At the A1 level, you should recognize 'sussurro' as a basic noun meaning 'whisper'. You will likely use it in simple sentences to describe how someone is talking. For example, 'Ele fala em sussurro' (He speaks in a whisper). At this stage, focusing on the basic meaning and the fact that it is a masculine noun is most important. You might encounter it in simple stories or when someone asks you to be quiet in a public place. It's a useful word for basic descriptions of sound levels. You don't need to worry about metaphorical meanings yet; just think of it as the opposite of 'grito' (shout). It is important to remember the pronunciation, particularly the double 's' which sounds like a sharp 's' in English. Practicing the phrase 'um sussurro' will help you get used to the masculine article agreement. You might also see it in very basic vocabulary lists related to the human body or communication. Even at A1, knowing this word helps you follow simple instructions like 'fale baixo' (speak low) or 'em sussurro'. It's a building block for describing more complex social interactions later on.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'sussurro' in more varied contexts. You can now describe situations where whispering is necessary, such as 'No cinema, nós usamos um sussurro' (In the cinema, we use a whisper). You should also be comfortable using the plural form 'sussurros'. You might start noticing the word in short texts or dialogues about secrets or quiet environments. A2 learners should be able to distinguish between the noun 'sussurro' and the verb 'sussurrar' in simple contexts. You'll also start to see it paired with basic adjectives like 'baixo' (low) or 'pequeno' (small). This level is about expanding the range of sentences you can build. You might use it to describe the sound of the wind for the first time: 'O sussurro do vento é bonito'. This shows you're moving beyond just human speech. You should also be aware of the common phrase 'em um sussurro', which is the standard way to say 'in a whisper'. Practice using it with different verbs like 'ouvir' (to hear) and 'falar' (to speak).
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'sussurro' to describe more nuanced situations and emotions. You might use it in a narrative to create a specific atmosphere, such as 'Havia um sussurro constante na sala, o que me deixou nervoso' (There was a constant whisper in the room, which made me nervous). You are now expected to understand the difference between 'sussurro' and 'cochicho' (gossip/whispering secrets). You can use 'sussurro' to describe natural phenomena more poetically, such as the 'sussurro das ondas' (whisper of the waves). B1 learners should also be familiar with common collocations like 'sussurro suave' or 'sussurro rouco'. You might encounter the word in more complex reading materials, like news articles or short stories, where it could be used metaphorically to describe rumors ('sussurros de mudança'). Your ability to use the word in the correct register—recognizing that it's slightly more formal than 'cochicho'—is a key marker of this level. You should also be able to use it in the 'se' passive or other more complex grammatical structures common in B1 Portuguese.
At the B2 level, 'sussurro' becomes a tool for sophisticated description and literary analysis. You can discuss the effect of a 'sussurro' in a scene: 'O autor utiliza o sussurro para enfatizar a intimidade entre as personagens' (The author uses the whisper to emphasize the intimacy between the characters). You should be comfortable with metaphorical uses in professional or political contexts, such as 'sussurros de crise' (whispers of crisis). B2 learners can use a wide range of adjectives to modify the noun, such as 'imperceptível' (imperceptible), 'conspiratório' (conspiratorial), or 'melancólico' (melancholy). You should also be able to recognize the word in various media, including podcasts, films, and music, and understand the cultural connotations it carries. Your writing should reflect an ability to use 'sussurro' to vary your vocabulary and avoid repetition. For example, instead of always saying 'falar baixo', you can use 'em um sussurro' or 'através de sussurros' to add variety and precision to your prose.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of 'sussurro' and its place in the Portuguese language. You can use it in highly abstract or philosophical discussions. For instance, you might talk about 'o sussurro da consciência' (the whisper of conscience) or 'os sussurros da história' (the whispers of history). You are sensitive to the phonetic qualities of the word and how authors use its sibilant sounds to create a specific mood. You can distinguish between 'sussurro', 'murmúrio', 'rumor', and 'balbucio' with high precision, choosing the exact word that fits the context's 'texture'. In professional settings, you understand the subtle implications of 'sussurros' in a boardroom or political environment—recognizing them as indicators of unofficial power dynamics. Your use of the word is natural, idiomatic, and culturally informed. You might even use it in creative writing to evoke specific sensory details, playing with the word's onomatopoeic nature. You are also aware of how the word has evolved or is used in different Lusophone dialects, such as the slight differences in usage between Brazil and Portugal.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'sussurro' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can appreciate and employ the word in its most complex and archaic forms if necessary. You might analyze the use of 'sussurro' in classical Portuguese literature, such as in the works of Camões or Fernando Pessoa, understanding how it contributes to the overall rhythm and theme of a poem. You can use the word to convey the most subtle nuances of meaning, perhaps using it to describe a sound that is barely a sound at all, but rather a feeling or an intuition. Your command of the word extends to its most obscure collocations and idiomatic expressions. You can engage in deep literary criticism or linguistic analysis involving the word, discussing its etymology from the Latin 'susurrus' and its onomatopoeic development. At this level, 'sussurro' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a versatile instrument in your linguistic repertoire, used to craft evocative, precise, and powerful communication in any context imaginable.

