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A2 adjective #3,500 most common 18 min read

agradável

Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips agradável in 30 Seconds

Explanation agradável in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'agradável' is a very useful word for making basic descriptions of your environment and the people you meet. Think of it as a step up from 'bom' (good). You can use it to describe the weather, a person you've just met, or a place you are visiting. At this stage, you should focus on the fact that it doesn't change for gender. You can say 'O café é agradável' (The café is nice) or 'A casa é agradável' (The house is nice) without worrying about the ending. It is a great word to include in your first basic sentences about your likes and dislikes. It helps you sound more descriptive than just using the most basic adjectives. You will often see it in introductory textbooks to describe family members or hometowns. Remember that even at A1, using 'agradável' shows you are expanding your vocabulary beyond the absolute basics. Try to use it whenever you want to say something is 'nice' in a general sense. It is also very common in the phrase 'Muito prazer, é um prazer conhecê-lo', where 'prazer' is the noun form related to the feeling of something being 'agradável'.

At the A2 level, you are expected to provide more detailed descriptions of your daily life, past experiences, and surroundings. 'Agradável' becomes essential for this. You should start using it with intensifiers like 'muito' (very) or 'bastante' (quite). For example, 'A viagem foi muito agradável' (The trip was very pleasant). You should also be comfortable using the plural form 'agradáveis'. At A2, you might use it to describe a weekend you had: 'Tivemos momentos muito agradáveis no campo'. You are also learning to distinguish between 'ser' and 'estar', so you can start using 'agradável' to describe both permanent qualities and temporary states. For example, 'O meu quarto é agradável' (My room is pleasant - general) versus 'O quarto está agradável agora que abri a janela' (The room is pleasant now that I opened the window - temporary). You can also use it to give polite feedback in restaurants or hotels. It's a key word for the 'Socializing' and 'Travel' modules of most A2 courses. You might also start using it in the negative: 'Não foi uma experiência muito agradável' to be polite while expressing a complaint.

By the B1 level, you are moving beyond simple descriptions and starting to express opinions, feelings, and abstract thoughts. 'Agradável' is used here to describe more complex situations. You might use it to talk about a book's style, a movie's atmosphere, or a work environment. You should also be familiar with related words like 'desagradável' (unpleasant) and 'agradavelmente' (pleasantly). At B1, you can use 'agradável' in comparative and superlative structures: 'Este é o lugar mais agradável da cidade' (This is the most pleasant place in the city). You might also use it in conditional sentences: 'Seria agradável se pudéssemos ir ao parque amanhã' (It would be pleasant if we could go to the park tomorrow). You are also becoming more aware of the nuances between 'agradável' and its synonyms like 'simpático' or 'acolhedor'. You can use 'agradável' to describe the 'vibe' of a social gathering or the 'tone' of a conversation. It's a word that helps you navigate more complex social interactions where you need to be polite but also expressive. You might also encounter it in news articles or short stories describing settings and moods.

At the B2 level, you are aiming for fluency and a more sophisticated use of the language. 'Agradável' is now a word you use naturally and with precision. You understand that it can be used to describe not just sensory or social experiences, but also intellectual ones. For example, 'Uma leitura agradável' might describe a book that is well-written and engaging without being overly difficult. You are also able to use 'agradável' in more complex grammatical structures, such as with the subjunctive mood: 'Duvido que a situação seja agradável para todos' (I doubt the situation is pleasant for everyone). You can use it to discuss social issues or cultural differences, perhaps comparing what is considered 'agradável' in different societies. At this level, you should also be aware of the word's placement for emphasis: 'Uma agradável surpresa' versus 'Uma surpresa agradável'. You can use the word to provide nuanced critiques of art, literature, or professional projects. You are also comfortable using it in formal writing, such as letters of recommendation or professional reports, where it maintains a tone of professional courtesy and positive evaluation.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the language's nuances and can use 'agradável' in highly specific and sophisticated ways. You might use it to describe the 'agradabilidade' (pleasantness - though this noun is less common) of a certain lifestyle or aesthetic. You are aware of its etymological roots and how it relates to other words in the 'gratia' family. You can use 'agradável' to discuss philosophy, aesthetics, or high-level social dynamics. For example, you might analyze how an author uses the contrast between 'agradável' and 'desagradável' to create tension in a novel. You are also comfortable with the word in idiomatic expressions and can use it ironically or with subtle shades of meaning. In professional contexts, you use it to manage complex interpersonal relationships with high-level diplomacy. You might use it to describe a 'consenso agradável' (a pleasant consensus) in a negotiation. At C1, you don't just use the word; you understand its place within the broader tapestry of Portuguese culture and literature. You can use it to describe the subtle 'saudade' of a past 'agradável' moment with poetic precision.

