In 15 Seconds
- Means 'remarkable' or 'noteworthy'.
- Use for things that impress you.
- Works in casual and professional settings.
- A sophisticated way to say 'wow!'
Meaning
This is your go-to word when something genuinely impresses you or stands out! It’s more than just 'good'; it signals that something is truly remarkable, deserves attention, or is exceptionally well-done. Think of the feeling when you see an incredible sunset or a perfectly executed dance move – that's `notável!` territory.
Key Examples
3 of 12Texting a friend about a concert
O show foi incrível! A performance do vocalista foi realmente notável.
The show was incredible! The vocalist's performance was truly notable.
At a café, praising the pastry
Este bolo de chocolate está notável! Nunca comi nada igual.
This chocolate cake is notable! I've never eaten anything like it.
Job interview on Zoom
Seu currículo demonstra uma trajetória profissional notável.
Your resume shows a notable professional trajectory.
Cultural Background
The word `notável` has roots in Latin (`notabilis`), meaning 'worthy of notice.' Its prevalence in Portuguese reflects a cultural appreciation for acknowledging excellence and achievement. It’s a way to verbally recognize something that stands out, a value that permeates social interactions, from praising craftsmanship to celebrating personal successes. It serves as a polite yet strong indicator of positive regard.
Sound Like a Native
Pair `notável!` with a gesture! A slight nod or a raised eyebrow can enhance the feeling of genuine admiration.
Context is Key
While versatile, `notável!` shines brightest when acknowledging something truly exceptional. Don't dilute its power on the mundane!
In 15 Seconds
- Means 'remarkable' or 'noteworthy'.
- Use for things that impress you.
- Works in casual and professional settings.
- A sophisticated way to say 'wow!'
What It Means
Notável! is a fantastic Portuguese word. It means 'remarkable' or 'noteworthy.' You use it when something really catches your eye. It's more than just saying 'cool.' It implies something is impressive. It stands out from the ordinary. It has a positive and often admiring vibe. It’s like a verbal high-five for excellence. It suggests something is worth noticing. It can also mean 'significant' or 'important.' But usually, it's about admiration. It’s a word that adds a touch of class. It elevates your praise beyond the basic.
How To Use It
Imagine you're watching a cooking show. The chef makes a dish that looks incredible. You'd exclaim, Que prato notável! (What a notable dish!). Or maybe a friend shares amazing news about their promotion. You could say, Isso é notável! (That's notable!). It fits perfectly in emails too. 'Your presentation was truly notável.' It works when something is impressive. It's versatile like that. Use it when you want to show genuine appreciation. Don't be shy with it! You'll find yourself using it more and more.
Formality & Register
Notável! bridges the gap nicely. It's not super casual like 'legal' (cool). It's also not overly stuffy. You can use it with friends. You can also use it in a professional setting. It sounds sophisticated but approachable. Think of it as your friendly expert voice. It's suitable for most situations. It adds a polished touch to your compliments. It works in spoken Portuguese and written. From a quick text to a formal report. It rarely feels out of place. Unless you're talking about a stubbed toe. Then maybe stick to 'ai!'
Real-Life Examples
- Social Media: Posting a picture of a stunning landscape? Caption:
Paisagem notável! Merece uma visita.(Notable landscape! Worth a visit.) - Work Email: Praising a colleague's work:
Seu relatório final foi notável.(Your final report was notable.) - Casual Chat: Reacting to a friend's new haircut:
Uau, que cabelo notável!(Wow, what notable hair!) - Travel: Describing a historical site:
A arquitetura deste lugar é notável.(The architecture of this place is notable.) - Performance Review: Highlighting an employee's achievement:
Seu desempenho neste trimestre foi notável.(Your performance this quarter was notable.) - App Review: Commenting on a game's graphics:
Os gráficos são notáveis.(The graphics are notable.)
When To Use It
Use notável! when you encounter excellence. When something exceeds expectations. When you witness skill or beauty. When you want to express genuine admiration. When something is truly worth remembering. Think of achievements, talents, or stunning sights. It’s for moments that make you pause. And think, 'Wow, that's something special.' Use it for things that stand out. Like a perfectly timed joke. Or a flawless parallel park. It's your signal for 'impressive!'
