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A2 noun #4,500 le plus courant 11 min de lecture

receio

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces receio en 30 secondes

Explication receio in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'receio' as a more polite or formal way to say 'fear' or 'worry'. While you might mostly use the word 'medo' for 'fear', 'receio' is useful for basic expressions like 'Tenho receio' (I am afraid/I have concerns). It is important to recognize it when you hear it, especially in polite conversations. At this stage, focus on the simple meaning: a feeling that something bad might happen. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just understand that it is a noun used to express a negative expectation. It is often taught alongside other basic emotions like happiness (alegria) and sadness (tristeza). Even at this beginner level, using 'receio' instead of 'medo' in a classroom or office setting can make you sound more advanced and respectful. Remember that it is pronounced roughly like 're-SAY-oh'. Practice saying it to get comfortable with the 'ei' sound, which is common in Portuguese. You will mostly encounter it in simple sentences about personal feelings or small worries, such as being afraid of the rain or being late. It's a great 'bridge' word that helps you move from very basic Portuguese to a more natural-sounding level. Don't be afraid to use it! Even if you make a small mistake with the preposition, people will understand your meaning. It shows that you are trying to use a wider variety of words, which is a key goal for any language learner.

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At the A2 level, you should start using 'receio' in more structured sentences. The most important phrase to learn is 'ter receio de' (to have fear/apprehension of). You can follow this with a noun, like 'Tenho receio de cães' (I am afraid of dogs), or an infinitive verb, like 'Tenho receio de cair' (I am afraid of falling). This is a step up from A1 because you are now linking the feeling to a specific object or action. You should also be able to distinguish 'receio' from 'medo' in context. Remember that 'receio' is often used for milder, more intellectual worries. For example, if you are worried about a test, 'receio' is a perfect choice. You will also see this word in signs or simple instructions, like 'Cuidado, receio de queda' (Caution, risk of falling). At this level, you are building the foundation for more complex communication. Using 'receio' correctly helps you describe your daily life and concerns with more precision. You might also encounter the verb form 'recear' in the first person: 'Eu receio...' (I fear...). While it looks like the noun, it functions as a verb. Try to use 'receio' in your writing exercises to talk about your travel plans or your work. For instance, 'Tenho receio de perder o comboio' (I'm afraid of missing the train). This level is all about expanding your ability to express personal states and needs, and 'receio' is a key tool for that. It's a common word in Portuguese culture, reflecting a certain level of social caution and politeness.

As a B1 learner, you should be comfortable using 'receio' in a variety of contexts, including the use of the subjunctive mood. The construction 'ter receio que' + subjunctive is essential at this level. For example, 'Tenho receio que ele não chegue a tempo' (I'm afraid he won't arrive on time). This demonstrates your ability to handle more complex grammatical structures and express uncertainty about the future. You should also start using 'por receio de' to explain the reasons for actions: 'Ele não aceitou o convite por receio de ser mal interpretado' (He didn't accept the invitation for fear of being misinterpreted). At the B1 level, you are expected to handle social interactions with more nuance, and 'receio' is perfect for polite disagreements or expressing concerns without being too blunt. You will notice 'receio' more frequently in news articles, blog posts, and intermediate-level literature. It's a word that adds a layer of sophistication to your speech. You should also be aware of common collocations like 'justo receio' (justified fear) and 'grande receio' (great fear). Practice using 'receio' in your oral presentations or essays to discuss social issues or personal goals. For instance, 'Muitas pessoas têm receio das mudanças climáticas' (Many people are concerned about climate change). This shows you can apply the word to broader, more abstract topics. Understanding the subtle difference between 'receio', 'medo', and 'apreensão' becomes more important at this stage as you strive for greater accuracy in your expression.

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At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'receio' and be able to use it fluently in both formal and informal settings. You should recognize its use in professional correspondence as a polite way to deliver bad news: 'Receio informar que o seu pedido foi negado' (I regret/fear to inform you that your request was denied). You should also be able to use it in more abstract and philosophical discussions. For example, discussing the 'receio do desconhecido' (fear of the unknown) or 'receio do fracasso' (fear of failure). At this level, you should be able to identify the word's register and choose it over 'medo' or 'temor' depending on the situation. You will encounter 'receio' in more complex literary texts and academic papers, where it is used to describe collective anxieties or historical trends. You should also be comfortable using the word in its various forms, including the related verb 'recear' and the adjective 'receoso' (fearful/apprehensive). For example, 'Ele estava receoso quanto ao futuro da empresa' (He was apprehensive about the company's future). Your ability to use these related words correctly shows a high level of vocabulary depth. You should also be able to explain the meaning of 'receio' to others, perhaps by comparing it to 'medo' or 'apreensão' in Portuguese. This meta-linguistic skill is a hallmark of the B2 level. Practice using 'receio' in debates or discussions about current events to express cautious opinions. This will help you sound more like a native speaker who is engaged in the complexities of the world.

