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A2 noun 11分で読める

irmãzinha

練習する例文メモとヒント irmãzinha 30秒で

解説 irmãzinha in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn about family members. 'Irmã' means sister. 'Irmãzinha' is a special way to say 'little sister.' You use it to show love. In Portuguese, we often add '-inha' to words to make them sound small or cute. For example, 'casa' (house) becomes 'casinha' (little house). For 'irmã,' we add '-zinha' because of the sound at the end. At this level, you should focus on recognizing the word and knowing it refers to a female sibling. You might use it in simple sentences like 'Eu tenho uma irmãzinha' (I have a little sister). It is a very friendly word that helps you talk about your family with basic vocabulary. Remember that it is a feminine word, so you use 'a' or 'uma' with it. Don't worry too much about the complex grammar yet; just think of it as a sweet version of 'irmã.'

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At the A2 level, you should understand that 'irmãzinha' is the diminutive form of 'irmã.' This level requires you to know how to form diminutives for words ending in stressed vowels. Since 'irmã' has a stressed nasal 'ã,' we must use the suffix '-zinha.' You should be able to use this word in more descriptive sentences, perhaps adding an adjective like 'fofa' (cute) or 'pequena' (small). You should also begin to notice that 'irmãzinha' isn't always about age; it's often about affection. An A2 learner should be comfortable introducing their sister using this term in a casual conversation. You should also be able to distinguish between 'irmã' (neutral) and 'irmãzinha' (affectionate). Practice using it with possessive pronouns like 'minha irmãzinha' or 'tua irmãzinha.'

At the B1 level, you are moving into more nuanced territory. You should understand that 'irmãzinha' carries a specific emotional weight. It is often used to express protection or nostalgia. You might hear it in stories or songs. At this level, you should be able to use the word in the context of telling a story about your childhood. You should also be aware of regional variations, such as the preference for 'maninha' in informal Brazilian Portuguese, and how 'irmãzinha' might sound slightly more 'traditional' or 'sweet.' You should be able to use the plural 'irmãzinhas' correctly in sentences and ensure that all surrounding adjectives and articles agree in gender and number. Your pronunciation should also be improving, specifically the nasal 'ã' followed by the 'z' and 'nh' sounds.

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At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'irmãzinha' with complete confidence in both spoken and written contexts. You understand the 'diminutive of affection' vs. the 'diminutive of size.' You can identify when someone is using the word sarcastically (though this is rare for this specific word) or to be overly patronizing. You should also be able to explain the grammatical rule for the '-zinha' suffix to a lower-level student. In writing, you should never miss the tilde. You are also likely familiar with how this word appears in Portuguese and Brazilian literature or media to build character relationships. You can use it in complex sentence structures, such as 'Se não fosse pela minha irmãzinha, eu nunca teria aprendido a ser tão paciente.'

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At the C1 level, you have a deep appreciation for the cultural connotations of 'irmãzinha.' You understand how it fits into the broader Lusophone tendency to use diminutives to create social proximity. You can use the word in a variety of registers, though you know it belongs primarily to the informal and familial spheres. You might analyze its use in a poem or a film script, noting how it establishes a character's vulnerability or their role within a family hierarchy. Your pronunciation is near-native, capturing the specific rhythmic shift that occurs when the suffix is added. You also understand the subtle difference between 'irmãzinha' and 'maninha,' choosing the one that best fits the social context and the specific regional dialect you are using.

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At the C2 level, you use 'irmãzinha' with the same ease and subtlety as a native speaker. You are aware of its historical usage and how it might appear in older texts compared to modern slang. You can navigate the most complex emotional landscapes where this word might be used—such as in a eulogy, a wedding toast, or a intense fictional dialogue. You understand the linguistic mechanics of the suffix perfectly and could discuss the phonetic reasons why '-zinha' is used instead of '-inha.' For you, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for expressing a specific type of human connection that is central to Lusophone culture. You are also aware of how the word might be used metaphorically in religious or spiritual contexts.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

irmãzinha 30秒で

Irmãzinha is the affectionate Portuguese word for 'little sister,' combining 'irmã' with the sweet suffix '-zinha'.
It is used both for literal age/size and as a powerful term of endearment for sisters of any age.
Grammatically, it is a feminine noun that requires agreement from all associated articles and adjectives.
Culturally, it reflects the warmth and family-centric nature of Portuguese-speaking societies worldwide.

