bem-sucedido in 30 Seconds
- Means 'successful', indicating a positive outcome or achievement of a goal.
- Used for people, projects, businesses, events, and more.
- Requires gender and number agreement with the noun it modifies.
- Commonly used in news, business, and everyday conversations.
The Portuguese adjective bem-sucedido translates directly to 'successful' in English. It describes someone or something that has achieved a desired outcome, goal, or purpose. It's a widely used term that can apply to a vast range of situations, from personal achievements to business ventures, projects, and even events.
- Core Meaning
- Achieving a positive result after effort or a plan.
- Usage Contexts
- Can refer to people (e.g., a successful artist), projects (e.g., a successful campaign), businesses (e.g., a successful company), events (e.g., a successful party), or even ideas (e.g., a successful strategy).
- Etymology Insight
- 'Bem' means 'well' and 'sucedido' comes from 'suceder', meaning 'to happen' or 'to succeed'. So, literally, it means 'well-happened' or 'well-succeeded'.
O lançamento do novo produto foi bem-sucedido.
When someone talks about a bem-sucedido endeavor, they are highlighting its positive results and accomplishments. For instance, a student who gets excellent grades might be described as bem-sucedido in their studies. Similarly, a company that experiences significant growth and profitability is bem-sucedido. The word carries a sense of achievement and validation.
Ela é uma empresária muito bem-sucedida.
In contrast, if something does not achieve its intended outcome, it would be described as 'mal-sucedido' (unsuccessful). The use of bem-sucedido is common in news reports, business discussions, academic reviews, and everyday conversations where achievements are being discussed. It's a positive and affirming word that celebrates accomplishments.
O projeto foi considerado bem-sucedido por todos.
The term is not exclusive to grand achievements; it can be used for smaller, everyday successes as well. For example, preparing a delicious meal for guests could be considered a bem-sucedido culinary effort. The key is that a goal was met, and the outcome was positive.
Using bem-sucedido correctly involves placing it after the noun it modifies and ensuring it agrees in gender and number. Here are various ways to incorporate it into your Portuguese sentences:
- Placement
- Typically follows the noun. For example, 'um evento bem-sucedido' (a successful event).
- Agreement
- Remember gender and number: bem-sucedido (m. sg.), bem-sucedida (f. sg.), bem-sucedidos (m. pl.), bem-sucedidas (f. pl.).
O nosso plano de marketing foi bem-sucedido.
You can use it to describe people, their careers, or their personal achievements. For instance, a doctor who has helped many patients can be called bem-sucedido.
Apesar dos desafios, a equipa tornou-se muito bem-sucedida.
It's also perfect for describing projects, investments, or even creative works that have yielded positive results.
O filme foi um sucesso bem-sucedido de bilheteira.
You can also use it in comparative or superlative contexts, though it's less common. More often, it stands alone to describe a singular success.
Os nossos esforços foram recompensados com um resultado bem-sucedido.
Consider how it modifies different types of nouns:
- Describing People
- Um cientista bem-sucedido (A successful scientist).
- Describing Projects
- Um projeto bem-sucedido (A successful project).
- Describing Events
- Uma conferência bem-sucedida (A successful conference).
- Describing Businesses
- As empresas bem-sucedidas (The successful companies).
Todos esperavam que a apresentação fosse bem-sucedida.
The adjective can also be used adverbially in a sense, when linked with 'estar' or 'ser' to describe the state of having achieved success, reinforcing the positive outcome.
You'll encounter the word bem-sucedido quite frequently in various aspects of Portuguese-speaking culture and media. Its versatility means it pops up in both formal and informal settings, reflecting a common human desire to acknowledge and celebrate achievement.
- News and Media
- News reports often describe successful business ventures, political campaigns, or technological advancements using this term. For example, 'A nova estratégia de marketing da empresa foi bem-sucedida.' (The company's new marketing strategy was successful.)
- Business and Finance
- In business contexts, it's used to talk about profitable companies, effective projects, or successful investments. 'O investimento no mercado imobiliário provou ser muito bem-sucedido.' (The investment in the real estate market proved to be very successful.)
- Academia and Education
- Students might describe their academic performance or a research project as bem-sucedido. 'Concluí o meu doutoramento com um projeto bem-sucedido.' (I completed my doctorate with a successful project.)