sussurro en 30 segundos

  • A 'sussurro' is the Portuguese word for a whisper, used to describe very quiet speech or soft natural sounds like the wind.
  • It is a masculine noun ('o sussurro') and is frequently used in the phrase 'em um sussurro' to mean 'in a whisper'.
  • Beyond literal speech, it carries poetic meanings of intimacy, secrecy, and the gentle movements of the environment.
  • Common synonyms include 'cochicho' for gossip and 'murmúrio' for a low, continuous sound of voices or nature.

The Portuguese word sussurro refers to a whisper—a low, soft, and breathy sound produced by the human voice or a similar rustling sound in nature. In everyday Portuguese, it is primarily used to describe the act of speaking very quietly to maintain secrecy or to avoid disturbing others. However, its usage extends far beyond the literal act of speaking; it often carries emotional weight, suggesting intimacy, conspiracy, or even the gentle sounds of the environment, such as the wind through the leaves or the waves hitting the shore.

Literal Meaning
A low, quiet voice that is difficult to hear from a distance, usually intended for a specific listener.
Metaphorical Use
Used to describe soft natural sounds, like the 'sussurro do vento' (whisper of the wind) or a subtle rumor spreading through a crowd.

Ela contou o segredo em um sussurro para que ninguém mais ouvisse.

In a social context, a sussurro can be a sign of respect, such as in a library or a church, where loud talking is prohibited. It can also indicate a romantic or intimate moment between two people. Conversely, it might imply something more sinister, like people whispering behind someone's back. Understanding the context is key to interpreting the emotional tone behind the word. For English speakers, the transition is quite natural as it maps almost perfectly to the English 'whisper'.

O sussurro das folhas na floresta era a única coisa que se ouvia naquela tarde calma.

Atmosphere
Creates a sense of mystery, peace, or suspense depending on the narrative setting.

Linguistically, 'sussurro' is a masculine noun. It is often accompanied by verbs like 'ouvir' (to hear) or 'falar em' (to speak in). It is important to note that the word itself sounds onomatopoeic—the 's' and 'u' sounds mimic the actual sound of air passing between the lips during a whisper. This makes it an evocative word in Portuguese literature and music, frequently appearing in fado lyrics or romantic poetry to describe hidden feelings or the gentle touch of the breeze.

O ator proferiu suas últimas palavras em um sussurro dramático.

Whether you are describing a secret shared between friends or the tranquil sound of a stream, 'sussurro' is the perfect word to capture that delicate balance of sound and silence. It is a versatile noun that every Portuguese learner should master to add nuance to their descriptions of auditory experiences.

Using 'sussurro' correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its common pairings with prepositions and verbs. The most frequent construction is 'em um sussurro' (in a whisper) or 'com um sussurro' (with a whisper). Because it is a masculine noun, it always takes masculine articles: 'o sussurro' (the whisper) or 'um sussurro' (a whisper).

The Preposition 'Em'
Used to describe the manner of speaking. Example: 'Ele falou em um sussurro' (He spoke in a whisper).

Não fale alto aqui; use apenas um sussurro.

When describing the source of the sound, we use the preposition 'de' (of). For instance, 'o sussurro do mar' (the whisper of the sea) or 'o sussurro das pessoas' (the whisper of the people). This structure allows you to attribute the soft sound to any object or group. In more complex sentences, 'sussurro' can act as the subject or the object. As a subject: 'O sussurro incomodou o professor.' (The whisper annoyed the teacher.) As an object: 'Eu ouvi um sussurro vindo do corredor.' (I heard a whisper coming from the hallway.)

A criança deu um sussurro no ouvido da mãe.

Adjectives frequently modify 'sussurro' to provide more detail about the sound's quality. Common adjectives include 'leve' (light), 'suave' (soft), 'rouco' (hoarse), or 'imperceptível' (imperceptible). For example: 'Um sussurro suave acalmou o bebê' (A soft whisper calmed the baby). This allows for rich, descriptive language that is essential for intermediate and advanced communication in Portuguese.

Plural Form
The plural is 'sussurros'. Example: 'Os sussurros na plateia pararam quando a cortina subiu.'

Havia muitos sussurros estranhos na casa antiga.

In summary, 'sussurro' is a versatile noun that fits into various sentence patterns. By focusing on the prepositions 'em' and 'de', and pairing it with appropriate verbs and adjectives, you can effectively convey the concept of quiet, hushed sounds in any situation.