The Portuguese word irmãzinha is a classic example of how the Portuguese language uses diminutives not just to describe size, but to convey a deep sense of affection, intimacy, and emotional warmth. At its most literal level, it translates to 'little sister.' However, its usage goes far beyond the physical stature of the person being described. In the Lusophone world, the suffix -inha transforms the base noun irmã (sister) into something more precious. It is the word a protective older brother uses when talking about his younger sibling, or the word parents use to encourage a bond between children. It is steeped in the cultural importance of the family unit in Portugal, Brazil, and other Portuguese-speaking nations.

Affectionate Diminutive: This is the primary function. Even if a sister is thirty years old and taller than you, calling her your irmãzinha signals a close, loving relationship. It is an endearment that strips away the formality of adulthood and returns the speakers to their shared childhood bond.
Literal Size/Age: Naturally, it is used to refer to a female sibling who is significantly younger or smaller. When a new baby arrives, she is introduced to the family as the new irmãzinha. In this context, it emphasizes the need for care and protection.

A minha irmãzinha adora desenhar flores no caderno.

Translation: My little sister loves to draw flowers in the notebook.

Understanding the nuances of irmãzinha requires looking at the broader 'diminutive culture' in Portuguese. Unlike English, where 'little' can sometimes sound patronizing, the Portuguese diminutive is almost always positive unless the tone of voice suggests otherwise. It creates a 'small world' of safety and familiarity. In Brazilian Portuguese specifically, you might even hear it used for close female friends who are 'like sisters,' though maninha is more common for that specific social overlap. The word carries a melodic quality due to the nasal 'ã' followed by the soft 'z' and 'nh' sounds, making it a gentle word to pronounce.

Vem cá, irmãzinha, eu te ajudo com o dever de casa.

In literature and music, irmãzinha often evokes nostalgia. It represents the innocence of youth and the purity of familial love. When someone loses a sister, they might refer to her as their eterna irmãzinha (eternal little sister), preserving her memory in a state of youthful affection. It is a word that builds bridges between people, softening the edges of communication. If you are angry with your sister but want to make peace, calling her irmãzinha is a powerful way to signal that the bond of blood and love is more important than the current conflict.

Ela será sempre a minha irmãzinha, não importa quantos anos ela tenha.

Cultural Nuance: In some religious contexts, such as Catholic communities in rural Portugal or Brazil, irmãzinha might be used to refer to a young nun or a fellow female member of the congregation, though this is becoming less common in urban modern speech.

Using irmãzinha correctly involves understanding both Portuguese syntax and the social dynamics of the Portuguese-speaking world. Because it is a feminine noun, it must always be accompanied by feminine articles (a, uma) and feminine adjectives (pequena, fofa, querida). The word is formed by taking the root irmã and adding the suffix -zinha. This specific suffix is used because irmã ends in a stressed nasal vowel. If it ended in an unstressed vowel, like casa, we would simply add -inha (casinha).

A irmãzinha dele é muito inteligente para a idade dela.

Direct Address (Vocative): You can use it to call out to your sister: 'Ei, irmãzinha!' This is very common when you want to get her attention in a sweet or playful way. It effectively replaces her name with a title of affection.
Subject of a Sentence: When talking about her to others: 'A minha irmãzinha vai fazer cinco anos.' Here, it identifies the person and their relationship to you while simultaneously expressing your fondness.

One of the most important aspects of using this word is the placement of possessive adjectives. In Portuguese, it is standard to say a minha irmãzinha (the my little sister) or minha irmãzinha. The use of the definite article a varies by region (more common in Portugal and certain parts of Brazil like Rio de Janeiro, often omitted in other parts of Brazil). However, in the context of irmãzinha, the article adds a layer of 'belonging' that reinforces the familial bond.

Eu comprei um presente especial para a minha irmãzinha.

You will also find irmãzinha used in comparative structures. Because it implies 'little,' you don't usually need to add the word pequena (small) after it, as that would be redundant. However, you might use it to contrast with an irmão mais velho (older brother) or an irmã mais velha (older sister). It is a word that naturally fits into domestic narratives, stories about growing up, and descriptions of family gatherings.

A irmãzinha caçula é sempre a protegida da família.