- Personal Conversations
- In everyday chats, people use it to talk about personal achievements, like a job promotion, a well-executed party, or even a hobby that turned out great. 'A minha festa de aniversário foi um evento bem-sucedido!' (My birthday party was a successful event!)
- Arts and Entertainment
- Critics and audiences might describe a play, a movie, or a book as bem-sucedido if it achieves critical acclaim or commercial success. 'O novo álbum da banda foi aclamado como um trabalho bem-sucedido.' (The band's new album was acclaimed as a successful work.)
A apresentação do artista foi considerada um momento bem-sucedido.
A iniciativa de caridade foi extremamente bem-sucedida.
You might also hear it in discussions about sports, where a team's performance or a specific play can be described as bem-sucedido. For example, 'O passe para o golo foi bem-sucedido.' (The pass for the goal was successful.)
While bem-sucedido is a straightforward adjective, learners might make a few common errors. Being aware of these can help you use it more accurately and confidently.
- Gender and Number Agreement
- The most frequent mistake is forgetting to adjust the adjective's ending to match the gender and number of the noun it describes. Portuguese adjectives must agree. For example, saying 'um projeto bem-sucedida' (a successful project - masculine noun with feminine adjective) is incorrect. The correct form is 'um projeto bem-sucedido'. Similarly, for a feminine noun like 'empresa' (company), it should be 'uma empresa bem-sucedida'. For plural nouns, it becomes 'projetos bem-sucedidos' or 'empresas bem-sucedidas'.
- Incorrect Placement
- While adjectives usually follow the noun in Portuguese, some learners might place bem-sucedido before the noun, which is generally not standard for this adjective. For instance, 'um bem-sucedido projeto' sounds unnatural. The correct placement is after: 'um projeto bem-sucedido'.
- Using it as a Verb
- Confusing the adjective with a verb form is another potential pitfall. While 'suceder' is a verb meaning 'to succeed', bem-sucedido itself is not a verb. You wouldn't say 'Eu bem-sucedido o projeto' (I successful the project). Instead, you would say 'Eu tive um projeto bem-sucedido' (I had a successful project) or 'O projeto foi bem-sucedido' (The project was successful).
- Overuse or Underuse
- Some learners might shy away from using it, opting for simpler terms, or conversely, try to use it in every positive situation. It's important to understand that bem-sucedido specifically denotes the achievement of a goal or purpose. For general positivity, other adjectives might be more appropriate.
- Misunderstanding 'Bem' and 'Mal'
- The prefix 'bem-' means 'well', and 'mal-' means 'badly'. Learners might sometimes confuse these or use them incorrectly. The opposite of bem-sucedido is 'mal-sucedido', meaning 'unsuccessful'. Ensure you're using the correct prefix for the intended meaning.
Incorrecto: A minha ideia bem-sucedida.
Correcto: A minha ideia foi bem-sucedida.
Incorrecto: Ele é um bem-sucedido homem de negócios.
Correcto: Ele é um homem de negócios bem-sucedido.
While bem-sucedido is a core term for 'successful', Portuguese offers a range of words and phrases that can convey similar meanings, sometimes with subtle differences in nuance or formality. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.
- Sinónimos (Synonyms)
- Exitoso: This is a very close synonym, often interchangeable with bem-sucedido. It also means 'successful'. 'Um empreendimento exitoso' (A successful venture). It can sometimes feel slightly more formal than bem-sucedido.
- Vitorioso: This implies success achieved through overcoming obstacles or competition, often carrying a sense of triumph. It's more common in contexts like sports or battles. 'O exército saiu vitorioso da batalha.' (The army emerged victorious from the battle.)
- Próspero: This term is often used for financial success or flourishing conditions. 'Um país próspero' (A prosperous country). It focuses on growth and abundance.
O escritor teve um livro exitoso.
- Phrases Conveying Success
- Obter sucesso: To achieve success. This is a verb phrase. 'Ele conseguiu obter sucesso na sua carreira.' (He managed to achieve success in his career.)
- Ser um sucesso: To be a success. This is very common. 'A peça de teatro foi um sucesso.' (The play was a success.)
- Alcançar objetivos: To reach goals. This implies success in achieving specific aims. 'A equipa conseguiu alcançar os seus objetivos.' (The team managed to reach its goals.)
