed.

O advogado resolveu o assunto do contrato rapidamente.

Não vamos voltar a esse assunto, por favor.

Qual é o assunto principal da sua tese de doutorado?

In summary, assunto is the fabric of communication. Whether you are writing a formal letter, chatting with a friend, or studying for an exam, you are constantly dealing with different assuntos. It is a word that bridges the gap between the abstract concept of a 'topic' and the concrete reality of a 'matter at hand.'

Using assunto correctly involves understanding its placement in a sentence and the prepositions that usually accompany it. Most commonly, you will see it paired with the preposition 'de' (of/about) or 'sobre' (about). For instance, 'falar sobre um assunto' (to talk about a subject) or 'o assunto do livro' (the subject of the book). Because it is a noun, it can function as the subject, direct object, or object of a preposition.

As a Subject: When the topic itself is performing an action or being described: 'O assunto parece interessante' (The subject seems interesting).

Este assunto não me diz respeito.

In everyday conversation, you will often hear people use the phrase 'entrar no assunto.' This means to get to the point or start discussing the main topic. It is a useful transition phrase in meetings. Conversely, 'sair do assunto' means to go off-topic or digress. If someone is talking too much about irrelevant things, you might say, 'Você está saindo do assunto.'

With Adjectives: You can qualify the noun with various adjectives: 'assunto polêmico' (controversial subject), 'assunto encerrado' (closed matter), 'assunto urgente' (urgent matter).

Para mim, este é um assunto encerrado e não quero mais discutir.

Another important usage is in the plural: assuntos. You might say, 'Tenho muitos assuntos para tratar com você' (I have many matters to deal with you). This implies a list of things to discuss. In a more formal setting, like a government or a large organization, 'Assuntos Internacionais' refers to International Affairs. Here, the word takes on a broader, more institutional meaning.

Changing the Topic: To change the subject, use the verb 'mudar'. 'Vamos mudar de assunto?' (Shall we change the subject?). This is a polite way to steer the conversation away from something uncomfortable.

Ela sempre tenta mudar de assunto quando falamos de dinheiro.

O assunto em pauta na reunião de hoje é o orçamento anual.

Eles trataram de diversos assuntos durante a conferência de imprensa.

Finally, consider the expression 'por dentro do assunto.' If you are 'por dentro,' you are well-informed or 'in the loop' about a specific topic. 'Você está por dentro do assunto das novas taxas?' (Are you aware of the matter of the new fees?). This is a very common idiomatic way to describe expertise or current knowledge.

You will encounter the word assunto in almost every layer of Portuguese-speaking society. In the media, news anchors often introduce segments by saying, 'O próximo assunto é a economia' (The next topic is the economy). In newspapers, headlines often group related stories under a single assunto. It is the structural backbone of how information is categorized and presented to the public.

In the Workplace: Meetings are entirely driven by assuntos. An agenda is essentially a list of 'assuntos a serem discutidos.' You will hear managers say, 'Vamos focar no assunto principal' to keep the team on track.

O assunto da nossa reunião foi cancelado devido a imprevistos.

In schools and universities, teachers use it to define the scope of the curriculum. 'O assunto da prova será os capítulos 1 a 5' (The subject of the test will be chapters 1 to 5). Students often ask each other, 'Qual é o assunto que mais cai no vestibular?' (Which topic appears most in the entrance exam?). It is synonymous with 'content' in this educational context.

Legal and Formal Documents: In legal documents, 'assunto' specifies the nature of the case. It is formal and precise. You might see 'Assunto: Inventário' or 'Assunto: Divórcio' at the top of a file.

Este é um assunto de segurança nacional e não pode ser divulgado.

On social media, 'assuntos do momento' is the Portuguese translation for 'Trending Topics' on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). This shows how the word has adapted to the digital age, representing what everyone is talking about right now. If a video goes viral, it becomes the 'assunto das redes sociais.'

Daily Conversations: Friends use it to catch up. 'Quais são os novos assuntos?' is a way of asking 'What's the news?' or 'What's been happening?'. It’s a very natural way to invite someone to share updates.