With Adjectives: Adjectives must agree in gender and number. 'Minhas irmãzinhas são queridas' (My little sisters are dear). Note how 'minhas', 'irmãzinhas', and 'queridas' all share the feminine plural ending.

If you spend any time with a Lusophone family, irmãzinha will eventually surface in conversation. It is a 'living' word, heard in the most intimate spaces of the home. You will hear it at birthday parties, during holiday dinners like Consoada in Portugal or Christmas Eve in Brazil, and in the everyday interactions between siblings. It is the language of the dinner table and the playground. In Brazil, where the diminutive is used with even greater frequency than in Portugal, you might hear it in even more casual settings.

'Cadê a sua irmãzinha?' perguntou a avó na festa.

Beyond the home, irmãzinha is a staple of Portuguese-language media. In telenovelas (soap operas), which are a massive part of the cultural fabric in Brazil and Portugal, the word is used to heighten emotional drama. An older brother might use it while making a dramatic promise to protect his sister from a villain, or a long-lost sister might use it during a tearful reunion. It carries a heavy emotional payload that scriptwriters love to exploit. In these contexts, the word often signals to the audience that the characters share a deep, unbreakable bond.

Children's Literature: In stories for kids, characters are often identified by their familial roles. 'A irmãzinha do coelho' (The rabbit's little sister) is a typical title or character description that children find relatable and comforting.
Pop Music: Lyrical genres like Bossa Nova or MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) often use diminutives to create a sense of 'saudade' (longing) or sweetness. A singer might reminisce about his irmãzinha playing in the yard to evoke a sense of lost childhood innocence.

Naquela música antiga, o cantor fala com carinho da sua irmãzinha.

Social media also sees a lot of this word. When someone posts a photo with their sister, the caption is almost inevitably 'Minha irmãzinha!' followed by heart emojis. It serves as a shorthand for 'I love her and she is important to me.' Even in professional settings, if a colleague is talking about their family in a relaxed moment, they might use irmãzinha to show a more human, personal side of themselves. It is a word that breaks through social barriers to reveal the core of human connection.

For English speakers learning Portuguese, the word irmãzinha presents a few specific hurdles. The first is orthographic. The tilde (~) in irmã is crucial; it represents a nasal vowel sound that doesn't exist in English. Many learners forget to include it when adding the suffix, writing 'irmazinha' instead. This is a significant spelling error. Furthermore, the suffix itself is -zinha, not just -inha. Because irmã ends in a stressed vowel, the 'z' is required for phonetic transition. Writing 'irmãinha' is a common mistake that sounds very strange to a native speaker.

Errado: Minha irmazinha (Missing tilde). Correto: Minha irmãzinha.

Gender Confusion: Sometimes learners accidentally use the masculine diminutive irmãozinho when referring to a sister because they get confused by the 'o' at the end of many Portuguese words. Remember: irmãzinha is always feminine, regardless of the speaker's gender.
Misinterpreting the Diminutive: English speakers often think diminutives imply that something is 'lesser' or 'insignificant.' This is rarely the case with irmãzinha. If you use it to describe your sister, you aren't saying she's unimportant; you're saying she's dear to you. Don't be afraid to use it for an adult sister!

Another common error is the pronunciation of the 'nh' sound. It is similar to the 'ny' in 'canyon' or the 'ñ' in Spanish. Learners often pronounce it as a simple 'n', which changes the word entirely. The 'nh' in irmãzinha should be soft and nasal. Additionally, the stress of the word shifts. In irmã, the stress is on the last syllable. In irmãzinha, the primary stress moves to the 'zi' syllable: ir-mã-ZIN-ha. Failing to shift the stress makes the word sound robotic and unnatural.

Lastly, be careful with the context of 'sister.' In English, 'sister' can be used for a nun, a fellow woman in a movement, or a biological sibling. While irmãzinha can occasionally be used for a young nun in very specific religious settings, using it for a 'sister-in-arms' or a feminist 'sister' in a political context is usually incorrect. In those cases, companheira or just irmã (in a metaphorical sense) is more appropriate. Irmãzinha is almost always reserved for the sweet, familial, or protective context.

While irmãzinha is a wonderful word, Portuguese offers several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific relationship you want to describe. Understanding these synonyms will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to tailor your language to the situation. The most obvious alternative is the root word itself, irmã, which is neutral and can be used in any context, from a legal document to a casual conversation.