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At the C1 level, you should master the use of 'receio' in all its subtleties, including its idiomatic and literary applications. You should be able to use it to convey very specific shades of meaning, such as 'receio reverencial' (reverential fear) or 'receio infundado' (unfounded fear). You will find the word used in sophisticated essays, legal documents, and classical literature to describe deep-seated psychological states or complex social dynamics. At this level, you should be able to use 'receio' to create specific rhetorical effects, such as using it to soften a critique or to build suspense in a narrative. You should also be aware of its historical development and how its usage might have shifted over time. In a professional context, you should use it with perfect precision in high-level negotiations or reports. For example, 'Há um receio legítimo de que a nova legislação possa comprometer a competitividade' (There is a legitimate fear that the new legislation might compromise competitiveness). Your use of the word should be indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You should also be able to appreciate the word's use in poetry and prose, where it might be used metaphorically or to evoke a particular atmosphere. Practice writing advanced-level texts, such as opinion pieces or academic abstracts, where 'receio' can be used to frame an argument or highlight a risk. This shows that you can use the word not just for communication, but as a tool for sophisticated thought and analysis.

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At the C2 level, your understanding of 'receio' is comprehensive and deeply integrated into your overall linguistic competence. You can use the word in any context, from the most casual slang-filled conversation (where you might use it ironically) to the most formal and specialized academic or legal discourse. You are aware of the word's full range of synonyms and antonyms and can choose the exact word needed for any given nuance. You can use 'receio' to explore complex philosophical concepts, such as the relationship between fear, caution, and wisdom. You will find the word in the works of great Portuguese-speaking authors like Fernando Pessoa or Machado de Assis, and you should be able to analyze its role in their writing. At this level, you can also use the word to play with language, perhaps through puns or clever word choices. Your mastery of 'receio' includes an understanding of its emotional resonance and cultural weight in different Portuguese-speaking countries. You should be able to lead discussions or give lectures on topics where 'receio' is a central theme, such as risk management, psychology, or sociology. Your use of the word is effortless, precise, and always appropriate to the context. You can also use it to express very subtle emotions that are difficult to translate directly into other languages. This level of mastery reflects a deep connection to the Portuguese language and its ability to capture the intricacies of the human experience.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

receio en 30 secondes

A noun meaning apprehension or mild fear.
More formal and intellectual than the word 'medo'.
Commonly used in professional and polite social contexts.
Triggers the subjunctive mood when followed by 'que'.

The Portuguese noun receio is a fundamental word for expressing a specific type of apprehension or mild fear. Unlike the word 'medo', which often describes a visceral, primal, or physical reaction to danger, receio is more psychological and intellectual. It represents a state of being worried that something unpleasant might happen or a hesitation born from caution. In English, it is most frequently translated as 'misgiving', 'apprehension', 'dread', or 'fear' in a more polite or formal sense. When you have receio, you are not necessarily trembling in terror; rather, you are cautious, uncertain, or concerned about a potential negative outcome. This word is incredibly common in both European and Brazilian Portuguese, though it carries a slightly more formal weight in everyday speech compared to 'medo'. It is the perfect word to use when you want to sound more articulate and precise about your anxieties.

Nuance: Receio implies a cognitive assessment of risk, whereas medo is often an instinctive reaction.

Tenho um certo receio de que o plano não funcione como esperado.

People use this word in professional environments to express doubt without sounding overly emotional. For instance, a manager might say they have receio about a deadline, which sounds more professional than saying they are 'afraid' of it. It is also used in social situations to politely decline invitations or express concern for someone's well-being. The versatility of receio allows it to bridge the gap between deep existential dread and simple, everyday caution. It is a word that suggests a thoughtful person who weighs the consequences of their actions. Understanding this word is essential for reaching an intermediate level of Portuguese because it allows for a more nuanced expression of human emotion.

Common Context: Often used with the preposition 'de' (receio de) or the conjunction 'que' (receio que).

O seu receio era evidente no tom da sua voz trêmula.

Não há motivo para ter receio, estamos todos aqui para ajudar você.

In literature, receio is used to describe the internal conflicts of characters, their hesitations before a major decision, or their premonitions of misfortune. It is less about the monster under the bed and more about the fear of failure, the fear of rejection, or the fear of the unknown. By mastering this word, you gain access to a higher register of Portuguese conversation. It is a word that conveys maturity and emotional intelligence.