At the C2 level, you have mastered the word 'agradável' to the point where you can use it with the same ease and nuance as a highly educated native speaker. You can use it in the most formal academic papers or the most lyrical poetry. You understand its historical evolution and its usage in different Lusophone countries (Portugal, Brazil, Angola, etc.). You might use it to describe the 'agradável' irony of a situation or the 'agradável' complexity of a musical composition. You can engage in deep discussions about what constitutes the 'agradável' in art and how it differs from the 'sublime' or the 'beautiful'. Your use of the word is always contextually perfect, and you can play with its sounds and rhythms in creative writing. You are also aware of very rare or archaic synonyms and can use 'agradável' as a baseline to explain them. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a flexible tool that you use to express the finest details of human experience and perception. You can use it to describe the 'agradável' melancholy of a rainy day in Porto or the 'agradável' chaos of a carnival in Rio with equal skill.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

agradável in 30 Seconds

Agradável means 'pleasant' or 'nice' and is used to describe positive sensory or social experiences.
It is a uniform adjective, meaning it has the same form for both masculine and feminine nouns.
The plural form is 'agradáveis', following the rule for adjectives ending in '-el'.
It is widely used in both formal and informal Portuguese to express satisfaction and comfort.

The Portuguese word agradável is a versatile adjective that serves as a cornerstone for expressing positive experiences across the sensory and social spectrum. At its core, it translates to 'pleasant', 'nice', 'enjoyable', or 'agreeable'. Unlike some adjectives that are restricted to specific domains, agradável is a linguistic chameleon, equally at home describing the gentle breeze of a Cascais afternoon, the harmonious melody of a fado performance, or the polite demeanor of a new acquaintance. It originates from the verb agradar (to please), which itself stems from the Latin gratia, linking it to concepts of grace, favor, and gratitude. When you use this word, you are signaling that something provides a sense of well-being or satisfaction without necessarily being overwhelming or intense. It is the gold standard for 'moderate' positive evaluation—better than just 'good' (bom), but perhaps less intense than 'wonderful' (maravilhoso) or 'spectacular' (espetacular).

Sensory Pleasantness: Used to describe things that feel, smell, or sound good to the senses. For instance, a soft fabric against the skin is 'agradável ao toque'.

Esta música suave cria um ambiente muito agradável para jantar.

In social contexts, agradável describes a person who is easy to talk to, polite, and well-mannered. It is a safe and respectful compliment. If you meet someone at a party and find their company enjoyable, calling them a 'pessoa agradável' is a standard way to express that they made a good impression. This usage extends to the atmosphere of a place. A restaurant might not be the most luxurious in the city, but if the lighting is warm, the service is kind, and the noise level is low, it is undoubtedly an 'ambiente agradável'. It is the word of choice for TripAdvisor reviews, polite thank-you notes, and casual conversations about one's weekend. Furthermore, it is frequently used to describe the weather. In Portugal and Brazil, where the climate can range from scorching heat to damp cold, a day with a mild temperature and a clear sky is universally celebrated as 'um dia agradável'.

Social Harmony: Refers to interactions that lack conflict and provide comfort. A 'conversa agradável' is one where everyone felt heard and happy.

Tivemos uma tarde agradável no parque, lendo livros ao sol.

Transitioning into more formal or professional spheres, agradável maintains its utility. In a business setting, a 'surpresa agradável' (pleasant surprise) might refer to an unexpected profit or a project finishing ahead of schedule. It conveys a sense of professional satisfaction that is measured and appropriate. It is also used in literature to set a scene that is inviting to the reader. By using this word, an author can quickly establish a setting where the protagonist feels safe or relaxed. It functions as a linguistic 'comfort zone'. Whether you are talking about the texture of a wine, the scent of a flower, the temperature of a swimming pool, or the personality of a colleague, agradável provides the perfect balance of positivity and descriptive clarity.

Professional Tone: In emails, it is common to say 'Foi muito agradável conhecê-lo' (It was very nice to meet you) to maintain a polite and professional distance while being warm.

O novo escritório tem uma iluminação natural muito agradável.

Finally, it is worth noting the grammatical flexibility of the word. While it is primarily an adjective, it can be modified by adverbs like 'extremamente' (extremely), 'bastante' (quite), or 'pouco' (little). For example, saying something is 'pouco agradável' is a very common Portuguese way of being euphemistic; instead of saying something is 'horrible' or 'bad', saying it is 'not very pleasant' is a more polite, indirect way to express dissatisfaction. This cultural nuance of using 'agradável' in the negative to soften a blow is a key part of mastering the language's social etiquette. In summary, agradável is more than just a word; it is a tool for navigating social waters, describing sensory delights, and articulating the subtle joys of daily life in the Portuguese-speaking world.

A sua companhia foi a parte mais agradável da minha viagem.

Passamos momentos muito agradáveis juntos naquelas férias.

Using agradável correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its grammatical properties as a 'uniform' adjective. In Portuguese, most adjectives change their ending to match the gender (masculine or feminine) of the noun they describe (e.g., bonito/bonita). However, agradável belongs to a group of adjectives that end in -el, which remain the same regardless of the noun's gender. This makes it a very user-friendly word for learners. Whether you are talking about 'o homem' (masculine) or 'a mulher' (feminine), the word remains agradável. The only change occurs when the noun is plural, where the ending -el transforms into -eis, resulting in agradáveis. This consistency is a relief for those still struggling with gender agreement in Portuguese.

Noun-Adjective Order: In standard Portuguese, 'agradável' usually follows the noun it modifies. For example: 'um passeio agradável' (a pleasant walk).

O perfume das flores é muito agradável nesta época do ano.