Mana / Maninha: These are very common informal terms, especially in Brazil. 'Mana' is short for 'irmã.' 'Maninha' is the diminutive version. They are often used among friends as well as biological siblings. They sound slightly cooler and more 'street' than the sweet 'irmãzinha.'
Caçula: This word refers specifically to the youngest child in a family. If your little sister is the baby of the family, you can call her 'a caçula.' It doesn't mean 'sister' directly, but in the context of siblings, it is a very common way to identify the youngest female.

A minha maninha é a minha melhor amiga.

In Portugal, you might also hear mana, but it is perhaps slightly less ubiquitous than in Brazil. Another term is irmã mais nova (younger sister). This is a more descriptive, less emotional way to say 'little sister.' Use this if you are being objective, such as when filling out a form or explaining your family tree to a stranger. It lacks the 'cozy' feeling of irmãzinha but is perfectly correct.

Tenho duas irmãs: uma mais velha e uma irmã mais nova.

Finally, in very formal or literary Portuguese, you might encounter irmã menor. This is rarely used in spoken conversation today and sounds quite dated or Spanish-influenced (as 'hermana menor' is standard in Spanish). In most modern contexts, stick to irmãzinha for affection and irmã mais nova for facts. Knowing when to switch between these words will demonstrate a high level of cultural fluency.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The use of '-zinha' instead of '-inha' is a phonetic requirement in Portuguese for words ending in stressed vowels or nasals, making the word feel more 'solid' and rhythmic.

発音ガイド

UK /iɾ.mɐ̃.ˈzi.ɲɐ/

US /iɾ.mɐ̃.ˈzi.njə/

The primary stress is on the penultimate syllable: 'zi'.

韻が合う語

cozinha galinha rainha sozinha vizinha andorinha farinha caminha

よくある間違い

Pronouncing 'nh' as a plain 'n'.
Forgetting the nasal quality of the 'ã'.
Putting the stress on the 'mã' instead of the 'zi'.
Pronouncing the 'r' as an English 'h' (common in some Brazilian dialects, but 'irmã' usually keeps the tap/flap).
Missing the 'z' sound entirely.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'irmã' and the suffix '-zinha'.

ライティング 4/5

The tilde and the 'nh' can be tricky for beginners to spell correctly.

スピーキング 5/5

The nasal vowel followed by 'z' and 'nh' requires practice for English speakers.

リスニング 3/5

Clear to hear, but the speed of native speech can blur the suffix.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

irmã família pequena meu/minha é

次に学ぶ

irmãozinho maninha caçula sobrinha prima

上級

fraternal consanguíneo primogênita irmandade entusiasta

知っておくべき文法

Diminutives for Nasal Endings

Words ending in 'ã' or 'ão' use '-zinho/a' instead of '-inho/a' (e.g., pãozinho, irmãzinha).

Gender Agreement

Articles and adjectives must be feminine (e.g., A minha irmãzinha fofa).

Possessive Adjective Placement

In Portuguese, possessives usually come before the noun (e.g., Minha irmãzinha).

Stressed Syllable Shift

In diminutives, the stress moves to the suffix (e.g., ir-mã -> ir-mã-ZIN-ha).

Pluralization of Diminutives

Just add 's' to the end (e.g., irmãzinhas).

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レベル別の例文

Eu tenho uma irmãzinha.

I have a little sister.

Use 'uma' because 'irmãzinha' is feminine.

A minha irmãzinha é pequena.

My little sister is small.

Adjectives like 'pequena' must end in 'a'.

O nome da minha irmãzinha é Ana.

My little sister's name is Ana.

Possessive 'da' is 'de + a'.

Ela é minha irmãzinha.

She is my little sister.

Subject pronoun 'ela' matches the feminine noun.

A irmãzinha gosta de leite.

The little sister likes milk.

Verbs like 'gostar' require the preposition 'de'.

Onde está a irmãzinha?

Where is the little sister?

Question word 'onde' starts the sentence.

A irmãzinha dorme agora.

The little sister is sleeping now.

Present tense 'dorme' for 'she sleeps'.

Oi, irmãzinha!

Hi, little sister!

Casual greeting.

A minha irmãzinha faz cinco anos hoje.

My little sister is five years old today.

Use 'fazer' for ages in Portuguese.