Social Usage: In social settings, it can be used to soften a negative opinion or a piece of bad news.

Por receio de ofender, ela preferiu ficar em completo silêncio.

Ele agiu com receio, temendo as consequências políticas da sua decisão.

Using receio correctly requires understanding its grammatical partners. The most common construction is 'ter receio de' (to have fear/apprehension of). This is followed by a noun or an infinitive verb. For example, 'Tenho receio de voar' (I have a fear of flying). Notice how the preposition 'de' connects the feeling to the object of the feeling. Another frequent construction is 'ter receio que', which is followed by the subjunctive mood. This is used when expressing apprehension about a possibility or a future event. For instance, 'Tenho receio que chova' (I am afraid it might rain). The use of the subjunctive here is crucial because receio deals with uncertainty.

Grammar Rule: When 'receio que' introduces a clause, the verb in that clause must be in the subjunctive mood.

Ela sentia um grande receio de falar em público diante de tantas pessoas.

You can also use the phrase 'por receio de' to explain the motivation behind an action or a lack thereof. 'Ele não viajou por receio de ficar doente' (He didn't travel out of fear of getting sick). Here, receio acts as the reason for the behavior. It is also possible to modify receio with adjectives like 'grande' (great), 'pequeno' (small), 'constante' (constant), or 'infundado' (unfounded). This allows for a high degree of specificity in describing one's emotional state.

Preposition Usage: Always remember to include 'de' when followed by a noun or infinitive: 'receio de algo'.

O meu maior receio é que percamos esta oportunidade única na vida.

Eles demonstraram receio quanto às novas regras da empresa.

In formal writing, particularly in business correspondence, you might see the phrase 'com o receio de que' (with the fear that). This is a sophisticated way to introduce a risk assessment. For example, 'Tomamos esta medida com o receio de que o mercado sofra uma queda'. This structure highlights the proactive nature of the action taken to mitigate the receio.

Negation: To say you have no fear, use 'não ter receio' or 'sem receio'.

Pode entrar sem receio, o cão é muito dócil e amigável.

Não tenha receio de perguntar se tiver qualquer dúvida sobre o tema.

You will encounter receio in a wide variety of settings, ranging from high-stakes political debates to intimate personal conversations. In the news, journalists often use it to describe the public's reaction to economic changes or international conflicts. For example, 'Há um receio generalizado sobre a inflação' (There is a widespread fear about inflation). In this context, it sounds more objective and less sensationalist than 'pânico' or 'medo'. In the workplace, it is the preferred term for expressing professional concerns. A colleague might say, 'Tenho receio de que não tenhamos recursos suficientes', which is a polite way of flagging a potential problem.

News Media: Commonly used to report on social anxieties, economic trends, and political shifts.

O mercado financeiro opera com receio após o anúncio das novas taxas.

In Portuguese literature and film, the word is used to build tension and explore the internal lives of characters. It often signifies a character's hesitation or their intuitive sense of impending trouble. In everyday life, you might hear it when someone is being cautious. For instance, a parent might tell a child, 'Tenho receio que te magoes se correres tão depressa' (I'm afraid you'll get hurt if you run so fast). This usage is common in both Portugal and Brazil, although Brazilian Portuguese might occasionally favor 'medo' in more informal settings.

Professional Emails: Used as a polite buffer: 'Receio informar que...' (I regret/fear to inform you that...).

Com receio de represálias, as testemunhas preferiram não se identificar.

Existe um receio crescente de que a tecnologia substitua muitos empregos.

Furthermore, in legal or bureaucratic contexts, receio appears in phrases like 'justo receio', which refers to a legitimate or well-founded fear that justifies a legal action or a protective measure. This highlights the word's connection to rationality and evidence. When you hear this word, pay attention to whether it's being used to express a personal feeling or a collective concern. Its meaning remains consistent, but the scale of the apprehension can vary greatly.

Literature: Used to describe a 'temor' or 'apreensão' that is more subtle than 'medo'.

A sua vida foi pautada pelo receio constante de não ser suficiente.

Venceu o seu receio inicial e acabou por se tornar um grande líder.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 'medo' when receio would be more appropriate, or vice versa. While they are synonyms, 'medo' is stronger and more emotional. If you are slightly worried about a meeting, use receio. If you are terrified of spiders, use 'medo'. Using 'medo' in a formal business email can sometimes sound too dramatic or unprofessional. Conversely, using receio when facing a life-threatening situation might sound unnaturally calm or detached.

Mistake 1: Using 'medo' in formal writing where 'receio' is expected for politeness.

Errado: Tenho medo que o relatório esteja atrasado. Correto: Tenho receio que o relatório esteja atrasado.

