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A2 noun #7,000 most common 11 min read

chili

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips chili in 30 Seconds

Explanation chili in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn food vocabulary. The word 'chili' is useful because it is very similar to the English word, making it an easy 'cognate' to remember. At this stage, you should focus on simple sentences like 'Eu gosto de chili' (I like chili) or 'O chili é vermelho' (The chili is red). You will mostly see this word in the context of likes and dislikes or identifying basic ingredients in a kitchen. It's a great word to practice the masculine article 'o'. Even though you might not use it every day, knowing that 'chili' means a spicy pepper helps you understand menus when you travel to a Portuguese-speaking country. Remember that in Portuguese, we pronounce the 'ch' like 'sh', so it sounds like 'shili'. Don't worry about the different types of chili yet; just focus on the fact that it is 'picante' (spicy). You can use it to describe food: 'A comida tem chili' (The food has chili). This level is all about building a foundation, and 'chili' is a simple, recognizable brick in that foundation. You might also learn it alongside other colors and vegetables. For example, 'O chili é verde' or 'O chili é pequeno'. Practice saying the word out loud to get used to the Portuguese 'ch' sound. It's a fun word because it's international! You will find that many food words are similar across languages, and 'chili' is one of the best examples. Just remember: 'o chili' (masculine) and 'picante' (spicy).

At the A2 level, you can start using 'chili' in more practical, everyday situations. You might be following a simple recipe or ordering food in a restaurant. You should be able to ask questions like 'Este prato tem chili?' (Does this dish have chili?) or 'Você pode colocar menos chili, por favor?' (Can you put less chili, please?). At this stage, you are learning to express your preferences and needs more clearly. You will also start to see 'chili' used with prepositions, such as 'molho de chili' (chili sauce) or 'chili em pó' (chili powder). It's important to distinguish 'chili' from other peppers like 'pimentão' (bell pepper). You can now describe the chili with more adjectives: 'chili fresco' (fresh chili), 'chili seco' (dried chili), or 'chili muito forte' (very strong chili). You might also encounter it in the context of shopping: 'Onde está o chili?' (Where is the chili?). This level requires you to handle basic social interactions involving food. If you are invited to a dinner, you might say 'Eu não como chili porque é muito picante para mim' (I don't eat chili because it's too spicy for me). You are also beginning to understand that while 'chili' is used, 'pimenta' is the more common general term. This awareness of synonyms is a key part of the A2 level. Practice using 'chili' in the context of a 'noite mexicana' (Mexican night) with friends to make the vocabulary more relevant to your life.

By the B1 level, you can have longer conversations about food and culture. You can explain why you like or dislike 'chili' and compare it to other spices. For example, 'Eu prefiro chili do que pimenta-do-reino porque o sabor é mais complexo' (I prefer chili over black pepper because the flavor is more complex). You can also talk about your experiences with spicy food: 'Uma vez eu comi um chili tão forte que tive que beber muito leite' (Once I ate a chili so strong that I had to drink a lot of milk). At this level, you should be comfortable using 'chili' in the past and future tenses. You might describe a meal you had: 'O chef usou chili fresco no peixe e ficou delicioso' (The chef used fresh chili on the fish and it was delicious). You will also start to notice the cultural nuances of the word. You understand that 'chili' is often associated with international food, while 'piripiri' or 'malagueta' are more traditional. You can participate in discussions about cooking techniques: 'Para diminuir o ardor do chili, você deve remover as sementes' (To reduce the heat of the chili, you should remove the seeds). This level is about moving beyond basic needs and starting to express opinions and give advice. You might give a friend a recipe: 'Primeiro, você refoga a cebola e depois adiciona o chili picado' (First, you sauté the onion and then add the chopped chili). Your vocabulary is expanding, and 'chili' is now part of a larger web of culinary terms.

At the B2 level, you can understand and use 'chili' in more specialized and technical contexts. You might read articles about the health benefits of capsaicin or the history of the spice trade. You can discuss the nuances of different varieties: 'O chili habanero tem notas frutadas, enquanto o chili jalapeño é mais herbáceo' (The habanero chili has fruity notes, while the jalapeño chili is more herbaceous). Your ability to use the word in abstract or metaphorical ways increases, although 'chili' itself remains mostly literal. You can follow complex recipes and cooking shows without much difficulty. You might notice how 'chili' is used in marketing to appeal to a younger, more cosmopolitan demographic. You can debate the authenticity of dishes: 'Este chili com carne não é autêntico porque falta o tempero correto' (This chili con carne isn't authentic because it lacks the correct seasoning). At this level, you are also aware of regional variations in pronunciation and usage across the Lusophone world. You know that in Portugal, 'chili' might be seen as a modern addition to the kitchen, whereas in Brazil, it's deeply tied to the popular 'chili con carne' dish. You can use 'chili' in formal writing, such as a food blog or a restaurant review, using precise vocabulary: 'A ardência do chili estava perfeitamente equilibrada com a acidez do limão' (The heat of the chili was perfectly balanced with the acidity of the lime). You are now a confident user of the word in almost any context.