Eu brinco com a minha irmãzinha no parque.

I play with my little sister in the park.

'Com a' means 'with the'.

A irmãzinha dele é muito fofa.

His little sister is very cute.

'Dele' means 'his'.

Você viu a minha irmãzinha?

Have you seen my little sister?

Past tense 'viu' (did you see).

A minha irmãzinha tem olhos azuis.

My little sister has blue eyes.

Plural adjective 'azuis' matches 'olhos'.

Nós amamos a nossa irmãzinha.

We love our little sister.

'Nossa' is the feminine 'our'.

A irmãzinha está aprendendo a andar.

The little sister is learning to walk.

Gerund 'aprendendo' (learning).

Comprei uma boneca para a minha irmãzinha.

I bought a doll for my little sister.

Preposition 'para' indicates the recipient.

Sinto saudades da minha irmãzinha quando estou longe.

I miss my little sister when I am far away.

'Sentir saudades de' is the standard way to say 'to miss'.

A minha irmãzinha sempre me pede para ler histórias.

My little sister always asks me to read stories.

Indirect object pronoun 'me' before the verb.

Apesar de ser a irmãzinha, ela é a mais corajosa.

Despite being the little sister, she is the bravest.

'Apesar de' followed by infinitive.

Quero que a minha irmãzinha seja muito feliz.

I want my little sister to be very happy.

Subjunctive 'seja' after 'quero que'.

A minha irmãzinha desenhou este quadro para mim.

My little sister drew this picture for me.

'Este' is the masculine 'this' for 'quadro'.

Lembro-me de quando ela era apenas uma irmãzinha bebê.

I remember when she was just a baby little sister.

Reflexive verb 'lembrar-se'.

A minha irmãzinha é a pessoa mais doce que eu conheço.

My little sister is the sweetest person I know.

Superlative 'a mais doce'.

Vou levar a minha irmãzinha ao cinema no sábado.

I'm going to take my little sister to the movies on Saturday.

Future with 'ir + infinitive'.

Minha irmãzinha, por mais que cresça, será sempre meu xodó.

My little sister, no matter how much she grows, will always be my darling.

'Xodó' is a Brazilian term for something/someone cherished.

É incrível como a minha irmãzinha consegue me fazer rir.

It's incredible how my little sister manages to make me laugh.

'Consegue' means 'manages to' or 'is able to'.

Protegi a minha irmãzinha de todos os perigos da infância.

I protected my little sister from all the dangers of childhood.

Preterite 'protegi'.

A minha irmãzinha herdou o talento musical do nosso avô.

My little sister inherited our grandfather's musical talent.

'Herdou' (inherited).

Não suporto ver a minha irmãzinha triste com problemas bobos.

I can't stand to see my little sister sad over silly problems.

'Não suporto' (I can't stand).

A minha irmãzinha tornou-se uma mulher forte e independente.

My little sister became a strong and independent woman.

Reflexive 'tornou-se' (became).

Sempre que posso, dou conselhos à minha irmãzinha.

Whenever I can, I give advice to my little sister.

Crase 'à' (a + a).

A minha irmãzinha é o coração desta família.

My little sister is the heart of this family.

Metaphorical usage.

A relação com a minha irmãzinha é pautada por uma cumplicidade rara.

The relationship with my little sister is characterized by a rare complicity.

Formal vocabulary: 'pautada' (guided/characterized).

Embora sejamos adultos, trato-a ainda como a minha irmãzinha querida.

Although we are adults, I still treat her like my dear little sister.

Object pronoun 'a' attached to the verb 'trato-a'.

A minha irmãzinha possui uma sensibilidade artística fora do comum.

My little sister possesses an unusual artistic sensitivity.

'Possui' is more formal than 'tem'.

É comovente observar o carinho dele pela sua irmãzinha.

It is touching to observe his affection for his little sister.

'Comovente' (touching/moving).

A minha irmãzinha foi o esteio que me manteve firme nos momentos difíceis.

My little sister was the pillar that kept me steady during difficult moments.

'Esteio' (pillar/support).

Não há nada que eu não fizesse pelo bem-estar da minha irmãzinha.

There is nothing I wouldn't do for the well-being of my little sister.

Double negative 'não há nada que eu não fizesse'.

A infância ao lado da minha irmãzinha foi repleta de descobertas.

Childhood alongside my little sister was full of discoveries.