Another common error is forgetting the preposition 'de'. Learners often say 'Tenho receio o escuro' instead of the correct 'Tenho receio do escuro'. In Portuguese, the feeling must be linked to its object with 'de'. Similarly, when using 'receio que', learners often forget to use the subjunctive mood. Saying 'Tenho receio que ele vem' is incorrect; it should be 'Tenho receio que ele venha'. The subjunctive is mandatory because the outcome is uncertain and feared.

Mistake 2: Confusing the noun 'receio' with the verb 'receio' (I fear). They look the same but function differently.

Noun: O meu receio é grande. Verb: Eu receio o pior.

Errado: Tenho receio que ele está bem. Correto: Tenho receio que ele não esteja bem.

There is also a tendency to over-rely on 'medo' because it is one of the first words learned. To sound more like a native speaker, you should actively try to incorporate receio into your vocabulary, especially when discussing plans, possibilities, or doubts. Finally, be careful with the pronunciation of the 'ei' diphthong. It should be a smooth sound, like the 'ay' in 'say', not two distinct vowels. Mispronouncing it can make the word hard to recognize.

Mistake 3: Using 'receio' for physical terror. It's more about 'worry' or 'apprehension'.

Inadequate: Ele tem receio de morrer queimado. Better: Ele tem medo de morrer queimado.

Incorrect: Por receio que ele não gostou. Correct: Por receio de que ele não gostasse.

To truly enrich your Portuguese, you should understand how receio compares to its synonyms. The most obvious alternative is 'medo'. As discussed, 'medo' is more intense and less formal. Another synonym is 'temor'. 'Temor' is often used in religious or highly formal contexts, such as 'temor a Deus' (fear of God) or 'temor de uma guerra'. It implies a sense of awe or respect along with the fear. 'Apreensão' is another close relative. It describes a state of anxiety or nervousness about the future, often more temporary than a receio. 'Hesitação' (hesitation) can be a consequence of receio, but it describes the action (or lack thereof) rather than the feeling itself.

Comparison: Receio vs. Medo: Receio is intellectual apprehension; Medo is visceral/primal fear.
Comparison: Receio vs. Temor: Receio is common/professional; Temor is formal/religious/grave.
Comparison: Receio vs. Apreensão: Receio is a specific concern; Apreensão is a general state of worry.

Sentia um temor reverencial ao entrar na antiga catedral.

In some contexts, you might use 'dúvida' (doubt) if the receio is primarily about uncertainty. For instance, 'Tenho receio que ele não consiga' could be phrased as 'Tenho dúvidas se ele conseguirá'. However, receio adds a layer of concern that 'dúvida' lacks. 'Susto' (fright/scare) is a sudden, brief fear, quite different from the lingering nature of receio. 'Fobia' is a clinical or extreme fear, far beyond the scope of a simple receio.

A apreensão no rosto da mãe era visível enquanto esperava notícias.

O seu receio transformou-se em pânico quando as luzes se apagaram.

By knowing these alternatives, you can avoid repetition and express yourself with greater clarity. For example, in a story, you might start with a character having a slight receio, which grows into 'apreensão' and eventually culminates in 'medo' or 'terror'. This progression helps create a more compelling narrative. In academic writing, 'temor' or 'receio' are usually preferred over 'medo' to maintain a formal tone.

Synonym List: Medo, Temor, Apreensão, Cuidado, Hesitação, Desconfiança.

Ele agiu com cuidado, motivado pelo receio de cometer um erro fatal.

A desconfiança é, muitas vezes, a fonte do receio nas relações humanas.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word is closely related to the Spanish word 'recelo', which has a very similar meaning and usage.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ʁeˈsɐj.u/

US /ʁeˈsej.u/

The stress is on the second syllable: re-CEI-o.

Rime avec

Meio Cheio Veio Feio Alheio Anseio Passeio Sereio

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'ei' as two separate vowels (e-i).
Missing the reduction of the final 'o' to 'u'.
Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.
Pronouncing the initial 'r' like an English 'r' instead of a guttural Portuguese 'r'.
Confusing the pronunciation with the Spanish 'recelo'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts once you know the basic meaning.

Écriture 4/5

Requires knowledge of the subjunctive mood and correct prepositions.

Expression orale 3/5

The 'ei' diphthong requires practice for correct pronunciation.

Écoute 2/5

Clear and distinct word in most dialects.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

Medo Ter Sentir De Que

Apprends ensuite

Recear Receoso Temor Apreensão Subjunctive Mood

Avancé

Pusilanimidade Trepidar Hesitação Cautela

Grammaire à connaître

Subjunctive after 'Receio que'

Tenho receio que ele *venha* (subjunctive of vir).

