At the A1 level, the focus is on identifying the word 'médica' as a feminine noun meaning 'doctor'. Learners should understand that Portuguese uses different words for male and female doctors. You will primarily use this word in simple sentences to describe someone's job or to say you are going to the doctor. Key concepts at this level include matching the article 'a' or 'uma' with 'médica' and using basic adjectives like 'boa' (good) or 'nova' (new). You should be able to say 'Ela é médica' (She is a doctor) or 'A médica é simpática' (The doctor is nice). This level is about survival and basic identification in a healthcare context.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'médica' in more complex daily scenarios, such as making an appointment or describing a visit. You should be comfortable using possessive pronouns like 'minha médica' (my doctor) and pluralizing the word to 'médicas' when referring to multiple female doctors. You will also start to see 'médica' paired with common locations like 'hospital', 'clínica', or 'posto de saúde'. At this stage, you should understand the distinction between 'médica' and 'medicina' (the field of study) and be able to use the word in the past tense, such as 'Eu fui à médica ontem' (I went to the doctor yesterday).
At the B1 level, you can use 'médica' to discuss health topics and professional qualifications in more detail. You will encounter the word in compound forms like 'médica de família' (family doctor) or 'médica pediatra'. You should be able to follow a conversation where a 'médica' gives advice or explains a simple procedure. This level involves understanding the cultural nuance of addressing a doctor as 'Doutora' and being able to write short texts about health experiences. You can express opinions about medical care, such as 'Acho que a médica foi muito profissional' (I think the doctor was very professional).
At the B2 level, 'médica' appears in more specialized and formal contexts. You might read news articles about a 'médica pesquisadora' (research doctor) or listen to a technical explanation from a 'médica especialista'. You should be comfortable with terms like 'perícia médica' (medical assessment) and 'ética médica' (medical ethics). Your ability to use the word in hypothetical situations using the subjunctive mood increases, for example: 'É importante que a médica analise os exames' (It is important that the doctor analyzes the tests). You can also discuss the social role of women in medicine and the challenges they face.
At the C1 level, you understand 'médica' within the broader scope of academic and professional discourse. You can participate in debates about healthcare policy where 'médicas' are key stakeholders. You recognize the word in literary contexts where it might be used metaphorically or as part of a character's complex identity. You are aware of regional differences in how female doctors are addressed across the Lusophone world. Your vocabulary includes highly specific terms like 'médica legista' (forensic doctor) or 'médica sanitarista' (public health doctor), and you can use them accurately in professional writing or high-level discussions.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of the word 'médica' and all its implications. You can analyze medical texts, legal documents, and historical accounts involving 'médicas' with ease. You understand the subtle connotations of the word in different registers, from slang to the most formal academic Portuguese. You can discuss the evolution of the term 'médica' in the context of linguistic gender neutrality debates. Your usage is flawless, including complex grammatical structures and idiomatic expressions. You can interpret and produce nuanced content regarding the medical profession at the highest levels of sophistication.

médica en 30 segundos

  • Médica is the Portuguese word for a female doctor or physician.
  • It is a feminine noun requiring 'a' or 'uma' as articles.
  • The masculine equivalent is 'médico', used for male doctors.
  • It is a high-frequency A1 level word essential for health contexts.

The word médica is the feminine noun in Portuguese for a physician or a doctor. Unlike English, where 'doctor' is gender-neutral, Portuguese requires you to specify the gender of the professional. When a woman practices medicine, she is called a médica. This word is fundamental for anyone navigating the healthcare system in a Lusophone country, whether you are seeking a consultation, describing your profession, or discussing public health. It is an A1 level word because of its high frequency and essential nature in daily survival scenarios.

Grammatical Gender
In Portuguese, nouns ending in 'a' are typically feminine. 'Médica' follows this rule perfectly. Its masculine counterpart is 'médico'.
Professional Title
While 'doutora' is often used as a respectful title for any woman with a high-level degree or even just as a sign of respect, 'médica' specifically denotes the profession of a medical doctor.

A médica chega ao hospital às oito da manhã para começar o seu turno na emergência.