Eles ficaram sem assunto logo no primeiro encontro.

O assunto rendeu a noite inteira entre os amigos.

Não é assunto para crianças ouvirem.

In summary, whether you are listening to the radio, reading a contract, or chatting at a bar, assunto is the word that defines the substance of what is being communicated. It is ubiquitous and indispensable.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing assunto with other words like 'sujeito' or 'tema.' While all three can relate to 'subject' in English, they are not interchangeable in Portuguese. 'Sujeito' usually refers to the grammatical subject of a sentence or a 'guy/fellow' in informal speech. 'Tema' is more about the 'theme' or 'motif' of a work of art or a specific thesis topic, whereas assunto is the general matter being discussed.

Assunto vs. Sujeito: Don't say 'O sujeito da reunião' when you mean 'The topic of the meeting.' Use 'O assunto da reunião.' 'Sujeito' would imply a person or a grammatical function.

Errado: O sujeito do livro é a guerra.
Correto: O assunto do livro é a guerra.

Another common error is gender agreement. Because assunto ends in 'o', it is masculine. Learners often mistakenly use feminine articles or adjectives if the topic they are discussing is feminine. For example, if you are talking about 'a educação' (education), you must still say 'O assunto é importante,' not 'A assunto é importante.' The gender of the noun assunto is fixed.

Assunto vs. Tópico: While 'tópico' exists in Portuguese, it often refers to a bullet point or a very specific sub-section. Using 'tópico' for a general conversation topic can sound a bit clinical or like a direct translation from English. 'Assunto' is much more natural.

Vamos falar sobre este assunto (Natural) vs. Vamos falar sobre este tópico (Formal/Specific).

Learners also struggle with the preposition after assunto. In English, we say 'subject of' or 'topic of.' In Portuguese, while 'assunto de' is common (e.g., 'assunto de interesse'), when you want to say 'about,' you should use 'sobre.' 'Um livro sobre este assunto' is better than 'Um livro deste assunto.'

False Cognate Alert: Do not confuse 'assunto' with 'assumir.' 'Assumir' means to assume or take on (a responsibility), not to 'subjectize' something. They come from different roots.

Ele assumiu a responsabilidade pelo assunto.

Eu tenho alguns assuntos a resolver na cidade.

Não misture os assuntos pessoais com o trabalho.

Finally, avoid using 'assunto' when you mean 'matter' in the physical sense (substance). For that, the word is 'matéria.' For example, 'A matéria é composta de átomos' (Matter is composed of atoms). Using 'assunto' there would be a major error.

To enrich your Portuguese vocabulary, it is helpful to know words that are similar to assunto and when to choose one over the other. While assunto is the most general term, other words can provide more precision depending on the context.

Tema vs. Assunto: Tema is often used for academic or artistic contexts. It refers to the underlying theme or the specific title of a thesis. Assunto is the broader matter. Example: 'O assunto é a poluição, mas o tema da redação é o plástico nos oceanos.'

O assunto da palestra foi muito abrangente, mas o tema foi focado.

Another alternative is tópico. As mentioned before, this is best used for specific points in a list or specific items in a presentation. If you say 'Vamos para o próximo tópico,' you are literally moving to the next bullet point on your slide. Assunto would be the whole discussion around that point.

Matéria vs. Assunto: Matéria can mean 'subject' in the sense of a school subject (like Math or History) or a news report. 'A matéria de hoje no jornal' (Today's report in the newspaper). Assunto is what that report is about.

A matéria de capa da revista aborda um assunto fascinante.

In more formal or legal settings, you might hear pauta. This refers to the agenda or the 'docket.' 'O assunto está na pauta do dia' means the matter is on today's agenda. It is a very professional way to refer to the scheduled topics of discussion.

Objeto vs. Assunto: In philosophy or high-level research, 'objeto' refers to the object of study. 'O objeto de estudo desta pesquisa é...' (The object of study of this research is...). This is much more specific than assunto.

O assunto é vasto, mas o objeto de análise é restrito.

Não mude o assunto agora, ainda não terminamos de falar sobre isso.

