At the A1 level, you should learn 'piedoso' as a word describing someone very 'good' or 'religious.' Think of it as a way to describe a person who prays a lot or helps people because they have a good heart. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the deep nuances. Just remember that 'um homem piedoso' is a 'pious man' or a 'merciful man.' You can associate it with words like 'bom' (good) and 'religioso' (religious). It is important to notice the ending: 'piedoso' for a man and 'piedosa' for a woman. If you see a picture of a person praying in a church, you can use this word. If you see someone giving bread to a hungry person, you can also use this word. It's a 'Level 1' way of describing kindness that comes from a place of pity or faith. Focus on simple sentences like 'Minha avó é piedosa' (My grandmother is pious/merciful). This builds the foundation for understanding more complex human traits later in your studies.
At the A2 level, you begin to see that 'piedoso' has two main meanings: being religious and being merciful. You should start using the common expression 'mentira piedosa' (a white lie). This is a very useful phrase in daily life. You also learn to agree the adjective with the noun correctly in more complex sentences. For example, 'Eles são médicos piedosos' (They are merciful doctors). You should understand that 'piedoso' comes from 'piedade' (pity). So, if you feel 'piedade' for someone, you might act in a 'piedoso' way. You might hear this word in simple stories or when people talk about their families. It's a step up from just saying someone is 'bom' (good) because it explains *why* they are good—because they feel for others or follow their faith. You should also be able to distinguish it from 'religioso,' which is more general. A 'piedoso' person is not just religious; they are deeply devoted and kind.
At the B1 level, you are expected to understand the emotional weight of 'piedoso.' It's not just a description; it's a characterization of someone's soul. You will encounter this word in news reports about humanitarian aid or in more descriptive literature. You should be able to use it to describe an 'olhar piedoso' (a pitying look) or a 'gesto piedoso' (a merciful gesture). You are now exploring the difference between 'ser piedoso' (to be a pious/merciful person) and 'agir de forma piedosa' (to act in a pious/merciful way). You might also start to see it in historical contexts, such as describing kings or queens who were known for their mercy. At this level, you should also be aware of synonyms like 'caridoso' (charitable) and 'bondoso' (kind), and know that 'piedoso' is slightly more formal and has a stronger connection to the feeling of pity. You can use it to add more color to your descriptions of people's motivations.
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable with the word in both secular and religious contexts and understand its placement in sentences for emphasis. You will see 'piedoso' in editorial pieces, formal speeches, and complex literature. You should recognize its role in the phrase 'mentira piedosa' as a social lubricant. You can also start to use the word to discuss abstract concepts, like 'um sistema jurídico piedoso' (a merciful legal system). You understand that 'piedoso' can sometimes have a slightly archaic feel in very modern, secular settings, where 'compassivo' might be preferred, yet it remains essential for understanding the cultural fabric of Portuguese-speaking countries. You should be able to explain the etymological link to 'piety' and how that influences its modern usage. Your ability to use 'piedoso' correctly in a formal essay about social justice or religion demonstrates a solid grasp of Portuguese vocabulary nuances.
At the C1 level, you are exploring the philosophical and literary depths of 'piedoso.' You can analyze how authors use the word to create irony or to deepen character development. For instance, a character might be 'piedoso' in appearance but 'cruel' in action—the word here highlights the gap between religious observance and true morality. You are also aware of the word's presence in classical poetry and how it relates to the concept of 'clemency.' You can use 'piedoso' in high-level debates about ethics, distinguishing it from 'misericordioso' (which implies a power imbalance) and 'empático' (which is more about shared feeling). You understand the historical evolution of the word from the Latin 'pietas' and how it maintains that sense of 'duty' alongside 'mercy.' Your use of the word is precise, reflecting an understanding of its register, history, and the subtle emotional responses it evokes in a native speaker.
At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'piedoso.' You can use it with complete native-like precision in any context, from the most formal theological treatise to a nuanced critique of a film. You understand the rarest uses of the word, including its appearance in archaic legal texts or obscure religious litanies. You can discuss the word's role in the 'Lusophone identity,' considering how 'piedade' and 'ser piedoso' have shaped social structures in Brazil, Portugal, and Africa. You are able to play with the word's connotations, perhaps using it in a satirical way to describe someone who is overly performative in their kindness. You are also fully aware of its relation to other words in the same family, like 'impiedoso' (pitiless/ruthless), and can use them to create powerful contrasts in your writing. For you, 'piedoso' is not just a word, but a window into the historical and emotional landscape of the Portuguese language.

piedoso 30초 만에

  • Piedoso means pious, religious, or merciful.
  • It comes from 'piedade' (pity/mercy/piety).
  • It is used for people, actions, or looks.
  • Commonly found in the phrase 'mentira piedosa' (white lie).

