This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 determiner #300 most common 16 min read

alguma

Top 300

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips alguma in 30 Seconds

Explanation alguma in your Level:

At the A1 level, students learn alguma as a basic building block for asking questions and making simple requests. The focus is on the feminine singular form and its most common pairing: alguma coisa (something/anything). At this stage, you should focus on using alguma to ask for things or check if something exists. For example, 'Você tem alguma caneta?' (Do you have any pen?). You will learn that alguma must match feminine nouns like fruta, água, or ajuda. The goal is to move beyond just naming objects to expressing a need for 'some' of them. You will also start to see it in simple affirmative sentences like 'Eu quero alguma fruta' (I want some fruit). The primary challenge for A1 learners is remembering the 'a' at the end of alguma to match the feminine noun, as English doesn't have this requirement. You will practice identifying the gender of common nouns and pairing them correctly with algum or alguma. By the end of A1, you should be comfortable using alguma in basic daily interactions, especially in shops and classrooms where you need to ask for 'any' information or 'some' item. It is a foundational word that opens up the ability to talk about things in a general, non-specific way, which is essential for basic communication.

At the A2 level, your understanding of alguma expands to include more varied contexts and slightly more complex sentence structures. You will begin to use alguma with abstract feminine nouns like dúvida (doubt), ideia (idea), and hora (time/hour). A key development at this stage is using alguma in more natural-sounding questions and beginning to recognize its use in common phrases. You will learn to say 'Tem alguma dúvida?' (Do you have any doubt?) and 'Em alguma hora' (At some time). You will also start to distinguish between alguma and the plural algumas, ensuring that your agreement is consistent across both gender and number. A2 learners should also be introduced to the concept that alguma is generally avoided in simple negative sentences in favor of nenhuma, although the emphatic use is still a bit advanced. You will practice using alguma in social planning, such as 'Vamos fazer alguma coisa?' (Shall we do something?). This level is about building confidence in using the word across a wider range of feminine nouns and ensuring that the grammatical agreement becomes second nature. You will also start to hear alguma in more varied media, like simple podcasts or graded readers, where it helps define the scope of the narrative without being overly specific.

At the B1 level, you transition from basic usage to mastering the nuances of alguma. The most significant leap at this stage is learning the emphatic negative use: placing alguma after the noun to mean 'none at all'. For example, 'Não tenho dúvida alguma' (I have no doubt whatsoever). This is a major milestone in sounding more like a native speaker. You will also begin to compare alguma with qualquer and certa, learning to choose the right word based on the specific meaning you want to convey—whether you mean 'some', 'any at all', or 'a certain'. B1 students use alguma to express more complex thoughts and feelings. You might say, 'Sinto alguma tristeza' (I feel some sadness) or 'Houve alguma confusão' (There was some confusion). Your ability to use alguma as a pronoun (standing alone) also improves, although you'll learn that alguma delas or uma is often clearer. You will also become more adept at using alguma with prepositions, like de alguma forma (in some way) or em alguma parte (somewhere). At B1, alguma becomes a tool for adding precision and stylistic flair to your speech and writing, allowing you to move beyond simple facts to more nuanced descriptions of reality and possibility.

At the B2 level, alguma is used with a high degree of precision and stylistic awareness. You are expected to use the emphatic post-noun position naturally in both speech and writing to add weight to your statements. You will also encounter alguma in more formal and academic contexts, where it modifies complex abstract nouns like relevância (relevance), consequência (consequence), or hipótese (hypothesis). For example, 'Não há hipótese alguma de erro' (There is no possibility whatsoever of error). At this level, you should also be comfortable with the word's role in idiomatic expressions and fixed phrases like de maneira alguma or em circunstância alguma. You will understand the subtle difference in tone between using alguma coisa and the more formal algo. B2 learners also start to recognize the use of alguma in literature to create specific moods or to leave certain details intentionally vague. Your grasp of gender and number agreement should be flawless, and you should be able to explain the grammatical function of alguma to others. This level is about refining your use of the word so that it serves your specific communicative goals, whether you are trying to be persuasive, descriptive, or intentionally ambiguous in a professional or academic setting.

At the C1 level, your use of alguma is sophisticated and deeply integrated into your overall linguistic competence. You can use it to navigate complex social and professional situations with ease, choosing between alguma, nenhuma, qualquer, and certa with perfect accuracy and subtle intent. You will encounter alguma in high-level legal, political, and philosophical texts, where its placement and the nouns it modifies can have significant implications for meaning. For instance, in a legal context, 'sem alguma restrição' might have a different nuance than 'sem restrição alguma'. You will also appreciate the historical and etymological roots of the word, understanding how it relates to other Romance languages. C1 learners can use alguma to create complex rhetorical effects, such as using it in a series of questions to build suspense or using the emphatic negative to definitively close an argument. You are also aware of regional variations in how alguma is used across the Lusophone world, from the more frequent use of alguma coisa in Brazil to the specific rhythmic patterns of its use in European Portuguese. At this stage, alguma is no longer a 'vocabulary word' to be studied, but a flexible and powerful instrument that you play with the skill of a near-native speaker.