You will encounter the word 'sussurro' in a wide range of environments, from the very mundane to the highly artistic. In daily life, it is most common in settings where silence is expected. Libraries, cinemas, and theaters are prime locations where you might hear someone say: 'Por favor, fale apenas em um sussurro.' It is also a staple in medical settings, where doctors might speak quietly to patients about sensitive information.

Literature and Poetry
Authors use 'sussurro' to create intimacy or tension. It often appears in descriptions of nature or romantic dialogue.

Naquele livro, o herói ouviu um sussurro misterioso na caverna.

In the realm of entertainment, particularly in movies and television, 'sussurro' is used in scripts to indicate how a line should be delivered. If a character is hiding from an antagonist, the stage directions will often specify 'em sussurro'. Similarly, in music, especially in the melancholic and expressive genre of Fado from Portugal, 'sussurro' is a thematic keyword. It represents the 'saudade' or the quiet longing that the singer feels, often personified as a whisper from the past or from a lost lover.

O cantor de Bossa Nova transformou a canção em um doce sussurro.

Furthermore, in the news or political commentary, you might hear about 'sussurros nos corredores do poder' (whispers in the corridors of power). This refers to rumors, unofficial talks, or backroom deals that are not yet public. This metaphorical use is very common in journalistic Portuguese to describe the atmosphere of speculation in government or large corporations.

Nature Documentaries
Narrators often use 'sussurro' to describe the sound of a gentle breeze or the movement of small animals in the grass.

O documentário capturou o sussurro do vento nas dunas do deserto.

Finally, in religious or spiritual contexts, 'sussurro' is often used to describe the 'still small voice' or divine inspiration. Many prayers or descriptions of mystical experiences in Portuguese involve hearing a 'sussurro divino'. This highlights the word's ability to bridge the gap between the physical world and the internal, spiritual life.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing the noun 'sussurro' with the verb 'sussurrar'. While they are related, they cannot be used interchangeably. You cannot say 'Eu sussurro para você' if you mean 'I whisper to you' in the present tense (though 'sussurro' is the first-person singular present form of the verb, it's also the noun). The confusion usually arises in the structure: 'Eu ouvi um sussurrar' is incorrect; it should be 'Eu ouvi um sussurro'.

Noun vs. Verb
Correct: 'O sussurro foi baixo.' (The whisper was low.) Incorrect: 'O sussurrar foi baixo.' (Unless using the infinitive as a gerund-like noun, which is rare here.)

Muitos alunos confundem o substantivo sussurro com a ação de sussurrar.

Another common error is using 'sussurro' when 'cochicho' would be more appropriate. While 'sussurro' is a general term for whispering, 'cochicho' specifically implies gossiping or sharing secrets in a way that might be seen as rude or exclusionary. If you are talking about two colleagues gossiping about the boss, 'cochicho' is the better fit. Using 'sussurro' there might make the action sound too poetic or innocent.

Havia um sussurro constante de vento, não um cochicho de pessoas.

Gender agreement is another hurdle. Some learners mistakenly treat 'sussurro' as feminine because many words ending in 'o' in other languages or similar-sounding Portuguese words might be feminine, but 'sussurro' is strictly masculine. Therefore, 'a sussurro' is a major grammatical error. Always use 'o sussurro' or 'um sussurro'.

Gender Error
Correct: 'Um sussurro suave.' Incorrect: 'Uma sussurro suave.'

Ele ouviu o sussurro da floresta à noite.

Lastly, learners sometimes over-rely on the word 'sussurro' for any low sound. Portuguese has specific words for different types of low sounds. For instance, 'murmúrio' is better for a low, indistinct sound of many people talking at once (like a crowd), whereas 'sussurro' is usually more individual or distinct. Using 'sussurro' for a crowd sound might feel slightly off to a native speaker.

While 'sussurro' is a very useful word, expanding your vocabulary with its synonyms and related terms will make your Portuguese sound more natural and precise. Depending on the context—whether it's a secret, a soft noise, or a crowd's rumble—different words may be more appropriate.

Cochicho
This is the most common informal alternative. It specifically refers to whispering a secret or gossiping. It has a more conversational and sometimes slightly negative connotation.
Murmúrio
A murmur. This is often used for a low, continuous sound, like a stream or a group of people talking quietly in the distance. It is less breathy than a 'sussurro'.

O murmúrio da multidão podia ser ouvido de longe.

Another interesting alternative is 'balbucio', which refers to a babble or a stammer, often used for infants or someone struggling to speak. While not a direct synonym for 'sussurro', it occupies a similar space of 'low-volume communication'. For more poetic or literary contexts, 'rumor' can be used, though in modern Portuguese 'rumor' usually means 'rumour' (a story of uncertain truth). In older texts, 'rumor' could mean a soft, distant sound.