The Portuguese adjective piedoso is a multifaceted word that English speakers might find intriguing due to its dual nature. At its core, it derives from the noun piedade, which translates to 'pity,' 'mercy,' or 'piety.' Consequently, the word functions in two primary semantic spheres: the religious/spiritual and the humanitarian/emotional. When you describe someone as piedoso, you are either commenting on their deep religious devotion or their profound capacity for compassion and mercy toward those who are suffering. This duality mirrors the Latin root pietas, which encompassed duty to the gods, one's country, and one's parents. In modern Portuguese, the context usually clarifies which nuance is intended. For instance, in a cathedral setting, it almost certainly refers to religious fervor. In a courtroom or a hospital, it likely refers to a merciful disposition.

Religious Devotion
In this context, the word is synonymous with 'devoto' or 'religioso.' It describes an individual who strictly follows religious precepts, prays regularly, and exhibits a humble attitude toward the divine. It is common to see this in historical biographies of saints or descriptions of very traditional community members.
Mercy and Compassion
This usage focuses on the 'pity' aspect. A 'gesto piedoso' (pious gesture) is an act of kindness intended to alleviate someone else's pain. It implies a sense of empathy that leads to action, such as forgiving a debt or helping a stranger in distress.

O monge era conhecido por ser um homem extremamente piedoso e humilde.

The word also carries a certain weight of 'solemnity.' You wouldn't typically use it for a casual favor. Instead, it suggests a character trait—a fundamental part of who a person is. It is also important to note the gender agreement: piedoso for masculine nouns and piedosa for feminine nouns. In plural forms, it becomes piedosos and piedosas. Interestingly, the word can sometimes carry a slightly patronizing tone in very specific modern contexts, similar to how 'pitying' can feel in English, though this is less common than its positive or neutral connotations of mercy.

Ela lançou um olhar piedoso para o animal ferido na estrada.

In literature, especially from the 19th and early 20th centuries (like the works of Machado de Assis or Eça de Queirós), piedoso is frequently used to describe characters who are socially conservative and deeply involved in church life. In these texts, it often serves as a shorthand for 'respectable' or 'traditional.' Understanding this word helps learners navigate not just conversations, but the deep cultural and historical layers of the Portuguese language. Whether you are discussing a 'mentira piedosa' (a white lie, literally a 'pious lie') or a saintly figure, the word serves as a bridge between the heart's empathy and the soul's devotion.

Using piedoso correctly requires attention to noun-adjective agreement and the specific nuance of the situation. As an adjective, it usually follows the noun it modifies, which is the standard position for most Portuguese adjectives. However, placing it before the noun can sometimes add a poetic or emphatic touch, though this is primarily reserved for literary contexts. Let's look at the grammatical mechanics first.

Gender and Number Agreement
Masculine Singular: Um ato piedoso. Feminine Singular: Uma alma piedosa. Masculine Plural: Homens piedosos. Feminine Plural: Mulheres piedosas. Note how the 'o' changes to 'a', 'os', or 'as' depending on the noun.

As irmãs eram muito piedosas e ajudavam a todos na vila.

One of the most common idiomatic uses of this word is in the expression mentira piedosa. This is the direct equivalent of the English 'white lie.' It refers to a lie told out of kindness or to avoid hurting someone's feelings. In this specific phrase, piedosa modifies the intent of the lie, suggesting that the speaker was motivated by pity or a desire to be merciful rather than malice.

Às vezes, uma mentira piedosa é melhor do que uma verdade cruel.

When describing a person's character, piedoso can be used with the verb ser (to be - permanent trait) or parecer (to seem). For example, 'Ele é um homem piedoso' implies that piety is a core part of his identity. If you say 'Ele está agindo de forma piedosa,' you are using the adverbial form or a prepositional phrase to describe a temporary behavior. Another important context is the 'olhar piedoso' (a pitying look). This doesn't necessarily mean the person looking is religious; it means their eyes are full of sympathy for another person's plight.

O juiz proferiu uma sentença piedosa, considerando o arrependimento do réu.

