At the A1 level, 'em segurança' is a vital phrase for basic communication about well-being. Learners at this stage should focus on its most literal meaning: being safe, especially after traveling. It is one of the first multi-word expressions you should learn to provide reassurance to others. At this level, you don't need to worry about the complex grammar behind it; just think of it as a single unit meaning 'safely'. You will use it with simple verbs like 'estar' (to be) and 'chegar' (to arrive). For example, saying 'Estou em segurança' (I am safe) is a perfect way to let someone know you are okay in a new city. It helps build confidence in your ability to communicate your basic needs and status. You might also see it on signs in public places, like 'Saída em segurança' (Safe exit). Learning this phrase early helps you recognize important safety information in Portuguese-speaking environments. Focus on the pronunciation, ensuring you say the 'em' clearly before 'segurança'. It is a 'set phrase', meaning it doesn't change, which makes it very easy for beginners to use correctly without worrying about gender or plural endings.
At the A2 level, you begin to expand the use of 'em segurança' beyond just yourself. You will start using it to describe the safety of objects and other people. This is the stage where you learn to give basic instructions or advice to others. For instance, you might tell a friend, 'Guarda o teu passaporte em segurança' (Keep your passport safe). You will also encounter the phrase in more varied contexts, such as describing how someone drives or how an animal is kept. At A2, you should also be able to understand the phrase when it is used in short, simple news stories or public announcements. You are moving from just stating your own safety to interacting with your environment safely. You will notice that 'em segurança' often follows the verb, acting as a description of the action. This helps you understand the rhythm of Portuguese sentences. It's also a good time to contrast it with 'em perigo' (in danger) to build your vocabulary of opposites. By the end of this level, you should feel comfortable using 'em segurança' in everyday travel and social situations to provide or ask for reassurance.
At the B1 level, 'em segurança' moves into more abstract and professional territories. You will use it to discuss topics like digital security, financial stability, and workplace safety. Instead of just physical safety, you might talk about 'navegar em segurança na internet' (browsing the internet safely). This involves a higher level of vocabulary, such as 'dados' (data), 'palavra-passe' (password), and 'riscos' (risks). You will also start to use the phrase in more complex sentence structures, including subordinate clauses and different tenses. For example: 'É importante que todos os funcionários trabalhem em segurança' (It is important that all employees work safely). This level requires you to understand the nuance between 'em segurança' and 'com segurança' (with confidence/certainty). You will also begin to recognize the phrase in more formal settings, such as bank documents or insurance policies. Your ability to use 'em segurança' at this level shows that you can handle practical matters of modern life in Portuguese, from protecting your digital identity to ensuring your family's financial future is 'em segurança'.
At the B2 level, your understanding of 'em segurança' becomes more nuanced and context-dependent. You can now use the phrase to discuss social and political issues, such as 'segurança pública' (public safety) and how citizens feel 'em segurança' in their cities. You will be able to engage in debates about the balance between freedom and safety. At this level, you are also expected to use more sophisticated synonyms like 'ileso', 'a salvo', or 'incólume' when appropriate, showing a broader vocabulary. You can understand and use 'em segurança' in idiomatic expressions and more complex rhetorical structures. For example, you might describe a political transition happening 'em segurança' (safely/stably). You will also be able to distinguish between the various registers where the phrase appears—from a casual text message to a formal legal warning. At B2, you should be able to write detailed reports or essays where safety is a theme, using 'em segurança' to describe the successful implementation of protocols or the stable state of a project. Your usage should be fluid and natural, reflecting a deep understanding of Portuguese adverbial structures.
At the C1 level, 'em segurança' is used with high precision in professional, academic, and literary contexts. You will explore the philosophical and legal implications of being 'em segurança'. You can analyze how the phrase is used in literature to create a sense of relief or irony. Your vocabulary will include technical terms related to safety in specific fields like engineering, law, or medicine. For example, you might discuss 'protocolos de segurança' and the necessity of 'operar em segurança' in high-stakes environments. At this level, you can appreciate the subtle differences in meaning that come from word order and emphasis. You will also be able to use the phrase in complex argumentative speech, defending why a certain course of action is 'em segurança' compared to others. You are expected to have a near-native grasp of when 'em segurança' is the most appropriate choice versus more formal alternatives like 'em estado de segurança'. You can also use the phrase to describe complex emotional or psychological states, such as a child's psychological development occurring 'em segurança' within a family unit.
At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'em segurança' and its place in the Portuguese language. You can use it with the same nuance and cultural depth as a native speaker with a high level of education. This includes using the phrase in creative writing, high-level diplomacy, or complex technical specifications. You can discuss the etymological roots of 'segurança' and how the phrase 'em segurança' has evolved in different Lusophone cultures. You are able to identify and use the phrase in its most subtle forms, perhaps even using it ironically or metaphorically in sophisticated wordplay. Your understanding extends to the legal definitions of safety and how 'em segurança' might be interpreted in a court of law. Whether you are writing a doctoral thesis, a novel, or a high-level policy document, you use 'em segurança' to convey exactly the right amount of reassurance, technical accuracy, or emotional weight. You are also fully aware of the regional variations in how safety is discussed across the Portuguese-speaking world, from the 'segurança' of a favela in Rio to the 'segurança' of a village in the Alentejo.