A campanha de angariação de fundos foi um grande sucesso.
- Antonyms (Opposites)
- Mal-sucedido: The direct opposite of bem-sucedido, meaning 'unsuccessful'. 'Um projeto mal-sucedido' (An unsuccessful project).
- Fracassado: Similar to mal-sucedido, often implying a complete failure. 'O plano foi um fracasso total.' (The plan was a total failure.)
- Insucesso: Noun meaning 'failure' or 'lack of success'. 'O evento terminou em insucesso.' (The event ended in failure.)
O seu negócio tornou-se próspero rapidamente.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The prefix 'bem-' is often used to create positive adjectives, contrasting with 'mal-' which creates negative ones. For example, 'bem-vindo' (welcome) versus 'mal-vindo' (unwelcome), or 'bem-educado' (well-behaved) versus 'mal-educado' (rude). This highlights the direct semantic contribution of the prefix.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'bem' as a hard 'm' sound instead of a nasal vowel.
- Misplacing the stress on a different syllable.
- Pronouncing the 's' in 'sucedido' as a sharp 's' instead of a softer 'sh' sound.
- Not clearly articulating the 'u' sound in 'su'.
Difficulty Rating
At B1 level, understanding 'bem-sucedido' in written texts is generally straightforward, as its meaning is consistent and it's frequently used in common contexts like news and articles. The main challenge for learners is mastering the gender and number agreement.
Writing with 'bem-sucedido' requires attention to agreement (gender and number) with the noun it modifies. Learners need to practice applying these rules correctly in their sentences.
Pronunciation and applying the correct agreement in spoken Portuguese are key. Learners should practice saying the word and using it in sentences to build confidence.
Recognizing the word when spoken is usually not difficult due to its common usage and clear pronunciation, especially when heard in context where success is being discussed.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement (Gender and Number)
O projeto foi bem-sucedido. A equipa foi bem-sucedida. Os projetos foram bem-sucedidos. As equipas foram bem-sucedidas.
Use of 'Ser' vs. 'Estar' with Adjectives
Ele é bem-sucedido (He is successful - a characteristic). O projeto foi bem-sucedido (The project was successful - describes the outcome).
Placement of Adjectives
Generally, adjectives follow the noun. 'Um homem bem-sucedido' rather than 'Um bem-sucedido homem'.
Formation of Compound Adjectives
'Bem-sucedido' is formed from 'bem' (well) + 'sucedido' (succeeded). This structure is common for creating adjectives.
Antonyms with 'Mal-' Prefix
The opposite of 'bem-sucedido' is 'mal-sucedido', illustrating the use of 'mal-' to denote a negative counterpart.
Examples by Level
O meu desenho está bem-sucedido.
My drawing is successful.
Adjective agrees with 'desenho' (masculine singular).
O jogo foi bem-sucedido.
The game was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'jogo' (masculine singular).
A comida está bem-sucedida.
The food is successful.
Adjective agrees with 'comida' (feminine singular).
O trabalho foi bem-sucedido.
The work was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'trabalho' (masculine singular).
A sua tentativa foi bem-sucedida.
Your attempt was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'tentativa' (feminine singular).
Um projeto bem-sucedido.
A successful project.
Adjective agrees with 'projeto' (masculine singular).
Uma festa bem-sucedida.
A successful party.
Adjective agrees with 'festa' (feminine singular).
Nós fomos bem-sucedidos.
We were successful.
Adjective agrees with 'nós' (masculine/mixed plural).
A nossa apresentação foi bem-sucedida.
Our presentation was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'apresentação' (feminine singular).
Ele teve um dia bem-sucedido.
He had a successful day.
Adjective agrees with 'dia' (masculine singular).
O projeto escolar foi bem-sucedido.
The school project was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'projeto' (masculine singular).
A viagem foi muito bem-sucedida.
The trip was very successful.
Adjective agrees with 'viagem' (feminine singular).
Os nossos esforços foram bem-sucedidos.
Our efforts were successful.
Adjective agrees with 'esforços' (masculine plural).
A empresa teve um ano bem-sucedido.
The company had a successful year.
Adjective agrees with 'ano' (masculine singular).
A tentativa de cozinhar foi bem-sucedida.