Este assunto é recorrente em todas as nossas conversas.

By understanding these nuances, you can avoid the 'one-word-fits-all' trap and speak more like a native. Use assunto for the general topic, tema for the academic focus, questão for problems, and pauta for formal agendas.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

While 'assunto' and 'assumption' share the same Latin root, their meanings in modern Portuguese and English have diverged significantly. 'Assunto' is far more common for 'topic' than 'assumption' is.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ɐˈsũ.tu/

US /aˈsũ.tu/

The stress is on the penultimate syllable: as-SUN-to.

Rima con

conjunto presunto adjunto defunto junto perperunto transeunto disjunto

Errores comunes

Pronouncing the 'ss' like a 'z'. It should always be a voiceless 's'.
Failing to nasalize the 'un'. It is not 'sun' like in English, but a nasal vowel.
Stressing the first or last syllable. Portuguese nouns ending in 'o' usually have penultimate stress.
Pronouncing the final 'o' as a strong 'oh'. In most dialects, it reduces to a soft 'u'.
Confusing it with the verb 'assumir' and trying to pronounce it similarly.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 1/5

Very easy to recognize in texts and emails.

Escritura 2/5

Requires remembering the 'ss' spelling and masculine gender.

Expresión oral 2/5

Nasal 'un' sound and penultimate stress are key.

Escucha 1/5

Commonly used and usually clear in speech.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

o um falar sobre de

Aprende después

tema questão pauta discutir abordar

Avanzado

problemática temática referente objeto de estudo

Gramática que debes saber

Nasal Vowels (un)

In 'assunto', the 'un' is a nasal vowel, similar to the sound in 'um'.

Masculine Nouns in -o

'Assunto' follows the standard rule of masculine nouns ending in 'o'.

Preposition 'Sobre'

Use 'sobre' to mean 'about' after 'assunto' or 'falar'.

Preposition 'De'

Use 'de' to indicate possession or origin, like 'o assunto do livro'.

Stress Rules

Words ending in 'o' are usually stressed on the penultimate syllable.

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Ejemplos por nivel

O assunto do livro é a natureza.

The subject of the book is nature.

Simple noun-adjective structure.

Qual é o assunto da conversa?

What is the topic of the conversation?

Interrogative sentence using 'qual'.

O assunto da aula hoje é fácil.

The subject of the class today is easy.

Using 'assunto' to describe school content.

Eu não gosto deste assunto.

I don't like this subject.

Negative sentence with the demonstrative 'deste'.

O assunto é muito importante.

The subject is very important.

Using 'muito' to intensify the adjective.

Eles falam sobre o mesmo assunto.

They talk about the same subject.

Preposition 'sobre' used with 'assunto'.

Este assunto é novo para mim.

This subject is new to me.

Demonstrative 'este' matching the masculine noun.

O assunto da foto é a praia.

The subject of the photo is the beach.

Using 'assunto' to describe visual content.

Escreva o assunto no e-mail.

Write the subject in the email.

Imperative verb 'escreva'.

Vamos mudar de assunto agora.

Let's change the subject now.

Common phrase 'mudar de assunto'.

Ela entende muito desse assunto.

She understands a lot about this subject.

Verb 'entender' followed by 'de'.

O assunto da reunião foi o bônus.

The topic of the meeting was the bonus.

Past tense 'foi'.

Não quero falar sobre esse assunto.

I don't want to talk about that subject.

Verb 'querer' in the negative.

O assunto é um pouco complicado.

The subject is a bit complicated.

Adverbial phrase 'um pouco'.

Eles têm muitos assuntos para tratar.

They have many matters to deal with.

Plural form 'assuntos'.

Qual assunto você prefere estudar?

Which subject do you prefer to study?

Verb 'preferir' followed by an infinitive.

Voltando ao assunto, precisamos de mais tempo.

Returning to the subject, we need more time.

Gerund 'voltando' used as a transition.

Este é um assunto de interesse público.

This is a matter of public interest.

Noun phrase 'interesse público'.

Ficamos sem assunto depois de dez minutos.