'Repleta de' (full of).

A minha irmãzinha, com sua doçura, cativa todos ao seu redor.

My little sister, with her sweetness, captivates everyone around her.

'Cativa' (captivates).

A evocação da figura da irmãzinha na literatura lusa remete à pureza.

The evocation of the figure of the little sister in Portuguese literature refers to purity.

Academic register.

A despeito das desavenças, o vínculo com a irmãzinha permanece inabalável.

Despite the disagreements, the bond with the little sister remains unshakable.

'A despeito de' (despite).

A minha irmãzinha personifica a resiliência diante das adversidades da vida.

My little sister personifies resilience in the face of life's adversities.

High-level abstract noun 'resiliência'.

Subjaz a este gesto um amor profundo pela sua irmãzinha.

Underlying this gesture is a deep love for his little sister.

Sophisticated verb 'subjaz' (underlies).

A trajetória da minha irmãzinha é um exemplo de dedicação e brio.

My little sister's trajectory is an example of dedication and spirit.

'Brio' (spirit/honor/pride).

É imperativo que zelemos pelo futuro da nossa irmãzinha.

It is imperative that we watch over our little sister's future.

Subjunctive 'zelemos' after 'imperativo que'.

A presença da minha irmãzinha infunde alegria em qualquer ambiente.

The presence of my little sister infuses joy into any environment.

'Infunde' (infuses).

A minha irmãzinha é a guardiã das nossas memórias de infância.

My little sister is the guardian of our childhood memories.

Poetic metaphor.

類義語

irmã maninha mana caçula irmã mais nova mermaninha irmã menor querida

反対語

irmãozinho irmã mais velha desconhecida inimiga

よく使う組み合わせ

minha irmãzinha

irmãzinha caçula

doce irmãzinha

proteger a irmãzinha

irmãzinha querida

brincar com a irmãzinha

cuidar da irmãzinha

saudades da irmãzinha

irmãzinha bebê

presente para a irmãzinha

よく使うフレーズ

Minha irmãzinha é um anjo.

— Used to say a sister is very good or well-behaved.

Ela nunca chora; minha irmãzinha é um anjo.

Coisa da minha irmãzinha.

— Used to explain a behavior typical of a younger sister.

Não liga para a bagunça, é coisa da minha irmãzinha.

Ela é a minha irmãzinha do coração.

— Used for a very close female friend who is like a sister.

Conheço a Maria há anos; ela é minha irmãzinha do coração.

Cadê a irmãzinha?

— A common way to ask where the sister is.

Oi, Pedro! Cadê a irmãzinha?

Vem com a irmãzinha.

— Used by the sister herself to call someone to her.

Vem com a irmãzinha, eu te dou um doce.

Irmãzinha, me ajuda!

— A plea for help directed at a sister.

Irmãzinha, me ajuda com este exercício?

Ela é a cara da irmãzinha.

— Used to say two sisters look very much alike.

A Joana é a cara da irmãzinha dela.

Amor de irmãzinha.

— Refers to the specific type of love for a younger sister.

Nada supera o amor de irmãzinha.

Pela minha irmãzinha, eu faço tudo.

— Expresses total devotion to a sister.

Ela é meu mundo; pela minha irmãzinha, eu faço tudo.

Nossa irmãzinha cresceu.

— Used when a younger sister reaches a milestone or maturity.

Olha só, ela já está na faculdade; nossa irmãzinha cresceu.

よく混同される語

irmãzinha vs irmãozinho

This is the masculine version (little brother). Don't mix them up!

irmãzinha vs maninha

Very similar, but 'maninha' is more informal and common in Brazil.

irmãzinha vs vizinha

Sounds similar, but means 'neighbor' (female).

慣用句と表現

"Ser a irmãzinha de alguém"

— To be the person someone always protects or looks after.

No trabalho, ela ainda é a irmãzinha de todos.

Informal

"Puxar o saco da irmãzinha"

— To flatter or be extra nice to the sister to get something.

Ele está puxando o saco da irmãzinha para ela emprestar o carro.

Slang

"Irmãzinha de leite"

— Historically, a girl who shared the same wet nurse; now used for very close childhood friends.

Somos irmãs de leite, fomos criadas juntas.

Traditional

"Briga de irmãzinha"

— A petty or minor argument that is quickly forgotten.