em segurança en 30 secondes

  • Used to express that someone or something is safe from harm.
  • Commonly used with verbs like 'chegar', 'estar', and 'manter'.
  • Essential for travel, digital security, and personal well-being contexts.
  • Invariable phrase that does not change for gender or number.
The Portuguese phrase em segurança is a foundational adverbial expression that translates directly to 'safely' or 'in safety' in English. At its core, it describes the state of being free from danger, risk, or injury. While it might seem like a simple combination of the preposition 'em' (in) and the noun 'segurança' (safety/security), its usage spans a wide range of contexts from literal physical protection to abstract digital and financial stability. In everyday life, you will hear this phrase most often when people are traveling, checking in on loved ones, or discussing the outcome of a potentially hazardous situation. It implies a successful avoidance of harm. For instance, after a long flight or a drive through heavy rain, a common text message sent to family is 'Cheguei em segurança' (I arrived safely). This specific usage provides a sense of relief and closure to a period of uncertainty.
Literal State
Refers to being physically protected from external threats, such as a child being 'em segurança' in their parents' arms.
Operational Status
Used in technical fields to indicate that a machine or system is operating within safe parameters without risk of failure.

Depois da tempestade, todos os barcos voltaram ao porto em segurança.

Beyond physical safety, the phrase is increasingly common in the digital age. When discussing passwords, bank accounts, or private data, Portuguese speakers emphasize keeping these assets 'em segurança'. It suggests a barrier or a protective measure is in place. Unlike the English word 'security' which can sometimes refer to the guards themselves, 'em segurança' almost always refers to the *state* of the object or person. If you want to talk about the security guards, you would use 'os seguranças'. Therefore, being 'em segurança' is a qualitative description of one's environment or condition. In social contexts, 'sentir-se em segurança' (to feel safe) is a powerful emotional descriptor. It is used to talk about relationships, neighborhoods, and political climates. A citizen might say 'Não me sinto em segurança nesta rua à noite' (I don't feel safe on this street at night). This highlights that the phrase is not just about the absence of accidents, but also the presence of peace of mind.

É fundamental que as crianças cresçam num ambiente onde se sintam em segurança.

Public Safety
Relates to the general security of a city or country, often discussed in news reports regarding crime rates.

Os documentos foram guardados em segurança no cofre do banco.

O alpinista atingiu o cume e desceu em segurança.

Mantenha o seu cinto de segurança apertado para viajar em segurança.

Finally, in a more formal or administrative sense, 'em segurança' appears in protocols. 'Proceder em segurança' means to follow safety guidelines strictly. Whether you are a tourist navigating a new city or a professional handling sensitive equipment, mastering this phrase allows you to communicate the most basic of human needs: the need to be out of harm's way.
Using em segurança effectively requires understanding its role as an adverbial phrase. It typically follows the verb it modifies, describing the manner in which an action is performed or the state in which a subject exists. The most frequent verbs associated with this phrase are 'chegar' (to arrive), 'estar' (to be), 'ficar' (to stay/remain), 'viajar' (to travel), and 'manter' (to keep/maintain).
With Motion Verbs
When used with verbs like 'ir', 'voltar', or 'conduzir', it specifies that the movement occurred without accidents. 'Conduza em segurança' is a common sign on Portuguese highways.

Por favor, certifique-se de que atravessa a rua em segurança.

In sentences where you want to emphasize a state of being, 'estar' is your primary verb. 'Estamos em segurança aqui' (We are safe here). Note that Portuguese does not use an adjective like 'safely' in the same way English does; instead, it uses this prepositional phrase. If you were to say 'Estamos seguros', it can mean 'We are safe', but it can also mean 'We are sure'. Using 'em segurança' removes this ambiguity, focusing strictly on the aspect of protection and lack of danger.

As crianças brincavam no parque em segurança sob a vigilância dos pais.