Ela parou de falar e apenas um balbucio saiu de seus lábios.

When comparing these words, consider the 'texture' of the sound. A 'sussurro' is sharp and breathy (the 's' sounds). A 'murmúrio' is rounder and more resonant (the 'm' and 'u' sounds). A 'cochicho' sounds repetitive and quick (the 'ch' sounds). This phonetic difference often mirrors the actual sounds they describe.

Sopro
Meaning 'breath' or 'puff'. Sometimes used metaphorically for a very light whisper, especially if it's just a single word or breath of air.

Um sopro de esperança foi tudo o que restou.

In conclusion, while 'sussurro' is your go-to word for whispers, being aware of 'cochicho', 'murmúrio', and 'balbucio' allows you to paint a more vivid auditory picture in your Portuguese conversations and writing.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The word is considered onomatopoeic because the 's' and 'u' sounds physically require the speaker to make a whispering sound.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /suˈsu.ʁu/
US /suˈsu.ʁu/
The stress is on the second syllable: sus-SUR-ro.
Rima con
burro murro empurro curro turro azurro esturro chamurro
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the double 's' like a 'z' (it should be sharp).
  • Pronouncing the 'rr' like a single Spanish 'r' (it should be a stronger, throatier sound).
  • Putting the stress on the first or last syllable.
  • Spelling it with only one 's' (susurro).
  • Confusing the 'o' at the end with an 'a'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Easy to recognize due to its similarity to 'susurro' in Spanish or the concept of whispering.

Escritura 3/5

The double 's' and double 'r' can be tricky for beginners to spell correctly.

Expresión oral 3/5

Requires mastering the sharp 's' and the guttural 'rr' sound.

Escucha 2/5

Distinctive sound makes it relatively easy to catch in conversation.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

falar voz baixo ouvir silêncio

Aprende después

sussurrar murmúrio cochicho segredo gritar

Avanzado

sibilante inefável auscultação conspiratório rumorejar

Gramática que debes saber

Masculine Noun Agreement

O sussurro (The whisper), Um sussurro (A whisper).

Double 's' Pronunciation

Sussurro is pronounced with a sharp 's' sound, never a 'z' sound.

Double 'r' Pronunciation

The 'rr' in sussurro is guttural, like the 'h' in 'house' but stronger.

Preposition 'Em' for Manner

Falar 'em' um sussurro (To speak 'in' a whisper).

Pluralization of '-o' nouns

Sussurro becomes sussurros by adding 's'.

Ejemplos por nivel

1

Eu ouço um sussurro.

I hear a whisper.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

2

O sussurro é baixo.

The whisper is low.

Use of the masculine article 'O'.

3

Ela fala em um sussurro.

She speaks in a whisper.

The preposition 'em' indicates manner.

4

Não é um grito, é um sussurro.

It's not a shout, it's a whisper.

Contrastive negation.

5

Você ouviu o sussurro?

Did you hear the whisper?

Simple past tense question.

6

O bebê gosta do sussurro da mãe.

The baby likes the mother's whisper.

Possessive 'da' (de + a).

7

Um sussurro na biblioteca.

A whisper in the library.

Prepositional phrase of location.

8

Eles trocam sussurros.

They exchange whispers.

Plural form 'sussurros'.

1

Nós falamos em um sussurro para não acordar o pai.

We spoke in a whisper so as not to wake father.

Use of 'para' to show purpose.

2

O sussurro do vento nas árvores é relaxante.

The whisper of the wind in the trees is relaxing.

Describing a natural sound.

3

Eu não entendi o seu sussurro.

I didn't understand your whisper.

Negative past tense with possessive 'seu'.

4

Ela deu um sussurro rápido e saiu.

She gave a quick whisper and left.

Adjective 'rápido' modifying the noun.

5

Havia um sussurro vindo de trás da porta.

There was a whisper coming from behind the door.

Use of 'havia' (there was).

6

O professor pediu um sussurro, não silêncio total.

The teacher asked for a whisper, not total silence.

Contrast between whisper and silence.

7

Posso te contar um segredo em um sussurro?

Can I tell you a secret in a whisper?

Direct object pronoun 'te'.

8

Os sussurros pararam quando ela entrou na sala.

The whispers stopped when she entered the room.

Plural subject with past tense verb.

1

Um sussurro suave pode ser mais forte que um grito.

A soft whisper can be stronger than a shout.

Comparative structure 'mais... que'.

2

Eu ouvi um sussurro de desaprovação na plateia.

I heard a whisper of disapproval in the audience.

Abstract noun 'desaprovação'.

3

O sussurro das folhas secas anunciava a chegada do outono.