The attempt to cook was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'tentativa' (feminine singular).
Os alunos fizeram um trabalho bem-sucedido.
The students did successful work.
Adjective agrees with 'trabalho' (masculine singular).
O lançamento do novo livro foi um evento bem-sucedido.
The launch of the new book was a successful event.
Adjective agrees with 'evento' (masculine singular).
Ela é uma artista bem-sucedida internacionalmente.
She is an internationally successful artist.
Adjective agrees with 'artista' (feminine singular).
A nossa estratégia de marketing provou ser muito bem-sucedida.
Our marketing strategy proved to be very successful.
Adjective agrees with 'estratégia' (feminine singular).
Os organizadores consideraram a conferência um sucesso bem-sucedido.
The organizers considered the conference a successful success.
Adjective agrees with 'sucesso' (masculine singular) which modifies 'conferência' indirectly.
O investimento em energias renováveis foi bem-sucedido.
The investment in renewable energy was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'investimento' (masculine singular).
A equipa de investigação apresentou resultados bem-sucedidos.
The research team presented successful results.
Adjective agrees with 'resultados' (masculine plural).
Apesar dos obstáculos, o projeto foi bem-sucedido.
Despite the obstacles, the project was successful.
Adjective agrees with 'projeto' (masculine singular).
Ele tornou-se um empresário bem-sucedido.
He became a successful entrepreneur.
Adjective agrees with 'empresário' (masculine singular).
A implementação da nova tecnologia foi um passo bem-sucedido para a empresa.
The implementation of the new technology was a successful step for the company.
Adjective agrees with 'passo' (masculine singular).
Os críticos aclamaram o seu último romance como uma obra bem-sucedida.
Critics acclaimed his latest novel as a successful work.
Adjective agrees with 'obra' (feminine singular).
A campanha de caridade foi extremamente bem-sucedida, superando todas as expectativas.
The charity campaign was extremely successful, exceeding all expectations.
Adjective agrees with 'campanha' (feminine singular).
Ele é conhecido por ser um líder bem-sucedido e inspirador.
He is known for being a successful and inspiring leader.
Adjective agrees with 'líder' (masculine singular).
O desenvolvimento do novo medicamento foi um processo longo, mas bem-sucedido.
The development of the new drug was a long, but successful process.
Adjective agrees with 'processo' (masculine singular).
As negociações foram bem-sucedidas e um acordo foi alcançado.
The negotiations were successful and an agreement was reached.
Adjective agrees with 'negociações' (feminine plural).
O seu plano de negócios foi considerado bem-sucedido pelos investidores.
His business plan was considered successful by the investors.
Adjective agrees with 'plano' (masculine singular).
A adaptação do livro para o cinema foi um projeto bem-sucedido.
The adaptation of the book into a film was a successful project.
Adjective agrees with 'projeto' (masculine singular).
A estratégia de expansão da empresa foi meticulosamente planeada e demonstrou ser extraordinariamente bem-sucedida.
The company's expansion strategy was meticulously planned and proved to be extraordinarily successful.
Adjective agrees with 'estratégia' (feminine singular).
O seu legado como filantropo bem-sucedido perdura através das suas inúmeras contribuições.
His legacy as a successful philanthropist endures through his numerous contributions.
Adjective agrees with 'filantropo' (masculine singular).
A colaboração entre as duas instituições académicas resultou num intercâmbio cultural bem-sucedido.
The collaboration between the two academic institutions resulted in a successful cultural exchange.
Adjective agrees with 'intercâmbio' (masculine singular).
Os inovadores conseguiram criar um produto que não só é bem-sucedido comercialmente, mas também benéfico para a sociedade.
The innovators managed to create a product that is not only commercially successful but also beneficial to society.
Adjective agrees with 'produto' (masculine singular).
Apesar de ter enfrentado críticas iniciais, a sua abordagem artística tornou-se amplamente bem-sucedida.
Despite facing initial criticism, her artistic approach became widely successful.
Adjective agrees with 'abordagem' (feminine singular).
O plano de recuperação económica foi bem-sucedido em restaurar a confiança do mercado.
The economic recovery plan was successful in restoring market confidence.
Adjective agrees with 'plano' (masculine singular).
A transição para o novo sistema de gestão foi conduzida de forma bem-sucedida.