Another common structure involves the verb 'manter' (to keep). This is often seen in instructions. 'Mantenha os seus objetos de valor em segurança' (Keep your valuables safe). Here, 'em segurança' acts as a predicative of the object, describing the state in which the objects should be kept. This is very common in hotel notices or public transport announcements.
Abstract Usage
You can use it for non-physical things. 'O seu futuro está em segurança connosco' (Your future is safe with us), common in banking or insurance advertisements.

A equipa de resgate conseguiu retirar todos os passageiros em segurança.

É importante navegar na internet em segurança para evitar vírus.

When constructing complex sentences, 'em segurança' can be modified by adverbs of degree, although it is less common. You might say 'totalmente em segurança' (totally safe) or 'relativamente em segurança' (relatively safe). However, usually, the phrase stands alone to indicate a binary state: either there is danger or there is safety. In negative sentences, you would say 'não está em segurança' or 'fora de segurança', though 'em perigo' (in danger) is the more natural antonym.

O transplante foi realizado e o paciente encontra-se agora em segurança.

Professional Contexts
In aviation, 'aterrar em segurança' (to land safely) is the standard phrase used by air traffic control and pilots.
By integrating 'em segurança' into your vocabulary, you gain a versatile tool to describe successful outcomes, provide reassurance, and give clear, safe instructions in any Portuguese-speaking environment.
In the daily life of a Portuguese speaker, em segurança is omnipresent, echoing through public spaces and private conversations alike. If you are traveling in Lisbon, Porto, or São Paulo, one of the first places you will encounter it is in public transportation. Metro stations and buses often have automated announcements or posters reminding passengers: 'Mantenha os seus pertences sempre em segurança' (Always keep your belongings safe). This is a polite but firm warning against pickpockets in crowded areas.
Public Announcements
Listen for this phrase in airports, train stations, and shopping malls. It is the go-to term for institutional safety advice.

Atenção: certifique-se de que a porta do comboio fechou em segurança.

In the media, 'em segurança' is a staple of news reporting. Whenever there is a natural disaster, a police operation, or a rescue mission, the primary goal of the reporter is to inform the public whether the individuals involved are 'em segurança'. You might hear a news anchor say: 'As famílias foram retiradas da zona de risco e encontram-se agora em segurança' (The families were removed from the risk zone and are now safe). This phrasing is objective and reassuring, making it perfect for journalistic integrity.

O Presidente afirmou que todos os cidadãos no estrangeiro estão em segurança.

Family dynamics also revolve around this phrase. Portuguese culture is generally very protective of family members. Parents will often tell their children 'Liga-me quando chegares para eu saber que estás em segurança' (Call me when you arrive so I know you're safe). It is an expression of care and love. In this context, 'em segurança' is more than just an adverb; it is a source of emotional relief for the listener.
Digital Contexts
On websites and apps, you will see buttons or text saying 'Compre em segurança' (Shop safely) or 'Os seus dados estão em segurança' (Your data is safe).

Para navegar em segurança, utilize sempre uma ligação VPN.

A polícia montou um perímetro para que o evento decorresse em segurança.

É melhor esperar que a chuva pare para podermos conduzir em segurança.

In the workplace, specifically in industries like construction, manufacturing, or healthcare, safety protocols are paramount. You will see signs like 'Trabalhe em segurança' (Work safely). During safety briefings, supervisors will use the phrase to emphasize that no task is more important than returning home 'em segurança'.
Emergency Services
Firefighters and paramedics use this phrase to signal that a scene is clear or that a victim is no longer in immediate danger.
Whether it is a whisper of relief between partners or a loud announcement at a stadium, 'em segurança' is the linguistic anchor that confirms the absence of threat in the Lusophone world.
One of the most frequent errors English speakers make when learning Portuguese is confusing em segurança with the adverb 'seguramente'. In English, 'surely' and 'safely' are distinct, but because 'segurança' sounds like 'sure', learners often trip up. 'Seguramente' means 'surely' or 'certainly' (expressing probability), whereas 'em segurança' means 'safely' (expressing protection). If you say 'Ele chegou seguramente', you are saying 'He surely arrived' (you are certain he did), not that he arrived without getting hurt.
Confusion with 'Seguramente'
Remember: 'Seguramente' = Probability. 'Em segurança' = Physical/Digital protection.

Errado: O piloto aterrou seguramente. (He surely landed.)
Correto: O piloto aterrou em segurança. (He landed safely.)

Another common pitfall is the choice between 'em segurança' and 'com segurança'. While they are sometimes interchangeable, they carry different nuances. 'Com segurança' often implies a manner of acting with confidence, firmness, or technical skill. For example, 'Ele fala com segurança' means 'He speaks with confidence'. If you said 'Ele fala em segurança', it would imply he is speaking from a safe location where no one can hurt him.