The whisper of the dry leaves announced the arrival of autumn.

Metaphorical use for nature.

4

Ela sempre fala em um sussurro quando está nervosa.

She always speaks in a whisper when she is nervous.

Adverbial clause of time.

5

O sussurro era tão baixo que quase ninguém ouviu.

The whisper was so low that almost no one heard.

Consecutive clause 'tão... que'.

6

Sempre há sussurros de novos projetos na empresa.

There are always whispers of new projects at the company.

Metaphorical 'whispers' as rumors.

7

Ele se aproximou e deixou um sussurro no meu ouvido.

He approached and left a whisper in my ear.

Sequential actions in the past.

8

O sussurro da água na fonte era o único som no jardim.

The whisper of the water in the fountain was the only sound in the garden.

Descriptive noun phrase.

1

A conspiração começou com um simples sussurro em um corredor escuro.

The conspiracy began with a simple whisper in a dark hallway.

Historical narrative style.

2

O sussurro das ondas na areia trazia uma paz imensa.

The whisper of the waves on the sand brought immense peace.

Evocative vocabulary 'imensa'.

3

Apesar do barulho, o seu sussurro foi perfeitamente audível para mim.

Despite the noise, your whisper was perfectly audible to me.

Concessive preposition 'apesar de'.

4

Havia sussurros constantes sobre a demissão do diretor.

There were constant whispers about the director's dismissal.

Imperfect tense for ongoing state.

5

O sussurro da brisa noturna refrescava o quarto quente.

The whisper of the night breeze cooled the hot room.

Personification of the breeze.

6

Ele proferiu a ameaça em um sussurro gelado.

He uttered the threat in a chilling whisper.

Metaphorical adjective 'gelado'.

7

O sussurro da floresta parece uma linguagem antiga que esquecemos.

The whisper of the forest seems like an ancient language we forgot.

Complex comparison with relative clause.

8

Ela transformou sua dor em um sussurro poético em suas canções.

She transformed her pain into a poetic whisper in her songs.

Abstract transformation.

1

O sussurro da consciência muitas vezes é ignorado em tempos de ganância.

The whisper of conscience is often ignored in times of greed.

Philosophical subject.

2

A narrativa é construída sobre sussurros e meias-verdades.

The narrative is built on whispers and half-truths.

Literary analysis terminology.

3

O sussurro sibilante da serpente assustou os caminhantes.

The serpent's sibilant whisper frightened the hikers.

Precise adjective 'sibilante'.

4

Percebi um sussurro de ironia em sua voz quando ele me elogiou.

I noticed a whisper of irony in his voice when he praised me.

Abstract 'sussurro' meaning 'hint'.

5

O sussurro das estrelas é uma metáfora comum na poesia astronômica.

The whisper of the stars is a common metaphor in astronomical poetry.

Discussing poetic devices.

6

Os sussurros diplomáticos sugerem que um acordo está próximo.

Diplomatic whispers suggest that a deal is close.

Political jargon.

7

Não era um som físico, mas um sussurro na alma que a guiava.

It wasn't a physical sound, but a whisper in the soul that guided her.

Metaphysical description.

8

O sussurro da história ecoa nas ruínas daquela cidade antiga.

The whisper of history echoes in the ruins of that ancient city.

Personification of history.

1

A obra capta o sussurro inefável da existência humana em sua forma mais pura.

The work captures the ineffable whisper of human existence in its purest form.

High-level academic vocabulary 'inefável'.

2

O sussurro das eras parece convergir naquele ponto geográfico singular.

The whisper of the ages seems to converge at that singular geographical point.

Temporal metaphor.

3

Sua voz, reduzida a um sussurro gutural, ainda impunha autoridade.

His voice, reduced to a guttural whisper, still commanded authority.

Complex adjectival phrase.

4

Há um sussurro de melancolia que permeia toda a literatura lusófona.

There is a whisper of melancholy that permeates all Lusophone literature.

Cultural and literary commentary.

5

O sussurro da folhagem sob o luar criava uma sinfonia de sombras.

The whisper of the foliage under the moonlight created a symphony of shadows.

Highly descriptive, poetic imagery.

6

A verdade não veio em um trovão, mas no sussurro de uma criança.

Truth did not come in a thunderclap, but in the whisper of a child.

Rhetorical contrast.

7

O sussurro das águas subterrâneas moldou a caverna ao longo de milênios.

The whisper of underground waters shaped the cave over millennia.

Geological personification.

8

Ele buscava o sussurro do divino no silêncio absoluto do deserto.

He sought the whisper of the divine in the absolute silence of the desert.

Spiritual/Philosophical context.