At the C1 level, you have a near-native command of the word 'chili' and its place in the Portuguese language. You can appreciate the linguistic journey of the word—from the Nahuatl 'chīlli' to the Portuguese 'chili' via English or Spanish. You can discuss the socio-economic impact of chili production in countries like India or Mexico in fluent Portuguese. You understand subtle stylistic choices; for instance, why an author might choose the word 'chili' over 'pimenta' to evoke a specific international or modern atmosphere. You can engage in deep culinary critiques: 'A incorporação do chili nesta receita de fusão luso-asiática demonstra uma compreensão profunda das escalas de picância' (The incorporation of chili in this Luso-Asian fusion recipe demonstrates a deep understanding of spiciness scales). Your reading comprehension is high enough to understand botanical texts or historical treatises on the genus Capsicum. You can also use the word in complex grammatical structures, such as the passive voice or the subjunctive mood in hypothetical scenarios: 'Se eles tivessem usado chili fresco em vez de seco, o prato teria mais vivacidade' (If they had used fresh chili instead of dried, the dish would have more vibrancy). You are aware of the 'Red Hot Chili Peppers' band's influence on the word's recognition among the youth. You can navigate any conversation involving 'chili', whether it's a scientific discussion, a historical analysis, or a high-end culinary debate, with ease and precision.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'chili' is complete. You can use the word with the same nuance and cultural depth as a highly educated native speaker. You might analyze the semiotics of 'chili' in contemporary Portuguese advertising or its role in the 'gourmetization' of traditional markets. You can write academic papers or professional culinary guides that include 'chili' in a broad range of contexts. You are sensitive to the finest distinctions between 'chili', 'pimenta', 'piripiri', and 'malagueta', and you can explain these differences to others with clarity. You can use the word in wordplay, puns, or sophisticated humor. Your understanding of the word is not just linguistic but also cultural, historical, and scientific. You could discuss the chemical interaction of capsaicin with pain receptors in the human body, using 'chili' as the primary example. You are also aware of the most obscure uses of the word, perhaps in old botanical records or specific regional dialects that have been influenced by global trade. At this level, 'chili' is no longer just a vocabulary word; it is a versatile tool that you can use to express complex ideas about food, culture, and science. You can switch between formal, academic registers and informal, colloquial registers effortlessly. You are, for all intents and purposes, a master of the word and its many layers of meaning within the Portuguese-speaking world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

chili in 30 Seconds

Chili is a masculine noun in Portuguese ('o chili') referring to spicy peppers.
It is primarily used in culinary contexts, especially for international or spicy dishes.
The word is a loanword, often distinguished from the more general term 'pimenta'.
Common forms include 'chili em pó' (powder) and 'molho de chili' (sauce).

The word chili in Portuguese is a direct loanword used to describe the spicy fruit of the capsicum plant, specifically those associated with international cuisines such as Mexican, Tex-Mex, or Thai food. While the Portuguese language has a very strong and ancient tradition of using the word 'pimenta' to describe all types of peppers, 'chili' has entered the lexicon to differentiate specific varieties or dishes. In a linguistic context, 'chili' is a masculine noun ('o chili') and is predominantly used in culinary discussions, recipe books, and restaurant menus. When you are in a supermarket in Brazil or Portugal, you might see 'chili' on a label for a specific spice mix or a specific type of hot pepper that isn't the native 'malagueta'.

Botanical Context: In Portuguese, 'chili' refers to varieties of Capsicum annuum or Capsicum chinense that possess a high level of capsaicin, providing the characteristic heat or 'ardência'.

Eu adicionei um pouco de chili em pó para dar mais sabor ao guisado.

The usage of this word has grown significantly with the globalization of food. If you go to a traditional Portuguese 'tasca', you are more likely to hear 'piripiri', which is the local term for small, hot peppers. However, in a modern burger joint or a Mexican restaurant in Lisbon or São Paulo, 'chili' is the standard term. It is important to note that 'chili' is often used to refer to the dish 'chili con carne' as well. In this case, the word stands in for the entire recipe.

Culinary Register: The term is considered slightly more 'gourmet' or international than the common 'pimenta'.

Este molho de chili é extremamente picante, tenha cuidado ao provar.

