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A2 noun #6,500 most common 10 min read

condomínio

Top 6,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips condomínio in 30 Seconds

Explanation condomínio in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'condomínio' as a word for where people live. Think of it as a 'big building with many apartments.' At this stage, you don't need to worry about the legal details. Just remember that many people in Brazil and Portugal don't live in houses on a street, but in a 'condomínio.' You will use it with the verb 'morar' (to live). For example: 'Eu moro num condomínio.' It is a masculine word, so we use 'o' or 'um.' You might also see it on a button in an elevator or on a sign outside a building. It is a very common word because cities are full of these buildings. Just think of it as a synonym for a residential complex. You should also know that these places usually have a gate (portão) and a person who works at the entrance (porteiro). When you visit a friend, you go to their 'condomínio.' It is one of the first 'housing' words you will encounter after 'casa' and 'apartamento.' Focus on the pronunciation: con-do-MÍ-nio. The 'mí' is the loud part!

At the A2 level, you begin to understand that 'condomínio' is more than just a building; it's also a monthly bill. You will hear people talk about 'pagar o condomínio' (paying the condo fee). This is an important part of daily life. You should also learn the phrase 'condomínio fechado,' which means a gated community. This is a very popular way to live in Brazil because it offers more security. At this level, you can start using the word to describe features of a home. For example, 'O condomínio tem piscina' (The condo has a pool) or 'O condomínio é caro' (The condo fee is expensive). You will also notice that 'condomínio' is used in addresses. You might see something like 'Condomínio Solar das Flores.' You should be able to ask someone how much their condo fee is: 'Quanto você paga de condomínio?' This is a common topic of conversation among friends who are looking for a place to live. You are moving beyond the physical building and starting to see the financial and social aspects of this type of housing.

By the B1 level, you should be familiar with the social and administrative side of the 'condomínio.' You will learn words like 'síndico' (the person who manages the building) and 'reunião de condomínio' (the residents' meeting). You can now discuss the rules of the building. For example, 'No meu condomínio, não pode ter cachorro grande' (In my condo, you can't have big dogs). You will understand that the 'condomínio' has its own set of laws called 'regimento interno.' At this level, you can express opinions about living in a shared space. You might talk about the advantages (security, leisure) and disadvantages (noise, high fees, meetings). You will also encounter the word in more complex sentences, such as 'O condomínio decidiu aumentar a taxa para pintar a fachada' (The condo decided to increase the fee to paint the facade). You should be comfortable using the word in the context of problems, like 'Vou reclamar com a administração do condomínio' (I'm going to complain to the condo administration). This shows you understand the 'condomínio' as an organization with power over the residents.

At the B2 level, you can handle more technical and legal discussions involving 'condomínio.' You understand that it is a legal entity with rights and obligations. You might read news articles about 'conflitos em condomínios' (conflicts in condos) or 'valorização imobiliária' (real estate appreciation). You can use the word to discuss urban planning and social issues, such as how 'condomínios fechados' affect the layout of a city. You will also know specific terms like 'fundo de reserva' (reserve fund) and 'chamada de capital' (extra fee for repairs). You can argue for or against certain condo policies in a formal meeting. For instance, 'Acredito que o condomínio deva investir em energia solar para reduzir custos' (I believe the condo should invest in solar energy to reduce costs). You understand the nuances between different types of condos, such as 'condomínio comercial' or 'condomínio logístico.' Your vocabulary now includes the verbs associated with condo management: 'administrar,' 'votar,' 'inadimplir' (to fail to pay), and 'notificar.' You are capable of reading a 'convenção de condomínio' (the condo's legal constitution) and understanding your rights as an owner or tenant.

At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of the 'condomínio' as a socio-economic phenomenon. You can discuss the legal intricacies of the 'Lei do Condomínio' in Brazil or Portugal. You understand the concept of 'fração ideal' (the proportional share of the land owned by each unit). You can engage in high-level debates about the 'condominização' of urban spaces and its impact on social segregation and public safety. You use the word 'condomínio' with precision in professional contexts, such as law, architecture, or real estate development. You can analyze the 'balancete do condomínio' (the financial statement) and identify discrepancies. Your language is rich with collocations like 'condomínio edilício' (the formal legal term for a building condo) or 'extinção de condomínio' (a legal process to end joint ownership). You can write formal letters to the 'conselho fiscal' (the audit committee) or the 'síndico' using appropriate legal and administrative terminology. You are also aware of the cultural representations of 'condomínio' life in contemporary Brazilian literature and film, recognizing it as a microcosm of broader societal tensions.