Não se preocupe, foi só uma briga de irmãzinha.

Informal

"Seguir os passos da irmãzinha"

— To do the same things as one's sister.

Ela quer seguir os passos da irmãzinha e ser médica.

Neutral

"Contar tudo para a irmãzinha"

— To have no secrets from a sister.

Elas são muito unidas e contam tudo uma para a irmãzinha.

Informal

"Ser a sombra da irmãzinha"

— To follow the sister everywhere.

Onde a mais velha vai, a irmãzinha vai atrás; é a sombra dela.

Informal

"Fazer as vontades da irmãzinha"

— To spoil the little sister.

O pai sempre faz as vontades da irmãzinha.

Neutral

"Irmãzinha de alma"

— A soul sister; someone with a deep spiritual connection.

Ela não é de sangue, mas é minha irmãzinha de alma.

Poetic

"Defender a irmãzinha com unhas e dentes"

— To defend the sister very fiercely.

Ele defende a irmãzinha com unhas e dentes.

Idiomatic

間違えやすい

irmãzinha vs irmã

It's the base word.

Irmã is neutral; irmãzinha is affectionate or indicates small size.

Minha irmã é médica; minha irmãzinha ainda está na escola.

irmãzinha vs rainha

Rhymes and ends in 'inha'.

Rainha means queen.

A rainha vive no palácio; a irmãzinha vive na minha casa.

irmãzinha vs sozinha

Rhymes and ends in 'zinha'.

Sozinha means alone (feminine).

A irmãzinha não gosta de ficar sozinha.

irmãzinha vs cozinha

Rhymes and ends in 'zinha'.

Cozinha means kitchen.

A irmãzinha está na cozinha.

irmãzinha vs andorinha

Ends in 'inha'.

Andorinha means swallow (the bird).

A irmãzinha viu uma andorinha.

文型パターン

Eu tenho uma [noun].

Eu tenho uma irmãzinha.

Ela é [adjective].

Ela é irmãzinha.

A minha [noun] é [adjective].

A minha irmãzinha é fofa.

[Noun] gosta de [activity].

Irmãzinha gosta de brincar.

Sinto falta da minha [noun].

Sinto falta da minha irmãzinha.

Quando eu era pequeno, minha [noun]...

Quando eu era pequeno, minha irmãzinha chorava muito.

Apesar de ser [noun], ela...

Apesar de ser irmãzinha, ela é muito madura.

O vínculo com a [noun] é...

O vínculo com a irmãzinha é inquebrável.

語族

名詞

irmã

irmão

irmandade

irmãozinho

動詞

irmar

confraternizar

形容詞

irmão

fraternal

使い方

frequency

Very common in daily life and family contexts.

よくある間違い

irmazinha → irmãzinha
The tilde (~) is missing. It's essential for the nasal 'ã' sound.
o irmãzinha → a irmãzinha
The noun is feminine, so it must take the feminine article 'a'.
irmãinha → irmãzinha
You must use '-zinha' instead of '-inha' because the root ends in a stressed vowel.
irmãzinha pequeno → irmãzinha pequena
The adjective must agree with the feminine noun.
irmãzinho → irmãzinha
Using the masculine version when referring to a girl.

ヒント

Suffix Choice

Remember to use '-zinha' for words ending in stressed vowels like 'irmã', 'café' (cafezinho), or 'pé' (pezinho).

Show Some Love

Don't be shy about using diminutives. They make you sound more friendly and integrated into the local culture.

The Nasal 'ã'

Practice the nasal 'ã' daily. It's one of the most distinctive sounds in Portuguese and key to being understood.

Synonym Swap

Try using 'maninha' in Brazil for a more 'local' feel in casual settings.

Check the Tilde

Always double-check your spelling for the tilde. It's not an accent; it's a nasal marker.

Context Clues

If you hear '-zinha', look for a small object or a person being treated with affection.

Family First

In Portuguese, referring to someone's family with diminutives is often seen as a sign of respect and closeness.

Rhythm

Portuguese is a syllable-timed language. Keep the syllables of 'ir-mã-zin-ha' relatively even, but stress the 'zin'.

Agreement

Check your articles! 'A irmãzinha', 'Uma irmãzinha', 'As irmãzinhas'.