When constructing sentences, you will often find agradável paired with the linking verbs ser (to be - permanent quality) or estar (to be - temporary state). The choice between these two verbs changes the nuance of the sentence. If you say 'O clima aqui é agradável', you are describing a general characteristic of the place—it is usually pleasant there. If you say 'O clima está agradável hoje', you are commenting on the specific conditions of today. This distinction is crucial for sounding natural. Furthermore, agradável is frequently used in impersonal constructions with the verb ser, such as 'É agradável caminhar na praia' (It is pleasant to walk on the beach). In these cases, the adjective remains in the singular masculine form by default, as it refers to the action of walking rather than a specific noun.

Intensifiers: To add emphasis, use adverbs like 'muito' (very), 'bastante' (quite), or 'extremamente' (extremely) before the adjective.

A recepção no hotel foi extremamente agradável e eficiente.

Another common sentence pattern involves the preposition de or para. You might describe something as 'agradável de ver' (pleasant to see) or 'agradável para os ouvidos' (pleasant to the ears). This allows you to specify exactly which sense or aspect of the thing is pleasant. For example, a chair might be 'agradável de sentar' (pleasant to sit in) even if it isn't particularly 'agradável de ver' (pleasant to look at). In comparative sentences, you use the standard Portuguese structures: 'mais agradável do que' (more pleasant than) or 'menos agradável do que' (less pleasant than). 'Este vinho é mais agradável do que o outro' (This wine is more pleasant than the other). The superlative form is usually created by adding the definite article: 'O lugar mais agradável' (The most pleasant place).

Negative Formations: The direct antonym is 'desagradável' (unpleasant). You can also negate it using 'não é nada agradável' (it's not pleasant at all).

Não é nada agradável ficar preso no trânsito por duas horas.

In more complex sentences, agradável can be part of a relative clause. 'O livro, que é muito agradável, conta a história de um viajante' (The book, which is very pleasant, tells the story of a traveler). Here, the adjective adds a descriptive layer to the noun 'livro'. It is also often used in the plural to describe general experiences: 'Tivemos conversas muito agradáveis sobre o futuro' (We had very pleasant conversations about the future). Notice how agradáveis agrees with the plural feminine noun conversas. Mastering these patterns allows you to weave the word into your speech seamlessly, moving from simple observations to more nuanced descriptions of your environment and experiences.

Eles são pessoas muito agradáveis e sempre nos recebem bem.

Ele tem um rosto agradável e um sorriso cativante.

If you find yourself in a bustling café in Lisbon or a quiet plaza in Rio de Janeiro, you are almost guaranteed to hear the word agradável within the first hour. It is a staple of everyday Portuguese conversation, particularly during the initial phases of social interaction. One of the most common places you'll encounter it is in the context of hospitality and tourism. Hotel staff will often ask, 'A sua estadia está a ser agradável?' (Is your stay being pleasant?). This is the standard, polite way to check on a guest's satisfaction. Similarly, restaurant servers might ask if the meal was 'agradável'. In these settings, the word acts as a bridge of courtesy between service providers and customers. It is also a favorite of travel bloggers and guidebook writers who describe 'recantos agradáveis' (pleasant corners) of a city that are off the beaten path.

Weather Reports: Meteorologists use it to describe days that are neither too hot nor too cold. 'As temperaturas estarão agradáveis no fim de semana.'

O guia disse que o passeio de barco seria muito agradável.

In the world of media and entertainment, agradável is frequently used in reviews. A film might be described as a 'comédia agradável'—not a masterpiece that will change the history of cinema, but a film that provides a good time and leaves the viewer with a positive feeling. Music critics use it to describe melodies that are 'harmonious' and 'easy to listen to'. On social media, you will see it in captions of photos showing sunsets, cozy interiors, or groups of friends smiling. It is the linguistic equivalent of a 'like'—it signifies approval and a sense of comfort. If you listen to Portuguese podcasts or radio shows, you'll hear hosts using it to describe their guests or the topics they are discussing: 'Hoje temos uma conversa muito agradável com o autor...'

Social Media & Reviews: You'll find it in captions like 'Tarde agradável com amigos' or in TripAdvisor reviews: 'O serviço foi muito agradável'.

A leitura deste romance é muito agradável e fluida.

In professional environments, agradável is the language of diplomacy and soft skills. During a job interview, an interviewer might describe the company culture as 'um ambiente de trabalho agradável'. This is intended to reassure the candidate that the office is not a toxic or overly stressful place. In business emails, it is used to smooth over interactions. Phrases like 'Espero que tenha tido um fim de semana agradável' (I hope you had a pleasant weekend) are standard openers that build rapport before getting down to business. Even in more formal literature or academic writing, the word appears when describing positive social phenomena or harmonious aesthetic qualities. It is a word that spans all levels of society, from the street vendor to the CEO, making it an essential part of your Portuguese vocabulary toolkit.

Professional Networking: Used to describe meetings or networking events: 'A reunião de ontem foi surpreendentemente agradável'.

O ambiente na empresa é muito agradável e colaborativo.

Finally, you will hear agradável in personal reflections and heart-to-heart conversations. When someone is describing a memory that brings them peace, they might say, 'Foi um momento tão agradável, nunca vou esquecer'. It carries a weight of genuine emotion without being overly dramatic. In Portuguese culture, where 'saudade' (longing/nostalgia) is a central concept, agradável often describes the happy moments that one looks back on with fondness. Whether it's the taste of a 'pastel de nata' still warm from the oven or the sound of the ocean at night, agradável is the word that captures that specific sense of 'all is right with the world'. By paying attention to how and where native speakers use this word, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Portuguese sense of well-being and social grace.