Historically, the Portuguese were the ones who spread chili peppers around the world during the Age of Discovery, but they didn't use the word 'chili' back then; they called them 'pimenta-da-índia' or simply 'pimenta'. Today, the re-importation of the word 'chili' from English or Spanish highlights the circular nature of linguistic and culinary exchange. You will find 'chili' used in marketing, particularly for snacks like 'chili-flavored' chips or crackers. It evokes a specific flavor profile: smoky, spicy, and slightly acidic, distinct from the pure heat of a raw pepper.

Social Usage: Used among friends when discussing international recipes or during a 'noite de tacos' (taco night).

Você prefere o chili verde ou o vermelho nesta receita?

O chef decorou o prato com fatias finas de chili fresco.

Comprei uma muda de chili para plantar na minha horta urbana.

In summary, use 'chili' when you want to sound specific about international flavors or when referring to products labeled as such. It is a word that bridges the gap between traditional Portuguese ingredients and the globalized palate.

Using chili in a sentence requires an understanding of its role as a noun. In Portuguese, nouns have gender, and 'chili' is masculine. This means you must use the articles 'o', 'um', 'do' (de + o), and 'no' (em + o). For example, you would say 'O chili está forte' (The chili is strong). Because it is a loanword, its pluralization can be tricky. While some might use 'chilis', others treat it as an uncountable mass noun in certain contexts, or simply use 'pimentas chili' to make the plural clear.

As a Subject: O chili é um ingrediente essencial na cozinha mexicana.

O chili que você comprou é muito ardido.

When describing the intensity of the spice, you use adjectives like 'picante' (spicy), 'ardente' (burning), or 'suave' (mild). You can also use 'chili' as a modifier for other nouns, though in Portuguese this often requires the preposition 'de'. For instance, 'molho de chili' (chili sauce) or 'pó de chili' (chili powder). This structure is very common in recipes.

As an Object: Eu não gosto de colocar muito chili na comida.

Ela cortou o chili em pedaços bem pequenos.

In more advanced usage, you might discuss the 'variedades de chili' (varieties of chili). Here, you are using the word to categorize different types of peppers. For example, 'O chili habanero é um dos mais fortes' (The habanero chili is one of the strongest). Notice how 'chili' acts as a generic category name here.

Prepositional Phrases: Eles temperaram a carne com chili e cominho.

Nós pedimos uma porção extra de chili seco.

O segredo deste prato é o chili defumado.

Você pode substituir o chili por pimenta-do-reino se preferir algo menos picante.

When writing, remember that 'chili' is spelled with an 'i' at the end in Portuguese, mirroring the English spelling, although sometimes you might see 'chile' (the Spanish spelling), which can be confused with the country Chile. Stick to 'chili' for the food item to avoid ambiguity. The word is versatile and fits into both simple everyday sentences and complex culinary descriptions.

You will encounter the word chili in a variety of modern settings across the Portuguese-speaking world. The most common place is in supermarkets, specifically in the international food aisle or the spice section. Labels will often read 'Chili em Pó' (Chili Powder) or 'Molho de Chili Doce' (Sweet Chili Sauce). If you are watching a cooking show on a Brazilian channel like GNT or a Portuguese channel like SIC Mulher, celebrity chefs frequently use 'chili' when preparing fusion or ethnic dishes. They might say, 'Agora, vamos picar um pouco de chili para dar aquele toque especial' (Now, let's chop a bit of chili to give it that special touch).

Restaurants: Menus at Mexican, Thai, or Indian restaurants in Lisbon, Porto, Rio, or São Paulo will almost certainly feature the word 'chili'.

Garçom, este prato leva muito chili?

In urban areas, 'food trucks' and 'gastropubs' are also hotspots for this term. It carries a connotation of trendiness. If a menu says 'Batatas com Chili', it sounds more modern than 'Batatas com Pimenta'. Another context is health and fitness circles. Chili is often discussed for its metabolism-boosting properties. You might hear a nutritionist say, 'O consumo de chili pode ajudar na queima de gordura' (The consumption of chili can help in burning fat).

Social Media: On Instagram or TikTok, Brazilian food influencers often use the hashtag #chili when showing off spicy food challenges or recipes.

Hoje a receita é um chili vegetariano delicioso!

You might also hear the word in the context of gardening. Many people in Portugal and Brazil have started growing exotic peppers at home. In gardening centers, you'll see seeds labeled as 'Chili Jalapeño' or 'Chili Caiena'. In these specialized contexts, 'chili' acts as a technical or commercial label.

Pop Culture: References to the band 'Red Hot Chili Peppers' are common, and people usually just say 'os Chili Peppers' or 'o Chili'.

A banda tocou sua música mais famosa no festival chili.

O mercado municipal tem uma banca só de chili e especiarias.

Eu vi um documentário sobre a história do chili nas Américas.