Visualize

Associate the word with a specific person you know to make it stick in your memory.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'irmã' as 'Ear-Ma' (like your mother's ear) and 'zinha' as 'Zinnia' (the flower). Your little sister is like a sweet flower near your ear.

視覚的連想

Imagine a tiny girl (little) wearing a shirt with a giant 'S' for Sister, holding a heart (affection).

Word Web

irmã família amor pequena fofa cuidar brincar casa

チャレンジ

Try to use 'irmãzinha' in a sentence today, even if you don't have a sister. Imagine a character in a book has one!

語源

Derived from the Latin 'germana' (sister), which originally meant 'of the same germ or bud' (full sister). The suffix '-zinha' was added later in the development of Portuguese to indicate the diminutive.

元の意味： A female sibling of the same parents.

Romance (Latin origin).

文化的な背景

Generally a very safe and positive word. Avoid using it for a female superior in a professional setting unless you have a very close, established relationship.

English speakers might find the constant use of 'little' (diminutives) strange for adults, but in Portuguese, it is a sign of love, not immaturity.

The song 'Irmãzinha' by various Brazilian artists. Characters in 'Turma da Mônica' (Brazilian comics). Classic Portuguese folk tales about siblings.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

At Home

Onde está a irmãzinha?
Ajuda a sua irmãzinha.
A irmãzinha está com fome.
Dorme, irmãzinha.

Birthday Parties

Parabéns para a irmãzinha!
O bolo da irmãzinha.
Quantos anos tem a irmãzinha?
Um presente para a irmãzinha.

School

Vim buscar a minha irmãzinha.
A minha irmãzinha estuda aqui.
Ela é a irmãzinha do Pedro.
A irmãzinha dele é aplicada.

Introductions

Esta é a minha irmãzinha.
Deixa eu te apresentar minha irmãzinha.
Você conhece a minha irmãzinha?
Minha irmãzinha é aquela ali.

Storytelling

Era uma vez uma irmãzinha...
A irmãzinha era muito curiosa.
O irmão e a irmãzinha foram passear.
A irmãzinha encontrou um tesouro.

会話のきっかけ

"Você tem uma irmãzinha ou um irmãozinho?"

"Como é o nome da sua irmãzinha?"

"A sua irmãzinha mora com você ou em outra cidade?"

"O que a sua irmãzinha mais gosta de fazer no tempo livre?"

"Você se dá bem com a sua irmãzinha?"

日記のテーマ

Escreva sobre uma memória feliz que você tem com a sua irmãzinha (ou uma irmã imaginária).

Quais são as principais diferenças entre você e a sua irmãzinha?

Como você descreveria a personalidade da sua irmãzinha para um estranho?

O que você aprendeu sendo o irmão/irmã mais velho(a) da sua irmãzinha?

Qual seria o presente perfeito para a sua irmãzinha este ano?

よくある質問

10 問

Yes! In Portuguese, diminutives like '-zinha' often express affection regardless of size. If you have a great relationship with your older sister, calling her 'irmãzinha' is a sweet gesture.

'Irmãzinha' is the standard diminutive of 'irmã.' 'Maninha' comes from 'mana' (slang for sister). 'Maninha' is more casual and is very popular in Brazil, while 'irmãzinha' sounds a bit more traditional or tender.

In Portuguese, if a word ends in a stressed vowel (like the 'ã' in irmã) or a nasal sound, we use the '-zinho/a' suffix to make the word easier to pronounce and to maintain the sound of the root word.

Yes, it is used in all Portuguese-speaking countries, including Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique, though the frequency and slang alternatives (like 'mana') might vary.

Yes, sometimes people use 'irmã' or 'irmãzinha' for very close female friends to show they are like family. However, 'amigona' or 'best' (slang) are also common.

Simply add an 's' at the end: 'irmãzinhas.' All associated words like 'as' or 'minhas' must also become plural: 'as minhas irmãzinhas.'

Technically, 'irmã' can mean 'nun.' So 'irmãzinha' could refer to a young or dear nun, but in 99% of cases, it refers to a biological or heart-sister.

Yes, the masculine version is 'irmãozinho' (little brother). It follows the same rules for affection and size.

It's a nasal sound. Try saying 'ah' but let the air come out of your nose instead of your mouth. It's similar to the start of the word 'anchor' but more nasal.

Extremely common. Family is very important in Lusophone cultures, so words for family members are used frequently.

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