O cirurgião operou com segurança. (The surgeon operated with confidence/skill.)
O cirurgião está em segurança. (The surgeon is safe/unharmed.)

Learners also tend to try and pluralize the phrase. They might say 'Eles chegaram em seguranças' because 'Eles' is plural. This is incorrect. 'Em segurança' is an adverbial phrase, and like most adverbs, it is invariable. It describes the *way* they arrived, not the people themselves.
Pluralization Error
Never add an 's' to 'segurança' in this phrase. It is always 'em segurança', regardless of the subject.

As joias estão em segurança. (The jewels are safe.)

Additionally, English speakers sometimes use the adjective 'seguro' when they should use the phrase 'em segurança'. While 'estar seguro' is grammatically correct, it is often ambiguous. As mentioned before, 'estou seguro' can mean 'I am certain'. To be crystal clear that you are talking about your physical safety, 'estou em segurança' is the superior choice.

Guarde o dinheiro em segurança no cofre.

O resgate foi feito em segurança apesar do vento forte.

Não saia de casa até estarmos em segurança.

Lastly, avoid using 'salvamento' or 'salvo' as direct replacements for 'em segurança' in all contexts. 'Salvo' means 'saved' or 'safe' (as in 'safe and sound'), but it is more literary or specific to being rescued from a specific event. 'Em segurança' is the broader, more common term for the general state of safety. By avoiding these common traps, your Portuguese will sound much more natural and precise.
While em segurança is the most common way to say 'safely', Portuguese offers several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific context of the safety being discussed. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker.
Salvo e são / Sãos e salvos
This is the direct equivalent of 'safe and sound'. It is used mostly after a period of danger or a long journey. 'Chegaram sãos e salvos' implies they are not just safe, but also healthy/uninjured.

Apesar do acidente, todos saíram do carro sãos e salvos.

Another powerful alternative is 'ileso'. This translates to 'unharmed' or 'unscathed'. It is more formal and specific than 'em segurança'. While 'em segurança' describes the general state, 'ileso' focuses on the fact that no physical damage occurred.
Ileso
Used primarily in news reports or formal descriptions of accidents. 'O condutor saiu ileso do desastre'.

O prédio desabou, mas os moradores foram encontrados ilesos.

For a more colloquial or informal way to say someone is safe, especially in Brazil, people might use 'tá tranquilo' or 'tá de boa'. While these don't literally mean 'safely', they convey the sense that everything is fine and there is no danger. However, in a formal or serious situation, stick to 'em segurança'.
Fora de perigo
Literally 'out of danger'. This is often used in medical contexts. If a patient is 'fora de perigo', they are stable and no longer at risk of dying.

Após a cirurgia, o paciente já está fora de perigo.

A criança foi colocada a salvo pelos bombeiros.

Mantenha o seu cão resguardado do frio.

In administrative or technical writing, you might see 'com proteção' or 'sob proteção'. 'Sob proteção policial' (under police protection) is a specific type of being 'em segurança'. Finally, 'a salvo' is another synonym, often used when someone has escaped a specific threat. 'Ele está a salvo' (He is safe/saved). The choice between 'a salvo' and 'em segurança' is often stylistic, though 'a salvo' feels slightly more dramatic.
Sem riscos
Literally 'without risks'. Often used in financial or planning contexts. 'É um investimento sem riscos'.
By mastering these synonyms, you can tailor your message to the exact situation, whether you are reassuring a family member or writing a formal report about a safety incident.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

""

Neutre

""

Informel

""

Child friendly

""

Argot

""

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'seguro' (insurance) comes from the same root, showing how safety and financial protection have been linked for centuries.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ẽj se.ɡu.ˈɾɐ̃.sɐ/
US /ẽɪ se.ɡu.ˈɾan.sə/
The primary stress is on the syllable 'ran' in 'segurança'.
Rime avec
esperança lembrança confiança herança dança criança pança balança
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'em' as 'em' with a hard 'm' instead of a nasal vowel.
  • Pronouncing the 'g' in 'segurança' as a 'j' sound.
  • Stress on the last syllable 'ça' instead of 'ran'.
  • Failing to nasalize the 'an' in 'segurança'.
  • Treating 'em' and 'segurança' as two completely separate words without flow.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize in context due to the word 'segurança'.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the preposition 'em' and correct spelling of 'segurança'.

Expression orale 3/5

Nasal vowels can be tricky for English speakers.