In more advanced usage, you might encounter piedoso in philosophical or theological discussions. Here, it might describe an attitude of reverence toward life or nature. For a learner at the A2 level, focusing on the 'religious person' and 'merciful act' meanings will cover 90% of daily interactions. Remember that in Brazil, the word is quite common in Catholic circles, whereas in secular urban settings, it might sound a bit more formal or old-fashioned compared to 'bondoso' (kind) or 'legal' (cool/nice).

The word piedoso is not something you will hear every five minutes in a casual conversation at a bar in Rio de Janeiro or Lisbon. However, it occupies a significant space in several specific domains of Lusophone life. Understanding these domains will help you recognize the word and use it with the right 'flavor.'

Religious Communities
In churches, especially during sermons or when describing members of the congregation, 'piedoso' is a high compliment. It suggests someone whose faith is not just theoretical but lived through prayer and charity. You might hear a priest refer to 'os fiéis piedosos' (the pious faithful).
Literature and Period Dramas
If you watch Brazilian 'telenovelas de época' (period soap operas) or read classic Portuguese novels, 'piedoso' appears frequently. It sets a tone of morality and social standing. A 'filha piedosa' is a daughter who is dutiful and virtuous.

Naquela pequena cidade, todos respeitavam o piedoso farmacêutico que nunca cobrava dos pobres.

You will also hear this word in legal or formal humanitarian contexts. When news reports discuss a 'corredor humanitário' (humanitarian corridor) or a 'gesto de clemência' (gesture of clemency), the adjective piedoso might be used to describe the nature of the act. It elevates the action from simple 'help' to a profound expression of human mercy. Furthermore, in the context of mourning or funerals, 'piedoso' is often used in prayers like 'Descanse em paz sob o olhar piedoso de Deus' (Rest in peace under the merciful gaze of God).

O documentário mostrava o trabalho piedoso dos voluntários no campo de refugiados.

Finally, the phrase 'mentira piedosa' is ubiquitous. You will hear this in movies, music, and daily chat when someone justifies a small deception. 'Eu disse que a comida estava ótima, foi uma mentira piedosa' (I said the food was great; it was a white lie). This is perhaps the most common way a non-religious person will use the word in the 21st century. It shows that even as society becomes more secular, the linguistic roots of 'pity' and 'mercy' remain deeply embedded in the way Portuguese speakers navigate social nuances.

Learning piedoso involves avoiding a few common pitfalls that English speakers often encounter. The most frequent errors relate to false cognates, preposition usage, and confusing the adjective with its related noun.

Confusing 'Piedoso' with 'Piedoso' (English 'Pious')
While they are cognates, 'pious' in English can sometimes have a negative, hypocritical connotation ('holier-than-thou'). In Portuguese, 'piedoso' is almost always sincere. If you want to say someone is hypocritically religious, you would use 'beato' or 'carola' (informal/pejorative).
Noun vs. Adjective
Learners often confuse 'piedade' (noun) with 'piedoso' (adjective). You have/feel 'piedade' (Tenho piedade de você), but you are 'piedoso' (Eu sou piedoso). Do not say 'Eu sou piedade.'

Errado: Ele é muito piedade.
Correto: Ele é muito piedoso.

Another mistake is the misuse of prepositions. When 'piedoso' describes someone's attitude toward another, the correct preposition is usually 'com' or 'para com.' English speakers might try to use 'de' because they are thinking of 'pity of,' but that doesn't work for the adjective in Portuguese. For example, 'Ele foi piedoso com os prisioneiros' is correct, while 'Ele foi piedoso dos prisioneiros' is not.

Errado: Ela foi piedoso com a criança.
Correto: Ela foi piedosa com a criança.

Lastly, don't confuse piedoso with penoso. While piedoso relates to pity/mercy, penoso means 'painful' or 'laborious' (related to 'pena' as in 'suffering/effort'). Saying 'O trabalho foi piedoso' would imply the job was merciful, which makes little sense; you likely mean 'O trabalho foi penoso' (The work was grueling). Keeping these distinctions clear will help you sound much more like a native speaker.

To enrich your Portuguese vocabulary, it is helpful to know words that are similar to piedoso but carry slightly different shades of meaning. Depending on whether you want to emphasize religion, kindness, or formal mercy, you might choose one of the following alternatives.

Misericordioso
This is the most direct synonym for the 'merciful' aspect. It has a very strong religious and formal weight. God is often called 'O Misericordioso.' It implies a higher power or authority showing compassion to someone beneath them.
Devoto
Use this when you specifically mean 'pious' in the sense of religious devotion. It doesn't necessarily imply mercy toward others, but rather a focus on religious practice and loyalty to a faith.
Caridoso
This means 'charitable.' While a piedoso person might feel pity, a caridoso person takes action to give to the poor. They are often used together, but caridoso is more about the act of giving.