É sempre agradável rever velhos amigos e recordar o passado.

A sua voz é muito agradável de ouvir na rádio.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using agradável is attempting to change its ending to match the gender of the noun. In many Portuguese adjectives, you change the final 'o' to 'a' (e.g., bonito to bonita). However, agradável is a 'uniform' adjective. A very common error is saying 'uma tarde agradávela' or 'um clima agradávelo'. These forms do not exist. Whether the noun is masculine (clima, dia, passeio) or feminine (tarde, música, pessoa), the word remains agradável. This is a rule shared by many adjectives ending in -l, like fácil (easy) or difícil (difficult). Keeping this in mind will immediately make your Portuguese sound more accurate and natural.

Gender Agreement Error: Incorrect: 'Ela é uma pessoa agradávela'. Correct: 'Ela é uma pessoa agradável'.

Muitos alunos esquecem que agradável não muda de género.

Another area of confusion is the plural form. While most words in Portuguese simply add an 's' to become plural, words ending in -el follow a specific pattern: the -el changes to -eis. Beginners often mistakenly say 'agradávels' or 'agradáveis' (with the wrong stress). The correct plural is agradáveis, with the accent remaining on the 'á' to show the stress is on the penultimate syllable. This pluralization rule is essential for describing multiple things, such as 'momentos agradáveis' or 'surpresas agradáveis'. Forgetting this rule and simply adding an 's' is a tell-tale sign of a non-native speaker who hasn't yet mastered Portuguese phonetic rules.

Pluralization Mistake: Incorrect: 'Tivemos dias agradávels'. Correct: 'Tivemos dias agradáveis'.

É um erro comum usar 'agradávels' em vez de agradáveis.

A third mistake involves word order and intensity. In English, we almost always put the adjective before the noun ('a pleasant day'). In Portuguese, putting agradável before the noun ('um agradável dia') is grammatically possible but often sounds overly poetic or formal. For everyday speech, it should follow the noun: 'um dia agradável'. Furthermore, learners sometimes over-use agradável when a stronger word is needed. If you are describing a truly spectacular meal or a life-changing experience, agradável might sound a bit weak or even indifferent. In those cases, words like maravilhoso, excelente, or incrível are more appropriate. Understanding the 'strength' of adjectives is key to effective communication.

Word Order Nuance: Placing it before the noun ('um agradável encontro') changes the emphasis, making it sound more like a literary description than a casual observation.

Para soar mais natural, coloque o adjetivo depois do nome: um passeio agradável.

Finally, be careful with the preposition that follows. Sometimes learners want to translate 'pleasant to' directly as 'agradável para'. While this is often correct, sometimes 'agradável de' is more natural, especially when followed by a verb (e.g., 'agradável de ler' vs 'agradável para ler'). Also, remember the difference between ser and estar mentioned earlier. Saying 'O jantar é agradável' implies that this specific dinner is always pleasant (perhaps because of the company), while 'O jantar está agradável' refers specifically to the current moment. Mixing these up won't make you incomprehensible, but using them correctly shows a high level of proficiency and attention to detail.

Cuidado para não confundir o uso de 'ser' e 'estar' com agradável.

A pronúncia correta foca na sílaba tónica 'dá': a-gra-DÁ-vel.

While agradável is a fantastic all-purpose word, expanding your vocabulary with its synonyms and related terms will allow you to be more precise in your descriptions. Depending on the context—whether you are talking about weather, people, or sensations—there might be a better alternative. For instance, when describing a person's character, simpático is often a stronger choice. While an agradável person is someone whose company you enjoy, a simpático person is someone who is actively friendly, kind, and charming. In a social setting, calling someone 'muito simpático' is a very common and high compliment. On the other hand, if you are describing a place that is cozy and inviting, acolhedor might be more descriptive. It implies a sense of being 'welcomed' or 'embraced' by the environment.

agradável vs. simpático: 'Agradável' is general (pleasant); 'simpático' is specific to personality (friendly/nice). A movie can be 'agradável', but it can't be 'simpático'.

O hotel era simples, mas muito acolhedor e agradável.

For sensory experiences, prazeroso is a great alternative. It is derived from prazer (pleasure) and suggests a deeper level of enjoyment. While a walk can be agradável, a gourmet meal or a relaxing massage might be described as prazeroso. It carries a slightly more hedonistic or intense connotation. If you are talking about the weather, particularly a mild and gentle temperature, the word ameno is frequently used in weather forecasts. An 'inverno ameno' is a mild winter, which is a specific type of 'agradável'. In more formal or literary contexts, you might encounter aprazível. This is a higher-register synonym for agradável, often used to describe beautiful landscapes or elegant settings. It sounds more sophisticated and is less common in everyday street talk.

agradável vs. ameno: 'Agradável' is broad; 'ameno' is specific to climate/temperature (mild). You wouldn't call a person 'ameno'.

A brisa marítima tornava a tarde muito aprazível.