At the C2 level, you have achieved a mastery of alguma that is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You use the word with complete spontaneity and a full range of stylistic nuances. You can appreciate and use alguma in its most archaic or poetic forms, such as in classical Portuguese literature or formal oratory. You understand the most subtle pragmatic implications of its use—how it can signal politeness, doubt, emphasis, or even irony depending on the context and intonation. You can participate in deep linguistic discussions about the function of indefinites in Portuguese and how alguma contributes to the language's unique character. In your own writing, whether it's a complex technical report or a creative piece, alguma is used with surgical precision to achieve exactly the right tone. You are also fully aware of the most obscure idiomatic uses and can even play with the word's placement to create new, creative expressions. At C2, your relationship with alguma is one of total fluency; it is a natural part of your thought process in Portuguese, allowing you to express the most delicate shades of meaning without hesitation. You are a master of the indefinite, using alguma to define the undefined with perfect clarity and grace.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

alguma in 30 Seconds

Alguma is the feminine singular form of 'algum', meaning 'some' or 'any' in English, used to refer to unspecified feminine entities.
It must always agree with the noun it modifies in gender (feminine) and number (singular), making it essential for grammatical accuracy.
When placed before a noun, it typically means 'some' or 'any'; when placed after a noun in a negative sentence, it means 'none at all'.
It is a versatile word used in daily questions, professional emails, legal documents, and poetic expressions across all Portuguese-speaking regions.

The Portuguese word alguma is a feminine singular indefinite determiner and pronoun that primarily translates to 'some' or 'any' in English. It is the feminine counterpart to algum. In the vast landscape of Portuguese grammar, alguma plays a crucial role in identifying an unspecified entity or quantity within a feminine context. Its usage is deeply rooted in the Latin word aliquis combined with unus, which evolved over centuries to provide speakers with a way to refer to things that are not specifically defined but are known to exist or are being sought after. When you use alguma, you are essentially pointing toward a feminine noun without pinning down exactly which one or how much of it you are referring to. This lack of specificity is what makes it 'indefinite'.

Grammatical Agreement: As a determiner, alguma must always agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. Since alguma is the feminine singular form, it must accompany feminine singular nouns like coisa (thing), dúvida (doubt), or pessoa (person).

One of the most fascinating aspects of alguma is how its meaning shifts based on its position relative to the noun. When placed before the noun, it typically means 'some' or 'a certain'. For example, alguma coisa means 'something'. However, when placed after the noun in a negative sentence, it takes on a much stronger, emphatic negative meaning, effectively translating to 'none at all' or 'whatsoever'. This nuance is a hallmark of intermediate and advanced Portuguese proficiency. For instance, Não tenho dúvida alguma translates to 'I have no doubt whatsoever', which is significantly more emphatic than simply saying Não tenho dúvida.

Você tem alguma ideia de que horas são?

In everyday conversation, you will hear alguma in questions where the speaker is looking for a positive confirmation but remains uncertain. It is the go-to word for asking if there is 'any' of something available. If you are at a restaurant and want to know if there are any vegetarian options, you might ask about alguma opção vegetariana. The word bridges the gap between total ignorance and specific knowledge. It suggests that while the speaker doesn't know the specifics, they assume the possibility of the noun's existence. This makes it a very polite and common way to initiate inquiries or express tentative thoughts.

Furthermore, alguma is frequently used in idiomatic expressions and set phrases that are essential for sounding natural. Phrases like de maneira alguma (in no way) or em vez alguma (at no time/nowhere - though lugar nenhum is more common) showcase its versatility. In literary contexts, authors use alguma to create a sense of mystery or vagueness, allowing the reader's imagination to fill in the blanks of the 'certain' thing being described. Whether you are a beginner learning to ask for 'some water' (alguma água - though um pouco de água is more common, alguma works in specific contexts) or an advanced student mastering the art of emphatic negation, alguma is an indispensable tool in your Portuguese vocabulary.

Semantic Range: The word covers meanings ranging from 'a bit of' to 'a specific but unnamed' to 'not a single one' (when post-posed). This flexibility requires learners to pay close attention to the surrounding sentence structure.

Não há esperança alguma de vitória hoje.

In summary, alguma is much more than just a translation for 'some'. It is a dynamic linguistic element that adjusts its meaning based on syntax and intent. It reflects the Portuguese language's reliance on gender agreement and its unique way of handling negation through word order. Mastering alguma involves understanding its basic meaning as an indefinite determiner and then progressing to recognize its power as an intensifier in negative constructions. As you continue to listen to native speakers, you will notice alguma appearing in various tones—from the inquisitive 'any' in a question to the definitive 'none' in a rejection.

Common Collocations: Commonly paired with coisa (thing), vez (time), parte (part/place), and pessoa (person).

Ela deve estar em alguma parte da casa.

Using alguma correctly requires an understanding of both Portuguese syntax and the specific nuances of indefinite determiners. The primary rule is agreement: alguma must modify a feminine singular noun. If the noun is plural, it becomes algumas; if it is masculine, it becomes algum. This section will explore the various ways alguma is integrated into sentences, focusing on questions, affirmative statements, and the emphatic negative use.