Ultimately, 'chili' is a word of the city, the modern kitchen, and the globalized market. It represents a specific segment of the culinary world that values heat, internationalism, and vibrant flavors.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing chili with 'pimentão'. In Portuguese, 'pimentão' refers to the large, sweet bell pepper which is not spicy at all. If you ask for 'chili' but expect a bell pepper, or vice versa, you will be in for a surprise. Another common error is using the wrong gender. Since 'pimenta' (the general word for pepper) is feminine, many students instinctively say 'a chili'. However, 'chili' is masculine: 'o chili'.

Spelling Confusion: Confusing 'chili' with 'Chile' (the country). While pronounced similarly in some dialects, they are distinct in meaning and spelling.

Errado: Eu gosto de comer Chile picante. (Wrong: I like to eat spicy Chile.)

Learners also often struggle with the distinction between 'chili' and 'pimenta-do-reino'. 'Pimenta-do-reino' is black pepper (the kind you find in a pepper shaker). If a recipe calls for 'chili' and you use black pepper, the flavor profile will be completely different. 'Chili' implies a capsicum-based heat.

Pronunciation Pitfall: Pronouncing the 'ch' as a 'k' sound. In Portuguese, 'ch' is always a 'sh' sound (like 'shoe'). So 'chili' sounds like 'shili'.

Certo: O chili (pronunciado como 'shili') está no armário.

Another mistake is the over-application of the word. While 'chili' is understood, using it for every spicy situation can sound unnatural. If you are talking about a traditional Brazilian 'feijoada', you should use 'pimenta', not 'chili'. Using 'chili' in a traditional context can make you sound like you are trying too hard to be international or that you don't know the local culture.

Pluralization: Adding an 'es' at the end (chilies) is an English rule. In Portuguese, it's safer to say 'os chilis' or keep it singular as a collective noun.

Errado: Eu comprei três chilies. (Correct: Eu comprei três pimentas chili.)

Certo: Este molho de chili é muito picante.

Certo: Você pôs chili demais no feijão.

Finally, be careful with 'chili' in Portugal vs. Brazil. In Portugal, 'chili' is almost exclusively the spice or the international pepper. In Brazil, it very often refers specifically to the dish 'Chili con Carne'. If you tell a Brazilian friend 'Eu fiz chili', they will expect a bowl of beans and meat, not a bowl of peppers!

To truly master Portuguese, you need to know the alternatives to chili and when to use them. The most important synonym is 'pimenta'. This is the umbrella term for all peppers. However, 'pimenta' is a broad category. If you want to be specific, you use modifiers.

Pimenta vs. Chili: 'Pimenta' is the general term. 'Chili' is specific to certain spicy varieties often used in international cooking.

Eu prefiro usar chili em pratos mexicanos e pimenta malagueta em pratos brasileiros.

Another common word is 'piripiri'. This is used extensively in Portugal and former Portuguese colonies in Africa (like Angola and Mozambique). It refers to a very small, very hot pepper. In Portugal, 'frango com piripiri' is a national staple. If you are in Lisbon, you'll use 'piripiri' where an American might use 'chili sauce'.

Malagueta: In Brazil, the 'pimenta malagueta' is the gold standard for heat. It is small, red, and very potent.

A malagueta é mais forte que o chili que usamos ontem.

Then there is 'dedo-de-moça'. This is a very popular pepper in Brazil, translated literally as 'young lady's finger'. It is medium-hot and often used fresh in salsas or preserved in oil. It is a great alternative to 'chili' if you want a local Brazilian flavor.

Pimenta-do-reino: Peppercorns. Used for seasoning but doesn't provide the 'capsicum burn' of chili.

Não confunda chili com pimenta-do-reino; o sabor é totalmente diferente.

For those who want the flavor without the heat, 'pimentão' is the word. As mentioned before, this is the bell pepper. In Portugal, it's also called 'pimento'.

Páprica: Paprika. Made from dried peppers. 'Páprica picante' can be a substitute for chili powder.

Se não tiver chili, use um pouco de páprica picante.

O mercado tem uma grande variedade de chilis e pimentas locais.

A culinária baiana usa muita pimenta, mas raramente usa a palavra chili.

Understanding these nuances helps you navigate the grocery store and the kitchen with confidence, ensuring you get the right level of heat for your meal.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The Portuguese were actually responsible for spreading chili peppers to Asia and Africa in the 16th century, but they called them 'pimenta'. The word 'chili' only returned to the Portuguese language much later as a globalized term.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈtʃɪli/

US /ˈtʃɪli/

The stress is on the first syllable: CHI-li.