When NOT To Use It
Avoid notável! for mundane things. Don't call your lukewarm coffee notável. It's not for everyday objects. Unless they are exceptionally designed. Don't use it sarcastically. It loses its positive punch. It's not for minor inconveniences. Like a slow internet connection. Or a slightly burnt toast. Save it for genuine praise. Using it too often dilutes its power. It's like using an exclamation point on every word. It becomes less impactful. So, reserve it for the truly impressive.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes overuse notável!. They might use it for 'okay' things. This makes the word lose its impact. Another mistake is mixing it up. They might confuse it with 'notorious'. Which has a negative connotation. Always check the context. Ensure you mean 'impressive'. Not 'infamous'. It's a subtle but crucial difference. Stick to praising good things. Unless you're discussing a villain's plan. Then maybe 'notorious' fits better. But for general praise, notável! is the way.
Common Variations
In Brazil, you might hear impressionante! more often. It's a close synonym, meaning 'impressive.' Extraordinário! (extraordinary) is also common. In Portugal, notável! is very standard. You might also hear magnífico! (magnificent). For a more casual vibe, especially among younger people, incrível! (incredible) is popular. It carries a similar sense of wonder. Fantástico! (fantastic) is another widely used option. They all convey strong positive feelings. Notável! just has that slightly more refined feel.
Real Conversations
Scenario 1: Friends discussing a movie
Ana
Você viu aquele novo filme de ficção científica? (Did you see that new sci-fi movie?)Bruno
Sim! Os efeitos especiais foram notáveis. Fiquei de boca aberta. (Yes! The special effects were notable. I was speechless.)Scenario 2: Job Interview (Zoom call)
Interviewer
Sua experiência em gerenciamento de projetos é bastante notável. (Your project management experience is quite notable.)Candidate
Obrigado! Trabalhei muito para desenvolver essas habilidades. (Thank you! I worked hard to develop those skills.)Scenario 3: Ordering food via app
Reviewer
A entrega foi super rápida e a comida estava quente. Notável! (The delivery was super fast and the food was hot. Notable!)Scenario 4: Reacting to a surprising fact
Carla
Sabia que o polvo tem três corações? (Did you know octopuses have three hearts?)David
Três corações? Isso é notável! (Three hearts? That's notable!)Quick FAQ
- Is
notávelformal? It's generally neutral to formal. It's more polished than casual slang. You can use it in most settings. It sounds sophisticated without being stiff. - Can I use it for people? Yes, absolutely! You can describe a person's talent or achievement as
notável. For example,um artista notável(a notable artist). - Is it like 'amazing'? It's similar, but
notáveloften implies something is worthy of notice or recognition. 'Amazing' can be more about sheer wonder. - What's the opposite? The opposite would be something insignificant or unremarkable. Like
insignificante(insignificant) orcomum(common). - How do Brazilians say it? Brazilians use
notávelfrequently. They might also preferimpressionanteorincrívelin casual chats. Butnotávelis perfectly understood and used. - Can I use it in writing? Yes, it's excellent for writing. Especially in professional emails, reports, or articles. It adds a professional and appreciative tone.
Usage Notes
While versatile, `notável!` leans towards neutral-to-formal register. It's excellent for acknowledging genuine achievements or impressive qualities in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid using it for mundane or everyday occurrences, as this can diminish its impact and sound slightly out of place.
Sound Like a Native
Pair `notável!` with a gesture! A slight nod or a raised eyebrow can enhance the feeling of genuine admiration.
Context is Key
While versatile, `notável!` shines brightest when acknowledging something truly exceptional. Don't dilute its power on the mundane!
The Art of Complimenting
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, acknowledging excellence is important. Using `notável!` shows you appreciate quality and effort, which is highly valued.
Mind the 'Notorious' Trap!
Be careful not to confuse `notável` (noteworthy) with words that sound similar but have negative meanings, like 'notorious'. Always ensure context implies praise!
Examples
12O show foi incrível! A performance do vocalista foi realmente notável.