When you want to express that something is 'nice' in a more casual, slangy way, the options vary by country. In Portugal, you might hear porreiro or fixe. Saying 'O concerto foi bué de fixe' is a very informal way of saying it was very pleasant/cool. In Brazil, legal, bacana, or maneiro are the go-to informal terms. 'Que dia legal!' is the everyday equivalent of 'Que dia agradável!'. However, agradável remains the safe, 'neutral' choice that works in any situation, from a royal gala to a backyard barbecue. It is the foundation upon which these other, more specific words are built. Understanding the differences between these synonyms will help you move from basic communication to truly expressive and nuanced Portuguese.

agradável vs. aprazível: 'Agradável' is common and versatile; 'aprazível' is formal and often refers to locations/landscapes.

Aquele restaurante no centro é muito bacana para ir com amigos.

Finally, consider the antonyms. The most direct one is desagradável (unpleasant). Other options include ruim (bad), péssimo (terrible), or insuportável (unbearable). If a situation is 'pouco agradável', it's a polite way of saying it's leaning towards the negative. By contrasting agradável with these opposites, you can better appreciate its role as a descriptor of positive equilibrium. Whether you are aiming for the casual charm of 'legal' or the sophisticated elegance of 'aprazível', having agradável as your starting point ensures you will always be understood and appreciated in any Portuguese-speaking context.

Foi uma experiência bastante desagradável que prefiro esquecer.

O clima de hoje está ameno e muito agradável para caminhar.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Foi uma experiência extremamente agradável colaborar com a vossa instituição."

Neutral

"O restaurante tem uma comida simples e um ambiente agradável."

Informal

"O passeio foi bem agradável, devíamos voltar lá."

Child friendly

"O parquinho é muito agradável para brincar com os amigos."

Slang

"A vibe da festa estava muito agradável."

Fun Fact

The root 'grat-' is the same one found in the English words 'grateful', 'gratitude', and even 'congratulations'. When you find something 'agradável', you are literally finding it 'full of grace' or 'favor'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɐ.ɡɾɐ.ˈda.vɛɫ/

US /a.ɡɾa.ˈda.vew/

Penultimate syllable (dá).

Rhymes With

Amável Desejável Fezável Instável Lamentável Notável Saudável Variável

Common Errors

Stressing the last syllable (agradavél).
Pronouncing the first 'a' too openly like the second 'a'.
Not pronouncing the 'r' clearly (it should be a single tap).
In Portugal, failing to make the final 'l' dark/velarized.
In Brazil, pronouncing the final 'l' as a hard 'l' instead of 'u'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to its similarity to 'agreeable' and 'agréable' (French).

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the plural '-eis' ending and the accent on the 'á'.

Speaking 3/5

The stress on the 'dá' and the final 'l' or 'w' sound requires practice.

Listening 2/5

Usually clear, though the final syllable can be soft in European Portuguese.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Bom/Boa Gostar Tempo Pessoa Lugar

Learn Next

Simpático Acolhedor Ameno Desagradável Prazer

Advanced

Aprazível Gratificante Deleitável Harmonioso Urbanidade

Grammar to Know

Adjectives ending in -l are uniform (one form for both genders).

O dia agradável / A tarde agradável.

Plural of words ending in -el is -eis.

Agradável -> Agradáveis.

Adjectives usually follow the noun in Portuguese.

Uma surpresa agradável.

Adverbs like 'muito' modify the adjective to show intensity.

Muito agradável.

The verb 'estar' is used for temporary states of pleasantness.

O tempo está agradável hoje.

Examples by Level

O dia está agradável.

The day is pleasant.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

Ela é uma pessoa agradável.

She is a pleasant person.

'Agradável' doesn't change for the feminine noun 'pessoa'.

Este café é muito agradável.

This café is very pleasant.

Use of 'muito' as an intensifier.

O meu quarto é agradável.

My room is pleasant.

Describing a permanent quality of a place.

A música é agradável.

The music is pleasant.

Describing a sensory experience (hearing).

O jardim é agradável para ler.

The garden is pleasant for reading.

Using 'para' to specify the purpose.

Hoje o tempo está agradável.

Today the weather is pleasant.

'Tempo' means weather in this context.

É um passeio agradável.

It is a pleasant walk.

Standard noun-adjective order.

Tivemos uma tarde muito agradável na praia.

We had a very pleasant afternoon at the beach.

Past tense 'tivemos' with the adjective.

O hotel onde ficamos era muito agradável.

The hotel where we stayed was very pleasant.

Using the imperfect past 'era' for description.

Eles são vizinhos muito agradáveis.

They are very pleasant neighbors.

Plural form 'agradáveis' agreeing with 'vizinhos'.

O jantar de ontem foi bastante agradável.

Yesterday's dinner was quite pleasant.

Use of 'bastante' as an alternative to 'muito'.

Não é agradável caminhar na chuva sem guarda-chuva.

It is not pleasant to walk in the rain without an umbrella.

Impersonal construction with 'não é'.

O perfume das flores é muito agradável.

The perfume of the flowers is very pleasant.

Describing a sensory experience (smell).

Espero que a sua viagem seja agradável.

I hope your trip is pleasant.

Use of the subjunctive 'seja' after 'espero que'.

A voz do cantor é muito agradável de ouvir.

The singer's voice is very pleasant to hear.