Rhymes With

fili bili quili mili tili pili vili zili

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ch' as a 'k' sound (like in 'chemistry'). In Portuguese, it is always 'sh'.
Swallowing the final 'i'. It should be clearly pronounced.
Confusing the pronunciation with the Spanish 'ch' which is harder (t-sh).
Adding an extra vowel sound at the end.
Stress on the final syllable (chi-LI), which is incorrect.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy because it is almost identical to the English word.

Writing 1/5

Simple spelling, just remember it ends in 'i'.

Speaking 2/5

Need to remember the 'sh' sound for the 'ch'.

Listening 2/5

Can be confused with 'Chile' if not careful with context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

pimenta comida picante vermelho gostar

Learn Next

especiaria tempero receita ingrediente ardência

Advanced

capsaicina gastronomia conservante híbrido pungência

Grammar to Know

Loanwords in Portuguese usually take the gender of the closest native equivalent or follow a default masculine rule.

O chili (masculine) because most borrowed food nouns are masculine.

The 'ch' digraph in Portuguese always represents the /ʃ/ sound (like 'sh' in English).

Chili sounds like 'shili', not 't-shili'.

Nouns ending in 'i' typically add 's' to form the plural.

Um chili, dois chilis.

Prepositional contraction with the definite article is mandatory.

Gosto DO chili (de + o), não DE O chili.

Adjectives must agree in gender and number with the noun 'chili'.

Os chilis vermelhos (plural masculine).

Examples by Level

O chili é vermelho.

The chili is red.

Simple subject-adjective agreement.

Eu gosto de chili.

I like chili.

Verb 'gostar' requires the preposition 'de'.

O chili é picante.

The chili is spicy.

Masculine noun 'chili' with masculine adjective 'picante'.

Você tem chili?

Do you have chili?

Direct question using the verb 'ter'.

O chili está na mesa.

The chili is on the table.

Use of 'estar' for temporary location.

Um chili pequeno.

A small chili.

Indefinite article 'um' used with 'chili'.

Eu não como chili.

I don't eat chili.

Negative sentence structure.

O chili é um vegetal.

The chili is a vegetable.

Identifying a category.

Eu quero molho de chili.

I want chili sauce.

Noun phrase 'molho de chili'.

Este chili é muito forte.

This chili is very strong.

Demonstrative 'este' used with 'chili'.

Onde posso comprar chili?

Where can I buy chili?

Question with modal verb 'poder'.

O chili verde é bom.

The green chili is good.

Adjective 'verde' following the noun.

Eu uso chili na carne.

I use chili on the meat.

Preposition 'na' (em + a).

O chili dá sabor à comida.

Chili gives flavor to the food.

Verb 'dar' followed by 'sabor'.

Você prefere chili ou pimenta?

Do you prefer chili or pepper?

Comparative question.

Comprei chili no mercado.

I bought chili at the market.

Past tense 'comprei'.

Se você colocar muito chili, vai ficar ardido.

If you put too much chili, it will be spicy.

Conditional 'se' with future 'vai ficar'.

Eu aprendi a fazer chili con carne.

I learned how to make chili con carne.

Verb 'aprender a' followed by infinitive.

O chili fresco é melhor que o seco.

Fresh chili is better than dried.

Comparative 'melhor que'.

Ela sempre tira as sementes do chili.

She always takes the seeds out of the chili.

Frequency adverb 'sempre'.

Nós provamos um chili típico do México.

We tasted a typical chili from Mexico.

Past tense 'provamos'.

O chili é rico em vitamina C.

Chili is rich in vitamin C.

Adjective phrase 'rico em'.

Eu não sabia que o chili era tão popular aqui.

I didn't know that chili was so popular here.

Imperfect tense 'sabia' and 'era' in a subordinate clause.

Você deve lavar as mãos após tocar no chili.

You must wash your hands after touching the chili.

Modal verb 'deve' and preposition 'após'.

A ardência do chili depende da quantidade de capsaicina.

The heat of the chili depends on the amount of capsaicin.

Verb 'depender' requires 'de'.

Muitas pessoas cultivam chili em vasos em casa.

Many people grow chili in pots at home.

Plural subject with 'muitas pessoas'.

O chili tornou-se um ingrediente global.

Chili has become a global ingredient.

Reflexive verb 'tornar-se'.

Apesar de ser picante, o chili tem um sabor adocicado.

Despite being spicy, the chili has a sweetish flavor.

Concessive 'apesar de' followed by infinitive.

O uso do chili na culinária asiática é fascinante.

The use of chili in Asian cuisine is fascinating.

Abstract noun 'uso' as subject.

Dizem que o chili ajuda a acelerar o metabolismo.

They say that chili helps to speed up the metabolism.

Impersonal 'dizem que'.

Existem centenas de variedades de chili no mundo.