Colocaciones comunes

em um sussurro
sussurro suave
ouvir um sussurro
sussurro do vento
sussurro das ondas
sussurro rouco
trocar sussurros
sussurro imperceptível
sussurro conspiratório
sussurro da consciência

Frases Comunes

falar em sussurros

— To speak in whispers, often implying secrecy.

Eles estavam falando em sussurros no canto.

apenas um sussurro

— Something very quiet or subtle.

Sua voz era apenas um sussurro.

um sussurro de esperança

— A tiny bit of hope.

Ainda resta um sussurro de esperança.

o sussurro da morte

— A poetic way to describe the approach of death.

Ele sentiu o sussurro da morte.

sussurros de corredor

— Rumors or gossip in an office or organization.

Os sussurros de corredor dizem que ele vai sair.

num sussurro

— In a whisper (contraction of 'em' + 'um').

Ela disse 'sim' num sussurro.

sussurro de ninar

— A soft sound used to put someone to sleep.

O sussurro de ninar da mãe era doce.

perder-se num sussurro

— To fade away into a quiet sound.

A música perdeu-se num sussurro.

sussurro abafado

— A muffled whisper.

Ouvi um sussurro abafado atrás da parede.

sussurro de amor

— Sweet nothings or romantic whispers.

Ele dizia sussurros de amor para ela.

Se confunde a menudo con

sussurro vs sussurrar

This is the verb (to whisper). Sussurro is the noun (a whisper).

sussurro vs cochicho

Cochicho is specifically for gossiping or secrets; sussurro is more general.

sussurro vs murmúrio

Murmúrio is a continuous low sound; sussurro is a breathy, individual sound.

Modismos y expresiones

"aos sussurros"

— Doing something while whispering, often implying a secret activity.

Eles planejaram a festa aos sussurros.

neutral
"sussurro ao pé do ouvido"

— Whispering directly into someone's ear, usually intimate or very secret.

Ele deu um sussurro ao pé do ouvido dela.

informal
"não passar de um sussurro"

— To be insignificant or very quiet.

Sua reclamação não passou de um sussurro.

neutral
"o sussurro das paredes"

— The idea that secrets are being overheard or that a place has history.

Nesta casa, ouve-se o sussurro das paredes.

poetic
"sussurro de bastidores"

— Behind-the-scenes rumors, especially in politics or theater.

Os sussurros de bastidores confirmam a mudança.

journalistic
"em sussurro de prece"

— Speaking very quietly as if praying.

Ela pediu ajuda em sussurro de prece.

literary
"um sussurro no deserto"

— Something that goes unheard or ignored.

Sua voz foi como um sussurro no deserto.

poetic
"sussurro de fantasma"

— A very faint, eerie sound or a memory that lingers.

Era apenas um sussurro de fantasma do passado.

literary
"sussurro de seda"

— The sound of fabric moving, or a very smooth voice.

O vestido fazia um sussurro de seda.

descriptive
"sussurro de traição"

— The first signs or rumors of a betrayal.

Houve um sussurro de traição no palácio.

dramatic

Fácil de confundir

sussurro vs suspiro

Similar spelling and both involve breath.

A 'suspiro' is a sigh (a deep breath out), while a 'sussurro' is a whisper (speech).

Ela deu um suspiro de alívio, não um sussurro.

sussurro vs sopro

Both involve air from the mouth.

A 'sopro' is a puff or blow of air; 'sussurro' is speech-like sound.

O sopro do vento apagou a vela.

sussurro vs ruído

Both are types of sound.

A 'ruído' is a general noise, often unpleasant; a 'sussurro' is specifically soft and breathy.

O ruído da cidade é alto.

sussurro vs zumbido

Both are low sounds.

A 'zumbido' is a hum or buzz (like a bee); 'sussurro' is a whisper.

Ouvi um zumbido de abelha.

sussurro vs estalo

Both are specific sound nouns.

An 'estalo' is a snap or crack; 'sussurro' is soft and long.

O estalo da madeira me acordou.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

Eu ouço [artigo] sussurro.

Eu ouço um sussurro.

A2

Falar em [artigo] sussurro.

Ela fala em um sussurro.

B1

O sussurro de [substantivo] é [adjetivo].

O sussurro do vento é calmo.

B2

Apesar do [substantivo], ouvi um sussurro.

Apesar do barulho, ouvi um sussurro.

C1

Um sussurro de [conceito abstrato].

Um sussurro de ironia.

C2

[Verbo] o sussurro inefável de [substantivo].

Captar o sussurro inefável da existência.

A2

Não [verbo], use um sussurro.

Não grite, use um sussurro.

B1

Havia sussurros sobre [tópico].

Havia sussurros sobre a festa.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

sussurro
sussurrador
sussurração

Verbos

sussurrar

Adjetivos

sussurrante
sussurrado

Relacionado

cochicho
murmúrio
voz
silêncio
segredo

Cómo usarlo

frequency

High in literature and storytelling; medium in daily casual conversation.