The show was incredible! The vocalist's performance was truly notable.
Here, `notável` emphasizes the exceptional quality of the performance.
Este bolo de chocolate está notável! Nunca comi nada igual.
This chocolate cake is notable! I've never eaten anything like it.
Expresses strong positive surprise and appreciation for the taste.
Seu currículo demonstra uma trajetória profissional notável.
Your resume shows a notable professional trajectory.
Used in a professional context to describe impressive career progression.
A vista do topo da montanha é simplesmente notável. Valeu a pena a subida!
The view from the mountaintop is simply notable. The climb was worth it!
Highlights the exceptional beauty of the scenery.
A descoberta de novas evidências foi um avanço notável para a ciência.
The discovery of new evidence was a notable advance for science.
Emphasizes the significance and importance of the scientific finding.
Olha só esse malabarista! Que habilidade notável!
Look at this juggler! What notable skill!
Expresses admiration for a specific talent or skill.
Gostaria de destacar o esforço notável da equipe neste projeto.
I would like to highlight the team's notable effort on this project.
Formal praise for significant contribution.
Nossa, que transformação notável! Amei!
Wow, what a notable transformation! Loved it!
Reacting enthusiastically to a significant change or improvement.
Meu cachorro aprendeu a buscar o jornal. É um feito notável para um pug!
My dog learned to fetch the newspaper. It's a notable feat for a pug!
Slightly humorous exaggeration for a cute accomplishment.
A generosidade dele foi notável. Me emocionou muito.
His generosity was notable. It moved me deeply.
Describes a significant and touching act.
✗ Aquele filme foi notável. → ✓ Aquele filme foi interessante.
✗ That movie was notable. → ✓ That movie was interesting.
Using `notável` for a movie that was just okay, not truly remarkable.
✗ Ele tem uma reputação notável. → ✓ Ele tem uma reputação duvidosa.
✗ He has a notable reputation. → ✓ He has a questionable reputation.
Confusing `notável` (noteworthy, positive) with a negative connotation, perhaps thinking of 'notorious'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct word.
The sentence praises volunteer work, making 'notável' (notable) the most fitting word.
Choose the sentence that uses 'notável' correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Option B correctly uses 'notável' to praise an impressive presentation. Options A, C, and D use it inappropriately for mundane situations.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
While the food might have been good, calling it 'notável' (remarkable) and then immediately pointing out a flaw makes the praise sound insincere or incorrect. 'Boa' (good) is a more suitable neutral term here.
Translate this sentence into Portuguese.
Translating 'achievement' as 'feito' and applying 'notável' fits the context of a significant accomplishment.
Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word.
The complexity suggests the solution must have been impressive or remarkable to address it effectively.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
While organizing papers can be good, 'notável' implies something exceptionally impressive. 'Meticuloso' (meticulous) or 'cuidadoso' (careful) better describes the detailed nature of the task, unless the organization was truly groundbreaking.
Put the words in the correct order.
This order forms a grammatically correct sentence praising someone's performance.
Choose the correct option.
Which sentence best expresses admiration for an unusual skill?
Memorizing numbers is often considered a remarkable skill, fitting the use of 'notável'. Options B, C, and D describe less conventionally impressive or unusual abilities.
Translate this sentence into Portuguese.
This translation correctly applies 'notável' to describe the success of the painting restoration.
Match the Portuguese phrase with its closest English meaning.
These pairs show synonyms and an antonym, helping to understand the nuance of 'notável'.
Put the words in the correct order.
This sentence structure emphasizes overcoming a challenge as a notable achievement. Note: 'feito' (feat) is implied or could be added for clarity, but the core structure is correct.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
This sentence is actually correct! It uses 'notável' appropriately to describe exceptional patience, further emphasized by 'quase sobre-humana' (almost superhuman).
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of 'Notável!'
Too formal for casual slang.
Que maneiro!
Can be used, but might sound slightly elevated.
Legal!
Perfectly balanced, fits most situations.
Isso é notável!
Excellent choice for professional contexts.
Seu progresso é notável.
Can be used, but might be replaced by more specific terms.
Uma contribuição notável.
