This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A1 noun #4,800 most common 7 min read

bolso

Top 4,800

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips bolso in 30 Seconds

Explanation bolso in your Level:

400+w

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

bolso in 30 Seconds

Bolso: pocket in clothes, small bag, or financial means.
Mainly refers to clothing pockets.
Can also mean a small pouch or one's budget.
Essential for everyday Portuguese vocabulary.

The Portuguese word "bolso" is a fundamental noun, primarily used to refer to a small pouch or pocket sewn into clothing, such as trousers, shirts, jackets, or coats. It's the go-to word for the place where you keep your hands when they're cold, or where you store small, everyday items like keys, coins, a wallet, or a phone. Think of it as the built-in compartment in your apparel designed for convenience. Beyond clothing, "bolso" can also describe a small bag or pouch that is carried separately, especially if it's designed to be held or tucked away. For instance, a small purse or a coin purse might be referred to as a "bolso." In a broader, more figurative sense, "bolso" can sometimes refer to one's financial resources or the amount of money one has available. For example, if something is "caro para o meu bolso" (expensive for my pocket), it means it's too expensive for the person's budget. This figurative use highlights the pocket as a symbol of personal wealth or spending capacity.

Clothing Pocket: The most common meaning, referring to the sewn-in pouch in garments.
Small Bag/Pouch: A separate, small bag, often for carrying specific items.
Figurative (Financial): Referring to one's budget or available money.

Eu guardo minhas chaves no bolso da calça.

Este casaco tem um bolso interno muito útil.

In everyday conversation, "bolso" is extremely common. You'll hear it when people are talking about their clothes, what they carry, or even their financial situations. For example, when shopping, someone might say "Isso cabe no meu bolso?" (Does this fit in my pocket/my budget?). When describing clothing, "bolso" is essential. If a jacket doesn't have pockets, someone might lament, "Que pena, não tem bolso." (What a shame, it doesn't have a pocket.) The figurative meaning related to money is also frequently encountered, especially when discussing prices and affordability.

Using "bolso" is straightforward, as it functions as a common noun. You'll typically use it with articles (o, a, os, as) and possessives (meu, seu, nosso, etc.). The most frequent context is referring to pockets in clothing. For instance, "O meu casaco tem três bolsos." (My coat has three pockets.) Here, "bolsos" is the plural form. When talking about a specific pocket, you might say, "Coloque o dinheiro no bolso de trás." (Put the money in the back pocket.) The singular form "bolso" is used when referring to one pocket or the concept of a pocket generally. For example, "Preciso de um bolso para o meu telemóvel." (I need a pocket for my mobile phone.) The figurative use related to finances often appears with prepositions like "para" (for) or "no" (in the). "Este preço está fora do meu bolso." (This price is out of my pocket/budget.) or "Não tenho dinheiro no bolso agora." (I don't have money in my pocket right now.) This latter example uses "bolso" literally but implies a lack of funds. You can also use "bolso" to describe a small, separate pouch. "Comprei um pequeno bolso para guardar as moedas." (I bought a small pouch to keep the coins.) The adjective "pequeno" (small) or "grande" (big) can modify "bolso" to specify its size. Remember to match the article and adjective with the gender and number of "bolso," which is masculine singular. The plural is "bolsos."

Perdi a minha carteira no bolso da calça.

Este vestido não tem bolsos.

O custo é muito alto para o meu bolso.

When using "bolso" in sentences, pay attention to whether you are referring to one pocket (singular "bolso") or multiple pockets (plural "bolsos"). The context will usually make this clear.

You will encounter "bolso" in a multitude of everyday situations. When shopping for clothes, especially trousers, jeans, jackets, or shirts, "bolso" is a key term. A salesperson might point out "Este tem bolsos laterais" (This one has side pockets), or a customer might ask, "Onde ficam os bolsos?" (Where are the pockets?). In casual conversations among friends or family, people often mention what they carry in their pockets: "Tenho o meu telemóvel no bolso." (I have my phone in my pocket.) or "Não encontro as chaves, acho que as pus no bolso errado." (I can't find my keys, I think I put them in the wrong pocket.) When discussing finances or budgeting, the figurative use of "bolso" is prevalent. Phrases like "Está um pouco caro para o meu bolso" (It's a bit expensive for my pocket/budget) or "Precisamos de algo mais acessível ao nosso bolso" (We need something more accessible to our pocket/budget) are common. In more practical scenarios, like someone asking for directions or help, they might say, "Tem um lenço no bolso?" (Do you have a handkerchief in your pocket?). Even in news reports or discussions about fashion, "bolso" will appear when describing garment features. For instance, a designer might talk about "a funcionalidade dos bolsos" (the functionality of the pockets). When discussing travel, you might hear, "É bom ter um bolso seguro para o passaporte." (It's good to have a secure pocket for the passport.) In casual interactions, someone might offer, "Posso guardar isso no meu bolso para você." (I can keep this in my pocket for you.)