Preposition 'de' with 'Receio'

Tenho receio *de* cães.

Contraction of 'de' + articles

Receio *do* (de+o) escuro, receio *da* (de+a) morte.

Infinitive after 'Receio de'

Tenho receio de *falhar*.

Noun vs. Verb identification

O receio (noun) é mau vs. Eu receio (verb) o pior.

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Exemples par niveau

Eu tenho receio.

I have fear/apprehension.

Simple subject + verb + noun structure.

Você tem receio?

Do you have fear?

Interrogative sentence using 'ter'.

Ele não tem receio.

He doesn't have fear.

Negative sentence with 'não'.

Temos receio do escuro.

We are afraid of the dark.

Use of 'de' + 'o' = 'do'.

Ela tem um pequeno receio.

She has a small fear.

Adjective 'pequeno' modifying the noun.

O receio é normal.

Fear/apprehension is normal.

Noun as the subject of the sentence.

Eles têm receio de cair.

They are afraid of falling.

Preposition 'de' followed by an infinitive.

Não tenha receio, por favor.

Don't have fear, please.

Imperative mood (negative).

Tenho receio de perder o meu telemóvel.

I'm afraid of losing my phone.

Common A2 structure: 'ter receio de' + infinitive.

Ela sente receio ao falar com estranhos.

She feels apprehension when talking to strangers.

Using the verb 'sentir' with the noun.

Por receio de chuva, levei o guarda-chuva.

Out of fear of rain, I took the umbrella.

Phrase 'por receio de' explaining a reason.

Não precisas de ter receio de mim.

You don't need to be afraid of me.

Prepositional phrase 'de mim'.

O meu único receio é chegar atrasado.

My only fear is arriving late.

Possessive 'meu' and adjective 'único'.

Eles agiram com receio durante o teste.

They acted with apprehension during the test.

Adverbial phrase 'com receio'.

Tens algum receio sobre a viagem?

Do you have any fear about the trip?

Indefinite pronoun 'algum'.

O receio dela era visível para todos.

Her apprehension was visible to everyone.

Possessive 'dela'.

Tenho receio que o projeto não seja aprovado.

I'm afraid the project won't be approved.

Use of 'que' followed by the subjunctive 'seja'.

Havia um receio geral de que a economia piorasse.

There was a general fear that the economy would get worse.

Imperfect indicative + imperfect subjunctive.

Ele não falou por receio de ser julgado pelos colegas.

He didn't speak for fear of being judged by his colleagues.

Passive voice in the infinitive 'ser julgado'.

O receio de falhar impediu-a de tentar novamente.

The fear of failing prevented her from trying again.

Noun as the subject causing an action.

Receio que tenhamos de cancelar o evento de amanhã.

I'm afraid we have to cancel tomorrow's event.

Polite use of 'receio' in a professional context.

Não há motivo para tanto receio, tudo vai correr bem.

There is no reason for so much fear, everything will go well.

Quantifier 'tanto' modifying the noun.

O seu receio era que a verdade viesse ao de cima.

His fear was that the truth would come to light.

Subjunctive 'viesse' after 'que'.

Apesar do receio, ela decidiu saltar de paraquedas.

Despite the fear, she decided to skydive.

Concession with 'apesar de'.

O receio infundado pode levar a decisões precipitadas.

Unfounded fear can lead to hasty decisions.

Adjective 'infundado' adding nuance.

Muitos investidores manifestaram receio quanto à nova política fiscal.

Many investors expressed concern regarding the new fiscal policy.

Verb 'manifestar' used in a formal context.

Ela agia sempre com um certo receio reverencial pelo seu mestre.

She always acted with a certain reverential fear for her master.

Complex adjective phrase 'receio reverencial'.

O receio de represálias silenciou muitas vozes críticas.

The fear of reprisals silenced many critical voices.

Abstract noun 'represálias'.

Receio que a sua interpretação dos factos esteja equivocada.

I'm afraid your interpretation of the facts is mistaken.

Polite disagreement using 'receio que'.

O receio constante de não ser suficiente afetava a sua autoestima.

The constant fear of not being enough affected her self-esteem.

Adjective 'constante' and complex infinitive phrase.

Não podemos permitir que o receio dite o nosso futuro.

We cannot allow fear to dictate our future.

Subjunctive 'dite' after 'permitir que'.

Havia um receio latente de que a paz fosse apenas temporária.

There was a latent fear that the peace was only temporary.

Adjective 'latente' (hidden/underlying).

O receio metafísico do nada é um tema recorrente na sua obra.

The metaphysical fear of nothingness is a recurring theme in his work.