Embora não fosse um homem religioso, ele era muito piedoso com os animais de rua.

For a more modern or secular context, you might use compassivo (compassionate) or empático (empathetic). These words lack the religious baggage of piedoso and are very common in psychology and modern social discourse. If you want to describe someone who is simply 'good-hearted,' bondoso is your best bet. It is the 'all-purpose' word for a kind person.

O herói da história foi clemente e poupou a vida do vilão.

In formal writing or legal contexts, clemente (clement/lenient) is a sophisticated alternative. It suggests a formal decision to be less severe than required. By learning these alternatives, you can tailor your speech to the specific situation—whether you're describing a saint, a kind neighbor, a merciful judge, or a white lie.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The word 'piety' in English and 'pity' both share the same Latin root as 'piedoso', showing how religious duty and feeling sorry for others were once the same concept.

발음 가이드

UK /pi.eˈðɔ.zu/
US /pi.eˈdo.zu/
The stress is on the penultimate syllable: pie-DO-so.
라임이 맞는 단어
Generoso Bondoso Misterioso Curioso Famoso Gostoso Venenoso Preguiçoso
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the final 'o' as a hard 'O' instead of a soft 'u'.
  • Stressing the first syllable instead of the second-to-last.
  • Making the 's' sound like an 's' instead of a 'z' (it's between two vowels).
  • Confusing the 'e' sound with an 'i' sound.
  • Failing to agree the gender (using piedoso for a woman).

난이도

독해 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts due to English cognates.

쓰기 3/5

Requires correct gender/number agreement.

말하기 3/5

Pronunciation of 'o' as 'u' and 's' as 'z' can be tricky.

듣기 2/5

Distinctive sound makes it easy to catch.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

Bom Igreja Pena Religião Ajuda

다음에 배울 것

Misericordioso Caridoso Compassivo Impiedoso Clemência

고급

Beatitude Sancrosanto Filantropia Altruísmo Benevolência

알아야 할 문법

Adjective Gender Agreement

O homem é piedoso / A mulher é piedosa.

Adjective Number Agreement

Os atos são piedosos / As almas são piedosas.

Position of Adjectives

Um homem piedoso (Standard) / Um piedoso homem (Poetic).

Adverb Formation

Piedosa + mente = Piedosamente.

Prepositional Usage

Piedoso COM alguém.

수준별 예문

1

O homem é piedoso.

The man is pious/merciful.

Simple Subject + Verb + Adjective.

2

Ela é uma mulher piedosa.

She is a pious woman.

Adjective agrees with the feminine noun 'mulher'.

3

O menino piedoso ajuda o cão.

The pious/kind boy helps the dog.

Adjective follows the noun 'menino'.

4

Eles são muito piedosos.

They are very pious/merciful.

Plural agreement 'piedosos'.

5

Maria é piedosa com os pobres.

Maria is merciful with the poor.

Usage with preposition 'com'.

6

Um coração piedoso é bom.

A merciful heart is good.

Adjective modifying 'coração' (masculine).

7

O padre é um homem piedoso.

The priest is a pious man.

Noun-adjective pair.

8

Nós somos piedosas.

We (fem.) are pious/merciful.

Feminine plural agreement.

1

Eu contei uma mentira piedosa.

I told a white lie.

Common expression 'mentira piedosa'.

2

O rei foi piedoso com o ladrão.

The king was merciful with the thief.

Historical/narrative context.

3

Ela tem uma alma piedosa.

She has a pious/merciful soul.

Abstract noun 'alma' (feminine).

4

Os vizinhos piedosos trouxeram comida.

The merciful neighbors brought food.

Plural noun-adjective agreement.

5

Não seja tão piedoso com ele.

Don't be so merciful with him.

Imperative mood.

6

O olhar piedoso da mãe acalmou o filho.

The mother's pitying look calmed the son.

Adjective modifying 'olhar'.

7

Ele é conhecido por ser um jovem piedoso.

He is known for being a pious young man.

Passive construction.

8

As freiras são mulheres muito piedosas.

The nuns are very pious women.

Intensifier 'muito' + adjective.

1

O juiz deu uma sentença piedosa ao réu.

The judge gave a merciful sentence to the defendant.

Legal context.

2

Sua atitude piedosa salvou a família da fome.

Your merciful attitude saved the family from hunger.