The use of this word extends beyond the clinical setting. It appears in literature, news, and formal documents. In Brazil and Portugal, the medical profession is highly prestigious, and using the correct term shows both linguistic competence and social awareness. You will hear it when making appointments: 'Quero marcar uma consulta com a médica'. It is also used in the plural 'médicas' when referring to a group of female doctors.

Minha irmã é uma médica muito dedicada e atenciosa com todos os seus pacientes.

Etymological Root
Derived from the Latin 'medicus', meaning 'one who heals'. The feminine form 'médica' evolved to specifically distinguish female practitioners as women entered the medical field more prominently.

A médica prescreveu um novo tratamento para a gripe.

Ela é a médica responsável pela cirurgia de amanhã.

A médica pediatra examinou o bebê com muito cuidado.

Understanding 'médica' is also about understanding the cultural weight of the profession. In many Portuguese-speaking families, having a 'médica' in the family is a point of immense pride. When you use this word, you are acknowledging a person's years of study and their role in society as a caregiver and scientist. Whether you are in a large hospital like Santa Casa in Lisbon or a small clinic in Luanda, 'médica' is the word that connects the patient to the female healer.

Using médica correctly involves more than just knowing its definition; you must master the syntax of gender agreement that defines Portuguese. Because 'médica' is a feminine noun, every adjective and article that describes it must also be in the feminine form. This is a common area where English speakers struggle, as English adjectives do not change based on gender.

Article Agreement
Use 'a' for 'the' and 'uma' for 'a/an'. Example: 'A médica' (The doctor), 'Uma médica' (A doctor).

A médica brasileira está trabalhando em um projeto de pesquisa internacional.

When describing the doctor's qualities, use feminine adjectives. For example, instead of 'bom' (good), use 'boa'. Instead of 'atencioso' (attentive), use 'atenciosa'. This consistency is key to sounding natural. If you say 'o médica' or 'a médico', native speakers will understand you, but it will mark you clearly as a beginner.

Você conhece alguma médica que fale inglês nesta cidade?

Possessive Pronouns
Use 'minha', 'sua', 'nossa' to indicate possession. Example: 'Minha médica é excelente'.

In plural contexts, 'médica' becomes 'médicas'. If a group of doctors is composed entirely of women, you use 'as médicas'. If there is even one man in the group, the group becomes 'os médicos'. This is a rule of the Portuguese language where the masculine plural is the default for mixed-gender groups.

As médicas do posto de saúde são muito competentes.

A médica solicitou vários exames de sangue para confirmar o diagnóstico.

Ontem, a médica me deu alta e finalmente pude voltar para casa.

Compound Phrases
Commonly paired with specialties: 'médica cirurgiã' (surgeon), 'médica legista' (forensic doctor), 'médica de família' (family doctor).

Finally, consider the verb 'ser' (to be) when stating a profession. In Portuguese, we don't usually use the indefinite article 'uma' when saying what someone's job is, unless we are adding an adjective. So, 'Ela é médica' (She is a doctor) is more common than 'Ela é uma médica', unless you say 'Ela é uma médica incrível' (She is an amazing doctor).

The word médica is omnipresent in Portuguese-speaking societies. You will encounter it in several distinct environments, each with its own nuances of tone and register. From the sterile halls of a 'hospital' to the fast-paced world of television dramas, 'médica' is a word that carries weight and authority.

In Healthcare Facilities
At the 'recepção' (reception) of a 'clínica' or 'consultório', you will hear: 'A médica já vai atendê-lo' (The doctor will see you shortly). Nurses and staff frequently use the term to identify which professional is on duty.

A médica de plantão informou que o estado do paciente é estável.

In the media, 'médica' is used in news reports discussing health crises, medical breakthroughs, or interviews with experts. Public health campaigns often feature a 'médica' explaining the importance of 'vacinação' (vaccination) or 'prevenção' (prevention). In Brazil, the 'Jornal Nacional' might report on a 'médica' who discovered a new treatment, highlighting her gender as part of the narrative of women in science.