The transition to the new management system was conducted successfully.
Adjective agrees with 'transição' (feminine singular).
Os programas de desenvolvimento comunitário têm tido um impacto bem-sucedido na melhoria da qualidade de vida.
The community development programs have had a successful impact on improving the quality of life.
Adjective agrees with 'impacto' (masculine singular).
A sua diplomacia discreta, embora nem sempre reconhecida publicamente, foi fundamental para a resolução bem-sucedida de conflitos complexos.
His discreet diplomacy, though not always publicly recognized, was fundamental to the successful resolution of complex conflicts.
Adjective agrees with 'resolução' (feminine singular).
O legado de inovação da empresa é um testemunho de uma visão estratégica bem-sucedida e de uma execução impecável.
The company's legacy of innovation is a testament to a successful strategic vision and impeccable execution.
Adjective agrees with 'visão' (feminine singular).
A narrativa cinematográfica, ao entrelaçar subtilmente temas sociais com um enredo envolvente, consolidou-se como uma obra bem-sucedida em múltiplos níveis.
The cinematic narrative, by subtly intertwining social themes with an engaging plot, established itself as a successful work on multiple levels.
Adjective agrees with 'obra' (feminine singular).
A transição para um modelo de negócio sustentável, apesar dos desafios inerentes, culminou num empreendimento bem-sucedido e visionário.
The transition to a sustainable business model, despite inherent challenges, culminated in a successful and visionary venture.
Adjective agrees with 'empreendimento' (masculine singular).
A sua capacidade de antecipar tendências de mercado e adaptar-se rapidamente permitiu-lhe construir uma carreira profissional notavelmente bem-sucedida.
His ability to anticipate market trends and adapt quickly allowed him to build a remarkably successful professional career.
Adjective agrees with 'carreira' (feminine singular).
Os esforços colaborativos para mitigar os efeitos das alterações climáticas resultaram em iniciativas bem-sucedidas, demonstrando o poder da ação conjunta.
Collaborative efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change resulted in successful initiatives, demonstrating the power of joint action.
Adjective agrees with 'iniciativas' (feminine plural).
O projeto de revitalização urbana transformou a área, tornando-a um modelo bem-sucedido de regeneração urbana.
The urban revitalization project transformed the area, making it a successful model of urban regeneration.
Adjective agrees with 'modelo' (masculine singular).
A sua performance no palco, marcada por uma entrega emocional e técnica impecável, foi um triunfo bem-sucedido.
His performance on stage, marked by emotional delivery and impeccable technique, was a successful triumph.
Adjective agrees with 'triunfo' (masculine singular).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To be successful. This is the most direct way to use the adjective to describe a state of achievement.
É importante esforçar-se para ser bem-sucedido na vida.
— To become successful. This implies a process of achieving success, often from a starting point of less success.
Com muito trabalho, ele conseguiu tornar-se bem-sucedido.
— A successful venture or undertaking. This phrase is common in business and project management contexts.
O lançamento da nova aplicação foi um empreendimento bem-sucedido.
— A successful outcome or result. This emphasizes the positive conclusion of an effort or process.
O objetivo é alcançar um resultado bem-sucedido.
— A successful person. This describes an individual who has achieved notable success in their life or career.
Ela é vista como uma pessoa bem-sucedida no seu campo.
— A successful business. This refers to a company or enterprise that is thriving and profitable.
Construir um negócio bem-sucedido leva tempo e dedicação.
— A successful plan. This indicates that a strategy or course of action has achieved its intended goals.
O nosso plano bem-sucedido permitiu-nos atingir as metas.
— A successful event. This describes an occasion that went well and met its objectives.
A organização do festival foi um evento bem-sucedido.
— A successful marriage. This refers to a marriage that is happy, stable, and long-lasting.
Eles procuram construir um casamento bem-sucedido.
— To have a successful outcome. Similar to 'resultado bem-sucedido', but framed as an experience.
É gratificante ter um resultado bem-sucedido após muito esforço.
Often Confused With
'Sucesso' is a noun meaning 'success'. 'Bem-sucedido' is the adjective form. You can have 'um grande sucesso' (a great success) or describe something as 'bem-sucedido' (successful).