Onde estão os bolsos desta camisa?

Este preço não cabe no meu bolso agora.

Listen for "bolso" when people are describing their outfits, talking about money, or discussing practicalities like where to put small items.

Learners of Portuguese might make a few common mistakes with "bolso." One is incorrect pluralization. Remember that "bolso" is masculine, and its plural form is "bolsos." Confusing it with a feminine noun or using an incorrect plural ending is a common error. For example, saying "as bolso" instead of "o bolso" or "as bolsos" instead of "os bolsos." Another potential pitfall is the overuse of the singular form when referring to multiple pockets. If a jacket has two pockets, you should say it has "dois bolsos," not "dois bolso." Conversely, using the plural when referring to a single pocket is also incorrect. The figurative meaning of "bolso" related to finances can also be a source of confusion. Learners might translate idiomatic expressions too literally, leading to awkward or nonsensical sentences. For instance, trying to say "It's too expensive for my budget" might result in something like "É muito caro para a minha bolsa," where "bolsa" means handbag or purse, rather than "É muito caro para o meu bolso." While "bolsa" can sometimes be used metaphorically for financial capacity, "bolso" is far more common and direct in this context. Ensure you use "bolso" when referring to the literal pocket in clothing or the figurative concept of one's financial means.

Pluralization Error: Using the wrong plural form (e.g., "bolsas" instead of "bolsos") or using the singular when plural is needed.
Gender Agreement: Incorrectly associating "bolso" with feminine articles or adjectives.
Figurative vs. Literal: Confusing the financial meaning of "bolso" with "bolsa" (handbag) or misinterpreting idiomatic expressions.

Incorrect: "Eu tenho duas bolsas nas calças." Correct: "Eu tenho dois bolsos nas calças."

Always remember "bolso" is masculine. Pay attention to singular and plural forms based on the number of pockets you are referring to.

While "bolso" is the most common word for a pocket, there are related terms and alternatives depending on the specific context.

Bolsa: This word primarily means "handbag" or "purse." However, it can also refer to a "bag" in general, or figuratively, a "scholarship" or "grant." It's important not to confuse "bolsa" with "bolso" when talking about clothing pockets. For example, "Guardo meu dinheiro na bolsa" (I keep my money in my handbag), not "no bolso."
Sacola: This means "shopping bag" or "grocery bag." It's a larger, portable bag, distinct from a sewn-in pocket.
Carteira: This refers to a "wallet" or "cardholder." While often kept *in* a "bolso," "carteira" itself is the item for money and cards, not the pocket.
Bolsinho: This is the diminutive form of "bolso," meaning "small pocket." It's used to describe a particularly small pocket, perhaps for coins or a tiny item.
Compartimento: This is a more general term for "compartment" or "section." It can be used for pockets, but also for other divided spaces within objects.

In summary, while "bolso" is the standard term for a clothing pocket, "bolsa" is for handbags, "sacola" for shopping bags, and "carteira" for a wallet. "Bolsinho" is a specific type of small pocket.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The evolution from 'bulga' (Latin) to 'bolso' (Portuguese) shows how languages adapt and change over centuries. The original meaning of a bag is still reflected in the modern use of 'bolso' for clothing pockets and small pouches.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈbɔl.su/

US /ˈbɔl.su/

The stress falls on the first syllable: **BOL**-so.

Rhymes With

colço molço solço tolço corço morço torço forço

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'o' as in 'hot' instead of the pure vowel sound.
Adding an extra syllable or diphthong to the 'o' sound.
Making the final 'u' sound too long or distinct.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

The word 'bolso' is very common in everyday reading materials like magazines, newspapers, and online articles. Its meaning is usually clear from context, making it easy for learners to understand.

Writing 1/5

Writing 'bolso' correctly is straightforward once the gender and plural form are learned. Its frequent use in simple sentences makes it accessible for learners to incorporate into their writing.

Speaking 1/5

Pronouncing 'bolso' is relatively easy, and its common usage means learners will hear and have opportunities to use it frequently in spoken Portuguese.

Listening 1/5

Due to its high frequency, learners will encounter 'bolso' often when listening to native speakers, making it easy to recognize and understand.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

roupa dinheiro chaves guardar ter

Learn Next

bolsa carteira calça casaco telemóvel

Advanced

alfaiataria vestuário finanças orçamento utilitário

Grammar to Know

Gender and Number Agreement

O bolso (masculine singular) está rasgado. Os bolsos (masculine plural) estão rasgados.