Na televisão, a médica explicou os riscos da nova variante do vírus.

In Pop Culture
Portuguese-dubbed versions of shows like 'Grey's Anatomy' or 'House' use 'médica' constantly. In 'novelas' (soap operas), a common trope is a protagonist who struggles to become a 'médica' against all odds.

In the workplace, if you are working in a hospital or pharmaceutical company, 'médica' is the standard professional designation. HR departments use it in job descriptions: 'Vaga para médica cardiologista'. It is also used in legal and academic contexts, such as 'perícia médica' (medical expertise/assessment) or 'faculdade de medicina' where students aspire to become 'médicas'.

A médica legista foi chamada para examinar o local do crime.

Dra. Ana é a médica mais respeitada do nosso centro de oncologia.

In Everyday Conversations
Friends might say: 'Minha filha quer ser médica' (My daughter wants to be a doctor) or 'Fui à médica hoje' (I went to the [female] doctor today).

Whether you are listening to a podcast about health in Lisbon or talking to a neighbor in Rio de Janeiro, 'médica' will be the word used to describe the woman behind the stethoscope. Its frequency in the language reflects the central role of healthcare in the lives of the people and the significant presence of women in the medical workforce across the Lusosphere.

Learning Portuguese involves navigating gendered nouns, and médica is a prime example where mistakes often occur. For English speakers, the concept of having a different word for 'doctor' based on gender is the first hurdle. Here are the most frequent pitfalls to avoid.

Gender Mismatch
The most common error is saying 'o médica' or 'a médico'. Remember: 'A' goes with 'médica' and 'O' goes with 'médico'. This applies to all modifiers: 'esta médica', 'aquela médica', 'minha médica'.

O médica é muito boa.

A médica é muito boa.

Another mistake is confusing 'médica' (the person) with 'medicina' (the science). You might hear a student say 'Eu estudo para ser medicina', which is incorrect. You study 'medicina' to become a 'médica'. Similarly, don't confuse 'médica' with 'medicamento' (medicine/drug). You don't take a 'médica' for a headache; you take a 'medicamento'.

Eu tomei uma médica para a dor.

Eu fui à médica por causa da dor.

The Accent Mark
Do not forget the acute accent on the 'é'. Without it, the word might be mispronounced or look like 'medica' (which is a form of the verb 'medicar' - to medicate). The accent tells you the stress is on the first syllable: MÉ-di-ca.

Using the wrong title is also a subtle mistake. In many cultures, 'Doutora' is the preferred way to address a doctor directly. If you call a doctor 'Médica Ana' to her face, it sounds a bit strange and overly descriptive. Instead, use 'Doutora Ana' when speaking to her, and 'a médica Ana' when talking about her to someone else.

Bom dia, Médica.

Bom dia, Doutora.

As médicas estão em conferência (referring to a group of women only).

Confusing with 'Enfermeira'
Be careful not to assume a woman in a hospital is an 'enfermeira' (nurse). Always use 'médica' if you know she is a doctor to avoid professional slight.

By keeping these distinctions in mind—gender agreement, the role of the accent, the difference between person and science, and the appropriate titles—you will avoid the most common errors and communicate with greater precision and respect in any medical context.

While médica is the standard term for a female doctor, Portuguese offers several alternatives and related terms depending on the formality, the specific role, or the context of the conversation. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the right word for the right situation.

Médica vs. Doutora
'Médica' is the profession. 'Doutora' is the title. While all female doctors are 'médicas', they are usually addressed as 'Doutora'. In Brazil, 'Doutora' is also used for lawyers and sometimes anyone in a position of authority.

A médica explicou o caso, e a Doutora Maria assinou a receita.

If you are looking for someone who specializes in a specific area, you might use 'especialista'. For example, 'uma médica especialista em cardiologia'. Other related terms include 'clínica geral' (general practitioner) or 'plantonista' (the doctor on duty/on call). These terms provide more specific information about the doctor's role.

Ela é uma médica especialista em pediatria.