Écoute 2/5

Clearly articulated in most formal and informal settings.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

em seguro perigo casa chegar

Apprends ensuite

seguramente proteção risco cuidado ileso

Avancé

incólume salvaguarda estabilidade integridade

Grammaire à connaître

Adverbial phrases with 'em'

em silêncio, em paz, em segurança

Nasal vowels in Portuguese

em, segurança, amanhã

Invariable nature of adverbs

Eles estão em segurança (not seguranças)

Preposition 'em' + Abstract Noun

em dúvida, em perigo, em segurança

Word order of adverbs

Verbo + Adverbial Phrase

Exemples par niveau

1

Eu estou em segurança em casa.

I am safe at home.

Simple use of 'estar' + 'em segurança'.

2

Chegaste em segurança?

Did you arrive safely?

Question form using the past tense of 'chegar'.

3

O gato está em segurança.

The cat is safe.

Subject (animal) + 'estar' + 'em segurança'.

4

O carro parou em segurança.

The car stopped safely.

Adverbial use describing the action of the car.

5

Estamos todos em segurança.

We are all safe.

Plural subject, but 'em segurança' remains singular.

6

A criança brinca em segurança.

The child plays safely.

Present tense verb + adverbial phrase.

7

O barco chegou ao porto em segurança.

The boat reached the port safely.

Verb of motion + destination + 'em segurança'.

8

Guarda o dinheiro em segurança.

Keep the money safe.

Imperative verb + object + 'em segurança'.

1

Podes viajar em segurança neste comboio.

You can travel safely on this train.

Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive 'viajar'.

2

É importante manter a porta fechada em segurança.

It is important to keep the door safely closed.

Impersonal expression 'É importante' + infinitive.

3

O cão foi levado para o abrigo em segurança.

The dog was taken to the shelter safely.

Passive voice construction.

4

Eles vivem em segurança naquela aldeia.

They live safely in that village.

Verb 'viver' + adverbial phrase.

5

Por favor, conduza em segurança.

Please, drive safely.

Formal imperative 'conduza'.

6

Os documentos estão guardados em segurança.

The documents are kept safely.

Participle 'guardados' acting as an adjective.

7

Conseguimos atravessar a ponte em segurança.

We managed to cross the bridge safely.

Verb 'conseguir' + infinitive.

8

A mala chegou ao destino em segurança.

The suitcase arrived at the destination safely.

Subject (object) + 'chegar' + 'em segurança'.

1

Podes fazer compras online em segurança.

You can shop online safely.

Discussing digital safety.

2

O investimento deve ser mantido em segurança.

The investment must be kept safe.

Modal verb + passive infinitive.

3

Mantenha a sua palavra-passe em segurança.

Keep your password safe.

Professional advice/instruction.

4

A equipa de resgate trabalhou em segurança durante a noite.

The rescue team worked safely during the night.

Compound subject + past tense + time expression.

5

É essencial que os dados sejam armazenados em segurança.

It is essential that data be stored safely.

Subjunctive mood after 'É essencial que'.

6

O alpinista desceu a montanha em segurança.

The climber descended the mountain safely.

Specific action in a high-risk context.

7

Sinto-me mais em segurança quando estou contigo.

I feel safer when I am with you.

Reflexive verb 'sentir-se' + 'em segurança'.

8

As joias foram depositadas em segurança no banco.

The jewelry was deposited safely in the bank.

Passive voice with a specific location.

1

O governo garante que a população está em segurança.

The government guarantees that the population is safe.

Reporting speech and political context.

2

A operação policial decorreu em segurança para os civis.

The police operation took place safely for the civilians.

Verb 'decorrer' (to take place/happen).

3

É um desafio manter o património em segurança.

It is a challenge to keep the heritage safe.

Abstract noun 'património'.

4

O piloto conseguiu aterrar o avião em segurança apesar da falha.

The pilot managed to land the plane safely despite the failure.

Concession clause with 'apesar de'.

5

Deveríamos investir em segurança cibernética.

We should invest in cybersecurity.

Conditional mood 'deveríamos'.

6

A criança foi encontrada e está agora em segurança com a família.

The child was found and is now safe with the family.

Coordinated sentences describing a result.

7

Muitos refugiados procuram um lugar onde possam viver em segurança.

Many refugees look for a place where they can live safely.

Relative clause with the subjunctive 'possam'.

8

O protocolo exige que todos os resíduos sejam tratados em segurança.

The protocol requires that all waste be treated safely.

Formal requirement with the subjunctive.

1

A integridade física dos reféns foi preservada em segurança.

The physical integrity of the hostages was preserved safely.

High-level vocabulary like 'integridade física'.

2

É imperativo que a transição de poder ocorra em segurança.

It is imperative that the transition of power occurs safely.