Possessive adjective 'Sua'.

3

Ele agiu de um modo piedoso e justo.

He acted in a merciful and just way.

Adverbial phrase 'de um modo'.

4

A caridade é um ato piedoso por excelência.

Charity is a pious act par excellence.

Philosophical statement.

5

Sempre foi uma pessoa piedosa e dedicada à igreja.

She was always a pious person dedicated to the church.

Compound description.

6

O médico teve um gesto piedoso com o paciente terminal.

The doctor had a merciful gesture with the terminal patient.

Medical/humanitarian context.

7

Eles buscavam um refúgio piedoso em tempos de guerra.

They sought a merciful refuge in times of war.

Metaphorical use.

8

A mentira piedosa evitou uma briga desnecessária.

The white lie avoided an unnecessary fight.

Subject of the sentence.

1

A literatura do século XIX exalta o caráter piedoso dos heróis.

19th-century literature exalts the pious character of heroes.

Literary analysis.

2

É difícil ser piedoso quando se sofreu uma grande injustiça.

It is difficult to be merciful when one has suffered a great injustice.

Impersonal 'se' construction.

3

O governo prometeu um tratamento mais piedoso aos refugiados.

The government promised a more merciful treatment to refugees.

Comparative 'mais... aos'.

4

Sua voz soava piedosa, mas suas intenções eram duvidosas.

His voice sounded pious, but his intentions were doubtful.

Contrast using 'mas'.

5

O piedoso silêncio da noite trazia paz ao seu espírito.

The merciful silence of the night brought peace to his spirit.

Poetic placement (before the noun).

6

Muitos consideram a eutanásia um ato piedoso, outros um crime.

Many consider euthanasia a merciful act, others a crime.

Debate context.

7

Ela dedicou sua vida a obras piedosas e de caridade.

She dedicated her life to pious and charitable works.

Noun phrase 'obras piedosas'.

8

O semblante piedoso do santo inspirava os fiéis.

The pious countenance of the saint inspired the faithful.

Formal vocabulary 'semblante'.

1

A dicotomia entre o dever moral e o impulso piedoso é central na obra.

The dichotomy between moral duty and the merciful impulse is central to the work.

Academic register.

2

Não se deve confundir o ser piedoso com a mera condescendência.

One should not confuse being merciful with mere condescension.

Distinction of concepts.

3

O autor utiliza o adjetivo piedoso para ironizar a hipocrisia da elite.

The author uses the adjective 'pious' to ironize the hypocrisy of the elite.

Literary criticism.

4

Sua retórica piedosa mascarava uma ambição desmedida por poder.

His pious rhetoric masked an inordinate ambition for power.

Metaphorical masking.

5

A clemência é a face mais piedosa da justiça humana.

Clemency is the most merciful face of human justice.

Superlative 'a mais... de'.

6

O historiador descreveu o monarca como um déspota piedoso.

The historian described the monarch as a merciful despot.

Oxymoron/Contrast.

7

A piedosa intenção nem sempre justifica os meios utilizados.

The merciful intention does not always justify the means used.

Ethical discussion.

8

Ela possuía uma disposição piedosa que transcendia dogmas religiosos.

She possessed a merciful disposition that transcended religious dogmas.

High-level abstract thought.

1

A exegese do texto revela um subtexto profundamente piedoso e místico.

The exegesis of the text reveals a deeply pious and mystical subtext.

Technical/Theological register.

2

Havia uma aura piedosa que emanava de seus gestos mais simples.

There was a pious aura that emanated from his simplest gestures.

Poetic/Metaphysical description.

3

O réu implorou por um olhar piedoso perante a severidade da lei.

The defendant begged for a merciful look before the severity of the law.

Archaic/Formal style.

4

Sua vida foi um testemunho piedoso de abnegação e altruísmo.

His life was a pious testimony of self-denial and altruism.

Eulogy context.

5

A narrativa desconstruía a imagem do 'colonizador piedoso' amplamente difundida.

The narrative deconstructed the widely spread image of the 'merciful colonizer'.

Post-colonial critique.

6

O silêncio piedoso dos presentes era mais eloquente que qualquer discurso.

The merciful silence of those present was more eloquent than any speech.

Paradoxical description.

7

A piedosa mentira, embora doce, não logrou ocultar a amarga realidade.

The white lie, though sweet, did not succeed in hiding the bitter reality.

Complex sentence structure.

8

A sua conduta piedosa era o esteio daquela comunidade isolada.