Where You'll Hear 'Notável!'
Admiring art or architecture
A beleza desta igreja é notável.
Commending a professional achievement
Seu relatório foi notável.
Reacting to impressive skill
Que jogada notável!
Describing a beautiful view
A paisagem é notável.
Praising a delicious meal
Este prato está notável!
Acknowledging significant progress
Seu desenvolvimento foi notável.
'Notável!' vs. Similar Phrases
Usage Scenarios for 'Notável!'
Professional
- • Reports
- • Presentations
- • Performance reviews
- • Client feedback
Personal Achievements
- • Skills
- • Talents
- • Accomplishments
- • Progress
Aesthetics & Quality
- • Art
- • Food
- • Design
- • Scenery
Intellectual
- • Discoveries
- • Insights
- • Solutions
- • Ideas
Practice Bank
12 exercisesSeu trabalho voluntário é muito ____.
The sentence praises volunteer work, making 'notável' (notable) the most fitting word.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Option B correctly uses 'notável' to praise an impressive presentation. Options A, C, and D use it inappropriately for mundane situations.
Find and fix the mistake:
A comida na festa estava notável, mas um pouco salgada.
While the food might have been good, calling it 'notável' (remarkable) and then immediately pointing out a flaw makes the praise sound insincere or incorrect. 'Boa' (good) is a more suitable neutral term here.
This is a notable achievement for the company.
Hints: Think 'achievement'., Use 'notável' for 'notable'.
Translating 'achievement' as 'feito' and applying 'notável' fits the context of a significant accomplishment.
A complexidade do problema exigiu uma solução ____.
The complexity suggests the solution must have been impressive or remarkable to address it effectively.
Find and fix the mistake:
Ele fez um trabalho notável em organizar os papéis antigos.
While organizing papers can be good, 'notável' implies something exceptionally impressive. 'Meticuloso' (meticulous) or 'cuidadoso' (careful) better describes the detailed nature of the task, unless the organization was truly groundbreaking.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This order forms a grammatically correct sentence praising someone's performance.
Which sentence best expresses admiration for an unusual skill?
Memorizing numbers is often considered a remarkable skill, fitting the use of 'notável'. Options B, C, and D describe less conventionally impressive or unusual abilities.
The restoration of the painting was a notable success.
Hints: Consider 'restoration' and 'success'., 'Notable' modifies 'success'.
This translation correctly applies 'notável' to describe the success of the painting restoration.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These pairs show synonyms and an antonym, helping to understand the nuance of 'notável'.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This sentence structure emphasizes overcoming a challenge as a notable achievement. Note: 'feito' (feat) is implied or could be added for clarity, but the core structure is correct.
Find and fix the mistake:
A sua paciência com as crianças é notável, quase sobre-humana.
This sentence is actually correct! It uses 'notável' appropriately to describe exceptional patience, further emphasized by 'quase sobre-humana' (almost superhuman).
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
21 questionsEssentially, notável! means 'remarkable' or 'noteworthy.' It's used when something genuinely impresses you or stands out from the ordinary. Think of it as a more sophisticated way to express strong positive surprise or admiration for something's quality or significance.
It strikes a great balance! Notável! is considered neutral to formal. You can comfortably use it with friends when something is truly impressive, but it also fits perfectly in professional emails, presentations, or discussions without sounding stiff or overly casual.
Certainly! Imagine your friend just gave a fantastic presentation. You could say to them, 'Sua apresentação foi realmente notável!' (Your presentation was truly notable!). This conveys genuine admiration for their performance.
While both express positivity, notável! often implies something is worthy of special attention or recognition due to its quality or significance. Incrível! (incredible) is usually more spontaneous and expresses sheer wonder or amazement, sometimes for less substantial things.
Usage is quite similar across Brazil and Portugal, with notável! being a standard term for 'remarkable.' However, Brazilians might more frequently opt for impressionante! (impressive) or incrível! (incredible) in very casual chats, while notável! retains its slightly more refined feel everywhere.
The opposite would describe something unremarkable or insignificant. You might use words like comum (common), banal (banal), insignificante (insignificant), or sem graça (plain/uninteresting), depending on the context you want to convey.