Using 'de' before the infinitive verb.

O ambiente de trabalho nesta empresa é muito agradável.

The work environment in this company is very pleasant.

Describing the 'atmosphere' of a workplace.

Foi uma surpresa agradável receber a tua carta.

It was a pleasant surprise to receive your letter.

Common phrase 'surpresa agradável'.

A cidade tem muitos parques agradáveis para relaxar.

The city has many pleasant parks for relaxing.

Plural agreement with 'parques'.

A conversa tornou-se mais agradável depois do café.

The conversation became more pleasant after the coffee.

Using 'tornar-se' (to become) with the adjective.

É mais agradável viver no campo do que na cidade barulhenta.

It is more pleasant to live in the countryside than in the noisy city.

Comparative structure 'mais... do que'.

O livro é uma leitura leve e agradável para as férias.

The book is a light and pleasant read for the holidays.

Using 'agradável' to describe the experience of reading.

A recepção foi organizada de forma muito agradável.

The reception was organized in a very pleasant way.

Adverbial phrase 'de forma... agradável'.

A temperatura da água está muito agradável hoje.

The water temperature is very pleasant today.

Describing a physical sensation (touch/temperature).

Apesar do frio, o sol tornava o ambiente agradável.

Despite the cold, the sun made the environment pleasant.

Using 'apesar de' to create contrast.

Ele tem uma maneira agradável de lidar com os problemas.

He has a pleasant way of dealing with problems.

Describing a person's approach or method.

O autor utiliza um estilo narrativo muito agradável e fluido.

The author uses a very pleasant and fluid narrative style.

Literary description.

Seria agradável se todos pudessem participar na reunião.

It would be pleasant if everyone could participate in the meeting.

Conditional 'seria' with the imperfect subjunctive.

A iluminação da sala cria uma atmosfera agradável e relaxante.

The room's lighting creates a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere.

Describing the effect of lighting on mood.

Encontramos uma solução que foi agradável para ambas as partes.

We found a solution that was pleasant for both parties.

Describing a mutually beneficial outcome.

O vinho tem um aroma agradável de frutos vermelhos.

The wine has a pleasant aroma of red fruits.

Specific sensory description (olfactory).

As suas palavras foram um agradável conforto naquele momento difícil.

Your words were a pleasant comfort in that difficult moment.

Placing the adjective before the noun for emotional impact.

A convivência entre as diferentes culturas era surpreendentemente agradável.

The coexistence between the different cultures was surprisingly pleasant.

Describing a complex social phenomenon.

O orador manteve um tom agradável, apesar da complexidade do tema.

The speaker maintained a pleasant tone, despite the complexity of the theme.

Describing the 'tone' of a formal discourse.

A obra equilibra elementos clássicos e modernos de forma agradável.

The work balances classical and modern elements in a pleasant way.

Aesthetic critique/analysis.

Não creio que seja agradável para ninguém viver sob tais condições.

I don't believe it's pleasant for anyone to live under such conditions.

Negative 'não creio que' followed by the subjunctive.

A paisagem transmontana oferece recantos de uma agradabilidade única.

The Trás-os-Montes landscape offers corners of a unique pleasantness.

Using the noun form 'agradabilidade' (rare but sophisticated).

Foi um debate aceso, mas sempre pautado por uma urbanidade agradável.

It was a heated debate, but always characterized by a pleasant urbanity.

Describing high-level social conduct ('urbanidade').

O jardim botânico é um espaço de uma harmonia visual muito agradável.

The botanical garden is a space of very pleasant visual harmony.

Describing aesthetic harmony.

A sua presença, outrora agradável, tornara-se agora um fardo.

His presence, once pleasant, had now become a burden.

Using 'outrora' (formerly) and the pluperfect 'tornara-se'.

A prosa de Eça de Queirós é de uma fluidez e ironia soberbamente agradáveis.

Eça de Queirós's prose is of a superbly pleasant fluidity and irony.

High-level literary analysis.

O filósofo discorre sobre o conceito do 'agradável' em oposição ao 'belo'.

The philosopher discourses on the concept of the 'pleasant' in opposition to the 'beautiful'.

Using the adjective as a noun ('o agradável').

Há uma agradável melancolia que perpassa por todo o álbum de fado.

There is a pleasant melancholy that runs through the entire fado album.

Describing a complex emotional state (melancolia).

A diplomacia exige a manutenção de uma fachada agradável mesmo em tempos de crise.

Diplomacy requires the maintenance of a pleasant facade even in times of crisis.

Metaphorical use in a political context.

A simetria do palácio proporciona uma sensação agradável de ordem e proporção.

The palace's symmetry provides a pleasant sense of order and proportion.

Describing the psychological effect of architecture.

O crepúsculo trazia consigo uma brisa agradável que mitigava o calor do dia.

The twilight brought with it a pleasant breeze that mitigated the day's heat.

Lyrical/Poetic description.

A sua retórica, conquanto agradável ao ouvido, carecia de substância real.

His rhetoric, although pleasant to the ear, lacked real substance.

Using 'conquanto' (although) and 'carecer de' (to lack).

A intersecção entre o útil e o agradável é o objetivo primordial do design moderno.

The intersection between the useful and the pleasant is the primary goal of modern design.