Definite and Indefinite Articles

Eu tenho um bolso. O bolso está cheio. Eu preciso de uns bolsos. Uns bolsos grandes.

Possessive Adjectives

O meu bolso. Os teus bolsos. O seu bolso interior.

Prepositions of Location

O dinheiro está no bolso. As chaves estão dentro do bolso.

Use of 'ter' (to have)

Este casaco tem três bolsos.

Examples by Level

O meu telemóvel está no bolso.

My mobile phone is in the pocket.

Simple present tense, possessive adjective 'meu', singular noun 'bolso'.

Preciso de um bolso para as chaves.

I need a pocket for the keys.

Verb 'precisar de', indefinite article 'um', plural noun 'chaves'.

Este casaco tem bolsos.

This jacket has pockets.

Demonstrative adjective 'este', plural noun 'bolsos'.

O dinheiro está no bolso.

The money is in the pocket.

Definite article 'o', singular noun 'dinheiro', singular noun 'bolso'.

Guardo moedas no bolso.

I keep coins in the pocket.

Verb 'guardar', plural noun 'moedas', singular noun 'bolso'.

O bolso está vazio.

The pocket is empty.

Definite article 'o', singular noun 'bolso', adjective 'vazio'.

Eu uso o bolso para guardar o meu cartão.

I use the pocket to keep my card.

Pronoun 'eu', verb 'usar', indefinite article 'o', singular noun 'cartão'.

Não há nada no bolso.

There is nothing in the pocket.

Negative construction 'não há', singular noun 'nada', singular noun 'bolso'.

O meu bolso está rasgado e preciso de o coser.

My pocket is torn and I need to sew it.

Possessive adjective 'meu', adjective 'rasgado', infinitive verb 'coser'.

Esqueci-me do meu telemóvel no bolso do casaco.

I forgot my mobile phone in the jacket's pocket.

Verb 'esquecer-se de', preposition 'no', possessive adjective 'meu'.

Este modelo de calças tem quatro bolsos.

This model of trousers has four pockets.

Demonstrative adjective 'este', cardinal number 'quatro', plural noun 'bolsos'.

O preço é bom para o meu bolso.

The price is good for my pocket (budget).

Adjective 'bom', preposition 'para', figurative use of 'bolso'.

Coloque o dinheiro neste bolso pequeno.

Put the money in this small pocket.

Imperative verb 'coloque', demonstrative adjective 'neste', adjective 'pequeno'.

Não consigo encontrar as moedas no bolso.

I can't find the coins in the pocket.

Negative ability 'não consigo encontrar', definite article 'as', plural noun 'moedas'.

O guarda-chuva é demasiado grande para caber no bolso.

The umbrella is too big to fit in the pocket.

Adverb 'demasiado', infinitive verb 'caber', singular noun 'bolso'.

Ela costura um bolso extra na saia.

She sews an extra pocket onto the skirt.

Verb 'costurar', indefinite article 'um', adjective 'extra', singular noun 'saia'.

Verifiquei todos os bolsos das minhas calças, mas a carteira não estava lá.

I checked all the pockets of my trousers, but the wallet wasn't there.

Past tense verb 'verifiquei', plural noun 'bolsos', singular noun 'carteira'.

Este casaco de inverno tem bolsos interiores com fecho éclair.

This winter coat has inner pockets with zippers.

Adjective 'interior', noun 'fecho éclair' (zipper).

Para viagens longas, é útil ter um bolso discreto para o passaporte.

For long trips, it's useful to have a discreet pocket for the passport.

Preposition 'para', adjective 'discreto', singular noun 'passaporte'.

O custo da reparação é significativo, mas ainda está dentro do meu bolso.

The cost of the repair is significant, but it's still within my pocket (budget).

Adjective 'significativo', prepositional phrase 'dentro do meu bolso'.

Perdi um botão do meu casaco e agora o bolso está a ficar solto.

I lost a button from my coat and now the pocket is coming loose.

Past participle 'perdido', adjective 'solto'.

É importante não sobrecarregar os bolsos com objetos pesados para não os danificar.

It's important not to overload pockets with heavy objects so as not to damage them.

Infinitive verb 'sobrecarregar', adjective 'pesados', infinitive verb 'danificar'.

Ela usava um vestido sem bolsos, por isso levou uma pequena bolsa.

She was wearing a dress without pockets, so she took a small purse.

Preposition 'sem', conjunction 'por isso', singular noun 'bolsa'.

O bolso da calça jeans rasgou-se quando me sentei.