High-level vocabulary: 'metafísico', 'recorrente'.

A sua hesitação advinha de um profundo receio de trair os seus princípios.

His hesitation stemmed from a deep fear of betraying his principles.

Verb 'advir' (to stem/come from).

O autor descreve o receio como uma sombra que persegue a alma humana.

The author describes fear as a shadow that haunts the human soul.

Metaphorical use of the noun.

Havia no seu olhar um receio ancestral, quase impossível de descrever.

There was in his gaze an ancestral fear, almost impossible to describe.

Adjective 'ancestral' for historical/deep depth.

O receio de obsolescência motiva a constante inovação tecnológica.

The fear of obsolescence motivates constant technological innovation.

Abstract noun 'obsolescência'.

Receio que a vossa proposta peque por excesso de otimismo.

I fear that your proposal suffers from excessive optimism.

Idiomatic use of 'pecar por' (to fail by/suffer from).

O receio da opinião alheia é, muitas vezes, o maior entrave à liberdade.

The fear of others' opinions is often the greatest obstacle to freedom.

Adjective 'alheia' (of others).

Vencer o receio é o primeiro passo para a verdadeira transcendência.

Overcoming fear is the first step toward true transcendence.

Gerund-like use of the infinitive 'Vencer'.

O receio, enquanto categoria ontológica, permeia toda a existência consciente.

Fear, as an ontological category, permeates all conscious existence.

Academic/Philosophical register.

A narrativa é tecida com os fios do receio e da esperança, em igual medida.

The narrative is woven with the threads of fear and hope, in equal measure.

Highly literary/poetic language.

Não obstante o receio inicial, a empresa logrou alcançar lucros recorde.

Notwithstanding the initial apprehension, the company managed to achieve record profits.

Conjunction 'Não obstante' (notwithstanding).

O receio de que a história se repita é o que nos mantém vigilantes.

The fear that history might repeat itself is what keeps us vigilant.

Subjunctive 'repita' in a complex clause.

Subjaz a este comportamento um receio inconfessável de abandono.

Underlying this behavior is an unconfessable fear of abandonment.

Verb 'subjazer' (to underlie).

O receio transmuta-se em coragem quando o objetivo é suficientemente nobre.

Fear transmutes into courage when the goal is sufficiently noble.

Reflexive verb 'transmutar-se'.

A prudência não deve ser confundida com o receio paralisante.

Prudence should not be confused with paralyzing fear.

Distinction between two abstract concepts.

Receio que a vossa análise careça de uma base empírica sólida.

I fear that your analysis lacks a solid empirical basis.

Verb 'carecer de' (to lack).

Collocations courantes

Ter receio de

Ter receio que

Por receio de

Justo receio

Grande receio

Sem receio

Manifestar receio

Receio infundado

Vencer o receio

Alimentar um receio

Phrases Courantes

Com receio

— In a state of fear or apprehension.

Ele olhou para trás com receio.

Não tenha receio

— A common way to say 'don't be afraid' or 'don't worry'.

Não tenha receio de pedir ajuda.

Receio de altura

— Fear of heights (acrophobia).

Eu não subo ali, tenho receio de altura.

Por puro receio

— Solely out of fear.

Ele mentiu por puro receio das consequências.

Um certo receio

— A certain amount of apprehension.

Sinto um certo receio em relação a este plano.

Receio do escuro

— Fear of the dark.

A criança ainda tem receio do escuro.

Perder o receio

— To stop being afraid.

Com o tempo, ele perdeu o receio de nadar.

Causar receio

— To cause fear or apprehension in someone.

A sua atitude fria causava receio nos subordinados.

Expressar receio

— To voice one's concerns.

Vim aqui para expressar o meu receio sobre a obra.

Receio mortal

— A very strong, almost deadly fear (hyperbolic).

Tenho um receio mortal de cobras.

Souvent confondu avec

receio vs Medo

Medo is stronger and more emotional; receio is more intellectual and polite.

receio vs Anseio

Anseio means 'longing' or 'yearning', which is a positive desire, whereas receio is negative.

receio vs Recheio

Recheio means 'filling' (like in a cake). Be careful with the pronunciation of 'ch' vs 's'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Ter o coração nas mãos por receio"

— To be extremely anxious or afraid (literally: to have the heart in the hands).

Fiquei com o coração nas mãos por receio do resultado.

Informal/Emotional

"Tremer de receio"

— To be visibly shaking with apprehension.

Ela tremia de receio antes da entrevista.

Neutral

"Engolir o receio"

— To suppress one's fear and act anyway.

Engoli o receio e entrei na sala.