It's best to avoid using notável! sarcastically. Its inherent meaning is positive and appreciative. Using it ironically can sound forced or confusing. Stick to clearer sarcastic expressions if needed, and reserve notável! for genuine praise.
Yes, absolutely! If you taste a dish that is exceptionally well-prepared, delicious, or unique, calling it notável is a great way to express high praise. For example, 'Este risoto está notável!' (This risotto is notable!).
A frequent mistake is overusing it for things that aren't truly remarkable, thus diluting its impact. Another common error is confusing it with words like 'notorious,' leading to unintended negative meanings. Always ensure the context calls for genuine praise.
Yes, you can describe a person's qualities or actions as notável. For instance, 'Ele tem uma ética de trabalho notável' (He has a notable work ethic) or 'Ela é uma artista notável' (She is a notable artist), highlighting their exceptional abilities or character.
Both are positive, but excelente! (excellent) focuses more on the high quality or perfection of something. Notável! emphasizes that it's worthy of notice and stands out, often implying a significant achievement or quality that deserves attention.
Yes, notável! can definitely be used in formal writing, including academic papers, to describe significant findings, contributions, or observations. It adds a touch of sophisticated praise that is appropriate for scholarly contexts.
Try describing things you see today using notável!. Did you see a well-designed ad? A skillful maneuver on TV? A beautiful sunset? Practice saying or writing sentences like 'Que design notável!' or 'A recuperação dele foi notável.'
It carries a weight of admiration and respect. When you call something notável, you're conveying that it has impressed you significantly. It's a positive emotion, often tinged with respect for the skill, quality, or significance involved.
Absolutely! You can describe abstract concepts like progress, resilience, intelligence, or even a solution to a problem as notável. For example, 'Sua resiliência diante das dificuldades foi notável' (Your resilience in the face of difficulties was notable).
While notável! is widely understood, regional preferences exist. In Brazil, impressionante! and incrível! are very common casual alternatives. Extraordinário! (extraordinary) is another strong synonym used in various contexts across Portuguese-speaking countries.
Not usually, if used appropriately. Because it bridges casual and formal, it generally sounds educated rather than pretentious. The key is context – use it when something genuinely warrants that level of praise, rather than for everyday occurrences.
You could translate it as 'É um trabalho notável.' This directly conveys that the work is of high quality and deserves recognition, fitting the meaning of notável perfectly.
Generally, no. Notável! carries a strong positive connotation of being worthy of notice due to excellence. For significant negative situations, you'd use different words like grave (serious), preocupante (worrying), or crítico (critical).
Both imply significance. 'Um feito notável' emphasizes that the achievement is remarkable and worthy of attention. 'Um grande feito' (a great feat) simply highlights its magnitude or importance. Notável adds a layer of impressiveness.
Yes, it's quite common! In online reviews, social media comments, or forum posts, notável! is frequently used to praise products, services, performances, or content that stands out positively. It adds a touch more sophistication than simpler compliments.
Related Phrases
Impressionante
synonymImpressive
Both 'notável' and 'impressionante' are used to express admiration for something that stands out, but 'impressionante' focuses more on the impact it has on the observer.
Incrível
synonymIncredible, amazing
'Incrível' is a very common and enthusiastic synonym for 'notável', often used in more casual settings to express strong positive surprise.
Excelente
related topicExcellent
'Excelente' focuses on the high quality or perfection of something, while 'notável' highlights that it's worthy of notice and stands out.
Comum
antonymCommon, ordinary
'Comum' is the direct opposite of 'notável', describing something that is ordinary and does not particularly stand out or warrant special attention.
Extraordinário
synonymExtraordinary
'Extraordinário' is a strong synonym for 'notável', emphasizing that something goes beyond the ordinary or usual in a remarkable way.
Marcante
related topicStriking, memorable
'Marcante' implies something leaves a strong impression or is memorable, similar to 'notável' but focusing more on lasting impact.
Significativo
related topicSignificant
While 'notável' often implies significance, 'significativo' directly addresses the importance or meaningfulness of something, which can overlap with 'notável'.