In Affirmative Sentences: In affirmative contexts, alguma usually precedes the noun and translates to 'some' or 'a certain'. It indicates that the speaker is referring to an unspecified but existing entity. Example: Eu tenho alguma experiência nesta área (I have some experience in this area).

When you use alguma in an affirmative sentence, you are often being non-committal or general. It is useful when the exact identity of the noun isn't important for the conversation. For instance, if you say Vou comprar alguma fruta, you are saying you will buy 'some fruit', but you haven't decided which kind yet. This usage is very common in planning and general descriptions. It sets a tone of flexibility and openness.

Preciso de alguma ajuda com as malas.

In questions, alguma translates to 'any'. It is used to ask about the existence or availability of something. This is perhaps the most frequent use for learners. Whether you are asking for information, permission, or objects, alguma is your primary tool. Você tem alguma pergunta? (Do you have any questions?) is a standard classroom phrase. Notice how the English 'any' matches the Portuguese alguma in this context, provided the noun (pergunta) is feminine.

The most advanced use of alguma occurs in negative sentences. In Portuguese, a double negative is standard: Não vi ninguém (I didn't see nobody/anyone). When you use alguma after the noun in a negative sentence, it amplifies the negation. Não tenho prova alguma means 'I have no proof whatsoever'. If you were to place it before the noun, Não tenho alguma prova, it would sound awkward and slightly incorrect to a native ear; they would prefer Não tenho nenhuma prova. Therefore, the post-noun position is a powerful stylistic choice to express absolute absence.

Positioning Summary: 1. Before Noun: 'Some/Any' (standard). 2. After Noun (Negative): 'None at all' (emphatic).

Ele não demonstrou compaixão alguma.

Another important context is the use of alguma as a pronoun. While it usually functions as a determiner (accompanying a noun), it can stand alone if the noun has already been mentioned or is understood from context. Você trouxe as ferramentas? Preciso de alguma. (Did you bring the tools? I need some/one). However, in the singular, Portuguese speakers often prefer uma or alguma delas to avoid ambiguity. The plural algumas is much more common as a standalone pronoun.

Finally, consider the interaction with prepositions. When preceded by de, it becomes de alguma. When preceded by em, it becomes em alguma. Unlike the masculine num (em + um) or dum (de + um), alguma does not typically contract into a single word with these prepositions in standard written Portuguese, though you might see nalguma or dalguma in older literature or specific dialects. In modern usage, keeping them separate is the safest and most common approach.

Common Sentence Patterns: [Verb] + [alguma] + [Feminine Noun] | [Não] + [Verb] + [Feminine Noun] + [alguma]

Existe alguma chance de chuva hoje?

The word alguma is ubiquitous in the Portuguese-speaking world, appearing in every conceivable social and professional setting. From the bustling streets of Luanda to the quiet cafes of Lisbon and the vibrant markets of São Paulo, alguma is a linguistic workhorse. Understanding where you will encounter it helps in grasping its pragmatic weight and the social cues it carries. It is not just a word; it is a tool for navigation, negotiation, and expression.

In Service and Commerce: In shops and restaurants, alguma is the star of the show. Shopkeepers will ask, Deseja alguma coisa mais? (Do you want anything else?). Customers will inquire, Tem alguma promoção hoje? (Is there any promotion today?). It facilitates the exchange of information where the specifics are yet to be determined.

In the workplace, alguma is used to manage tasks and expectations. During meetings, a manager might ask, Alguém tem alguma sugestão para melhorar o processo? (Does anyone have any suggestions to improve the process?). Here, alguma invites contribution without pressuring for a specific answer. It creates a space for collaborative thought. Similarly, in professional emails, you will often see the closing line: Se tiver alguma dúvida, não hesite em contactar-me (If you have any doubt, do not hesitate to contact me). This is the standard way to offer assistance.

Por favor, me avise se houver alguma alteração no plano.

In the realm of media and entertainment, alguma appears in news headlines and song lyrics. News anchors might report, Não há alguma confirmação oficial sobre o caso (There is no official confirmation about the case), though they might use the emphatic confirmação alguma for more impact. In Brazilian MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) or Portuguese Fado, alguma often modifies abstract nouns like saudade, esperança, or dor, adding a layer of poetic indefiniteness to the emotions being expressed.

Legal and administrative contexts also rely heavily on alguma. In contracts, you might find clauses stating that nenhuma das partes terá alguma responsabilidade adicional (neither party will have any additional responsibility). However, legal Portuguese is famous for its use of the post-noun emphatic negation to ensure there are no loopholes. A contract might say sem indenização alguma (without any compensation whatsoever), leaving no room for misinterpretation. This precision through 'indefiniteness' is a unique feature of formal Portuguese.

Daily Social Interactions: Among friends, alguma is used to make plans or check in. Vamos fazer alguma coisa hoje à noite? (Are we doing something tonight?). It is the word of possibility and social gathering.

Você conhece alguma farmácia aberta por aqui?

