In 15 Seconds
- The Portuguese version of 'likewise' or 'same to you'.
- Used to return greetings, compliments, and well-wishes instantly.
- Works in both professional meetings and casual coffee dates.
Meaning
It is the perfect, one-word way to say 'likewise' or 'the same to you.' Use it to return a greeting, a wish, or a compliment without repeating the whole sentence.
Key Examples
3 of 6Meeting someone for the first time
— Muito prazer! — Igualmente.
— Nice to meet you! — Likewise.
Leaving the office on Friday
— Bom fim de semana! — Igualmente!
— Have a good weekend! — You too!
Texting a friend after a hangout
Adorei o jantar hoje! Igualmente, vamos repetir!
I loved dinner today! Same here, let's do it again!
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'Igualmente' is often accompanied by a warm smile and is used in almost every social interaction.
Keep it simple
Don't overthink it. Just say 'Igualmente' and smile.
In 15 Seconds
- The Portuguese version of 'likewise' or 'same to you'.
- Used to return greetings, compliments, and well-wishes instantly.
- Works in both professional meetings and casual coffee dates.
What It Means
Igualmente is your linguistic mirror. It takes whatever good vibe someone sent your way and reflects it right back. If someone says 'Have a nice day,' you say Igualmente. It is efficient, polite, and incredibly common. It saves you from stumbling over long sentences when you are in a hurry.
How To Use It
Think of it as a conversational shortcut. You usually drop it right after someone finishes their sentence. It works best for well-wishes or polite observations. You do not need to add anything else. Just a quick Igualmente and a smile does the trick. It is the ultimate 'no-stress' response for social interactions.
When To Use It
Use it when someone says 'Nice to meet you' (Prazer em conhecer). It is perfect for 'Enjoy your meal' (Bom apetite) at a restaurant. Use it when a colleague says 'Have a good weekend.' It even works for 'Happy Birthday' if you happen to share the same birthday! It is a staple of polite Portuguese society.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for specific questions. If someone asks 'How are you?', saying Igualmente sounds very robotic. It is also not great for deep emotional confessions. If someone says 'I love you,' responding with Igualmente might get you a cold shoulder. It is a polite reflection, not a deep emotional echo. Avoid it when the other person is complaining too.
Cultural Background
Portuguese culture places a high value on 'cordialidade' (cordiality). Being polite is not just a choice; it is a social glue. Igualmente is the tool that keeps these interactions smooth. It shows you acknowledge the other person's kindness. It is used from the north of Portugal to the south of Brazil. Everyone knows it, and everyone expects it.
Common Variations
If you want to sound more casual, you might say Para você também (For you too). In very formal settings, you could say O mesmo lhe desejo (I wish you the same). However, Igualmente sits in that perfect middle ground. It is never too much and never too little. It is the 'Goldilocks' of Portuguese responses.
Usage Notes
Highly versatile and safe for B2 learners. It bridges the gap between formal and informal perfectly. Just remember it's a 'response' word, not an 'initiator' word.
Keep it simple
Don't overthink it. Just say 'Igualmente' and smile.
Examples
6— Muito prazer! — Igualmente.
— Nice to meet you! — Likewise.
The most common way to respond to an introduction.
— Bom fim de semana! — Igualmente!
— Have a good weekend! — You too!
Quick and professional way to end the work week.
Adorei o jantar hoje! Igualmente, vamos repetir!
I loved dinner today! Same here, let's do it again!
Used to agree with a positive sentiment via text.
— Bom apetite! — Obrigado, igualmente.
— Enjoy your meal! — Thanks, same to you.
Standard polite response to a service worker.
— Você está muito chato hoje. — Igualmente!
— You are being very annoying today. — Same to you!
Can be used playfully to fire back a mild insult.
— Feliz Natal para você e sua família. — Igualmente, de coração.
— Merry Christmas to you and your family. — Likewise, from the bottom of my heart.
Adding 'de coração' makes the standard response more emotional.
Test Yourself
Which is the correct response to 'Tenha um bom dia'?
— Tenha um bom dia! — ________
Igualmente is the standard reciprocal response for well-wishes.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of 'Igualmente'
Friends/Family
Pra você também!
Everyday use
Igualmente.
Business/Elderly
Desejo-lhe o mesmo.
Where to use Igualmente
New Intro
Prazer!
Dining
Bom apetite!
Holidays
Feliz Ano Novo!
Farewells
Boa viagem!
Practice Bank
1 exercises— Tenha um bom dia! — ________
Igualmente is the standard reciprocal response for well-wishes.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, it is very common in professional emails.
Related Phrases
O mesmo para você
synonymThe same to you