We ran out of things to talk about after ten minutes.

Idiomatic expression 'ficar sem assunto'.

O assunto em pauta é a nova lei.

The matter on the agenda is the new law.

Professional phrase 'em pauta'.

Ele tentou evitar o assunto o tempo todo.

He tried to avoid the subject the whole time.

Verb 'evitar' (to avoid).

Trata-se de um assunto muito delicado.

It is a very delicate matter.

Impersonal 'trata-se de'.

Você está por dentro do assunto das obras?

Are you in the loop about the construction matter?

Idiom 'por dentro do assunto'.

Não misture assuntos pessoais com profissionais.

Don't mix personal matters with professional ones.

Imperative 'não misture'.

Assunto encerrado, não voltaremos a discutir isso.

Matter closed, we will not discuss this again.

Past participle 'encerrado' used as an adjective.

O assunto rendeu discussões acaloradas na rede.

The topic sparked heated discussions online.

Verb 'render' meaning to produce or spark.

Abordaremos esse assunto na próxima conferência.

We will address this subject in the next conference.

Future tense 'abordaremos'.

É um assunto que exige extrema cautela.

It is a subject that requires extreme caution.

Relative clause starting with 'que'.

O assunto principal foi ofuscado por polêmicas.

The main subject was overshadowed by controversies.

Passive voice 'foi ofuscado'.

Ele domina o assunto como ninguém na empresa.

He masters the subject like no one else in the company.

Verb 'dominar' (to master).

O assunto tomou proporções inesperadas.

The matter took on unexpected proportions.

Noun 'proporções' (proportions).

Não dê assunto para quem só quer criticar.

Don't give a reason to talk to those who only want to criticize.

Idiomatic use of 'dar assunto'.

A complexidade do assunto transcende a nossa análise.

The complexity of the subject transcends our analysis.

High-level vocabulary like 'transcende'.

O assunto foi esgotado após horas de debate.

The subject was exhausted after hours of debate.

Verb 'esgotar' (to exhaust/deplete).

Trata-se de um assunto de suma importância para a nação.

It is a matter of utmost importance for the nation.

Formal phrase 'de suma importância'.

O assunto em questão remete a tempos ancestrais.

The subject in question refers back to ancestral times.

Verb 'remeter' (to refer/send back).

A sutileza do assunto exige um olhar mais atento.

The subtlety of the subject requires a more attentive look.

Abstract noun 'sutileza'.

O assunto é recorrente na literatura contemporânea.

The subject is recurring in contemporary literature.

Adjective 'recorrente'.

Não podemos negligenciar um assunto tão vital.

We cannot neglect such a vital matter.

Verb 'negligenciar' (to neglect).

O assunto desdobrou-se em várias outras questões.

The subject unfolded into several other issues.

Pronominal verb 'desdobrar-se'.

O assunto foi abordado sob uma ótica fenomenológica.

The subject was approached from a phenomenological perspective.

Academic terminology 'ótica fenomenológica'.

A perenidade desse assunto na filosofia é notável.

The perennial nature of this subject in philosophy is notable.

Sophisticated noun 'perenidade'.

O assunto, embora árido, foi exposto com clareza.

The subject, although dry, was presented with clarity.

Concessive conjunction 'embora'.

Tal assunto jaz no cerne da discórdia política.

Such a matter lies at the heart of political discord.

Literary verb 'jazer' (to lie).

O assunto suscita reflexões sobre a condição humana.

The subject provokes reflections on the human condition.

Verb 'suscitar' (to provoke/arouse).

A abrangência do assunto impossibilita uma síntese rápida.

The scope of the subject makes a quick synthesis impossible.

Noun 'abrangência' (scope/range).

O assunto foi relegado a um segundo plano pela mídia.

The matter was relegated to the background by the media.

Idiomatic 'relegar a um segundo plano'.

A pertinência do assunto é inquestionável neste contexto.

The relevance of the subject is unquestionable in this context.

Noun 'pertinência' (relevance).