Finally, you will hear alguma in the classroom. Teachers use it to check for understanding: Alguma dúvida sobre a matéria? (Any doubt about the subject?). Students use it to ask for clarification. It is a fundamental part of the learning environment. Whether you are navigating a bureaucratic process or just trying to find a pharmacy late at night, alguma is the key that unlocks the information you need. Its presence in so many different spheres of life makes it one of the first words a learner should master to feel truly integrated into a Portuguese-speaking community.

Common Contexts: Customer service, academic inquiries, legal documents, casual social planning, and emotional expression.

Não recebi alguma notícia dela desde a semana passada.

Even though alguma seems straightforward, it is a frequent source of errors for English speakers. The differences between Portuguese and English indefinite systems, combined with the strict gender agreement rules, create several pitfalls. Recognizing these common mistakes early in your learning journey will save you from developing bad habits and help you sound more like a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Gender Mismatch: The most common error is using alguma with masculine nouns. English 'some' and 'any' are gender-neutral, so learners often forget to switch. Saying alguma livro instead of algum livro is a classic mistake. Always identify the gender of the noun before choosing between algum and alguma.

Another significant area of confusion is the use of alguma in negative sentences. In English, we say 'I don't have any money.' A direct translation might lead a student to say Eu não tenho alguma moeda. While technically understandable, it sounds very unnatural. In Portuguese, the standard word for 'any' in a negative sentence is nenhuma (none). So, the correct way to say 'I don't have any coin' is Eu não tenho nenhuma moeda. Remember: alguma is for questions and affirmations; nenhuma is for negatives (unless you use the emphatic post-noun alguma).

Incorrect: Não tenho alguma ideia. (Unnatural)
Correct: Não tenho ideia alguma. (Emphatic)
Correct: Não tenho nenhuma ideia. (Standard)

The 'Post-Noun Trap' is another hurdle. As mentioned, placing alguma after the noun changes its meaning to 'none at all'. Learners often place it after the noun by accident when they mean 'some'. If you say Tenho dúvida alguma, you are actually saying 'I have no doubt at all', which is the opposite of Tenho alguma dúvida (I have some doubt). This small change in position completely flips the meaning. Always keep alguma before the noun if you want it to mean 'some'.

Confusion between alguma and qualquer is also frequent. While both can translate to 'any', qualquer means 'any one at all' or 'it doesn't matter which'. Alguma is more about the existence of something. If you ask Você tem alguma caneta?, you are asking if a pen exists for you to use. If you say Me dê qualquer caneta, you are saying 'Give me any pen (it doesn't matter which one)'. Using alguma when you mean 'it doesn't matter' is a common semantic error.

Summary of Pitfalls: 1. Wrong gender (using it with masculine nouns). 2. Using it before the noun in negative sentences. 3. Misplacing it after the noun in affirmative sentences. 4. Confusing it with 'qualquer'.

Errado: Ele não tem alguma paciência.
Certo: Ele não tem paciência alguma.

Finally, watch out for the plural. English uses 'some' for both singular and plural (some water, some apples). Portuguese distinguishes between alguma (singular) and algumas (plural). If you are talking about multiple things, you must use the plural form. Alguma pessoas is incorrect; it must be algumas pessoas. This requires constant vigilance over the number of the noun you are modifying. By being mindful of these five areas—gender, negation, position, semantic choice, and number—you will navigate the use of alguma with much greater accuracy and confidence.

Comparison Table: Alguma (Some/Any - Fem) vs. Algum (Some/Any - Masc) vs. Nenhuma (None - Fem) vs. Qualquer (Any/Whichever).

Não há alguma razão para pânico. (Better: Não há razão alguma...)

To truly master alguma, you must understand its neighbors in the Portuguese language. Several words share overlapping meanings or functions, and knowing when to choose one over the other is the key to linguistic precision. This section compares alguma with its closest relatives: qualquer, certa, nenhuma, and uma.

Alguma vs. Qualquer: Alguma refers to an unspecified but existing thing (some/any). Qualquer refers to 'any' in the sense of 'it doesn't matter which one'. Example: Você tem alguma caneta? (Do you have a pen?) vs. Pode me dar qualquer caneta (You can give me any pen/whichever pen).

Another common alternative is certa (a certain). While alguma is very indefinite, certa implies that the speaker has a specific entity in mind but chooses not to name it. Alguma mulher ligou para você (Some woman called you - I don't know who) vs. Uma certa mulher ligou para você (A certain woman called you - I know who she is, but I'm being mysterious). Certa adds a layer of specificity that alguma lacks.

Escolha qualquer uma, mas eu prefiro alguma que seja azul.

The word nenhuma is the direct opposite of alguma in standard negative sentences. As discussed in the common mistakes section, nenhuma is the preferred word for 'any' when a 'not' (não) is present. Não tenho nenhuma ideia. However, alguma can replace nenhuma if it is moved to the end of the phrase: Não tenho ideia alguma. This stylistic choice is one of the most beautiful nuances of Portuguese, allowing speakers to shift emphasis and tone by simply moving a word.

Sometimes, the simple indefinite article uma (a/an) is the best alternative. If the indefiniteness isn't the focus, uma is more direct. Preciso de uma ajuda (I need a help/some help) is common, though alguma ajuda emphasizes the 'some' aspect. In many contexts, they are interchangeable, but alguma always carries that slight hint of 'any at all' or 'some amount of'.