His pious conduct was the mainstay of that isolated community.

Metaphorical use of 'esteio'.

자주 쓰는 조합

Mentira piedosa
Homem piedoso
Olhar piedoso
Alma piedosa
Gesto piedoso
Obras piedosas
Coração piedoso
Fiel piedoso
Sentença piedosa
Morte piedosa

자주 쓰는 구문

Fazer-se de piedoso

— To pretend to be pious or merciful to gain favor.

Ele se faz de piedoso, mas é egoísta.

Com um ar piedoso

— With a pious or pitying expression.

Ela entrou na sala com um ar piedoso.

Pelo amor piedoso

— Out of merciful love (archaic/poetic).

Ajudou-o pelo amor piedoso.

Ser pouco piedoso

— To be harsh or lack mercy.

O destino foi pouco piedoso com ele.

Extremamente piedoso

— Deeply religious or very merciful.

O santo era extremamente piedoso.

Nada piedoso

— Not at all merciful; ruthless.

O chefe foi nada piedoso com os erros.

Caminho piedoso

— A path of religious devotion or mercy.

Ele seguiu o caminho piedoso da fé.

Voz piedosa

— A voice that sounds merciful or pious.

Ele falou com uma voz piedosa.

Atitude piedosa

— A behavior marked by mercy.

Sua atitude piedosa foi elogiada.

Vida piedosa

— A life dedicated to religion or helping others.

Levou uma vida piedosa no campo.

자주 혼동되는 단어

piedoso vs Piedade

Piedade is the noun (pity); piedoso is the adjective (pitying/pious).

piedoso vs Penoso

Penoso means laborious or painful; piedoso means merciful.

piedoso vs Beato

Beato often implies someone who is excessively or hypocritically religious.

관용어 및 표현

"Mentira piedosa"

— A white lie told to avoid hurting someone.

Disse que o vestido estava lindo, foi uma mentira piedosa.

Common
"Ter mãos piedosas"

— To have a gentle touch, often used for nurses or healers.

A enfermeira tinha mãos piedosas.

Literary
"Lágrima piedosa"

— A tear shed out of sympathy for another.

Uma lágrima piedosa correu por seu rosto.

Poetic
"Ouvido piedoso"

— To listen to someone's troubles with sympathy.

Ele ofereceu um ouvido piedoso ao amigo.

Metaphorical
"Manto piedoso"

— A metaphorical cover that hides or forgives faults.

O manto piedoso do esquecimento.

Literary
"Olhar com olhos piedosos"

— To look at something or someone with mercy.

Deus olha com olhos piedosos para todos.

Religious
"Pé piedoso"

— To walk or approach with reverence (very rare).

Entrou no templo com pé piedoso.

Archaic
"Piedade cristã"

— The specific type of mercy associated with Christian values.

Agia movido pela piedade cristã.

Formal
"Pobreza piedosa"

— Voluntary poverty for religious reasons.

O monge vivia em pobreza piedosa.

Religious
"Silêncio piedoso"

— Keeping quiet to spare someone's feelings or out of respect.

Houve um silêncio piedoso após a notícia.

Common

혼동하기 쉬운

piedoso vs Bondoso

Both mean kind.

Bondoso is general kindness; piedoso specifically involves pity or religious devotion.

Um vizinho bondoso; um monge piedoso.

piedoso vs Misericordioso

Both mean merciful.

Misericordioso is more formal and often implies a power gap (God/King).

O Deus misericordioso.

piedoso vs Compassivo

Both mean compassionate.

Compassivo is modern and secular; piedoso is traditional and can be religious.

Um terapeuta compassivo.

piedoso vs Religioso

Both relate to faith.

Religioso is anyone who follows a religion; piedoso is someone deeply and sincerely devoted.

Ele é religioso mas não é muito piedoso.

piedoso vs Caridoso

Both involve helping.

Caridoso focuses on the act of giving (charity); piedoso focuses on the feeling of pity.

Um milionário caridoso.

문장 패턴

A1

Substantivo + é + piedoso.

O avô é piedoso.

A2

Substantivo + é + piedoso + com + Alguém.

Ela é piedosa com as crianças.

B1

Ter + um + substantivo + piedoso.

Ele tem um coração piedoso.

B2

Substantivo + piedoso + de + Substantivo.

O olhar piedoso de Maria.

C1

Apesar de + adjetivo, + ser + piedoso.

Apesar de rigoroso, ele era piedoso.

C2

Emanar + uma + substantivo + piedosa.

