Meaning
Expressing a sensation of physical discomfort or suffering.
Cultural Background
Brazilians are generally very open about physical ailments. It is common to hear people discussing their health in casual settings. While the phrase is the same, the culture is slightly more private. You might hear it less frequently in casual conversation compared to Brazil. In both countries, this is the primary way to initiate a medical consultation.
Use 'Tô'
In Brazil, 'Tô' is the standard informal version of 'Estou'. It makes you sound much more natural.
Don't use 'Tenho'
While 'Tenho dor' is understood, it sounds like a literal translation from English or Spanish. Stick to 'Estou com'.
Meaning
Expressing a sensation of physical discomfort or suffering.
Use 'Tô'
In Brazil, 'Tô' is the standard informal version of 'Estou'. It makes you sound much more natural.
Don't use 'Tenho'
While 'Tenho dor' is understood, it sounds like a literal translation from English or Spanish. Stick to 'Estou com'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Eu ______ com dor de barriga.
The verb 'estar' is used for temporary states.
Which is correct?
Choose the natural way to say 'I have a headache'.
This is the standard idiomatic expression.
Match the body part with the correct preposition.
Match: (1) pé, (2) perna
Pé is masculine (no), perna is feminine (na).
Complete the dialogue.
A: Você está bem? B: Não, ______.
The context implies a negative state.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesEu ______ com dor de barriga.
The verb 'estar' is used for temporary states.
Choose the natural way to say 'I have a headache'.
This is the standard idiomatic expression.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Pé is masculine (no), perna is feminine (na).
A: Você está bem? B: Não, ______.
The context implies a negative state.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, use 'Estou sofrendo' or 'Estou triste'.
It is neutral. It works in all contexts.
Say 'Minha cabeça dói' or 'Estou com dor de cabeça'.
Say 'Estou com dor pelo corpo todo'.
The phrase is the same, but the pronunciation of 'Estou' might vary.
Yes, it implies multiple pains or recurring pain.
Related Phrases
Dor de cabeça
specialized formHeadache
Sentir dor
synonymTo feel pain
Estou doente
contrastI am sick