Comparison of Indefinites

Alguma: Some/Any (existence focused).
Qualquer: Any (choice focused).
Certa: A certain (specificity hidden).
Nenhuma: Not any (negation).

Não é uma tarefa fácil, mas alguma solução deve existir.

In literary or formal Portuguese, you might also encounter algures (somewhere) or alguém (someone). While alguma needs a noun, these are independent pronouns. Alguma parte is the equivalent of algures, and alguma pessoa is the equivalent of alguém. Choosing the noun-based version (alguma + noun) often feels more descriptive and is very common in spoken Brazilian Portuguese. By expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives, you gain the ability to express subtle differences in meaning that will make your Portuguese much more expressive and accurate.

Register Differences: Informal: alguma coisa. Formal: algo. Emphatic: coisa alguma.

Você tem alguma outra ideia ou qualquer sugestão serve?

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'algum' and its forms are shared with Spanish ('alguno/alguna'), but Portuguese developed the unique post-noun emphatic negative use that Spanish does not use in the same way.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /alˈɡu.mɐ/

US /alˈɡu.mə/

The stress is on the second syllable: al-GU-ma.

Rhymes With

Bruma Pluma Suma Nenhuma Costuma Arruma Espuma Resuma

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'l' like an English 'l' (it should be slightly vocalized like a 'u' in Brazil).
Stressing the first or last syllable instead of the middle one.
Making the final 'a' too open (it should be a closed, neutral sound).
Confusing the 'gu' sound with a 'ju' sound.
Not pronouncing the nasal quality if it follows a nasal vowel (though 'alguma' itself isn't nasal).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize, but the post-noun negative meaning can be tricky at first.

Writing 3/5

Requires constant attention to gender agreement with the noun.

Speaking 3/5

Learners often default to 'nenhuma' and forget the emphatic 'alguma' option.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation, but can be confused with 'algum' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Algum Coisa Não Ter Uma

Learn Next

Algumas Nenhuma Qualquer Alguém Algo

Advanced

Algures Outrem Certo/Certa Quaisquer

Grammar to Know

Gender Agreement

Alguma (fem) vs Algum (masc).

Number Agreement

Alguma (sing) vs Algumas (plur).

Emphatic Negation

Não + Noun + Alguma = None at all.

Double Negatives

Não vi pessoa alguma.

Prepositional Contraction

De + alguma = de alguma (rarely dalguma).

Examples by Level

Você tem alguma caneta azul?

Do you have any blue pen?

'Alguma' agrees with the feminine noun 'caneta'.

Eu quero alguma fruta para o lanche.

I want some fruit for the snack.

'Alguma' is used here to mean 'some' in an affirmative sense.

Tem alguma farmácia perto daqui?

Is there any pharmacy near here?

'Alguma' is used in a question to ask about existence.

Preciso de alguma ajuda com esta mala.

I need some help with this suitcase.

'Ajuda' is feminine, so we use 'alguma'.

Você viu alguma gata na rua?

Did you see any (female) cat in the street?

'Gata' is feminine singular.

Ela comprou alguma coisa no shopping.

She bought something at the mall.

'Alguma coisa' is the most common way to say 'something'.

Tem alguma mesa livre no restaurante?

Is there any free table in the restaurant?

'Mesa' is feminine singular.

Eu tenho alguma dúvida sobre a lição.

I have some doubt about the lesson.

'Dúvida' is a very common feminine noun paired with 'alguma'.

Você conhece alguma música brasileira?

Do you know any Brazilian music?

'Música' is feminine singular.

Existe alguma chance de irmos amanhã?

Is there any chance of us going tomorrow?

'Chance' is feminine in Portuguese.

Ela sempre traz alguma novidade para a aula.

She always brings some news to the class.

'Novidade' is feminine singular.

Você tem alguma ideia de onde ela está?

Do you have any idea where she is?

'Ideia' is feminine singular.

Podemos marcar a reunião em alguma hora da tarde.

We can schedule the meeting at some time in the afternoon.

'Hora' is feminine singular.

Não vi alguma pessoa estranha por aqui.

I didn't see any strange person around here.

Note: 'Nenhuma pessoa' would be more common, but 'alguma' works.

Você já visitou alguma cidade em Portugal?

Have you ever visited any city in Portugal?

'Cidade' is feminine singular.

Eu li alguma parte desse livro ontem.

I read some part of that book yesterday.

'Parte' is feminine singular.

Não tenho dúvida alguma de que ele virá.

I have no doubt whatsoever that he will come.

Emphatic negation: 'alguma' after the noun 'dúvida'.

De alguma forma, nós vamos resolver isso.

In some way, we are going to solve this.

'Forma' is feminine singular.

Ela não demonstrou emoção alguma durante o filme.

She showed no emotion whatsoever during the movie.

Emphatic negation with 'emoção'.

Você notou alguma diferença no meu cabelo?

Did you notice any difference in my hair?

'Diferença' is feminine singular.

Em alguma parte do mundo, ainda é dia.

In some part of the world, it is still day.

'Parte' is feminine singular.