The pocket of the jeans tore when I sat down.

Noun 'calça jeans', reflexive verb 'rasgou-se'.

A tecnologia moderna permite a criação de bolsos inteligentes que podem carregar dispositivos.

Modern technology allows for the creation of smart pockets that can charge devices.

Noun 'tecnologia', adjective 'moderna', noun 'dispositivos'.

O design ergonómico deste colete garante que os bolsos estejam acessíveis sem comprometer a mobilidade.

The ergonomic design of this vest ensures that the pockets are accessible without compromising mobility.

Adjective 'ergonómico', adjective 'acessíveis', noun 'mobilidade'.

A falta de bolsos em muitas peças de vestuário feminino é uma crítica recorrente.

The lack of pockets in many women's clothing items is a recurring criticism.

Noun 'vestuário', adjective 'feminino', adjective 'recorrente'.

Ele confessou que gastava uma quantia considerável de dinheiro, o que pesava bastante no seu bolso.

He confessed that he spent a considerable amount of money, which weighed heavily on his pocket (budget).

Verb 'confessou', adjective 'considerável', noun 'quantia', figurative use.

A alfaiataria tradicional presta atenção a cada detalhe, incluindo o posicionamento e o acabamento dos bolsos.

Traditional tailoring pays attention to every detail, including the positioning and finishing of pockets.

Noun 'alfaiataria', adjective 'tradicional', noun 'posicionamento', noun 'acabamento'.

As novas regulamentações fiscais podem impactar diretamente o bolso dos contribuintes.

The new tax regulations can directly impact the pocket (finances) of taxpayers.

Adjective 'novas', noun 'regulamentações', noun 'contribuintes', figurative use.

O artista incorporou elementos de streetwear, como bolsos utilitários em locais inesperados.

The artist incorporated streetwear elements, such as utility pockets in unexpected places.

Noun 'artista', noun 'streetwear', adjective 'utilitários', adjective 'inesperados'.

É crucial manter o controle sobre os gastos para que o bolso não sofra com imprevistos.

It is crucial to maintain control over spending so that the pocket (finances) does not suffer from unforeseen events.

Adjective 'crucial', verb 'manter', noun 'gastos', noun 'imprevistos'.

A proliferação de vestuário sem bolsos levanta questões sobre a funcionalidade e a praticidade para o utilizador moderno.

The proliferation of clothing without pockets raises questions about functionality and practicality for the modern user.

Noun 'proliferação', adjective 'moderno', noun 'utilizador'.

O design inovador deste casaco inclui um bolso oculto com tecnologia de blindagem RFID para proteger cartões.

The innovative design of this coat includes a hidden pocket with RFID shielding technology to protect cards.

Adjective 'inovador', adjective 'oculto', noun 'tecnologia', noun 'blindagem'.

A política económica atual tem sido criticada por exaurir o bolso da classe trabalhadora.

The current economic policy has been criticized for depleting the pocket (finances) of the working class.

Noun 'política económica', adjective 'atual', noun 'classe trabalhadora', figurative use.

A subversão das convenções de moda, como a colocação estratégica de bolsos em peças inesperadas, redefine a estética.

The subversion of fashion conventions, such as the strategic placement of pockets in unexpected garments, redefines aesthetics.

Noun 'subversão', noun 'conveções', adjective 'estratégica', noun 'estética'.

A ausência de bolsos funcionais em muitos acessórios de moda pode ser interpretada como uma limitação à autonomia do indivíduo.

The absence of functional pockets in many fashion accessories can be interpreted as a limitation on individual autonomy.

Adjective 'funcionais', noun 'acessórios', noun 'autonomia', noun 'indivíduo'.

O orçamento familiar tem sido severamente comprimido, deixando pouco espaço no bolso para lazer.

The family budget has been severely compressed, leaving little room in the pocket (finances) for leisure.

Noun 'orçamento familiar', adverb 'severamente', adjective 'comprimido', noun 'lazer'.

A engenharia têxtil desenvolveu tecidos com propriedades autorreparadoras para os bolsos expostos a desgaste constante.

Textile engineering has developed fabrics with self-repairing properties for pockets exposed to constant wear.

Noun 'engenharia têxtil', adjective 'autorreparadoras', noun 'desgaste'.

A acessibilidade económica de certos produtos é um fator determinante para a sua penetração no bolso do consumidor de baixa renda.

The economic accessibility of certain products is a determining factor for their penetration into the pocket (finances) of low-income consumers.

Adjective 'económica', noun 'penetração', noun 'consumidor', noun 'renda'.