Errores comunes
  • Eu ouvi um susurro. Eu ouvi um sussurro.

    Missing the second 's'. Portuguese words with a single 's' between vowels are pronounced like 'z'.

  • Ela falou em uma sussurro. Ela falou em um sussurro.

    'Sussurro' is masculine, so it must use the masculine article 'um'.

  • O sussurrar foi muito baixo. O sussurro foi muito baixo.

    Using the infinitive verb 'sussurrar' as a noun when the dedicated noun 'sussurro' exists.

  • Eles estão fazendo sussurros sobre o chefe. Eles estão fazendo cochichos sobre o chefe.

    While grammatically correct, 'cochichos' is much more natural for gossiping about someone.

  • Eu sussurro você um segredo. Eu sussurro um segredo para você.

    The verb 'sussurrar' requires the preposition 'para' or 'a' for the person being whispered to.

Consejos

Master the 'SS'

Ensure the double 's' is sharp and hissed. If you pronounce it like a 'z', native speakers might be confused or notice the error immediately.

Double Everything

A good way to remember the spelling is that 'sussurro' has double 's' and double 'r'. It's a 'double-double' word!

Context is King

Use 'sussurro' for beauty and nature, and 'cochicho' for people being sneaky. This nuance makes you sound more like a native speaker.

Article Agreement

Always pair it with 'o' or 'um'. 'A sussurro' is a common mistake for Spanish speakers who might think of 'la voz'.

Listen for Breath

Because it's onomatopoeic, listen for the breathy 's' sounds when people talk about quiet things.

Fado and Bossa

To see the word in action, look up lyrics to Fado or Bossa Nova songs. You'll see 'sussurro' used to create a romantic or sad mood.

The 'Em' Rule

When you want to say 'in a whisper', always use 'em um sussurro' or the contraction 'num sussurro'.

Think Beyond Speech

Don't be afraid to use 'sussurro' for things that don't speak, like 'o sussurro da chuva' (the whisper of the rain).

Contrast Practice

Practice saying 'um grito' (loudly) and 'um sussurro' (whispering) to anchor the meanings in your mind.

Look for it in Novels

In Portuguese novels, 'disse ele em um sussurro' is the standard way to attribute whispered dialogue.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of the word 'sussurro' as someone saying 'shush' (su-ss) followed by a soft 'u-rro'. The double 's' is the key to the quiet sound.

Asociación visual

Imagine a person with their finger to their lips, leaning into another person's ear in a dark library.

Word Web

silêncio segredo voz ouvido vento folhas noite calma

Desafío

Try to say 'O sussurro do vento' five times fast without making it sound like a shout.

Origen de la palabra

From the Latin word 'susurrus', which also means a whisper, murmur, or humming.

Significado original: A low, continuous sound, often onomatopoeic in origin to mimic the sound of whispering.

Romance (Latin origin).

Contexto cultural

Whispering in certain social situations can be seen as rude (excluding others), just like in English-speaking cultures.

Similar to the English 'whisper', but 'sussurro' is more often used for natural sounds than 'whisper' might be in casual English.

The song 'Sussurro' by various Brazilian artists. Literary descriptions in 'Os Lusíadas'. ASMR videos in Portuguese often use the term 'sussurro'.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Library/Study

  • Fale em um sussurro.
  • Mantenha o sussurro baixo.
  • Apenas sussurros são permitidos.
  • O sussurro incomoda.

Nature

  • O sussurro do vento.
  • O sussurro das folhas.
  • O sussurro do mar.
  • O sussurro do riacho.

Secrets

  • Contar em um sussurro.
  • Um sussurro ao ouvido.
  • Trocar sussurros.
  • Sussurros de segredo.

Romance

  • Sussurros de amor.
  • Um sussurro doce.
  • Sussurro na noite.
  • Falar num sussurro carinhoso.

Suspense/Horror

  • Um sussurro fantasmagórico.
  • Sussurros no escuro.
  • Ouvi um sussurro estranho.
  • O sussurro parou.

Inicios de conversación

"Você prefere o som do sussurro do vento ou das ondas do mar?"

"Alguma vez você ouviu um sussurro misterioso que não conseguiu explicar?"

"É difícil para você falar em um sussurro por muito tempo?"

"O que você acha que os sussurros nos corredores da empresa estão dizendo?"

"Você gosta de ouvir sussurros em vídeos de relaxamento (ASMR)?"

Temas para diario

Descreva uma memória onde um sussurro mudou tudo para você.

Escreva sobre os sons de uma floresta à noite, focando no sussurro das árvores.

Como você se sente quando ouve um sussurro atrás de você em um lugar público?