'Suceder' is a verb meaning 'to happen' or 'to succeed'. 'Bem-sucedido' is the adjective derived from its past participle, indicating the state of having succeeded.
'Bem' is an adverb meaning 'well'. It's a component of 'bem-sucedido', but cannot be used alone as an adjective to mean successful.
Easily Confused
Both mean 'successful' and are often interchangeable.
'Bem-sucedido' is formed from 'bem' (well) + 'sucedido' (succeeded). 'Exitoso' comes from 'êxito' (success). While very similar, 'bem-sucedido' can sometimes feel more focused on achieving a specific goal, while 'exitoso' might imply a broader, more celebrated triumph. However, in most contexts, they are synonymous.
O filme foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark> de bilheteira. / O filme foi um sucesso <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>exitoso</mark>.
It's the direct opposite, sharing the 'sucedido' root.
'Bem-sucedido' means successful, having achieved a goal. 'Mal-sucedido' means unsuccessful, having failed to achieve a goal or having had a negative outcome. It's the antonym.
O lançamento foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>. / O lançamento foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>mal-sucedido</mark>.
Both indicate a positive state, often related to growth.
'Bem-sucedido' refers to achieving a specific goal or purpose. 'Próspero' specifically relates to wealth, growth, and flourishing, especially in an economic or financial sense. A business can be both <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark> and <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>próspera</mark>, but 'próspero' is more about abundance and growth.
A empresa teve um ano <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>. / A empresa tornou-se <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>próspera</mark>.
Both imply achieving a positive outcome.
'Bem-sucedido' means successful in general. 'Vitorioso' specifically implies success through competition, overcoming an opponent, or achieving a significant victory. It carries a stronger sense of triumph.
O nosso projeto foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>. / O atleta saiu <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>vitorioso</mark> da competição.
'Bem' is a component of 'bem-sucedido'.
'Bem' is an adverb meaning 'well'. It cannot stand alone as an adjective meaning 'successful'. 'Bem-sucedido' is a compound adjective formed using 'bem' to indicate that something has been 'well succeeded'.
Ele fala <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem</mark> português. (He speaks Portuguese well.) / O seu plano foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>. (His plan was successful.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + foi + bem-sucedido/a.
O meu bolo foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
Eu sou + bem-sucedido/a.
Eu sou <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
O/A Noun + foi + muito + bem-sucedido/a.
A nossa reunião foi muito <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
Nós fomos + bem-sucedidos/as.
Nós fomos <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedidos</mark> no jogo.
O/A Noun + foi + um/uma + bem-sucedido/a + Noun.
O projeto foi um esforço <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
Ele/Ela + tornou-se + bem-sucedido/a.
Ela tornou-se <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark> na sua carreira.
A/O Noun + foi + considerado/a + bem-sucedido/a.
O seu plano foi considerado <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
Demonstrar + ser + bem-sucedido/a.
A equipa demonstrou ser <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High
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Forgetting gender/number agreement.
→
Um projeto <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>. Uma empresa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
The adjective must match the noun. Incorrect: 'Um projeto bem-sucedida'. Correct: 'Um projeto bem-sucedido'.
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Using 'bem-sucedido' as a verb.
→
O projeto foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
'Bem-sucedido' is an adjective, not a verb. You cannot say 'Eu bem-sucedido o projeto'. Use 'ter sucesso' or 'ser bem-sucedido'.
-
Incorrect placement of the adjective.
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Uma carreira <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
In most cases, descriptive adjectives follow the noun. 'Uma <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark> carreira' is generally not used.
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Confusing with 'mal-sucedido'.
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O evento foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
Using '<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>' when the outcome was negative. The opposite is 'mal-sucedido' (unsuccessful).
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Pronunciation errors (e.g., stress, nasalization).
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Pronounce with stress on 'di': bem-su-ce-DI-do. Ensure nasal 'bem' sound.
Mispronouncing the word can lead to misunderstandings. Practice the specific sounds and stress pattern.
Tips
Master Agreement
The most crucial aspect of using bem-sucedido correctly is ensuring it matches the gender and number of the noun it modifies. Always check if the noun is masculine/feminine and singular/plural before choosing the correct ending: -o, -a, -os, or -as.