There are hundreds of varieties of chili in the world.

Verb 'existir' in the plural.

O chili em pó pode ser guardado por muito tempo.

Chili powder can be kept for a long time.

Passive voice 'pode ser guardado'.

A disseminação do chili pelo mundo deve-se aos navegadores portugueses.

The spread of chili around the world is due to Portuguese navigators.

Pronominal verb 'dever-se a'.

O chili atua como um conservante natural em certas culturas.

Chili acts as a natural preservative in certain cultures.

Verb 'atuar como'.

É imperativo que o chili seja colhido no momento certo.

It is imperative that the chili be harvested at the right time.

Subjunctive mood 'seja colhido' after 'é imperativo que'.

A complexidade aromática do chili é frequentemente subestimada.

The aromatic complexity of chili is often underestimated.

Passive voice with feminine subject 'complexidade'.

O chili pode desencadear uma liberação de endorfinas no cérebro.

Chili can trigger a release of endorphins in the brain.

Technical verb 'desencadear'.

A escala Scoville mede a intensidade de calor do chili.

The Scoville scale measures the heat intensity of chili.

Specific technical terminology.

O chili tornou-se um símbolo da identidade culinária de várias nações.

Chili has become a symbol of the culinary identity of several nations.

Noun phrase 'identidade culinária'.

Não se pode ignorar a importância econômica do comércio de chili.

One cannot ignore the economic importance of the chili trade.

Impersonal 'não se pode'.

A onipresença do chili na gastronomia contemporânea reflete a globalização dos paladares.

The omnipresence of chili in contemporary gastronomy reflects the globalization of palates.

Sophisticated abstract vocabulary.

O chili, outrora uma curiosidade botânica, é hoje um pilar da indústria alimentícia.

Chili, formerly a botanical curiosity, is today a pillar of the food industry.

Use of the archaic/formal adverb 'outrora'.

A variabilidade genética do chili permite a criação de híbridos cada vez mais resistentes.

The genetic variability of chili allows for the creation of increasingly resistant hybrids.

Scientific register.

A percepção sensorial do chili é mediada por receptores térmicos específicos.

The sensory perception of chili is mediated by specific thermal receptors.

Highly technical passive construction.

O chili transcende a mera função de tempero, assumindo um papel ritualístico em certas etnias.

Chili transcends the mere function of seasoning, assuming a ritualistic role in certain ethnicities.

Gerund 'assumindo' for simultaneous action.

A pungência do chili é uma defesa evolutiva contra predadores mamíferos.

The pungency of chili is an evolutionary defense against mammalian predators.

Biological terminology.

Analisar o chili sob uma ótica antropológica revela padrões migratórios humanos.

Analyzing chili from an anthropological perspective reveals human migratory patterns.

Infinitive as subject.

A sofisticação das técnicas de dessecação do chili influenciou a conservação de alimentos.

The sophistication of chili drying techniques influenced food preservation.

Complex noun-heavy sentence structure.

Common Collocations

chili em pó

molho de chili

chili con carne

chili fresco

chili seco

chili picante

chili verde

chili vermelho

tempero de chili

sementes de chili

Common Phrases

com chili

— With chili. Used to describe a dish that contains the spice.

Eu quero um hambúrguer com chili.

sem chili

— Without chili. Used to request a non-spicy version.

Por favor, faça o meu prato sem chili.

gosto de chili

— Chili flavor. Refers to the specific taste of the pepper.

Este salgadinho tem um gosto de chili forte.

extra chili

— Extra chili. A request for more heat.

Pode colocar extra chili no meu taco?

toque de chili

— A touch of chili. Suggests a small, subtle amount.

A sopa tem apenas um toque de chili.

base de chili

— Chili-based. Describes a sauce or seasoning where chili is the main ingredient.

É um molho à base de chili.

variedade de chili

— Variety of chili. Refers to the different types available.

Qual variedade de chili você usou?

plantar chili

— To plant chili. Refers to gardening.

Vou plantar chili no meu quintal.

chili moído

— Ground chili. Another way to say chili powder.

Use chili moído na hora para mais aroma.

chili defumado

— Smoked chili. Refers to varieties like chipotle.

O chili defumado dá um sabor incrível ao churrasco.

Often Confused With

chili vs Chile

The country. Pronounced similarly but spelled with 'e' and refers to geography.

chili vs Pimentão

Bell pepper. Looks similar in some varieties but is sweet, not spicy.

chili vs Pimenta-do-reino

Black pepper. A completely different spice (peppercorns).

Idioms & Expressions

"pôr chili na ferida"

— Literally 'to put chili on the wound'. It means to make a bad situation even worse or more painful.