Médica vs. Terapeuta
A 'terapeuta' (therapist) or 'psicóloga' (psychologist) may work in health but is not a 'médica' unless she has a medical degree (like a 'psiquiatra' - psychiatrist).

In emergency situations, you might hear 'socorrista' (first responder). While a 'socorrista' can be a 'médica', the term focuses on the action of providing first aid. Similarly, 'cirurgiã' specifically refers to a female surgeon. If you want to be very broad, you can use 'profissional de saúde' (health professional), which includes doctors, nurses, and technicians.

A médica cirurgiã realizou a operação com sucesso.

A médica residente está aprendendo muito no hospital universitário.

Comparison Table
  • Médica: Generic, professional term.
  • Doutora: Honorific title, used for direct address.
  • Cirurgiã: Specific to those who perform surgery.
  • Clínica: Often refers to a GP or the clinic itself.

By mastering these synonyms and related terms, you can navigate the medical world with more nuance. You'll know when to be specific (cirurgiã), when to be respectful (doutora), and when to use the standard, clear term (médica) to describe the professional woman who takes care of your health.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The root 'med-' in Latin is also found in 'meditari' (to meditate), suggesting a connection between healing and reflecting or thinking deeply.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ˈmɛ.dʒi.kɐ/
US /ˈme.di.kə/
The stress is on the first syllable (MÉ), indicated by the acute accent.
Rima con
réplica sética ética poética estética atlética genética profética
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the 'é' as a closed 'ay' sound.
  • Stressing the second or third syllable instead of the first.
  • Omitting the 'i' sound (saying 'med-ca' instead of 'mé-di-ca').
  • Pronouncing the final 'a' too strongly like 'ah' in 'father' instead of a neutral 'uh'.
  • Ignoring the 'd' softening in Brazilian Portuguese (making it a hard 'd' like in 'dog').

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 1/5

Very easy to recognize due to English cognate 'medical'.

Escritura 2/5

Requires remembering the acute accent on the 'é'.

Expresión oral 2/5

Requires correct pronunciation of the open 'é' and soft 'd'.

Escucha 1/5

Clear pronunciation and high frequency make it easy to hear.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

a ela é trabalha hospital

Aprende después

enfermeira paciente remédio dor saúde

Avanzado

diagnóstico prognóstico terapêutica anamnese patologia

Gramática que debes saber

Gender Agreement

A médica (feminine) vs O médico (masculine).

Acute Accent

The 'é' in 'médica' indicates an open vowel and word stress.

Articles with Professions

Use 'a' for specific doctors, omit 'uma' for general profession (Ela é médica).

Pluralization

Add 's' to make 'médicas'.

Contractions

Ir + a + a médica = Ir à médica.

Ejemplos por nivel

1

Ela é médica.

She is a doctor.

Simple subject + verb 'ser' + profession.

2

A médica é boa.

The doctor is good.

Article 'a' matches feminine 'médica'.

3

Onde está a médica?

Where is the doctor?

Question word + verb 'estar' (temporary location).

4

Uma médica trabalha aqui.

A doctor works here.

Indefinite article 'uma'.

5

A médica fala português.

The doctor speaks Portuguese.

Subject + verb 'falar' in present tense.

6

Minha irmã é médica.

My sister is a doctor.

Possessive 'minha' matches feminine 'irmã' and 'médica'.

7

A médica tem um estetoscópio.

The doctor has a stethoscope.

Verb 'ter' (to have).

8

Eu vejo a médica.

I see the doctor.

Direct object with definite article.

1

Eu fui à médica ontem.

I went to the doctor yesterday.

Contraction 'à' (a + a) used with 'ir'.

2

A médica prescreveu um remédio.

The doctor prescribed a medicine.

Past tense (Pretérito Perfeito) of 'prescrever'.

3

As médicas são muito profissionais.

The doctors are very professional.

Plural agreement: 'As' + 'médicas' + 'são' + 'profissionais'.

4

Você tem uma consulta com a médica?

Do you have an appointment with the doctor?

Preposition 'com' + article 'a'.

5

A médica mora perto do hospital.