A obsolescência programada manifesta-se, por vezes, na fragilidade dos bolsos, incentivando a substituição prematura da peça de vestuário.

Planned obsolescence sometimes manifests in the fragility of pockets, encouraging premature replacement of the garment.

Noun 'obsolescência programada', adjective 'fragilidade', noun 'substituição prematura'.

O conceito de 'bolso de segurança' em vestuário técnico é crucial para salvaguardar pertences em ambientes hostis.

The concept of a 'security pocket' in technical clothing is crucial for safeguarding belongings in hostile environments.

Adjective 'técnico', verb 'salvaguardar', noun 'ambientes hostis'.

A arquitetura de informação de um website pode ser metaforicamente descrita como uma série de 'bolsos' digitais para organizar conteúdos.

The information architecture of a website can be metaphorically described as a series of digital 'pockets' for organizing content.

Noun 'arquitetura de informação', adjective 'digital', noun 'conteúdos'.

A sustentabilidade na indústria da moda passa também pela durabilidade dos materiais, incluindo a resistência dos bolsos ao uso contínuo.

Sustainability in the fashion industry also involves the durability of materials, including the resistance of pockets to continuous use.

Noun 'sustentabilidade', adjective 'durabilidade', noun 'resistência', noun 'uso contínuo'.

A democratização do acesso à tecnologia, embora benéfica, pode sobrecarregar o bolso do consumidor médio com custos de atualização constantes.

The democratization of access to technology, although beneficial, can overburden the pocket (finances) of the average consumer with constant upgrade costs.

Noun 'democratização', adjective 'benéfica', noun 'custos de atualização'.

O desenvolvimento de vestuário com múltiplos bolsos multifuncionais visa otimizar a organização pessoal e a praticidade em situações de mobilidade.

The development of clothing with multiple multifunctional pockets aims to optimize personal organization and practicality in mobility situations.

Adjective 'multifuncionais', verb 'otimizar', noun 'organização pessoal'.

A crítica social frequentemente aponta a disparidade económica como um fator que restringe o acesso a bens e serviços, efetivamente esvaziando o bolso de muitos.

Social criticism frequently points to economic disparity as a factor that restricts access to goods and services, effectively emptying the pocket (finances) of many.

Noun 'crítica social', noun 'disparidade económica', noun 'bens e serviços', figurative use.

A integração de sistemas de rastreamento em bolsos de segurança é uma medida de precaução para mitigar riscos em ambientes de alta segurança.

The integration of tracking systems in security pockets is a precautionary measure to mitigate risks in high-security environments.

Noun 'integração', noun 'sistemas de rastreamento', noun 'medida de precaução', noun 'ambientes de alta segurança'.

Common Collocations

bolso da calça

bolso do casaco

bolso interior

bolso exterior

bolso pequeno

bolso grande

bolso com fecho

bolso sem fecho

caber no bolso

estar no bolso

Common Phrases

No meu bolso

— In my pocket. This can be literal or figurative, referring to one's budget.

Tenho dinheiro no meu bolso para comprar o pão.

Perder algo no bolso

— To lose something from one's pocket.

Tenho receio de perder o meu telemóvel no bolso.

Caber no bolso

— To fit in a pocket (literally) or to be affordable (figuratively).

Este livro é pequeno e cabe no meu bolso.

Esvaziar o bolso

— To spend all one's money; to empty one's wallet or budget.

Comprar tantas coisas acabou por me esvaziar o bolso.

Caro para o meu bolso

— Too expensive for my budget.

Este carro é muito bonito, mas é caro para o meu bolso.

Ter bolsos

— To have pockets (on clothing).

É importante que as calças de trabalho tenham bolsos.

Não ter bolsos

— To not have pockets (on clothing).

Que pena, este vestido elegante não tem bolsos.

Guardar no bolso

— To put something in one's pocket.

Guarda as moedas no bolso para não as perder.

Procurar no bolso

— To search in one's pocket.

Estou a procurar no bolso pelas minhas chaves.

Encher o bolso

— To make a lot of money; to profit excessively.

Alguns comerciantes tentam encher o bolso à custa dos consumidores.

Often Confused With

bolso vs Bolsa

"Bolsa" primarily means 'handbag' or 'purse', and also 'scholarship'. It is feminine. 'Bolso' is masculine and refers to a pocket in clothing or a figurative financial capacity. Confusing them can lead to misunderstandings, e.g., saying 'dinheiro na bolsa' when you mean money in your pocket.

bolso vs Carteira

"Carteira" means 'wallet' or 'cardholder'. While often kept *in* a 'bolso', it is the item itself, not the pocket. Using 'bolso' when you mean 'carteira' would be incorrect.

bolso vs Saco

"Saco" means 'bag', usually a larger, separate item like a shopping bag. A 'bolso' is integrated into clothing. While a pocket is a type of small bag, 'saco' refers to a different category of item.