Emanava uma aura piedosa.

Any

Mentira piedosa.

Foi uma mentira piedosa.

Formal

Gesto de caráter piedoso.

Foi um gesto de caráter piedoso.

어휘 가족

명사

Piedade (pity/piety)
Piedosismo (excessive piety - often negative)

동사

Piedar (rare/archaic - to move to pity)

형용사

Piedoso (pious/merciful)
Impiedoso (pitiless)
Piedosíssimo (very pious - superlative)

관련

Misericórdia
Compaixão
Pena
Religiosidade

사용법

frequency

Common in religious, literary, and specific idiomatic contexts.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'piedoso' for 'painful'. Penoso

    Piedoso is merciful; penoso is painful/laborious.

  • Saying 'Eu tenho piedoso'. Eu sou piedoso / Eu tenho piedade.

    Piedoso is an adjective; piedade is the noun.

  • Using 'piedoso' to mean 'pitiful' in a negative way (pathetic). Patético / Lamentável

    Piedoso usually implies the person *showing* pity, not the person *being* pathetic.

  • Forgetting the 'z' sound. Pronouncing 's' like 'z'.

    Between vowels, 's' sounds like 'z' in Portuguese.

  • Using 'piedoso de' instead of 'piedoso com'. Piedoso com os pobres.

    The preposition 'com' or 'para com' is required.

Agreement is Key

Always check if the person you are describing is male or female. 'O pai piedoso' but 'a mãe piedosa'.

Use with 'Mentira'

Learn 'mentira piedosa' as a single unit. It's the most common way you'll use the word in daily life.

Respectful Tone

When using 'piedoso' in a religious context, it carries a lot of respect. Use it for people you truly admire.

Poetic Placement

In poetry, try putting 'piedoso' before the noun for a more dramatic effect: 'O piedoso olhar'.

Soft 'O'

The final 'o' should be very soft, almost like an English 'u' in 'put'.

Root Recognition

If you hear 'piedade,' you know the topic is about pity or religion. 'Piedoso' will likely follow.

Pious Pity

Just remember: Pious + Pity = Piedoso.

Not 'Beato'

Avoid 'beato' if you want to be nice; use 'piedoso' instead.

Swap for Mercy

If you forget 'misericordioso,' 'piedoso' is a great, easier-to-remember substitute.

Animals

It's very common to use 'piedoso' when talking about helping animals.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Pity' + 'Dose'. A 'piedoso' person has a large 'dose' of 'pity' for others.

시각적 연상

Imagine a person kneeling in prayer with one hand reaching out to help a fallen child. This combines both meanings.

Word Web

Piedade Deus Ajuda Coração Igreja Perdão Misericórdia Santo

챌린지

Try to use 'mentira piedosa' in a conversation today. Then, describe a family member using 'piedoso' or 'piedosa'.

어원

From the Latin 'pietōsus', derived from 'pietas' (duty, religiousness, affection).

원래 의미: In Latin, it referred to someone who fulfilled their duties to gods, family, and country.

Romance (Indo-European).

문화적 맥락

Be careful not to use it sarcastically unless you mean to be critical of someone's performative religion.

English speakers might find 'piedoso' more sincere than 'pious,' which can sometimes imply hypocrisy in English.

Machado de Assis often used this word to describe the social masks of his characters. The 'Obras Piedosas' of various Portuguese queens. Religious hymns like 'Piedoso Jesus'.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

In a Church

  • Um fiel piedoso
  • Oração piedosa
  • Vida piedosa
  • Atitude piedosa

In a Courtroom

  • Juiz piedoso
  • Sentença piedosa
  • Olhar piedoso
  • Clemência piedosa

With Friends

  • Mentira piedosa
  • Não seja tão piedoso
  • Ele é piedoso demais
  • Gesto piedoso

Describing Family

  • Avó piedosa
  • Pai piedoso
  • Criação piedosa
  • Exemplo piedoso

Literature

  • Alma piedosa
  • Coração piedoso
  • Obras piedosas
  • Semblante piedoso

대화 시작하기

"Você acha que uma mentira piedosa é sempre aceitável?"

"Quem é a pessoa mais piedosa que você conhece?"

"Você se considera uma pessoa piedosa com os animais?"

"Na sua opinião, um juiz deve ser sempre piedoso ou sempre rigoroso?"

"Qual foi o último gesto piedoso que você presenciou?"

일기 주제

Escreva sobre uma vez que você contou uma mentira piedosa e por quê.