Colocaciones comunes

mudar de assunto

assunto encerrado

entrar no assunto

assunto sério

assunto pendente

por dentro do assunto

assunto polêmico

assunto do momento

perder o assunto

assunto de interesse

Frases Comunes

Qual é o assunto?

— Used to ask what people are talking about or what the topic is.

Vi vocês conversando, qual é o assunto?

Voltando ao assunto...

— Used to steer the conversation back to the previous topic.

Voltando ao assunto, quando será a viagem?

Isso não é assunto seu.

— A firm way to say 'This is none of your business.'

Não se meta, isso não é assunto seu.

Mudar de assunto.

— To start talking about something else.

Ela não gosta de falar de trabalho, vamos mudar de assunto.

Assunto de família.

— A matter that only concerns family members.

Não posso contar, é um assunto de família.

Ficar sem assunto.

— To have nothing left to talk about.

O encontro foi ruim, ficamos sem assunto logo.

Entrar direto no assunto.

— To get straight to the point without small talk.

Não temos tempo, vamos entrar direto no assunto.

Assunto do e-mail.

— The subject line of an electronic message.

Não esqueça de colocar o assunto do e-mail.

Assunto resolvido.

— A matter that has been settled or fixed.

Pode ficar tranquilo, o assunto está resolvido.

Assunto urgente.

— A topic or matter that needs immediate attention.

Recebi um telefonema sobre um assunto urgente.

Se confunde a menudo con

assunto vs sujeito

Sujeito is a grammatical subject or a person, not a topic of discussion.

assunto vs matéria

Matéria is a school subject or physical matter, while assunto is the topic.

assunto vs tema

Tema is more specific/academic, while assunto is more general.

Modismos y expresiones

"dar assunto"

— To give someone a reason to keep talking or to encourage a conversation.

Se você der assunto, ele não vai parar de falar.

informal

"não dar assunto"

— To be brief or dismissive to avoid further interaction.

Eu não dei assunto para o vendedor e ele foi embora.

informal

"assunto encerrado"

— Used to declare that a discussion is over and no more debate is allowed.

Você não vai sair hoje e assunto encerrado!

neutral/forceful

"por dentro do assunto"

— To be well-informed or knowledgeable about a specific topic.

Ele está por dentro do assunto das novas tecnologias.

neutral

"sair do assunto"

— To go off-topic or start talking about irrelevant things.

Pare de sair do assunto e responda minha pergunta.

neutral

"puxar assunto"

— To start a conversation with someone, especially a stranger.

Ele tentou puxar assunto com a menina no ônibus.

informal

"morrer o assunto"

— When a topic is no longer discussed or loses interest.

Depois daquela briga, o assunto morreu.

informal

"assunto de vida ou morte"

— An extremely serious or critical matter.

Precisamos decidir isso agora, é um assunto de vida ou morte.

idiomatic/exaggerated

"esgotar o assunto"

— To discuss a topic so thoroughly that there is nothing left to say.

Nós esgotamos o assunto na reunião de ontem.

neutral

"assunto para mais de metro"

— A topic that is very long and could be discussed for a long time.

Se falarmos de política, teremos assunto para mais de metro.

informal (Brazil)

Fácil de confundir

assunto vs assumir

Looks like 'assunto'.

Assumir is a verb meaning to take on or assume. Assunto is a noun meaning topic.

Ele assumiu o erro, mas o assunto continuou.

assunto vs tópico

Direct translation of 'topic'.

Tópico is used for bullet points or specific items; assunto is for the general discussion.

O assunto é vasto, mas vamos focar neste tópico.

assunto vs questão

Both can mean 'issue'.

Questão implies a problem or a question; assunto is just the topic itself.

O assunto é a greve, mas a questão é o salário.

assunto vs pauta

Used in meetings.

Pauta is the list of topics; assunto is one of the topics on that list.

O assunto está na pauta de hoje.

assunto vs matéria

Both mean 'subject'.

Matéria is for academic subjects (Math, Bio); assunto is for what you are talking about.

Na matéria de História, o assunto foi a Revolução.

Patrones de oraciones

O assunto é [adjective].

O assunto é bom.