The doctor lives near the hospital.

Adverbial phrase of place.

6

A médica me examinou com cuidado.

The doctor examined me carefully.

Object pronoun 'me' before the verb.

7

Eu preciso falar com a médica.

I need to talk to the doctor.

Verb 'precisar' + infinitive.

8

A médica deu um conselho importante.

The doctor gave some important advice.

Past tense of 'dar' (to give).

1

A médica de família conhece todo o meu histórico.

The family doctor knows my entire history.

Compound noun 'médica de família'.

2

Se eu ficar doente, ligarei para a médica.

If I get sick, I will call the doctor.

Future tense + conditional clause.

3

A médica explicou como o tratamento funciona.

The doctor explained how the treatment works.

Subordinate clause with 'como'.

4

Espero que a médica chegue logo.

I hope the doctor arrives soon.

Present subjunctive 'chegue' after 'espero que'.

5

A médica recomendou que eu fizesse mais exercícios.

The doctor recommended that I do more exercises.

Imperfect subjunctive 'fizesse' after past recommendation.

6

Ela é a médica mais experiente da clínica.

She is the most experienced doctor in the clinic.

Superlative construction.

7

A médica disse que não é nada grave.

The doctor said it is nothing serious.

Reported speech.

8

Eu confio muito na minha médica.

I trust my doctor a lot.

Verb 'confiar' + preposition 'em' (na = em + a).

1

A médica pesquisadora publicou um artigo científico.

The research doctor published a scientific article.

Noun + noun acting as an adjective.

2

É fundamental que a médica seja consultada antes da cirurgia.

It is essential that the doctor be consulted before surgery.

Passive voice in the subjunctive mood.

3

A médica plantonista teve uma noite muito agitada.

The doctor on duty had a very busy night.

Specific term 'plantonista'.

4

Apesar do cansaço, a médica continuou atendendo.

Despite the tiredness, the doctor continued seeing patients.

Concessive conjunction 'apesar de'.

5

A médica legista analisou as evidências minuciosamente.

The forensic doctor analyzed the evidence meticulously.

Specific professional term.

6

A atuação da médica foi decisiva para salvar o paciente.

The doctor's actions were decisive in saving the patient.

Abstract noun 'atuação'.

7

Ela se tornou médica após muitos anos de estudo.

She became a doctor after many years of study.

Pronominal verb 'tornar-se'.

8

A médica alertou sobre os perigos da automedicação.

The doctor warned about the dangers of self-medication.

Verb 'alertar' + 'sobre'.

1

A ética médica exige sigilo absoluto sobre os pacientes.

Medical ethics demand absolute confidentiality regarding patients.

Adjective 'médica' modifying 'ética'.

2

A médica sanitarista propôs novas políticas de saúde pública.

The public health doctor proposed new public health policies.

Specialized health terminology.

3

Houve uma divergência entre a médica e o cirurgião.

There was a disagreement between the doctor and the surgeon.

Noun 'divergência'.

4

A médica demonstrou uma empatia ímpar durante a consulta.

The doctor demonstrated unique empathy during the consultation.

Sophisticated adjective 'ímpar'.

5

A carreira de médica exige um constante aprimoramento técnico.

A career as a doctor requires constant technical improvement.

Noun 'aprimoramento'.

6

A médica foi condecorada por seu trabalho humanitário.

The doctor was decorated for her humanitarian work.

Formal passive voice 'foi condecorada'.

7

Cabe à médica decidir o melhor curso de ação.

It is up to the doctor to decide the best course of action.

Idiomatic expression 'cabe a'.

8

A médica rebateu as críticas com dados estatísticos.

The doctor refuted the criticisms with statistical data.

Verb 'rebater'.

1

A práxis médica contemporânea enfrenta desafios bioéticos complexos.

Contemporary medical praxis faces complex bioethical challenges.

Academic term 'práxis'.

2

A médica, em seu íntimo, questionava a eficácia do protocolo.

The doctor, in her heart of hearts, questioned the effectiveness of the protocol.

Literary phrasing 'em seu íntimo'.