Formal political discourse.

3

A custódia dos documentos confidenciais permanece em segurança.

The custody of confidential documents remains safe.

Legal/Administrative terminology.

4

O sistema de travagem de emergência garantiu que o comboio parasse em segurança.

The emergency braking system ensured the train stopped safely.

Technical description of cause and effect.

5

A preservação das espécies em segurança exige um esforço global.

Preserving species safely requires a global effort.

Environmental/Scientific context.

6

O arguido foi transportado para o tribunal em segurança.

The defendant was transported to court safely.

Legal context with 'arguido'.

7

A estabilidade emocional permite que a criança explore o mundo em segurança.

Emotional stability allows the child to explore the world safely.

Psychological/Developmental context.

8

Assegurar que a infraestrutura crítica opera em segurança é vital.

Ensuring that critical infrastructure operates safely is vital.

Gerund construction as a subject.

1

A salvaguarda dos direitos fundamentais deve ser mantida em segurança perante a crise.

The safeguarding of fundamental rights must be kept safe in the face of the crisis.

Complex abstract subject and prepositional phrase.

2

O navio, fustigado pelas ondas, logrou finalmente entrar no porto em segurança.

The ship, battered by the waves, finally managed to enter the port safely.

Literary style with 'fustigado' and 'logrou'.

3

A perenidade da obra literária está em segurança graças ao arquivo digital.

The longevity of the literary work is safe thanks to the digital archive.

Metaphorical use of 'segurança'.

4

É um axioma que a liberdade não existe sem que o indivíduo se sinta em segurança.

It is an axiom that freedom does not exist without the individual feeling safe.

Philosophical discourse with 'axioma'.

5

A gestão de riscos nucleares exige que cada protocolo seja executado em segurança absoluta.

Nuclear risk management requires each protocol to be executed in absolute safety.

Technical/Scientific precision.

6

O diplomata agiu em segurança, evitando qualquer incidente internacional.

The diplomat acted safely, avoiding any international incident.

Nuanced use describing strategic action.

7

A custódia do segredo de estado foi mantida em segurança durante décadas.

The custody of the state secret was kept safe for decades.

Historical/Political context.

8

A resiliência da rede elétrica garante que a cidade funcione em segurança.

The resilience of the power grid ensures the city functions safely.

Infrastructural/Societal context.

Collocations courantes

chegar em segurança
estar em segurança
manter em segurança
aterrar em segurança
navegar em segurança
viver em segurança
trabalhar em segurança
colocar em segurança
sentir-se em segurança
guardar em segurança

Phrases Courantes

Viagem em segurança!

— A wish for someone to have a safe trip.

Adeus e viagem em segurança!

Em segurança e paz.

— A state of complete tranquility and protection.

A aldeia vive em segurança e paz.

Fora de perigo e em segurança.

— Emphasis that danger is gone and safety is established.

O resgatado está fora de perigo e em segurança.

Mantenha-se em segurança.

— A parting phrase during dangerous times (like a storm).

A tempestade é forte, mantenha-se em segurança.

Tudo em segurança.

— A quick status update meaning 'all is safe'.

Relatório: tudo em segurança no edifício.

Operar em segurança.

— To use machinery or systems correctly.

Leia o manual para operar em segurança.

Crescer em segurança.

— Related to a child's healthy environment.

As crianças precisam de crescer em segurança.

Dados em segurança.

— Common in privacy policies.

Os seus dados estão em segurança connosco.

Investir em segurança.

— To spend money on protection measures.

A empresa decidiu investir em segurança privada.

Perímetro em segurança.

— Police term for a secured area.

O perímetro está em segurança, podem entrar.

Souvent confondu avec

em segurança vs seguramente

Means 'surely' or 'certainly', not 'safely'.

em segurança vs com segurança

Means 'with confidence' or 'firmly'.

em segurança vs seguro

Is the adjective 'safe' or the noun 'insurance'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"pôr-se em segurança"

— To move oneself to a safe place immediately.

Quando ouviu o alarme, pôs-se em segurança.

neutral
"dormir em segurança"

— To have no worries or fears keeping one awake.

Agora que a dívida foi paga, posso dormir em segurança.

informal/metaphorical
"em segurança absoluta"

— With no doubt or risk whatsoever.

O plano foi executado em segurança absoluta.

formal
"reduto em segurança"

— A place that is exceptionally well-protected.

A biblioteca é o meu reduto em segurança.

literary
"porto em segurança"

— A metaphor for a safe haven or stable situation.

A família é o meu porto em segurança.

poetic
"passos em segurança"

— Taking cautious and safe actions.