Não recebi resposta alguma do escritório.

I received no response whatsoever from the office.

Emphatic negation with 'resposta'.

Houve alguma confusão na entrega do pedido.

There was some confusion in the delivery of the order.

'Confusão' is feminine singular.

Você tem alguma sugestão para o jantar?

Do you have any suggestion for dinner?

'Sugestão' is feminine singular.

Não há prova alguma contra o réu.

There is no proof whatsoever against the defendant.

Formal emphatic negation.

Ela possui alguma influência nas decisões da empresa.

She possesses some influence in the company's decisions.

'Influência' is feminine singular.

Não vejo vantagem alguma em mudar agora.

I see no advantage whatsoever in changing now.

Emphatic negation with 'vantagem'.

Deve haver alguma explicação lógica para isso.

There must be some logical explanation for this.

'Explicação' is feminine singular.

Ele não tem paciência alguma com crianças.

He has no patience whatsoever with children.

Emphatic negation with 'paciência'.

Você encontrou alguma dificuldade técnica?

Did you encounter any technical difficulty?

'Dificuldade' is feminine singular.

Não resta esperança alguma de encontrar sobreviventes.

No hope whatsoever remains of finding survivors.

Strong emphatic negation in a serious context.

Em alguma medida, todos somos responsáveis.

To some extent, we are all responsible.

'Medida' is feminine singular.

A proposta não apresenta relevância alguma para o projeto.

The proposal presents no relevance whatsoever for the project.

High-level academic/professional negation.

Sem alguma forma de controle, o caos é inevitável.

Without some form of control, chaos is inevitable.

'Forma' used in a philosophical statement.

Não vislumbro possibilidade alguma de acordo.

I do not foresee any possibility whatsoever of an agreement.

Sophisticated verb 'vislumbrar' with emphatic negation.

Haverá alguma disposição legal que trate deste assunto?

Will there be any legal provision that deals with this matter?

Formal legal terminology.

A decisão foi tomada sem pressão alguma dos superiores.

The decision was made without any pressure whatsoever from superiors.

Emphatic negation with 'pressão'.

Ela não guarda mágoa alguma do que aconteceu.

She holds no grudge whatsoever about what happened.

Emphatic negation with the abstract noun 'mágoa'.

Existe alguma correlação entre os dois fenômenos?

Is there any correlation between the two phenomena?

Scientific inquiry context.

Não sinto necessidade alguma de me justificar.

I feel no need whatsoever to justify myself.

Emphatic negation with 'necessidade'.

Não lhe resta autoridade alguma sobre este território.

No authority whatsoever remains to him over this territory.

Formal, almost archaic tone of authority.

Sob pretexto algum deveis abandonar o vosso posto.

Under no pretext whatsoever should you abandon your post.

Use of 'algum' (masculine) in a very formal, imperative context.

A obra não possui originalidade alguma, sendo mera cópia.

The work possesses no originality whatsoever, being a mere copy.

Critical, high-register academic language.

Não vislumbro utilidade alguma em tais divagações.

I foresee no utility whatsoever in such ramblings.

High-register intellectual discourse.

Em circunstância alguma a ética deve ser comprometida.

Under no circumstance whatsoever should ethics be compromised.

Strong moral/ethical statement with emphatic negation.

Não houve resistência alguma à implementação das novas normas.

There was no resistance whatsoever to the implementation of the new rules.

Formal administrative reporting.

Ela não tem pretensão alguma de ocupar o cargo.

She has no intention whatsoever of occupying the position.

Emphatic negation with 'pretensão'.

Não resta dúvida alguma de que a verdade prevalecerá.

No doubt whatsoever remains that the truth will prevail.

Poetic and powerful use of emphatic negation.

Synonyms

Certa Qualquer Uma Algo Nenhuma Algures Alguém Várias

Antonyms

Nenhuma Toda Esta Aquela

Common Collocations

Alguma coisa

Alguma dúvida

Alguma ideia

Alguma parte

Alguma vez

Alguma ajuda

Alguma sugestão

Alguma notícia

Alguma chance

Alguma razão

Common Phrases

De maneira alguma

— In no way; absolutely not. Used to express strong disagreement or refusal.

Eu não aceito isso de maneira alguma.

Em vez alguma

— At no time; never. More common in older or formal Portuguese.

Não o vi em vez alguma.

Alguma coisa assim

— Something like that. Used when you are not sure of the exact detail.

Ele disse que voltaria às dez ou alguma coisa assim.

Por alguma razão

— For some reason. Used when you don't know the cause of something.

Por alguma razão, a porta não abre.

Dúvida alguma

— No doubt whatsoever. Emphatic negative form.

Não tenho dúvida alguma sobre a sua honestidade.

Em alguma medida

— To some extent or degree.

O plano funcionou em alguma medida.

Alguma outra

— Some other (feminine).

Você tem alguma outra opção?

Se houver alguma

— If there is any. Used to express a condition of existence.

Me avise se houver alguma mudança.

Sem alguma

— Without any. Often used with abstract nouns.

Ele saiu sem alguma explicação.

Alguma coisa de bom

— Something good. Common idiomatic structure.