3

A negligência médica pode resultar em graves sanções jurídicas.

Medical negligence can result in serious legal sanctions.

Legal/Medical terminology.

4

A médica personifica a dedicação inerente à profissão.

The doctor personifies the dedication inherent to the profession.

Verb 'personificar'.

5

Sob a ótica da médica, o paciente necessitava de cuidados paliativos.

From the doctor's perspective, the patient needed palliative care.

Expression 'sob a ótica de'.

6

A médica discorreu longamente sobre as implicações da patologia.

The doctor spoke at length about the implications of the pathology.

Formal verb 'discorrer'.

7

A argúcia da médica permitiu um diagnóstico precoce e vital.

The doctor's sharpness allowed for an early and vital diagnosis.

Sophisticated noun 'argúcia'.

8

A médica é um baluarte da ciência em tempos de desinformação.

The doctor is a bulwark of science in times of misinformation.

Metaphorical use of 'baluarte'.

Colocaciones comunes

médica de família
consulta médica
receita médica
equipe médica
assistência médica
médica legista
médica plantonista
carreira médica
ética médica
perícia médica

Frases Comunes

Ir à médica

— To go to the doctor's office for a visit.

Eu preciso ir à médica hoje.

Chamar a médica

— To call for the doctor in an urgent situation.

Por favor, chame a médica agora!

Falar com a médica

— To have a conversation or consultation with the doctor.

Vou falar com a médica sobre as dores.

A médica deu alta

— The doctor discharged the patient from the hospital.

A médica deu alta para o meu avô.

Procurar uma médica

— To look for or seek out a doctor.

Você deve procurar uma médica especialista.

Atestado da médica

— A medical certificate or note signed by the doctor.

Entreguei o atestado da médica na empresa.

Conselho da médica

— Advice given by the doctor.

Sigo sempre o conselho da minha médica.

A médica prescreveu

— The doctor ordered or prescribed something.

A médica prescreveu repouso absoluto.

A médica examinou

— The doctor performed an examination.

A médica examinou meus ouvidos.

A médica operou

— The doctor performed a surgery.

A médica operou o joelho dele.

Se confunde a menudo con

médica vs medicina

Medicina is the field of study; médica is the person.

médica vs medicamento

Medicamento is the drug/pill; médica is the person.

médica vs medica

Without the accent, it is the third-person singular of the verb 'medicar' (he/she medicates).

Modismos y expresiones

"Remédio de médica"

— Something that is exactly what is needed to fix a problem.

Essa viagem foi um remédio de médica para o meu estresse.

informal
"Mão de médica"

— A gentle or healing touch.

Ela tem mão de médica, tudo o que ela cuida melhora.

colloquial
"Santo de casa não faz milagre (médica)"

— Even if someone is a doctor, their family might not listen to their advice.

Minha mãe não toma os remédios que eu passo; santo de casa não faz milagre.

proverbial
"Cada médica com seu diagnóstico"

— Different people have different opinions on the same problem.

Nesse projeto, cada médica tem seu diagnóstico.

metaphorical
"A médica e o monstro"

— Referring to someone with a dual personality (Portuguese version of Jekyll and Hyde).

Às vezes ela parece a médica e o monstro.

literary/pop culture
"Consultar a médica dos botões"

— To seek advice from someone who knows a lot about a specific, perhaps trivial, thing.

Vou consultar a médica dos botões para arrumar isso.

slang/humorous
"Fazer de médica"

— To pretend to be a doctor or to give medical advice without being qualified.

Pare de fazer de médica e vá ao hospital!

informal
"Palavra de médica"

— A very reliable or authoritative statement.

Isso vai funcionar, palavra de médica.

colloquial
"Errar a médica"

— To choose the wrong professional or person for a task.

Acho que erramos a médica para este serviço.

informal
"Médica das almas"

— Someone who helps others emotionally or spiritually.

Ela é uma verdadeira médica das almas.

poetic

Fácil de confundir

médica vs enfermeira

Both work in hospitals.

A 'médica' diagnoses and treats; an 'enfermeira' provides nursing care.