A empresa está a dar passos em segurança no mercado.

business
"mão em segurança"

— Under the care of someone trustworthy.

O projeto está em mãos em segurança.

neutral
"âncora em segurança"

— Something that provides stability.

A fé é a sua âncora em segurança.

religious/poetic
"fio de segurança"

— A very slim margin of safety (often used as 'por um fio').

Estávamos em segurança por um fio.

informal
"muralha de segurança"

— A strong protective barrier (physical or abstract).

O firewall é a nossa muralha de segurança.

technical

Facile à confondre

em segurança vs seguramente

Sounds like 'safely' but means 'surely'.

Seguramente refers to the certainty of an event. Em segurança refers to the physical state of protection.

Ele virá seguramente (He will surely come).

em segurança vs com segurança

Both use 'segurança'.

Com segurança implies technical skill or confidence. Em segurança implies the absence of danger.

Ele conduz com segurança (He drives with skill).

em segurança vs seguro

Root word is the same.

Seguro is an adjective or noun. Em segurança is an adverbial phrase.

Este carro é seguro (This car is safe).

em segurança vs salvo

Both mean 'safe'.

Salvo often implies being rescued from a specific event. Em segurança is a general state.

Ele está a salvo (He is saved/out of danger).

em segurança vs ileso

Means 'unharmed'.

Ileso is more formal and specific to not having injuries after an accident.

O piloto saiu ileso (The pilot emerged unharmed).

Structures de phrases

A1

Eu estou em segurança.

Eu estou em segurança em Lisboa.

A2

[Sujeito] chegou em segurança.

O meu pai chegou em segurança.

B1

É importante [infinitivo] em segurança.

É importante navegar em segurança.

B2

Mantenha [objeto] em segurança.

Mantenha os seus pertences em segurança.

C1

A operação decorreu em segurança.

A extração decorreu em segurança.

A1

Estamos em segurança?

Estamos em segurança aqui?

A2

Guarda [objeto] em segurança.

Guarda o teu telemóvel em segurança.

B1

Sinto-me em segurança quando...

Sinto-me em segurança quando estou em casa.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in daily speech and formal announcements.

Erreurs courantes
  • Cheguei seguramente. Cheguei em segurança.

    'Seguramente' means 'surely', not 'safely'.

  • Eles estão em seguranças. Eles estão em segurança.

    The phrase is invariable and does not take a plural 's'.

  • Eu estou segurança. Eu estou em segurança.

    You must include the preposition 'em'.

  • Mantenha o seu cão seguro. Mantenha o seu cão em segurança.

    While 'seguro' is okay, 'em segurança' is more specific to protection from harm.

  • Ele fala em segurança. Ele fala com segurança.

    If you mean 'confidence', use 'com'. 'Em' means he is in a safe location.

Astuces

Travel Reassurance

Always text 'Cheguei em segurança' to your family after a flight or long drive. It is a very common cultural practice.

No Plurals

Never say 'em seguranças'. The phrase is fixed and does not change even if many people are safe.

Digital Security

Use 'em segurança' when talking about passwords, banking, and private data online.

Nasal Sounds

Practice the nasal 'em' by letting air flow through your nose, not just your mouth.

Home Safety

In Portuguese homes, you might see signs or hear talk about keeping the house 'em segurança' with alarms or locks.

Workplace Safety

In a job interview, mentioning that you always work 'em segurança' shows you are responsible.

News Reporting

If writing a report, use 'em segurança' to describe victims who have been rescued.

Avoid 'Seguramente'

Remember that 'seguramente' usually means 'surely' (probability), not 'safely'.

Shortened Form

In quick speech, 'em' can be very short, so listen for the 'segurança' part to understand the meaning.

Feeling Safe

Use 'sentir-se em segurança' to talk about emotional comfort in a relationship or place.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'EM' as 'EMergency' and 'SEGURANÇA' as 'Security'. In an EMergency, you want to be in SEGURANÇA (Safety).

Association visuelle

Imagine a shield with the letters 'EM' written inside it, protecting a small person.

Word Web

proteção paz viagem casa polícia cuidado estabilidade confiança

Défi

Try to use 'em segurança' in three different contexts today: once for travel, once for an object, and once for a feeling.

Origine du mot

From the Latin 'securitas', meaning 'freedom from care' or 'safety'. The prefix 'se-' means 'without' and 'cura' means 'care/worry'.

Sens originel : Being without worry or anxiety regarding one's safety.

Romance (Latin root).

Contexte culturel

Be mindful when discussing safety in contexts of conflict or crime; the phrase can be sensitive to those who do not feel 'em segurança'.