Espero que aconteça alguma coisa de bom hoje.

Often Confused With

alguma vs Algum

The masculine version. Must be used with masculine nouns like 'tempo' or 'livro'.

alguma vs Nenhuma

The standard negative word. Use 'nenhuma' before the noun in negative sentences.

alguma vs Qualquer

Means 'any' in the sense of 'whichever'. 'Alguma' is about existence.

Idioms & Expressions

"De modo algum"

— By no means. A formal way to say absolutely not.

Isso não é verdade de modo algum.

Formal

"Em hipótese alguma"

— Under no circumstances. Very strong and formal prohibition.

Em hipótese alguma abra esta porta.

Formal

"Sem sombra de dúvida alguma"

— Without a shadow of a doubt. An emphatic way to express certainty.

Ele é o culpado, sem sombra de dúvida alguma.

Neutral

"Coisa alguma"

— Nothing at all. Emphatic negative.

Ele não disse coisa alguma.

Neutral

"Pessoa alguma"

— Nobody at all. Emphatic negative.

Pessoa alguma sabia do segredo.

Literary

"Parte alguma"

— Nowhere at all. Emphatic negative.

Não o encontrei em parte alguma.

Neutral

"Razão alguma"

— No reason whatsoever.

Não há razão alguma para chorar.

Neutral

"Vez alguma"

— Never; at no time.

Não estive lá vez alguma.

Literary

"Alguma coisa no ar"

— Something in the air (a feeling or intuition).

Sinto que há alguma coisa no ar hoje.

Informal

"Fazer alguma"

— To do something (often implies a prank or a mistake in slang).

O menino deve ter feito alguma!

Slang/Colloquial

Easily Confused

alguma vs Algum

Gender difference.

Algum is masculine; Alguma is feminine. They both mean 'some' or 'any'.

Algum dia (masc) vs Alguma hora (fem).

alguma vs Qualquer

Both translate to 'any'.

Qualquer means 'no matter which'; Alguma means 'at least one exists'.

Qualquer caneta (any pen) vs Alguma caneta (some pen).

alguma vs Nenhuma

Used in similar negative contexts.

Nenhuma is the standard negative; Alguma (post-noun) is emphatic.

Nenhuma dúvida (no doubt) vs Dúvida alguma (no doubt at all).

alguma vs Certa

Both are indefinite.

Certa implies the speaker knows the identity; Alguma is truly unknown.

Certa mulher (a certain woman) vs Alguma mulher (some woman).

alguma vs Uma

Both are indefinite determiners.

Uma is 'a/an'; Alguma is 'some/any'.

Uma ajuda (a help) vs Alguma ajuda (some help).

Sentence Patterns

Você tem alguma [feminine noun]?

Você tem alguma caneta?

Eu preciso de alguma [feminine noun].

Eu preciso de alguma ajuda.

Não tenho [feminine noun] alguma.

Não tenho dúvida alguma.

De alguma forma, [clause].

De alguma forma, vamos conseguir.

Sem [feminine noun] alguma, [clause].

Sem pressa alguma, ele saiu.

Em circunstância alguma [verb]...

Em circunstância alguma desista.

Tem alguma [feminine noun] aqui?

Tem alguma farmácia aqui?

Por alguma razão, [clause].

Por alguma razão, ela chorou.

Word Family

Nouns

Algo (Something - neutral pronoun)

Algum (Masculine singular)

Alguns (Masculine plural)

Algumas (Feminine plural)

Alguém (Someone)

Nenhum (None - masculine)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in all registers of Portuguese.

Common Mistakes

Alguma livro → Algum livro
Livro is masculine, so it must use the masculine determiner 'algum'.
Não tenho alguma ideia. → Não tenho nenhuma ideia. / Não tenho ideia alguma.
In negative sentences, 'alguma' should not come before the noun. Use 'nenhuma' or move 'alguma' to the end.
Alguma pessoas → Algumas pessoas
Pessoas is plural, so the determiner must also be plural: 'algumas'.
Tenho dúvida alguma (when meaning 'I have some doubt') → Tenho alguma dúvida
Placing 'alguma' after the noun makes it negative. For 'some doubt', it must come before the noun.
Me dê alguma caneta (when meaning 'any pen at all') → Me dê qualquer caneta
If you mean 'it doesn't matter which one', use 'qualquer'. 'Alguma' implies 'some specific but unnamed' one.

Tips

Agreement is Key

Always check the gender of your noun. If it's feminine, use 'alguma'. If it's masculine, use 'algum'. This is the most common mistake for beginners.

Emphasize Negatives

To sound more advanced, place 'alguma' after the noun in a negative sentence. 'Não tenho dúvida alguma' sounds much more natural and powerful than a simple 'não'.

Master 'Alguma Coisa'

Learn 'alguma coisa' early. It's a versatile phrase that can mean 'something' or 'anything' and is used in countless daily situations.

Listen for the 'A'

In fast speech, the difference between 'algum' and 'alguma' can be subtle. Listen for the final 'a' sound to identify the gender of the noun being discussed.

Use for Softening

Use 'alguma' in questions to be more polite. 'Você tem alguma dúvida?' is softer than 'O que você não entendeu?'.