A médica operou, e a enfermeira cuidou do curativo.

médica vs doutora

Often used interchangeably.

'Médica' is the job; 'Doutora' is the title (and can apply to lawyers too).

Ela é médica, mas todos a chamam de Doutora.

médica vs psicóloga

Both deal with health.

A 'psicóloga' treats mental health through therapy; a 'médica' (psiquiatra) can prescribe meds.

A médica psiquiatra trabalha com a psicóloga.

médica vs dentista

Both are healthcare providers.

A 'dentista' specifically treats teeth and is often not called 'médica'.

Fui à médica para a gripe e à dentista para a cárie.

médica vs veterinária

Both are doctors.

A 'médica veterinária' treats animals, not humans.

A médica veterinária cuidou do meu cachorro.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

Ela é [médica].

Ela é médica.

A1

A [médica] é [adjective].

A médica é boa.

A2

Eu vou à [médica].

Eu vou à médica.

A2

Minha [médica] chama-se [name].

Minha médica chama-se Ana.

B1

A [médica] disse que [clause].

A médica disse que eu preciso de repouso.

B1

Preciso de uma [médica] que [subjunctive].

Preciso de uma médica que fale espanhol.

B2

Devido à [médica], o [noun] [verb].

Devido à médica, o tratamento funcionou.

C1

A despeito da opinião da [médica], [clause].

A despeito da opinião da médica, ele recusou a cirurgia.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

médico
medicina
medicamento
medicação
medicalização

Verbos

medicar
medicalizar

Adjetivos

médico
médica
medicinal
medicamentoso
medicável

Relacionado

hospital
clínica
saúde
doença
cura

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very high; used daily in various contexts.

Errores comunes
  • O médica A médica

    The article must match the feminine gender of the noun.

  • Eu estudo médica Eu estudo medicina

    You study the subject (medicina), not the person (médica).

  • Medica (no accent) Médica

    Without the accent, the pronunciation and meaning change.

  • Uma médica para a dor Um remédio para a dor

    Don't confuse the doctor with the medicine.

  • As médicos As médicas

    The article and noun must both be plural and feminine.

Consejos

Gender Matching

Always check that the articles and adjectives around 'médica' end in 'a'. Consistency is key in Portuguese.

The Open E

Practice the 'é' sound like in 'bed' or 'met'. It's much wider than the 'e' in 'me'.

Title vs. Profession

Use 'médica' to describe the job and 'Doutora' to show respect when speaking to her.

Don't Forget the Accent

The acute accent is essential for the word to be recognized. Mark it clearly.

Respect the Title

In Lusophone cultures, professional titles are very important. Using them correctly builds rapport.

Articles are Clues

If you hear 'uma' or 'a' before a word starting with 'méd-', it's almost certainly 'médica'.

Be Specific

If you know her specialty, add it: 'médica pediatra', 'médica cardiologista'.

Mixed Groups

Remember that 'médicas' only refers to an all-female group. One man makes it 'médicos'.

Cognate Connection

Link 'médica' to 'medical' to remember the meaning instantly.

Being a Doctor

Say 'Ela é médica' (No 'uma') when stating her profession in a general way.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'MEdical' professional who is a 'CAring' woman. MÉ-di-CA.

Asociación visual

Imagine a woman wearing a white coat with a large letter 'A' on her pocket to remember it's the feminine form.

Word Web

hospital saúde remédio doutora paciente clínica exame cura

Desafío

Try to use 'médica' in three different sentences describing a visit to a hospital, focusing on using different adjectives each time.

Origen de la palabra

From the Latin 'medica', the feminine form of 'medicus', meaning 'physician' or 'healer'.

Significado original: A female healer or someone who practices the art of medicine.

Romance (Latin root).

Contexto cultural

Always use 'médica' for women; using 'médico' can be seen as grammatically incorrect or even dismissive of their gender.

Unlike English where 'doctor' is used for everyone, Portuguese learners must adjust to the gender binary in professional titles.