Informal

"Receio de que o céu lhe caia em cima"

— An exaggerated fear of something impossible or very unlikely.

Ele vive com receio de que o céu lhe caia em cima.

Informal/Humorous

"Não ter nem medo nem receio"

— To be completely fearless.

Aquele guerreiro não tinha nem medo nem receio.

Literary

"Pôr o receio de lado"

— To set aside one's fears.

Pus o receio de lado e aceitei o desafio.

Neutral

"Ficar gelado de receio"

— To freeze up with fear.

Fiquei gelado de receio ao ouvir aquele barulho.

Informal

"Um receio que se corta à faca"

— A very intense and palpable atmosphere of fear.

Havia um receio naquela sala que se cortava à faca.

Informal/Idiomatic

"Morrer de receio"

— To be very afraid (hyperbolic).

Eu morro de receio de falar em público.

Informal

"Sem sombra de receio"

— Without any doubt or fear at all.

Ele avançou sem sombra de receio.

Formal/Literary

Facile à confondre

receio vs Recear

It is the verb form of 'receio'.

'Receio' is a noun (fear), while 'recear' is a verb (to fear). However, 'receio' is also the 'I' form of the verb 'recear'.

O meu receio (noun) vs. Eu receio (verb).

receio vs Apreensão

Both mean a type of worry.

Apreensão is more about a general state of anxiety, while receio is often focused on a specific outcome.

Sinto apreensão pelo país vs. Tenho receio de perder o emprego.

receio vs Temor

Both mean fear.

Temor is much more formal and often implies respect or awe, especially in religious contexts.

Temor a Deus vs. Receio de chuva.

receio vs Dúvida

Both involve uncertainty.

Dúvida is purely intellectual uncertainty; receio adds a layer of emotional concern or fear.

Tenho dúvidas se ele vem vs. Tenho receio que ele não venha.

receio vs Cuidado

Both imply caution.

Cuidado is the act of being careful; receio is the feeling that makes you want to be careful.

Tem cuidado ao atravessar vs. Tenho receio de atravessar aqui.

Structures de phrases

Tenho receio de [Noun]

Tenho receio de cobras.

Tenho receio de [Infinitive]

Tenho receio de cair.

Tenho receio que [Subjunctive]

Tenho receio que ele não goste.

Por receio de [Noun/Infinitive]

Não fui por receio de confusão.

Com o receio de que [Subjunctive]

Agimos com o receio de que fosse tarde.

[Adjective] receio

Um receio infundado.

Manifestar receio quanto a [Noun]

Manifestaram receio quanto à decisão.

Vencer o receio de [Infinitive]

Vencer o receio de se expor.

Famille de mots

Noms

Receio (the noun itself)

Verbes

Recear (to fear/be apprehensive)

Adjectifs

Receoso (apprehensive/fearful)

Apparenté

Medo

Temor

Apreensão

Cautela

Dúvida

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Highly frequent in both spoken and written Portuguese.

Erreurs courantes

Tenho receio o cão. → Tenho receio do cão.
You must use the preposition 'de' to link 'receio' to the object of the fear.
Tenho receio que ele vem. → Tenho receio que ele venha.
The conjunction 'que' after 'receio' requires the subjunctive mood.
Eu tenho medo de que o relatório esteja atrasado. → Eu tenho receio de que o relatório esteja atrasado.
While not grammatically wrong, 'receio' is much more professional and appropriate for this context.
O meu receio é que ele não gosta de mim. → O meu receio é que ele não goste de mim.
Even when 'receio' is the subject, the 'que' clause still needs the subjunctive.
Por receio que a chuva... → Por receio de que a chuva...
The phrase 'por receio' should be followed by 'de que' before a clause.

Astuces

Subjunctive Alert

Always remember that 'receio que' is a major trigger for the subjunctive mood. If you use it, the next verb must change! This is a great way to practice your subjunctive conjugations.

Paint with Nuance

Use 'receio' when you want to sound more precise than 'medo'. It shows you understand the difference between being terrified and being simply apprehensive.

Polite Disagreement

In a meeting, 'Tenho receio que...' is a very polite way to disagree or point out a potential problem without sounding aggressive or overly emotional.

Formal Emails

Start a difficult sentence with 'Receio que...' to soften the impact of bad news. It is the Portuguese equivalent of 'I'm afraid that...' in a business context.

Natural Flow

Try saying 'Não tenha receio' instead of 'Não tenha medo' when talking to a colleague. It sounds more sophisticated and appropriate for the workplace.

Context Clues

When you hear 'receio', look for the preposition 'de'. It will tell you exactly what the person is worried about.

Social Caution

Understand that expressing 'receio' is often seen as a sign of prudence and thoughtfulness in Portuguese-speaking cultures.