Avoid 'Alguma' in Negatives

Unless you are putting it after the noun for emphasis, avoid using 'alguma' in negative sentences. Use 'nenhuma' instead.

Stress the Middle

Remember that the stress is on the 'GU'. Pronounce it as al-GU-ma. Incorrect stress can make the word hard to understand.

Regional Nuance

In Brazil, 'alguma coisa' is almost always preferred over 'algo' in casual speech. In Portugal, both are common but 'algo' is slightly more formal.

The 'A' Connection

Connect the 'A' in 'Alguma' with 'Any' and 'Feminine'. This triple 'A' connection will help you remember when to use it.

Legal Precision

In formal documents, notice how 'alguma' is used to define scope. Understanding this will help you read contracts and official papers.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'AlgumA' as 'A' girl asking for 'A' thing. The 'A' at the end matches feminine words like 'Ajuda' or 'Água'.

Visual Association

Imagine a foggy forest where you can see 'some' shapes but you aren't sure what they are. Those indefinite shapes are 'alguma coisa'.

Word Web

Algum Alguma Algumas Alguns Alguém Algo Nenhuma Qualquer

Challenge

Try to use 'alguma' in three different ways today: in a question, in an affirmative sentence, and in an emphatic negative sentence.

Word Origin

Derived from the Vulgar Latin 'aliqu'unu', which is a combination of 'aliquis' (someone/something) and 'unus' (one).

Original meaning: The original meaning was literally 'someone one' or 'some one', referring to an unspecified single entity.

Romance (Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Western Romance > Galician-Portuguese).

Cultural Context

There are no specific sensitivities, but be aware that 'alguma' is strictly singular; using it for plural groups is a grammatical error.

English speakers often struggle with the gender of 'alguma' because 'some' and 'any' are gender-neutral in English.

The song 'Alguma Coisa' by various Brazilian artists. Literary works by Machado de Assis often use 'alguma' for subtle character descriptions. Commonly used in Portuguese soap operas (telenovelas) during dramatic denials.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Shopping

Tem alguma promoção?
Deseja alguma coisa mais?
Tem alguma outra cor?
Alguma dessas serve.

Classroom

Alguma dúvida?
Tem alguma pergunta?
Preciso de alguma explicação.
Alguma parte não ficou clara.

Socializing

Vamos fazer alguma coisa?
Você conhece alguma festa?
Tem alguma novidade?
Alguma ideia para hoje?

Work

Alguma sugestão?
Houve alguma mudança?
Alguma pendência?
De alguma forma vamos terminar.

Health

Sente alguma dor?
Tem alguma alergia?
Alguma melhora?
Precisa de alguma receita?

Conversation Starters

"Você tem alguma recomendação de livro para mim?"

"Existe alguma coisa que você sempre quis aprender?"

"Você já teve alguma experiência engraçada viajando?"

"Tem alguma música que você não consegue parar de ouvir?"

"Você conhece alguma curiosidade sobre esta cidade?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre alguma coisa que te fez feliz hoje e por quê.

Descreva alguma viagem que você quer fazer no futuro.

Há alguma mudança que você gostaria de fazer na sua rotina?

Pense em alguma pessoa que te inspira e explique a razão.

Reflita sobre alguma dificuldade que você superou recentemente.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Use 'alguma' in questions and affirmative sentences. In negative sentences, use 'nenhuma' before the noun for standard negation, or 'alguma' after the noun for emphasis. For example: 'Não tenho nenhuma dúvida' (Standard) vs 'Não tenho dúvida alguma' (Emphatic).

No, 'alguma' is strictly feminine. For masculine nouns, you must use 'algum'. For example: 'Alguma coisa' (feminine) but 'Algum livro' (masculine).

It means 'something' or 'anything'. It is one of the most common phrases in Portuguese. For example: 'Você quer alguma coisa?' (Do you want anything?).

It is singular. The plural form is 'algumas'. Use 'alguma' for one thing and 'algumas' for multiple things. For example: 'Alguma pessoa' (one person) vs 'Algumas pessoas' (some people).

In negative sentences, putting 'alguma' after the noun makes the negation stronger. It translates to 'none at all' or 'whatsoever'. For example: 'Não há esperança alguma' (There is no hope whatsoever).

In modern standard Portuguese, it usually doesn't. You write 'de alguma' and 'em alguma'. In older texts, you might see 'dalguma' or 'nalguma', but these are rare today.

'Alguma' refers to the existence of something (some/any). 'Qualquer' refers to the choice (any/whichever). For example: 'Tem alguma caneta?' (Do you have a pen?) vs 'Pode ser qualquer caneta' (It can be any pen).

Yes, it can function as a pronoun if the noun is understood. For example: 'Você viu as chaves? Vi alguma na mesa.' However, using 'uma' or 'alguma delas' is often more common in the singular.

Yes, the basic rules are the same. However, Brazilians use 'alguma coisa' very frequently, while Portuguese speakers might use 'algo' more often in formal speech.

The final 'a' is a 'closed' sound, similar to the 'a' in 'sofa' or 'about'. It is not an open 'ah' sound like in 'father'.