Reference to the classical idiom 'unir o útil ao agradável'.

Common Collocations

Clima agradável

Surpresa agradável

Pessoa agradável

Voz agradável

Ambiente agradável

Conversa agradável

Sensação agradável

Leitura agradável

Música agradável

Cheiro agradável

Common Phrases

Tornar a vida agradável

— To make life pleasant or enjoyable.

Pequenos gestos podem tornar a vida mais agradável.

Passar um tempo agradável

— To spend a pleasant time.

Espero que passes um tempo agradável em Lisboa.

Agradável à vista

— Pleasant to look at; visually appealing.

A decoração da casa é muito agradável à vista.

Nada agradável

— Not pleasant at all; often used as a polite understatement for 'horrible'.

A notícia que recebi não foi nada agradável.

Agradável ao paladar

— Pleasant to the taste; delicious.

Este queijo é muito agradável ao paladar.

Agradável ao toque

— Pleasant to the touch; soft or smooth.

A seda é uma fibra muito agradável ao toque.

Fazer-se agradável

— To try to be pleasant or to please someone.

Ele tentou fazer-se agradável durante o jantar.

Pouco agradável

— Somewhat unpleasant; not very nice.

O cheiro no corredor estava pouco agradável.

Extremamente agradável

— Extremely pleasant.

O passeio de barco foi extremamente agradável.

Tão agradável quanto

— As pleasant as.

Este lugar é tão agradável quanto o outro.

Often Confused With

agradável vs Simpático

Simpático is for personality; agradável is for the overall experience/presence.

agradável vs Ameno

Ameno is strictly for climate; agradável is for anything.

agradável vs Prazeroso

Prazeroso implies more active pleasure; agradável is more about general comfort.

Idioms & Expressions

"Unir o útil ao agradável"

— To combine business with pleasure; to do something that is both useful and enjoyable.

Vou trabalhar em Paris e aproveitar para passear; é unir o útil ao agradável.

Common

"Fazer um papel pouco agradável"

— To be in an awkward or unpleasant position/role.

Coube-me a mim dar a má notícia, fiz um papel pouco agradável.

Common

"Agradável como um dia de sol"

— Very pleasant and bright (simile).

Ela é sempre agradável como um dia de sol.

Informal

"Não ser flor que se cheire (antonym idiom)"

— Used to describe someone who is NOT pleasant or trustworthy.

Cuidado com ele, não é flor que se cheire.

Informal

"Estar em águas agradáveis"

— To be in a comfortable or favorable situation (less common, metaphorical).

Agora que o projeto foi aprovado, estamos em águas agradáveis.

Literary

"Dar um ar agradável"

— To give a nice touch or appearance to something.

As flores dão um ar agradável à sala.

Neutral

"Saber a pouco (contextual)"

— When something 'agradável' ends too soon, you say it 'tasted like little'.

A conversa foi tão agradável que soube a pouco.

Common

"Cair no goto (contextual)"

— To become 'agradável' or liked by someone suddenly.

O novo vizinho caiu-me no goto, é muito agradável.

Informal (Portugal)

"Ser uma joia de pessoa"

— To be an extremely pleasant/kind person.

A tua avó é uma joia de pessoa, tão agradável.

Informal

"Pôr-se a jeito"

— To make oneself available in a 'pleasant' or favorable way (often used for situations).

A oportunidade pôs-se a jeito de forma agradável.

Informal

Easily Confused

agradável vs Agradado

Looks similar to 'agradável'.

Agradado is a past participle meaning 'pleased' (referring to a person's state), while agradável is an adjective describing the thing that causes the pleasure.

Estou muito agradado com o serviço (I am pleased); O serviço é agradável (The service is pleasant).

agradável vs Agradecido

Same root.

Agradecido means 'thankful' or 'grateful'.

Estou muito agradecido pela sua ajuda.

agradável vs Agradar

The verb form.

Agradar is the action of pleasing someone.

O presente agradou à criança.

agradável vs Grato

Same root.

Grato usually means 'grateful', though in formal letters it can mean 'pleasant'.

Fico-lhe muito grato.

agradável vs Graça

Same root.

Graça means 'grace', 'joke', or 'charm'.

Ela tem muita graça.

Sentence Patterns

O [Noun] é agradável.

O café é agradável.

Tivemos um [Noun] agradável.

Tivemos um jantar agradável.

É agradável [Verb]...

É agradável caminhar aqui.

Um [Noun] muito agradável de [Verb].

Um livro muito agradável de ler.

Foi uma [Adjective] surpresa.

Foi uma agradável surpresa.

Tornar o [Noun] mais agradável.

Tornar o escritório mais agradável.

Apesar de [Condition], o [Noun] era agradável.

Apesar do ruído, o lugar era agradável.

Unir o [Noun] ao agradável.

Unir o útil ao agradável.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high; it is one of the top 1000 most used words in Portuguese.

Common Mistakes

Uma tarde agradávela → Uma tarde agradável
Adjectives ending in -l do not change for gender. 'Agradável' is the same for masculine and feminine.
Momentos agradávels → Momentos agradáveis
The plural of words ending in -el is always -eis.
O tempo é agradável hoje → O tempo está agradável hoje
Use 'estar' for temporary conditions like the daily weather.
Agradavél (wrong accent) → Agradável
The accent is on the 'á', not the 'e'.
Ele é um agradável homem → Ele é um homem agradável
While not strictly 'wrong', putting the adjective after the noun is much more natural in common speech.