Ele perdeu o emprego e ela pôs chili na ferida ao criticar seus gastos.

informal

"estar com o chili"

— To be angry or 'fired up'. (Note: More common with 'pimenta', but used with 'chili' in modern urban slang).

Cuidado, o chefe hoje está com o chili!

slang

"chili nos olhos dos outros é refresco"

— A variation of the common 'pimenta nos olhos dos outros é refresco'. It means that other people's problems seem easy to us.

É fácil dizer que eu devo ter calma; chili nos olhos dos outros é refresco.

informal

"quente como chili"

— Very hot, either temperature-wise or referring to a person's temperament.

Este deserto é quente como chili.

informal

"dar um chili"

— To give a 'kick' or a boost to something.

Vamos dar um chili nessa festa com uma música melhor.

slang

"chili na veia"

— To have 'chili in the veins'. Used for someone who is very energetic or brave.

Aquele piloto tem chili na veia.

informal

"não vale um chili"

— It's worth nothing. (Variation of 'não vale um tostão').

Essa ideia não vale um chili.

informal

"comer chili com a colher"

— To be very tough or used to hardship.

Ele é durão, come chili com a colher.

informal

"sangue de chili"

— To be quick-tempered.

Cuidado com ele, tem sangue de chili.

informal

"chili de ouro"

— Something that is surprisingly good or valuable in a spicy/intense way.

Este novo álbum é um chili de ouro.

informal

Easily Confused

chili vs Pimenta

Both refer to spicy things.

Pimenta is general; chili is specific and often international.

Toda chili é uma pimenta, mas nem toda pimenta é um chili.

chili vs Piripiri

Both are hot peppers.

Piripiri is the specific Portuguese/African term; chili is the global term.

Em Portugal, prefira dizer piripiri.

chili vs Malagueta

Both are very spicy.

Malagueta is a specific Brazilian variety; chili is a broader category.

A malagueta é a rainha das pimentas no Brasil.

chili vs Páprica

Both are red powders.

Páprica is dried and ground peppers, often mild; chili powder is specifically hot.

A páprica é mais doce que o chili.

chili vs Molho Picante

Both refer to hot sauce.

Molho picante is any hot sauce; molho de chili is specifically made from chili peppers.

Este molho picante é feito de chili.

Sentence Patterns

O chili é [adjetivo].

O chili é verde.

Eu quero [substantivo] com chili.

Eu quero arroz com chili.

Se você colocar chili, o prato fica [adjetivo].

Se você colocar chili, o prato fica forte.

O chili é conhecido por [verbo].

O chili é conhecido por arder muito.

Apesar do chili ser [adjetivo], ele também é [adjetivo].

Apesar do chili ser picante, ele também é aromático.

O chili desempenha um papel [adjetivo] na cozinha.

O chili desempenha um papel fundamental na cozinha.

A onipresença do chili sugere que [frase].

A onipresença do chili sugere que o mundo adora temperos fortes.

Sob a perspectiva do chili, podemos ver [substantivo].

Sob a perspectiva do chili, podemos ver a história das navegações.

Word Family

Nouns

pimenta

pimentão

pimenteiro

picância

Verbs

apimentar

picar

arder

Adjectives

picante

ardente

apimentado

capsaicina

especiaria

condimento

tempero

culinária

How to Use It

frequency

Common in urban culinary contexts; less common in traditional rural settings.

Common Mistakes

Using 'a chili' instead of 'o chili'. → O chili.
Learners often apply the feminine gender of 'pimenta' to 'chili', but 'chili' is masculine.
Spelling it as 'chile' when referring to the food. → Chili.
In Portuguese, 'Chile' is the country. 'Chili' is the food item.
Pronouncing it with a 'k' sound. → Pronounce as 'shili'.
The Portuguese 'ch' is always a soft 'sh' sound, never a 'k' or 't-sh'.
Using 'chili' to mean bell pepper. → Pimentão.
This is a dangerous mistake if you don't like spicy food! 'Chili' is hot; 'pimentão' is not.
Assuming 'chili' means black pepper. → Pimenta-do-reino.
Black pepper comes from a different plant entirely. 'Chili' refers to capsicum peppers.

Tips

Gender Agreement

Remember that 'chili' is masculine. Even if you are used to 'pimenta' being feminine, 'o chili' must always take masculine modifiers.

The 'CH' Sound

In Portuguese, 'ch' is never 't-sh'. It is always a smooth 'sh' sound. Practice saying 'shili' to get it right.

Chili vs. Pimentão

Never confuse these two. One will burn your mouth, the other is sweet. 'Chili' = hot, 'Pimentão' = sweet.

Regional Preference

In Portugal, say 'piripiri' for local spice. In Brazil, 'chili' usually means the bean stew. Use 'pimenta' for the raw pepper to be safe.

