Meaning
To indicate that something is not significant.
Cultural Background
Brazilians often use 'Não importa' accompanied by the word 'bobagem' (nonsense/silly thing) to really emphasize that you shouldn't worry. In Portugal, you will hear 'Não faz mal' much more frequently than 'Não importa' in response to an apology. In Luanda, the phrase is used similarly to Brazil, often with a very relaxed tone to signal 'no worries' in social gatherings.
The Shrug Factor
In Brazil, a small shoulder shrug makes this phrase sound much more natural.
Tone Matters
Saying it too fast or sharply can sound dismissive or rude. Keep your tone soft.
Meaning
To indicate that something is not significant.
The Shrug Factor
In Brazil, a small shoulder shrug makes this phrase sound much more natural.
Tone Matters
Saying it too fast or sharply can sound dismissive or rude. Keep your tone soft.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct response to: 'Desculpe, esqueci sua caneta!'
Desculpe, esqueci sua caneta!
'Não importa' is the standard fixed expression for 'It doesn't matter'.
Complete the sentence to say 'It doesn't matter if it's cold.'
Não _______ se está frio.
The verb 'importar' must be in the 3rd person singular.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situation: You are choosing between two identical shirts.
Use 'Não importa' when the choice between options is insignificant.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Qual pizza você quer? B: ________, qualquer uma está bom.
'Não importa' expresses that any choice is fine.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to say 'Não importa'
Apologies
- • Being late
- • Small mistakes
- • Forgetting a pen
Choices
- • Food options
- • Movie genres
- • Meeting times
Practice Bank
4 exercisesDesculpe, esqueci sua caneta!
'Não importa' is the standard fixed expression for 'It doesn't matter'.
Não _______ se está frio.
The verb 'importar' must be in the 3rd person singular.
Situation: You are choosing between two identical shirts.
Use 'Não importa' when the choice between options is insignificant.
A: Qual pizza você quer? B: ________, qualquer uma está bom.
'Não importa' expresses that any choice is fine.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, it is generally polite and used to make others feel better about small mistakes.
Yes, for minor things like 'Não importa o formato do arquivo' (The file format doesn't matter).
'Não importa' means it's not important; 'Tanto faz' means both options are equal to you.
Related Phrases
Tanto faz
similarEither way / It's all the same
Não faz mal
synonymNo harm done
Deixa para lá
similarForget about it / Let it go