Descreva uma pessoa piedosa da sua infância e o impacto que ela teve em você.

A piedade é uma fraqueza ou uma força? Reflita sobre ser piedoso.

Como a sociedade moderna vê uma pessoa piedosa hoje em dia?

Escreva um conto curto sobre um rei piedoso e um prisioneiro rebelde.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Yes! It can simply mean 'merciful' or 'compassionate' toward others' suffering, regardless of faith.

It is a 'white lie'—a small lie told to be kind or avoid hurting someone.

You use 'piedoso' or 'devoto'.

It is common in literature, religion, and the specific phrase 'mentira piedosa', but less so in slang.

Usually yes, but in literature, it can sometimes be used to describe someone who is outwardly religious but internally judgmental.

The feminine is 'piedosa'.

Usually no, it describes people, actions, looks, or abstract concepts like 'mentira' or 'vida'.

The most direct opposite is 'impiedoso' (pitiless).

It is pronounced like a 'z' as in 'zebra'.

It is used equally in both, though the contexts might vary slightly based on local religious traditions.

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Write a sentence using 'piedoso' to describe a kind grandfather.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Portuguese: 'She told a white lie to her mother.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a 'gesto piedoso' you did or saw recently.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'piedosos' in a sentence about a group of volunteers.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain the difference between 'piedoso' and 'religioso' in Portuguese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'impiedoso' to describe the weather.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The judge was merciful with the young man.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a short dialogue where someone uses the phrase 'mentira piedosa'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

How would you describe a 'pious' person in a formal essay?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use the adverb 'piedosamente' in a sentence.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence with 'alma piedosa' and 'ajudar'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a 'piedoso olhar' in a poetic way.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Create a sentence using 'piedoso' in a legal context.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'They are very pious women who pray every day.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'piedoso' to describe a doctor.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

What is the opposite of 'um rei piedoso'? Write it in Portuguese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'piedoso' in a sentence about helping an animal.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'piedoso' and 'caridoso' together.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'A merciful heart is a happy heart.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a formal sentence about 'obras piedosas' in a city.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronuncie a palavra 'piedoso' três vezes, focando no som do 'z'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Descreva uma pessoa piedosa que você conhece em voz alta.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Diga a frase: 'Eu contei uma mentira piedosa' com uma entonação natural.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explique em português o que significa ser piedoso.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Debata brevemente: 'É melhor ser piedoso ou ser justo?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Leia em voz alta: 'O juiz foi piedoso com o réu arrependido.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Conte uma história curta sobre um 'ato piedoso' que você viu.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronuncie as formas: piedoso, piedosa, piedosos, piedosas.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Como você pediria misericórdia usando a palavra 'piedoso'?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Diga: 'Minha avó é uma mulher muito piedosa.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Diga: 'O sol impiedoso brilhava no deserto.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explique a diferença entre 'bondoso' e 'piedoso'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Diga: 'Foi apenas uma mentira piedosa, eu juro!'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Descreva o olhar de uma pessoa piedosa.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Diga: 'Eles são fiéis piedosos e frequentam a igreja.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Use a palavra 'piedoso' para descrever um personagem de filme.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Diga: 'A caridade é um ato piedoso.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Como você diria 'merciful sentence' em português?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Diga: 'Nós devemos ter um coração piedoso.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explique o termo 'morte piedosa'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça a frase: 'O homem piedoso ajudou o cego a atravessar a rua.' Quem ajudou o cego?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça a palavra e identifique o gênero: 'Piedosa'.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça a frase: 'Não foi maldade, foi uma mentira piedosa.' Por que a pessoa mentiu?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça e identifique o número: 'Piedosos'.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'O juiz foi muito piedoso desta vez.' O juiz foi rigoroso?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'Ela tem um olhar piedoso que me acalma.' O que acalma a pessoa?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'Eles levam uma vida piedosa no convento.' Onde eles vivem?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'O sol impiedoso não dava trégua.' Como estava o tempo?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'Foi um gesto piedoso, mas inútil.' O gesto funcionou?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça e escreva a palavra que falta: 'Minha tia é muito ____.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'A eutanásia é chamada de morte piedosa.' Qual o outro nome dado?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'Os piedosos fiéis rezavam em silêncio.' O que os fiéis faziam?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'Seja piedoso com seus inimigos.' Qual o conselho?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'Uma alma piedosa sempre encontra o caminho.' Quem encontra o caminho?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Ouça: 'A mentira piedosa salvou o jantar.' O que salvou o jantar?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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