Removing Seeds

If a recipe with 'chili' is too hot for you, remove the 'sementes' (seeds). That's where most of the 'capsaicina' is.

Labels

Look for 'chili em pó' in the spice aisle. It's often sold in small glass jars or plastic sachets.

Ordering Food

When ordering, if you are unsure of the heat, ask: 'É muito picante?' (Is it very spicy?).

Vitamin C

Did you know 'chili' has more Vitamin C than oranges? It's a healthy addition to your diet in moderation.

Loanword Status

Because it's a loanword, you might see different spellings in old books, but 'chili' is the modern standard.

Easy to Grow

Chili plants are very easy to grow in pots. Just give them plenty of 'sol' (sun) and 'água' (water).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a **CHILLY** day where you eat a hot **CHILI** to warm up. The spelling is almost the same!

Visual Association

Imagine a bright red, curved pepper that looks like the letter 'C' for Chili.

Word Web

picante vermelho México tempero pimenta ardência molho comida

Challenge

Try to use the word 'chili' three times today: once when talking about a recipe, once when looking at a menu, and once when describing a spicy flavor.

Word Origin

Borrowed from English 'chili', which came from Spanish 'chile', which in turn came from the Nahuatl word 'chīlli'.

Original meaning: The fruit of the capsicum plant.

Uto-Aztecan (Nahuatl) via Indo-European (Spanish/English).

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'picante' levels vary wildly. What is 'suave' for one person might be 'explosivo' for another. Always warn guests if a dish contains 'chili'.

English speakers use 'chili' for both the pepper and the stew. Portuguese speakers use 'chili' for the pepper/spice, but 'chili con carne' for the stew.

Red Hot Chili Peppers (American band popular in Brazil/Portugal) Chili con Carne (Universal dish name) The Scoville Scale (used in Portuguese culinary blogs)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Mexican Restaurant

Quero o chili con carne.
Tem chili neste taco?
Gostaria de mais chili, por favor.
O chili é muito forte?

At the Supermarket

Onde fica o chili em pó?
Vocês têm chili fresco?
Quanto custa o molho de chili?
Este chili é importado?

Cooking at Home

Vou picar o chili agora.
Não esqueça de tirar as sementes do chili.
Adicione uma pitada de chili.
O chili dá uma cor bonita ao prato.

Discussing Health

O chili é bom para a saúde.
Chili acelera o metabolismo.
Eu como chili todos os dias.
Chili tem muitas vitaminas.

Gardening

Minha planta de chili está crescendo.
O chili precisa de muito sol.
Vou colher os chilis amanhã.
Como cuidar de um pé de chili?

Conversation Starters

"Você gosta de comida com muito chili ou prefere algo mais suave?"

"Qual é a sua variedade favorita de chili para cozinhar?"

"Você já provou o chili con carne que eles fazem naquele restaurante novo?"

"Você acha que o chili é mais saboroso fresco ou em pó?"

"Qual foi a coisa mais picante com chili que você já comeu na vida?"

Journal Prompts

Descreva uma refeição memorável que você comeu que levava chili.

Se você pudesse criar uma nova receita com chili, quais ingredientes usaria?

Escreva sobre a sua tolerância a pimenta e chili. Ela mudou com o tempo?

Por que você acha que o chili se tornou tão popular no mundo inteiro?

Imagine que você tem uma horta de chilis. Descreva as cores e os cheiros.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is masculine: 'o chili'. This is a common point of confusion because 'pimenta' is feminine. Always use masculine articles and adjectives.

It can refer to both. In Brazil, it often refers to 'chili con carne'. In Portugal, it more commonly refers to the spice or the pepper itself. Context is key.

The 'ch' is pronounced like 'sh' in 'show'. The 'i' at the end is clearly pronounced like the 'ee' in 'bee'. So it sounds like 'SHEE-lee'.

Mostly yes, but 'pimenta' is more natural for local varieties, while 'chili' is better for Mexican or Asian food contexts.

The plural is 'chilis'. However, many people prefer to say 'pimentas chili' to be more grammatically traditional in Portuguese.

It is becoming more common due to international food trends, but 'piripiri' is still the dominant word for spicy peppers there.

No, it is a standard culinary loanword. However, it can be used in slang expressions like 'estar com o chili'.

'Chili' is spicy and hot. 'Pimentão' is the bell pepper, which is sweet and used as a vegetable rather than a spice.

Rarely. Traditional Brazilian food uses 'pimenta malagueta', 'dedo-de-moça', or 'pimenta-de-cheiro'. 'Chili' is for modern or foreign dishes.

You can say 'chili suave' or 'chili pouco picante'. If you want no spice at all, say 'sem chili'.