Vamos falar sobre o assunto [noun].

Vamos falar sobre o assunto futebol.

Preciso tratar de um assunto [adjective] com você.

Preciso tratar de um assunto urgente com você.

O assunto em pauta é [noun].

O assunto em pauta é a economia.

O assunto remete a [noun/concept].

O assunto remete a questões éticas.

A abrangência do assunto impossibilita [verb].

A abrangência do assunto impossibilita uma conclusão.

Estar por dentro do assunto.

Eu estou por dentro do assunto.

Mudar de assunto.

Ela mudou de assunto.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

assunto

Verbos

assuntar (informal/regional: to observe, to pay attention)

Relacionado

tema

tópico

matéria

questão

pauta

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Portuguese.

Errores comunes

O sujeito da reunião foi longo. → O assunto da reunião foi longo.
In English, 'subject' can mean 'topic' or 'grammatical subject'. In Portuguese, 'sujeito' is only for grammar or a person. Use 'assunto' for topics.
A assunto é importante. → O assunto é importante.
Assunto is a masculine noun, so it must always take the masculine article 'o', never the feminine 'a'.
Eu mudei o assunto. → Eu mudei de assunto.
The phrase 'to change the subject' requires the preposition 'de' in Portuguese: 'mudar de assunto'.
O assunto da aula é matemática. → A matéria da aula é matemática.
While 'assunto' works, 'matéria' is more specific for school subjects like Math or History. 'Assunto' would be the specific topic within that subject.
Não dê tópicos para ele. → Não dê assunto para ele.
The idiom 'dar assunto' (to encourage someone to talk) uses 'assunto', not 'tópico'.

Consejos

Email Subject

Always fill in the 'Assunto' field in your emails. It is professional and expected in Portuguese-speaking work environments. A clear 'assunto' helps the recipient prioritize your message.

Small Talk

Use 'puxar assunto' to describe making small talk. In Brazil, being able to 'puxar assunto' is seen as a positive social trait. It helps break the ice in many situations.

Gender Consistency

Remember that 'assunto' is masculine. Even if the topic is 'a moda' (fashion), you say 'O assunto é interessante'. Don't let the gender of the topic confuse the gender of the word 'assunto'.

Synonym Choice

Use 'tema' for school essays and 'assunto' for general talk. This distinction will make your Portuguese sound more sophisticated and natural to native speakers.

Ending Arguments

Use 'assunto encerrado' sparingly. It is very strong and can be seen as rude if used with peers or superiors. It is best reserved for situations where you have clear authority.

Transition Cues

Listen for 'Voltando ao assunto' in conversations. It is a key signal that the speaker is finished with a digression and is returning to the main point.

Polite Changes

To change the subject politely, use 'Por falar nisso...' (Speaking of which...) or 'Mudando de assunto...'. This makes the transition smoother and less abrupt.

Research Topics

In a thesis, use 'objeto de estudo' for your specific focus, but 'assunto' for the general field. This shows you understand academic register in Portuguese.

Private Matters

If you don't want to discuss something, say 'Isso é um assunto particular'. It is a polite but firm way to set boundaries regarding your personal life.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'ASSUNTO' as the 'SUN' of the conversation—the central point everything revolves around.

Asociación visual

Imagine an email inbox. The 'Subject' line is labeled 'ASSUNTO'. This visual link helps you remember it means 'topic'.

Word Web

tema conversa e-mail reunião livro discussão pauta questão

Desafío

Try to use 'assunto' in three different ways today: once in an email, once to ask a question, and once to change a topic.

Origen de la palabra

From the Latin 'assumptus', which is the past participle of 'assumere' (to take up, to assume).

Significado original: Originally, it referred to something that was taken up or assumed as a basis for discussion.

Romance (Latin origin).

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities, but 'isso não é assunto seu' can be very rude if not used carefully.

English speakers often use 'subject' or 'topic'. 'Assunto' covers both and is much more frequent in speech than 'topic' is in English.