Tips

Gender Neutrality

Don't overthink gender! 'Agradável' works for everything. It's one of the easiest adjectives to use correctly.

The Stressed 'Dá'

Make sure to emphasize the 'dá' syllable. If you stress the end of the word, it might sound like a different word or just incorrect.

Step up from 'Bom'

Use 'agradável' instead of 'bom' when you want to sound more descriptive and slightly more sophisticated.

Polite Understatement

Saying something is 'pouco agradável' is a very Portuguese way to complain politely. It's better than saying 'é mau'.

Plural Spelling

Always remember the '-eis' in 'agradáveis'. It's a common spelling error for learners to just add an 's'.

Ser vs Estar

Use 'ser' for permanent traits (a nice person) and 'estar' for temporary ones (the weather is nice today).

Sensory Descriptions

'Agradável' is perfect for describing things you hear, smell, or feel. It's a very sensory-friendly word.

Useful Idiom

Memorize 'unir o útil ao agradável'. It's a very common phrase in professional and personal contexts.

Social Lubricant

Calling a meeting or a conversation 'agradável' is a great way to build rapport and show appreciation.

Synonym Choice

Remember: 'Ameno' for weather, 'Simpático' for people, 'Acolhedor' for places, and 'Agradável' for everything!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'A GRADe A' experience. If something is 'A-grad-ável', it gets a Grade A for being pleasant!

Visual Association

Imagine a smiling face feeling a soft 'A-grade' fabric. The feeling is 'agradável'.

Word Web

Weather Music People Smell Touch Environment Surprise Conversation

Challenge

Try to use 'agradável' at least three times today: once for the weather, once for a person, and once for a sensory experience (like a sound or a taste).

Word Origin

From the Portuguese verb 'agradar' (to please), which comes from the Latin 'ad' (to) + 'gratus' (pleasing/agreeable). It follows the common pattern of forming adjectives from verbs using the suffix '-ável' (equivalent to '-able' in English).

Original meaning: Something that is capable of pleasing or causing a sense of gratitude/favor.

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but calling a person 'agradável' is polite and safe; calling them 'gostoso/a' (tasty) is highly sexualized and should be avoided in polite company.

English speakers often over-use 'nice'. 'Agradável' is a more sophisticated and precise equivalent that works across many contexts where 'nice' might feel too simple.

The phrase 'unir o útil ao agradável' is originally from the Roman poet Horace ('omne tulit punctum qui miscuit utile dulci'). Fado lyrics often describe 'momentos agradáveis' of the past to contrast with present 'saudade'. Travel brochures for the Algarve or Madeira invariably use 'clima agradável' as a selling point.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Weather

Está um tempo agradável.
Uma brisa agradável.
Temperatura agradável.
Sol agradável.

People

Uma pessoa agradável.
Companhia agradável.
Conversa agradável.
Tratamento agradável.

Places

Ambiente agradável.
Espaço agradável.
Lugar agradável.
Recanto agradável.

Experiences

Surpresa agradável.
Passeio agradável.
Leitura agradável.
Estadia agradável.

Sensations

Cheiro agradável.
Sabor agradável.
Som agradável.
Toque agradável.

Conversation Starters

"O que achaste do restaurante? Eu achei o ambiente muito agradável."

"Costumas fazer passeios agradáveis ao fim de semana?"

"Qual foi a surpresa mais agradável que tiveste recentemente?"

"Preferes ler um livro denso ou uma leitura mais agradável e leve?"

"Conheces algum lugar agradável para tomar um café por aqui?"

Journal Prompts

Descreve um dia perfeito onde tudo foi agradável, desde o clima até às pessoas.

Escreve sobre uma pessoa que conheceste e que achaste muito agradável.

Qual é a característica que torna uma casa agradável para ti?

Relata uma viagem que fizeste e destaca os momentos mais agradáveis.

Como podes tornar o teu ambiente de trabalho ou de estudo mais agradável?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'agradável' is a uniform adjective. It stays the same for both masculine and feminine nouns. For example: 'um homem agradável' and 'uma mulher agradável'.

The plural is 'agradáveis'. In Portuguese, adjectives ending in '-el' change to '-eis' in the plural. Example: 'momentos agradáveis'.

Yes, you can. It means the food is nice or pleasant to eat. However, if the food is very delicious, you might prefer 'delicioso' or 'saboroso'.

It is neutral. You can use it in a casual conversation with friends or in a formal business email. It is always polite and appropriate.

The accent is on the second 'a': a-gra-dá-vel. This indicates that 'dá' is the stressed syllable.

Absolutely! It is one of the most common ways to describe weather that is mild and nice. 'O tempo está agradável'.

'Simpático' usually describes a person's friendly character. 'Agradável' is broader and can describe people, places, things, or experiences.

The direct opposite is 'desagradável'. Just add the prefix 'des-'.

Yes, it is used in all Portuguese-speaking countries with the same meaning, although the pronunciation of the final 'l' varies.

It is a common idiom meaning 'to combine business with pleasure' or to do something that serves a purpose while also being enjoyable.