Practice the Sounds
Focus on the nasal 'bem' sound and the 'sh' sound for 'sucedido'. Practice saying the word slowly and then at a normal pace. Listening to native speakers can significantly help in perfecting the pronunciation.
Adjective Placement
In Portuguese, descriptive adjectives like bem-sucedido typically follow the noun. Remember the pattern: Noun + bem-sucedido/a/os/as. For example, 'um projeto bem-sucedido'.
Visual Associations
Create a mental image for the word. Imagine a trophy or a gold medal labeled 'BEM' (meaning 'well') next to someone who has 'succeeded' - this can help link the word to its meaning.
Hear it in Action
Listen to Portuguese podcasts, watch movies, or read news articles. Pay attention to how bem-sucedido is used in natural conversations and professional settings.
Use it Actively
The best way to learn is by using the word. Try to describe your own achievements, projects, or even fictional scenarios using bem-sucedido in your writing and speaking practice.
Antonym Awareness
Knowing the antonym, 'mal-sucedido' (unsuccessful), helps solidify the meaning of bem-sucedido. Understanding both sides of the coin improves comprehension.
Build on Success
Once you're comfortable with bem-sucedido, explore related words like 'sucesso' (noun), 'suceder' (verb), and other adjectives of achievement like 'exitoso' and 'próspero'.
Cultural Significance
Success is celebrated across cultures. Understanding how bem-sucedido is used in Portuguese-speaking societies can give you insights into their values regarding achievement and effort.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'bem' as 'very' and 'sucedido' as 'succeeded'. So, 'very succeeded' means successful. Imagine a successful person giving a 'thumbs up' (like a 'bem' gesture) after a great achievement.
Visual Association
Picture a person standing on a podium, receiving a gold medal. They are beaming, and a banner behind them reads 'BEM-SUCEDIDO!'. This combines the visual of success with the word itself.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three recent achievements in your life using the word 'bem-sucedido' (or its feminine/plural forms). For example, 'The project I completed last week was bem-sucedido because...'.
Word Origin
The word 'bem-sucedido' is a compound adjective formed from the adverb 'bem' (well) and the past participle of the verb 'suceder' (to succeed, to happen). The structure 'bem + past participle' is common in Portuguese to form adjectives that describe a state or quality resulting from an action.
Original meaning: Literally, 'well-succeeded' or 'well-happened'. It implies that something has occurred or been accomplished in a good or positive manner.
Romance language, derived from Latin.Cultural Context
The term is generally positive and not sensitive. However, in contexts where many are struggling, highlighting extreme success might be done with care to avoid appearing boastful or insensitive to those less fortunate. The focus is generally on the achievement itself rather than a comparison.
In English-speaking cultures, 'successful' is a very common adjective used in similar contexts. The emphasis on individual achievement and reaching goals is also prevalent. However, the grammatical requirement for gender and number agreement in Portuguese adds a layer of complexity not present in English.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Business and Finance
- Um negócio <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- O investimento foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- Uma estratégia <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark> de marketing.
- Resultados <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedidos</mark>.
Personal Achievements
- Uma carreira <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
- Ele é uma pessoa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
- A sua vida pessoal é <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
- Um dia <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
Projects and Events
- Um projeto <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- O evento foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- Um lançamento <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- Uma conferência <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
Health and Medicine
- Um tratamento <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- A cirurgia foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
- Uma recuperação <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
- Um diagnóstico <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
Education and Academia
- Um estudo <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- Um aluno <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
- Uma tese <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark>.
- Um curso <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>.
Conversation Starters
"What is something you consider a personal achievement that was bem-sucedido?"
"Can you describe a recent project or event you were involved in that was bem-sucedido?"
"What qualities do you think make a business bem-sucedida?"
"If you could give advice to someone aiming to be bem-sucedido in their career, what would it be?"
"What does it mean to you to have a bem-sucedido life?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time when your efforts led to a <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark> outcome. What were the key factors that contributed to this success?
Describe a goal you have for the future. What steps will you take to ensure it becomes a <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark> endeavor?
Think about someone you admire who is <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark>. What characteristics do they possess, and what can you learn from them?
Write about a time when something did not go as planned. How did you learn from that experience, and how might you approach a similar situation differently to make it more <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedida</mark> next time?