Imagine um mundo onde as pessoas só podem falar em sussurros. Como seria a vida?

Reflita sobre o 'sussurro da sua consciência'. O que ele tem dito ultimamente?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

It is a masculine noun. You should always use 'o sussurro' or 'um sussurro'. This is true even if the person whispering is female.

'Sussurro' is a general term for a whisper, often used for natural sounds or poetic contexts. 'Cochicho' is more informal and usually implies gossiping or sharing secrets behind someone's back.

The 'rr' is a strong, guttural sound produced in the back of the throat, similar to the French 'r' or a strong English 'h' as in 'hot'. Practice by clearing your throat slightly.

Yes, 'o sussurro do vento' is a very common and beautiful way to describe the sound of a gentle breeze in Portuguese.

Yes, it is used throughout the Portuguese-speaking world, though Brazilians might use 'cochicho' more frequently in very casual conversations about gossip.

No, 'sussurro' is the noun. The verb is 'sussurrar'. However, 'sussurro' is also the first-person singular present form of the verb: 'Eu sussurro' (I whisper).

Not directly, but 'sussurros de corredor' is a common idiomatic way to refer to office rumors or 'scuttlebutt'.

It is always spelled with two 's' in the middle. Spelling it with one 's' is a common mistake and would change the pronunciation to a 'z' sound.

Common adjectives include 'suave' (soft), 'baixo' (low), 'rouco' (hoarse), 'doce' (sweet), and 'misterioso' (mysterious).

Yes, it can be translated as murmur in some contexts, but 'murmúrio' is the more direct translation for a continuous, low sound of many voices.

Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas

writing

Escreva uma frase usando 'sussurro' e 'segredo'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Descreva o som do vento usando a palavra 'sussurro'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Escreva uma frase sobre o comportamento em uma biblioteca usando 'sussurro'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'sussurro' em uma frase romântica.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Crie uma frase onde 'sussurro' signifique um boato (rumor).

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Descreva um sussurro 'imperceptível'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use a palavra 'sussurro' em um contexto de suspense.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Escreva sobre o 'sussurro das ondas'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Como você descreveria um sussurro 'rouco'?

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Crie uma frase poética com 'sussurro da alma'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Escreva uma pequena história (3 frases) usando 'sussurro' pelo menos duas vezes.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'sussurro' para descrever uma conversa entre duas crianças.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Escreva sobre um 'sussurro de desaprovação'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'sussurro' em uma frase sobre o outono.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Descreva o 'sussurro da consciência'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Crie um diálogo curto (A e B) onde um pede ao outro para sussurrar.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'sussurro' em um contexto médico.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Escreva sobre o 'sussurro das estrelas'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'sussurros de corredor' em uma frase sobre política.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Descreva um 'sussurro sibilante'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pronuncie a palavra 'sussurro' focando no 'ss' e 'rr'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga 'Ela fala em um sussurro' em voz baixa.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pergunte a alguém: 'Você ouviu o sussurro?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga 'O sussurro do vento' com entonação poética.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explique em português o que é um sussurro.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Peça para alguém falar mais baixo usando 'sussurro'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga 'Havia sussurros na sala' no passado.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Descreva o som do mar usando 'sussurro'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga a frase: 'Um sussurro suave acalma o bebê'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Use 'sussurro' para falar sobre um segredo.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pronuncie o plural 'sussurros' corretamente.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'O sussurro da consciência é a nossa guia'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'Sussurros de corredor são perigosos'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pratique a diferença entre 'sussurro' e 'suspiro'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'O sussurro das folhas anuncia o outono'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'Ele tinha um sussurro rouco e misterioso'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'A verdade reside no sussurro, não no grito'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'O sussurro inefável da vida'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'A Bossa Nova é o sussurro do Brasil'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Diga: 'Não passe de um sussurro'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Transcreva: 'O sussurro foi ouvido por todos'.

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

Transcreva: 'Fale apenas em sussurros'.

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

Transcreva: 'Ouvi um sussurro no escuro'.

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

Transcreva: 'O sussurro do mar é lindo'.

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

Transcreva: 'Um sussurro de esperança'.

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

Identifique a palavra chave: 'Ele sussurrou um sussurro'.

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

Transcreva: 'Os sussurros pararam'.

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

Transcreva: 'O sussurro da brisa'.

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

Transcreva: 'Nada além de um sussurro'.

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

Transcreva: 'Sussurros de amor'.

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

Transcreva: 'O sussurro das estrelas'.

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

Transcreva: 'Havia sussurros no corredor'.

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

Transcreva: 'O sussurro da consciência'.

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

Transcreva: 'Um sussurro rouco'.

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

Transcreva: 'O sussurro inefável'.

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

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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