The 'Say' Mnemonic

Remember: Re-SAY-o. If you have a 'receio', you might want to 'SAY' it again to be sure.

Daily Use

Try to identify one small 'receio' you have every day and say it in Portuguese. 'Tenho receio de chegar tarde ao trabalho'.

Legal Language

If you are studying law or formal documents, look for 'justo receio'. It's a key term for a well-founded fear.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of the word 'RE-SAY-O'. If you have 'receio', you might want to 'RE-SAY' your words because you are nervous or apprehensive.

Association visuelle

Imagine someone standing at the edge of a diving board, looking down with a slightly worried face. That hesitation is 'receio'.

Word Web

Medo Cuidado Dúvida Susto Temor Apreensão Cautela Nervosismo

Défi

Try to use 'receio' in three different sentences today: one about a person, one about an action, and one using 'que' + subjunctive.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Vulgar Latin *recidivus, through the Old Portuguese 'recear'. It shares roots with words related to 'falling back' or 'recurring', which evolved into the sense of hesitation or fear.

Sens originel : The root implies a drawing back or a sense of caution before an action.

Romance (Latin origin).

Contexte culturel

The word is neutral and safe to use in all social contexts.

English speakers often default to 'I'm afraid', which can be translated as both 'tenho medo' and 'tenho receio'. Learning the difference is key to sounding natural.

Fernando Pessoa often explores 'receio' and 'temor' in his philosophical poems. Machado de Assis uses the word to describe the psychological anxieties of his characters. Commonly heard in Portuguese political speeches regarding economic stability.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Professional/Business

Tenho receio de que o prazo seja curto.
Manifestamos receio sobre o custo.
Por receio de erros, revisamos tudo.
Receio não poder aceitar.

Personal Feelings

Tenho receio de te perder.
Sinto um grande receio agora.
Não tenhas receio de mim.
O meu receio é o teu silêncio.

Travel/Safety

Tenho receio de voar.
Por receio de assaltos, evito aquela rua.
Não tenha receio, o caminho é seguro.
O receio de se perder é comum.

Health

Tenho receio de agulhas.
Por receio de ficar doente, tomo vitaminas.
O receio da operação era grande.
Não há motivo para receio médico.

Education

Tenho receio de chumbar no exame.
O aluno tinha receio de perguntar.
Vence o teu receio de falar português.
Receio que a matéria seja difícil.

Amorces de conversation

"Você tem algum receio em relação ao futuro da tecnologia?"

"Qual é o seu maior receio quando viaja para um país novo?"

"Você já teve receio de falar em público? Como superou?"

"Muitas pessoas têm receio de mudar de carreira. O que você acha disso?"

"Você tem receio de algum animal específico, como aranhas ou cobras?"

Sujets d'écriture

Escreve sobre um receio que tinhas quando eras criança e que hoje já não tens.

Como é que o receio pode ser algo positivo para nos proteger de perigos?

Descreve uma situação em que tiveste de vencer o teu receio para alcançar um objetivo.

Pensas que o receio do fracasso impede as pessoas de serem criativas?

Reflete sobre a diferença entre ter receio e ter medo na tua própria vida.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Not exactly. While they are synonyms, 'receio' is milder, more intellectual, and more formal. 'Medo' is used for strong, visceral fear. For example, you have 'medo' of a lion, but 'receio' of a business decision.

Only when you use the construction 'receio que...'. In this case, the following verb must be in the subjunctive mood because it expresses an uncertain and feared possibility. Example: 'Tenho receio que ele *saiba*'.

Yes, it is very common in everyday speech, especially in Portugal. In Brazil, it is also used, though 'medo' might be more frequent in very informal settings. It always sounds polite and articulate.

'Receio' is the noun (apprehension), while 'recear' is the verb (to be apprehensive). Note that 'receio' is also the first-person singular present indicative of 'recear' (I fear).

You say 'Tenho receio de alturas' or 'Tenho receio de altura'. This is a common and correct way to express this specific fear.

It is used in both, but it is perhaps slightly more pervasive in everyday polite conversation in European Portuguese. In Brazil, it remains a vital word for formal and professional contexts.

Yes, 'receios' is used when referring to multiple different fears or a collection of worries. Example: 'Ele tinha muitos receios sobre o futuro'.

Common adjectives include 'grande' (great), 'pequeno' (small), 'infundado' (unfounded), 'justo' (justified), and 'constante' (constant).

It is a masculine noun: 'o receio'.

It is a diphthong similar to the 'ay' in 'say' or 'ei' in 'eight'. It should be pronounced smoothly as one sound, not two separate vowels.

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