Consider the definition of 'success' for yourself. Is it purely about professional achievements, or does it encompass other aspects of life? How does the concept of being <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>bem-sucedido</mark> fit into your personal philosophy?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Bem-sucedido' is an adjective meaning 'successful', used to describe a person, project, or outcome. 'Sucesso' is a noun meaning 'success', referring to the state or achievement itself. For example, 'O projeto foi bem-sucedido' (The project was successful) and 'O projeto foi um grande sucesso' (The project was a great success).
You need to match the adjective to the gender and number of the noun it describes. If the noun is masculine singular (e.g., 'o projeto'), use 'bem-sucedido'. If it's feminine singular (e.g., 'a empresa'), use 'bem-sucedida'. For masculine plural (e.g., 'os projetos'), use 'bem-sucedidos', and for feminine plural (e.g., 'as empresas'), use 'bem-sucedidas'.
Yes, absolutely. While it can describe major achievements, it's also used for smaller successes. For example, if you managed to cook a meal that turned out perfectly, you could say 'A minha tentativa de cozinhar foi bem-sucedida' (My cooking attempt was successful). The key is that a goal or expectation was met positively.
The direct opposite is 'mal-sucedido', meaning 'unsuccessful'. You might also hear 'fracassado' for a more complete failure, or the noun 'insucesso' (failure).
'Bem-sucedido' is versatile and can be used in both neutral and formal contexts. While in very informal settings people might use simpler phrases like 'correu bem' (it went well), 'bem-sucedido' is perfectly appropriate and widely understood in most situations.
Generally, adjectives like 'bem-sucedido' follow the noun they modify in Portuguese. Placing it before the noun is uncommon and can sound unnatural. For instance, 'um projeto bem-sucedido' is correct, while 'um bem-sucedido projeto' is not standard.
The stress is on the 'di' syllable: bem-su-ce-DI-do. The 'bem' has a nasal sound, and the 's' in 'sucedido' is pronounced like a soft 'sh'. You can find audio examples online for precise pronunciation.
'Bem-sucedido' is the past participle of the verb 'suceder' (to succeed/happen), modified by the adverb 'bem' (well). It describes the state of having 'succeeded well' or 'happened well', thus meaning successful.
Yes, 'exitoso' is a very common synonym. 'Vitorioso' implies success through victory, and 'próspero' relates to financial success and flourishing. 'Bem-sucedido' is a general and widely applicable term.
It depends on the gender of the person. If you are referring to a man, use 'bem-sucedido' (e.g., 'um homem bem-sucedido'). If referring to a woman, use 'bem-sucedida' (e.g., 'uma mulher bem-sucedida').
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Summary
Bem-sucedido is a versatile adjective meaning 'successful', used to describe anything that has achieved its intended purpose or goal. Remember to match its ending to the gender and number of the noun it describes. For example, 'um projeto bem-sucedido' (a successful project) and 'uma campanha bem-sucedida' (a successful campaign).
- Means 'successful', indicating a positive outcome or achievement of a goal.
- Used for people, projects, businesses, events, and more.
- Requires gender and number agreement with the noun it modifies.
- Commonly used in news, business, and everyday conversations.
Master Agreement
The most crucial aspect of using bem-sucedido correctly is ensuring it matches the gender and number of the noun it modifies. Always check if the noun is masculine/feminine and singular/plural before choosing the correct ending: -o, -a, -os, or -as.
Context is Key
While bem-sucedido means 'successful', consider if a more specific synonym like 'exitoso' (for general success), 'vitorioso' (for victory), or 'próspero' (for financial success) might better fit the nuance of your sentence.
Practice the Sounds
Focus on the nasal 'bem' sound and the 'sh' sound for 'sucedido'. Practice saying the word slowly and then at a normal pace. Listening to native speakers can significantly help in perfecting the pronunciation.
Adjective Placement
In Portuguese, descriptive adjectives like bem-sucedido typically follow the noun. Remember the pattern: Noun + bem-sucedido/a/os/as. For example, 'um projeto bem-sucedido'.
Example
Ele é um empresário bem-sucedido no setor de tecnologia.
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a longo prazo
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a não ser que
A2Unless; except if; only if not.
a partir de
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a prazo
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B1Full-time; working the full number of hours considered normal for a job.
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acessível
B1Available, accessible; easy to approach or use.