Idioms & Expressions

"Caro para o bolso"

— Too expensive for one's budget or financial means.

Adorei aquela televisão, mas era demasiado cara para o meu bolso.

Informal

"Não ter um tostão no bolso"

— To have absolutely no money; to be broke.

Depois de pagar todas as contas, fiquei sem um tostão no bolso.

Informal

"Encher o bolso"

— To make a large profit, often in a way that might be considered excessive or opportunistic.

A empresa de construção civil parece estar a encher o bolso com estes contratos públicos.

Informal/Figurative

"Esvaziar o bolso"

— To spend all one's money; to deplete one's financial resources.

A viagem de férias acabou por me esvaziar o bolso completamente.

Informal

"Ter o bolso furado"

— To be prone to spending money carelessly or to have expenses that constantly drain one's funds.

Eu tenho o bolso furado; nunca consigo poupar dinheiro.

Informal

"Pelo bolso"

— Literally 'by the pocket', but used figuratively to mean 'personally' or 'from one's own resources'.

Ele prefere fazer as coisas pelo bolso, sem pedir ajuda.

Figurative

"Pagar do próprio bolso"

— To pay for something using one's own money, especially when it might have been expected for someone else to pay.

O erro foi dele, mas teve de pagar do próprio bolso.

Neutral

"Meter a mão ao bolso"

— To take money out of one's pocket, usually to pay for something.

Quando o vendedor disse o preço, tive de meter a mão ao bolso imediatamente.

Neutral

"Ter um bolso de reserva"

— To have some money saved for emergencies or unexpected expenses.

É sempre bom ter um bolso de reserva para qualquer eventualidade.

Figurative

"O bolso está aberto"

— Refers to a situation where money is readily available or being spent freely.

Nesta época de festas, o bolso está aberto para os presentes.

Informal

Easily Confused

bolso vs Bolsa

Both words relate to carrying things and sound somewhat similar. 'Bolsa' can also be used metaphorically for financial means, similar to 'bolso'.

"Bolso" is masculine and refers specifically to a pocket sewn into clothing or a figurative financial capacity. "Bolsa" is feminine and primarily means 'handbag', 'purse', or 'scholarship'. While both can relate to money, 'bolso' is the direct term for the pocket where you'd put money, and 'bolsa' is the item you'd carry money in (handbag) or a grant.

Guardo o meu dinheiro no bolso da calça, não na minha bolsa.

bolso vs Carteira

Both 'bolso' and 'carteira' are associated with money and personal items. People often put their 'carteira' into their 'bolso'.

"Carteira" is the object itself, the wallet or cardholder, used to organize money and cards. "Bolso" is the pocket in clothing where you might place your 'carteira'. You put your 'carteira' *in* your 'bolso'.

A minha carteira está no bolso de trás da minha calça.

bolso vs Saco

Both are containers for carrying things.

"Saco" refers to a larger, separate bag (like a shopping bag or a duffel bag). "Bolso" refers to a pocket integrated into clothing. You carry groceries in a 'saco', but your keys might be in the 'bolso' of your jacket.

Preciso de um saco para as compras, mas o meu telemóvel cabe no bolso do casaco.

bolso vs Compartimento

Both refer to spaces for storage.

"Compartimento" is a more general term for any section or division within an object, not necessarily limited to clothing. A 'bolso' is a specific type of 'compartimento' found in garments. You can have compartments in a car, a bag, or a desk, but only 'bolsos' in your trousers.

O carro tem um compartimento de arrumação, e a minha jaqueta tem bolsos.

bolso vs Bolsinho

It's a diminutive form of 'bolso'.

"Bolsinho" specifically refers to a *small* pocket, often for coins or very small items. "Bolso" is the general term for any pocket, regardless of size. You might say 'Tenho moedas no bolsinho' (I have coins in the little pocket) vs. 'O meu telemóvel está no bolso' (My phone is in the pocket).

Guardo as minhas chaves no bolso principal e as moedas no bolsinho.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + tem + [number] + bolso(s).

Eu tenho um bolso.

[Item] + está + no + bolso.

O meu telemóvel está no bolso.

Preciso + de + um + bolso + para + [item].

Preciso de um bolso para as moedas.

O + bolso + [está/estão] + [adjective].

O bolso está rasgado.

Verifiquei + todos + os + bolsos + das + minhas + [clothing item].

Verifiquei todos os bolsos das minhas calças.

[Cost] + é + [adjective] + para + o + meu + bolso.