English speakers often say 'safely' (adverb) or 'safe' (adjective). Portuguese uses 'em segurança' mostly as the adverbial equivalent.

Commonly heard in airline safety briefings (TAP Air Portugal, LATAM). Used in public health campaigns during the pandemic ('Fique em segurança'). Frequent in news headlines regarding rescue missions.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Travel

  • Cheguei em segurança
  • Viagem em segurança
  • Aterrar em segurança
  • Conduzir em segurança

Digital

  • Dados em segurança
  • Navegar em segurança
  • Senha em segurança
  • Comprar em segurança

Home/Family

  • Estás em segurança?
  • Crianças em segurança
  • Casa em segurança
  • Sentir-se em segurança

Work

  • Trabalhar em segurança
  • Equipamento em segurança
  • Protocolo em segurança
  • Local em segurança

Emergency

  • Colocar em segurança
  • Vítimas em segurança
  • Zona em segurança
  • Fora de perigo

Amorces de conversation

"Como podemos garantir que os nossos dados estão em segurança na internet?"

"Sentiste-te em segurança durante a tua última viagem ao estrangeiro?"

"Quais são os bairros mais em segurança nesta cidade para viver?"

"O que fazes para manter os teus objetos de valor em segurança em casa?"

"Achais que o mundo está mais em segurança hoje do que no passado?"

Sujets d'écriture

Escreve sobre um momento em que te sentiste totalmente em segurança.

Como defines o que é viver em segurança numa grande cidade?

Descreve uma viagem difícil que terminou com a chegada em segurança.

Quais são as três coisas que mais te ajudam a sentir em segurança?

Reflete sobre a importância de manter a nossa privacidade em segurança online.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, you can, but 'cheguei em segurança' is more common and avoids the ambiguity of 'seguro' meaning 'certain'.

Absolutely. It is the standard phrase for 'online safety' or 'browsing safely'.

You can say 'Boa viagem!' or 'Viagem em segurança!'

No, it is an invariable phrase. You say 'Eles estão em segurança'.

The most common opposite is 'em perigo' (in danger).

It is neutral and can be used in both formal reports and casual conversations.

Yes, 'ter o dinheiro em segurança' means having your money safe (e.g., in a bank).

'A salvo' often implies an escape from a specific threat, while 'em segurança' is broader.

It is a nasal vowel, similar to the sound in 'aim' but without the 'm' closing the lips.

Yes, it is common in all Portuguese-speaking countries.

Teste-toi 192 questions

writing

Translate to Portuguese: 'I am safe at home.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate to Portuguese: 'Did you arrive safely?'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using 'manter' and 'em segurança'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The cat is safe.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about internet safety.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The pilot landed safely.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

How do you say 'Safe travels' in Portuguese?

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'We are all safe.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a short message to your mother saying you arrived safely.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'They live safely in the village.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The documents are safe.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use the word 'ileso' in a sentence.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I don't feel safe here.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a warning about keeping passwords safe.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The rescue was successful and everyone is safe.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Your data is safe with us.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about a boat returning to port safely.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'It is essential to work safely.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The hostages were released safely.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using 'sãos e salvos'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce: 'Cheguei em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Repeat: 'Estamos todos em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Mantenha os seus pertences em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce: 'Segurança'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Boa viagem e chegue em segurança!'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Repeat: 'Navegue em segurança na internet.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Não me sinto em segurança aqui.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Repeat: 'O avião aterrou em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Os dados estão em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce: 'Sãos e salvos'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Guarda o dinheiro em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Repeat: 'A operação decorreu em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'É importante trabalhar em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Repeat: 'Fora de perigo e em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'A minha família está em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Repeat: 'Mantenha a porta fechada em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'O segredo está em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Repeat: 'Atravesse a rua em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'A mala chegou em segurança.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce: 'Ileso'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the phrase: 'O meu pai chegou em segurança.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write the last word: 'Estamos todos em ___.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the verb: 'Guarda os teus documentos em segurança.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Is the speaker safe? 'Não estou em segurança.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the place: 'O barco está em segurança no porto.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the subject: 'As joias estão em segurança.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen: 'Navegue em segurança.' What should you do?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen: 'O piloto aterrou em segurança.' What happened?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the adjective: 'Os passageiros saíram ilesos.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen: 'Mantenha-se em segurança.' Is this a command or a wish?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the preposition: 'Em segurança'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen: 'Sinto-me em segurança.' How does the speaker feel?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the object: 'Guarda o passaporte em segurança.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen: 'Tudo em segurança.' What is the status?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen: 'Viagem em segurança!' When would you say this?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 192 correct

Perfect score!

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