Dra. Nise da Silveira (famous Brazilian psychiatrist) Zilda Arns (Brazilian pediatrician and humanitarian) Grey's Anatomy (popularly dubbed with 'médica')

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

At the Hospital

  • Onde fica a sala da médica?
  • A médica já chegou?
  • Preciso de uma médica.
  • A médica está em cirurgia.

Making an Appointment

  • Quero marcar com a médica.
  • Qual o nome da médica?
  • A médica atende hoje?
  • A médica aceita meu plano?

Describing Symptoms

  • Vou contar tudo para a médica.
  • A médica perguntou o que eu sinto.
  • A médica examinou minha garganta.
  • A médica pediu exames.

At the Pharmacy

  • A médica passou este remédio.
  • Tenho a receita da médica.
  • A médica disse para tomar assim.
  • A médica assinou o papel.

Discussing Professions

  • Minha filha quer ser médica.
  • Ela é uma médica famosa.
  • Conheço uma médica excelente.
  • Ser médica é difícil.

Inicios de conversación

"Você conhece uma boa médica aqui na cidade?"

"Minha irmã é médica, e a sua?"

"Você já foi à médica este ano para um check-up?"

"O que você diria para a médica se estivesse com dor?"

"Você acha que ser médica é uma profissão estressante?"

Temas para diario

Descreva como foi sua última visita a uma médica.

Se você fosse médica, qual especialidade escolheria e por quê?

Escreva sobre a importância de ter uma boa médica de família.

Imagine um diálogo entre uma médica e um paciente teimoso.

Como a tecnologia pode ajudar uma médica no futuro?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, 'médica' is exclusively feminine. For a man, you must use 'médico'.

Yes, but only for the medical profession. If you mean 'doctor' as in a PhD holder, use 'doutora' or 'doutorada'.

Yes. The accent on 'médica' is mandatory to indicate the correct pronunciation and meaning.

No, that is grammatically incorrect. You must match the gender: 'a médica' or 'o médico'.

It is most common and respectful to address her as 'Doutora'.

It refers to a General Practitioner (GP) or Primary Care Physician who treats the whole family.

Yes, though 'médica cirurgiã' or just 'cirurgiã' is more specific.

The word is the same, but the pronunciation of the 'd' and 't' sounds may vary slightly.

Yes, as in 'assistência médica' (medical assistance) or 'ética médica' (medical ethics).

The plural is 'médicas'.

Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'médica' and 'hospital'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe what a 'médica' does in one sentence.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I need to go to the doctor (female)'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a polite greeting to a female doctor.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'minha médica' in a sentence.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain the difference between 'médico' and 'médica'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence with 'médica pediatra'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The doctor prescribed a medicine'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'ética médica' in a formal sentence.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a plural sentence with 'médicas'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'She is an excellent doctor'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a question asking for a doctor.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'médica plantonista' in a sentence.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The doctor gave me a certificate'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about a 'médica' in the past tense.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'médica de família' in a sentence.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I trust my doctor'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about a 'médica cirurgiã'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe a doctor's office using 'médica'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use the word 'médica' in a professional email context.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica é muito boa.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Eu vou à médica hoje.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Onde está a médica?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Bom dia, Doutora.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Minha irmã é médica.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica prescreveu remédios.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'As médicas estão no hospital.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica pediatra é gentil.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Preciso de um atestado da médica.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica deu alta para ele.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A ética médica é importante.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica explicou o caso.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Eu confio na minha médica.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Ela é uma médica excelente.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica cirurgiã chegou.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica examinou o paciente.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Vou marcar uma consulta com a médica.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica legista está aqui.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'A médica disse para eu descansar.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Doutora, estou com dor.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'A médica chegou.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Minha médica é boa.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Ela é médica pediatra.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Fui à médica ontem.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'A médica deu a receita.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'As médicas estão prontas.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Onde está a médica?'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'A médica de plantão.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'A ética médica.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'A médica examinou tudo.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Uma médica famosa.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'A médica cirurgiã.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Vou falar com a médica.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'A médica explicou bem.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Atestado da médica.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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