The phrase 'Assunto Encerrado' is often used as a title for opinion pieces or dramatic scenes in movies. Many Brazilian songs use 'assunto' to describe the complexities of love and relationships. Newspapers often have sections titled 'Assuntos Gerais' or 'Assuntos Internacionais'.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Email Communication

Assunto do e-mail
No assunto, escreva...
Assunto urgente
Referente ao assunto

Classroom/Education

O assunto da aula
Assunto da prova
Estudar o assunto
Explique o assunto

Business Meetings

Assunto em pauta
Entrar no assunto
Assunto pendente
Próximo assunto

Socializing

Mudar de assunto
Puxar assunto
Ficar sem assunto
Qual é o assunto?

Legal/Official

Assunto jurídico
Assunto de Estado
Tratar do assunto
Assunto resolvido

Inicios de conversación

"Qual é o assunto que você mais gosta de conversar com seus amigos?"

"Você acha que política é um assunto proibido em jantares de família?"

"Como você costuma puxar assunto com alguém que acabou de conhecer?"

"Qual foi o assunto mais interessante que você aprendeu na escola?"

"Você prefere mudar de assunto quando a conversa fica muito séria?"

Temas para diario

Escreva sobre um assunto que você domina completamente e como você aprendeu sobre ele.

Descreva uma situação em que você ficou sem assunto em um encontro ou reunião.

Qual é o assunto mais importante para o mundo resolver hoje em dia e por quê?

Você gosta de discutir assuntos polêmicos nas redes sociais? Por que sim ou por que não?

Reflita sobre um assunto que você mudou de opinião recentemente.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Yes, 'assunto' is a masculine noun. You must always use 'o assunto' or 'um assunto'. Even if you are talking about a feminine topic like 'a beleza' (beauty), you would say 'O assunto é a beleza'. This is a common point of confusion for learners, but the gender of the noun 'assunto' never changes based on the content it refers to.

You can, but 'assunto' is much more natural in everyday conversation. 'Tópico' sounds more formal or technical, often referring to specific points in a list or presentation. If you are chatting with a friend, always prefer 'assunto'. For example, 'Vamos mudar de assunto' sounds much better than 'Vamos mudar de tópico'.

It literally means 'closed matter.' It is used to indicate that a discussion is finished and no further talk or debate will be tolerated. It is a very firm expression, often used by parents with children or in heated arguments to stop the conversation. For example: 'Você não vai à festa, e assunto encerrado!'

In Portuguese email clients, the 'Subject' line is labeled 'Assunto'. When writing an email, you should put a brief summary of the email's content in this field. It is the most common professional use of the word. For example: 'Assunto: Reunião de Segunda-feira'.

'Assunto' is the general matter or topic being discussed. 'Tema' is more specific, often used in academic or artistic contexts to describe the central theme or title of a work. For instance, in a school essay, the 'assunto' might be 'environment', but the 'tema' is 'the impact of plastic in the oceans'.

The phrase is 'mudar de assunto'. It is a very common and useful expression. You use the preposition 'de' after the verb 'mudar'. For example: 'Eu não quero falar de política, vamos mudar de assunto?' It is a polite way to steer a conversation.

'Puxar assunto' is an informal expression that means to start a conversation, especially with someone you don't know well. It literally means 'to pull a subject.' Brazilians use it often to describe making small talk. For example: 'Ele é tímido e não sabe como puxar assunto com as pessoas'.

In some contexts, yes. 'Assuntos de negócios' means business matters. Also, in the plural, 'assuntos' can refer to things you need to take care of, similar to 'errands' or 'matters'. For example: 'Tenho alguns assuntos para resolver no centro da cidade'. However, for 'a business' (a company), you use 'empresa' or 'negócio'.

Yes, very much so. In legal documents, 'assunto' specifies the nature of the case or the legal matter being addressed. You might see 'Assunto: Inventário' or 'Assunto: Petição'. It is a standard way to categorize legal files and proceedings.

You use the expression 'estar por dentro do assunto'. It means to be well-informed or aware of what is going on regarding a specific topic. For example: 'Você está por dentro do assunto da nova lei?' This is a very common idiomatic way to express knowledge.

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