O preço é alto para o meu bolso.

O + design + do + [garment] + inclui + um + bolso + [adjective].

O design do casaco inclui um bolso secreto.

A + falta + de + bolsos + em + [item] + é + uma + crítica + [adjective].

A falta de bolsos em vestidos é uma crítica recorrente.

Word Family

Nouns

bolso

bolsinha

bolsada

Verbs

embolsar

desembolsar

Adjectives

bolsista

bolsa

carteira

saco

dinheiro

roupa

How to Use It

frequency

Very High

Common Mistakes

Using 'bolsas' for pockets. → bolsos
The word 'bolso' is masculine. Therefore, its plural form is 'bolsos', not 'bolsas' (which is the plural of 'bolsa', meaning handbag or scholarship). Example: 'As minhas calças têm dois bolsos.'
Confusing 'bolso' (pocket) with 'bolsa' (handbag/purse). → Use 'bolso' for clothing pockets and 'bolsa' for handbags.
'Bolso' is masculine and refers to clothing pockets. 'Bolsa' is feminine and refers to a handbag or purse. Saying 'Guardo o dinheiro na bolsa' means you put money in your handbag, not your trouser pocket.
Using the singular 'bolso' when referring to multiple pockets. → Use the plural 'bolsos'.
If an item of clothing has more than one pocket, you must use the plural form. Example: 'Este casaco tem bolsos.' (This coat has pockets), not 'Este casaco tem bolso.'
Misinterpreting the figurative meaning. → Understand 'caro para o bolso' means 'expensive for the budget'.
While 'bolso' literally means pocket, in phrases like 'caro para o meu bolso', it refers to financial affordability. A literal translation might not make sense. Example: 'Este carro é lindo, mas é caro para o meu bolso.'
Incorrect gender agreement. → Use masculine articles and adjectives with 'bolso'.
Since 'bolso' is masculine, it requires masculine articles ('o', 'um') and adjectives ('pequeno', 'grande', 'rasgado'). Example: 'o bolso pequeno', not 'a bolso pequeno'.

Tips

Master the Plural

Remember that 'bolso' is masculine and its plural is 'bolsos'. Pay attention to whether you're referring to one pocket or multiple pockets in your sentences. This is crucial for correct grammar.

Figurative vs. Literal

Understand the dual meaning of 'bolso'. While it primarily means a physical pocket, it's also frequently used metaphorically to discuss one's budget or financial capacity. Context will usually clarify which meaning is intended.

Vowel Sounds

Practice the pure vowel sounds in 'bolso', especially the 'o' sound, which is similar to the 'o' in 'go' but shorter and without the diphthong. The final 'u' is very short and unstressed.

Listen Actively

When listening to Portuguese, try to identify instances of 'bolso'. Notice how native speakers use it in relation to clothing, shopping, and discussions about money. This will help you grasp its nuances.

Agreement is Key

When using 'bolso' with articles, adjectives, or verbs, ensure they agree in gender (masculine) and number (singular/plural) with the noun. For example, 'o bolso pequeno' and 'os bolsos pequenos'.

Visualize Pockets

Create a mental image of different types of pockets – a deep trouser pocket, a small jacket pocket, a secure inner pocket. Associate the word 'bolso' with these visual cues to reinforce its meaning.

Distinguish from 'Bolsa'

Be mindful of the difference between 'bolso' (pocket, masculine) and 'bolsa' (handbag, purse, scholarship, feminine). This is a common area of confusion for learners.

Use it in Sentences

Actively try to use 'bolso' in your own sentences, both literally (describing clothes) and figuratively (talking about budget). The more you use it, the more natural it will become.

Everyday Relevance

Recognize that 'bolso' is a highly frequent word in daily Portuguese. Its usage in idioms and common phrases makes it integral to understanding casual conversations and cultural references.

Trace the Origin

Knowing that 'bolso' comes from the Latin 'bulga' (leather bag) can help solidify its meaning as a container, connecting it to its historical roots and reinforcing its primary function.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a big, round **BOL**d **SO**ldier stuffing his hands into his large pockets. The image of the soldier and his pockets helps remember the word 'bolso'.

Visual Association

Picture a pair of jeans with very prominent, deep pockets. Visualize putting a wallet or phone into one of these pockets. The word 'bolso' is directly associated with this visual.

Word Web

Pocket Clothing Money Keys Phone Bag Pouch Budget

Challenge

Try to identify all the pockets on your clothing right now and say "bolso" for each one. Then, try to describe what you keep in each bolso.

Word Origin

The word "bolso" comes from the Latin word "bulga," which referred to a leather bag or a wineskin. This Latin word itself is believed to have origins in a Celtic word for a type of bag.

Original meaning: A bag or pouch, often made of leather.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Portuguese.

Cultural Context

The figurative use of 'bolso' to discuss finances should be handled with sensitivity, as it can touch upon personal economic situations.

In English, 'pocket' is the direct equivalent. The figurative use of 'pocket' to mean budget or financial means is also common, e.g., 'It's too expensive for my pocket.'

The expression 'dinheiro no bolso' (money in the pocket) is a common colloquialism. Songs or poems might reference a lover's 'bolso' as a place where secrets are kept. In fashion contexts, the design and number of 'bolsos' are often discussed as key features of garments.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Describing Clothing

Tem bolsos?
Onde ficam os bolsos?
Este casaco tem bolsos interiores.
Prefiro calças com bolsos laterais.

Carrying Items

Guarda as chaves no bolso.
O meu telemóvel está no bolso.
Não encontro nada no bolso.
Pode pôr isto no seu bolso?

Talking About Money/Budget

É caro para o meu bolso.
Não tenho dinheiro no bolso.
Este preço cabe no meu bolso.
Esvaziou-me o bolso.

Shopping for Clothes

Este modelo tem bolsos?
Adoro esta camisa, tem bolsos práticos.
Preciso de uma calça com bolsos resistentes.

Describing Condition/Features

O bolso está rasgado.
Este bolso tem fecho.
Um bolso pequeno para moedas.

Conversation Starters

"O que é que costumas guardar nos teus bolsos?"

"Preferes roupas com ou sem bolsos? Porquê?"

"Alguma vez perdeste algo importante no bolso?"

"Achaste que este preço foi justo para o teu bolso?"

"Que tipo de bolso achas mais útil num casaco?"

Journal Prompts

Descreve a tua peça de roupa favorita e todos os seus bolsos.

Pensa numa situação em que um bolso foi particularmente útil ou inútil para ti.

Como é que a falta de bolsos em certas roupas te afeta?

Reflete sobre as tuas despesas recentes. O teu bolso permitiu-te comprar tudo o que querias?

Imagina uma peça de roupa futurista com bolsos inovadores. Como seriam?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Primarily, yes. 'Bolso' most commonly refers to the pocket sewn into clothing like trousers, shirts, or jackets. However, it can also be used for small, separate pouches or bags. Figuratively, it refers to one's financial capacity or budget. So, while its main meaning is clothing pocket, it has broader applications.

The plural of 'bolso' is 'bolsos'. Since 'bolso' is a masculine noun, you use masculine articles and adjectives with it. For example, 'o bolso' (the pocket) becomes 'os bolsos' (the pockets).

When referring to one's financial means or budget, 'bolso' is used figuratively. Common phrases include 'caro para o meu bolso' (expensive for my budget), 'não tenho dinheiro no bolso' (I don't have money in my pocket/I'm broke), or 'cabe no meu bolso' (it fits my budget/it's affordable).

This is a common point of confusion. 'Bolso' (masculine) is the pocket in clothing. 'Bolsa' (feminine) primarily means 'handbag' or 'purse', and can also mean 'scholarship'. So, you put your wallet ('carteira') in your pocket ('bolso'), and you carry your essentials in your handbag ('bolsa').

While a pocket is technically a type of small bag, 'bolso' specifically refers to pockets integrated into clothing or small, dedicated pouches. For larger bags like shopping bags or backpacks, you would use words like 'saco' or 'mochila'.

Yes, you can describe pockets using adjectives. For example, 'bolso interior' (inner pocket), 'bolso exterior' (outer pocket), 'bolso pequeno' (small pocket), 'bolso grande' (large pocket), 'bolso com fecho' (pocket with a zipper), or 'bolso secreto' (secret pocket). The diminutive 'bolsinho' refers to a very small pocket.

'Bolso' is used in both formal and informal contexts. In everyday conversation, it's very common. In more formal settings, like technical descriptions of clothing or economic reports, it might be used alongside more formal synonyms like 'compartimento' or in specific figurative expressions.

There isn't a single direct translation for 'pocket money' that uses 'bolso'. You might hear 'dinheiro de mesada' (allowance money) or simply 'dinheiro para gastar' (money to spend). If referring to money one has readily available, you might say 'dinheiro no bolso'.

No, 'bolso' is a noun. However, there are related verbs like 'embolsar' (to pocket, to embezzle) and 'desembolsar' (to disburse, to pay out money).

If someone says their 'bolso está furado' (their pocket is pierced/has a hole), it's an idiom meaning they spend money carelessly and can't seem to save any. They have constant expenses that drain their funds.