At the C2 level, your mastery of the term 'condomínio' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker or a legal expert. You can navigate the most complex legal disputes involving 'condomínios,' such as those related to 'direito de vizinhança' (neighbor law) or 'propriedade horizontal.' You can provide expert commentary on how the 'condomínio' structure influences the 'Plano Diretor' (master plan) of a metropolis. You understand the historical evolution of the concept from Roman law to modern 'multipropriedade' (timeshare). You can use the word metaphorically in political or philosophical discourse to describe shared governance or collective responsibility. You are fluent in the jargon of 'administradoras de condomínio' and can critique the effectiveness of different management models. You can draft complex legal documents, such as a 'regimento interno' that balances individual liberties with collective security. Your understanding includes the psychological aspects of 'vida em condomínio,' such as the 'síndrome do síndico' or the dynamics of 'assembleias' as exercises in local democracy. You possess a complete command of all the linguistic, legal, and cultural dimensions of the word.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

condomínio in 30 Seconds

A 'condomínio' is a residential or commercial complex with shared common areas and individual ownership.
The word is frequently used to refer to the monthly maintenance fee (taxa de condomínio) paid by residents.
It is managed by a 'síndico' (manager) and governed by internal rules (regimento interno) decided in meetings.
In Brazil, 'condomínio fechado' (gated community) is a very common and sought-after housing model for security.

The Portuguese word condomínio is a fundamental term for anyone navigating life in Brazil or Portugal, particularly in urban environments. At its most basic level, it refers to a building, a complex of buildings, or a gated community where individual units are privately owned, but common areas like hallways, elevators, pools, and gardens are shared and managed collectively. However, the word carries significantly more weight than the English 'condo' or 'apartment complex.' It encompasses the physical space, the legal entity that manages it, and the monthly fee paid by the residents to maintain the infrastructure. Understanding 'condomínio' is essential because it represents the dominant mode of middle and upper-class housing in Lusophone cities, reflecting a lifestyle centered on security, shared amenities, and a specific set of social and legal rules.

The Physical Entity: In a physical sense, a condomínio can range from a single high-rise building (condomínio vertical) to a sprawling gated community of houses (condomínio horizontal). When you tell someone 'Eu moro num condomínio,' you are implying that your residence is part of a managed collective rather than a standalone house on a public street.

O condomínio onde eu moro tem uma piscina olímpica e segurança vinte e quatro horas.

The Financial Aspect: Crucially, 'condomínio' is often used as a shorthand for the monthly maintenance fee itself. If a Brazilian says 'O condomínio está muito caro este mês,' they aren't complaining about the building's architecture, but rather the bill they received for the upkeep of shared services like security, cleaning, and water.

Esqueci de pagar o boleto do condomínio e agora vou ter que pagar multa.

The Legal and Social Entity: The word also refers to the governing body. Every condomínio has a 'regimento interno' (internal rules) and a 'síndico' (property manager). The 'assembleia de condomínio' is the meeting where residents vote on changes, budgets, and disputes. Use the word when discussing administrative issues or neighborly relations within the complex.

A reunião de condomínio ontem foi muito polêmica devido ao barulho dos animais.

Este condomínio fechado oferece muita privacidade para as famílias.

O valor do condomínio inclui água e segurança armada.

Using the word condomínio correctly involves understanding its role as a masculine noun and its various semantic applications. It is almost always preceded by the definite article 'o' or the indefinite article 'um'. When discussing location, the preposition 'em' contracts with the article to become 'no' (em + o) or 'num' (em + um). For example, 'Eu moro no condomínio' (I live in the condominium). Because the word covers both the physical structure and the administrative fee, context is key to determining which meaning is intended.

Describing Location and Residence: When you want to specify where someone lives, 'condomínio' is used to highlight the type of community. 'Condomínio fechado' is the standard term for a gated community. You might say, 'Eles compraram uma casa em um condomínio fechado em Campinas.' This emphasizes the security and the shared nature of the property.

O condomínio fica localizado perto do centro da cidade.

Discussing Costs and Fees: In real estate transactions or monthly budgeting, 'condomínio' is a quantifiable expense. You 'pay' the condomínio (pagar o condomínio) or 'calculate' it (calcular o valor do condomínio). It is common to ask, 'Quanto é o condomínio?' meaning 'How much is the monthly fee?' This is a vital question for anyone renting or buying property.

O preço do aluguel é baixo, mas o condomínio é caríssimo.

Administration and Rules: When referring to the legal entity, 'condomínio' acts as the subject of verbs related to management. 'O condomínio decidiu proibir festas após as dez da noite' (The condominium [board] decided to prohibit parties after 10 PM). Here, the word represents the collective decision-making body of the owners.

As regras do condomínio são muito rígidas em relação ao uso da garagem.

Preciso falar com a administração do condomínio sobre o vazamento.

O condomínio está passando por uma reforma na fachada.

In Lusophone cultures, especially in Brazil, condomínio is a word you will hear daily. It is central to conversations about real estate, urban living, and personal finances. You will encounter it in formal settings like banks and law firms, but also in casual chats over coffee or in the elevator. Because so many people live in these shared spaces, the word acts as a focal point for social interaction and civic duty at a micro-level. It is not just a technical term; it is a cultural pillar that defines how people relate to their neighbors and their environment.

Real Estate and Advertising: If you browse property websites or walk past a real estate agency (imobiliária), 'condomínio' will be prominently displayed. It is listed right alongside the price of the property. Advertisements often tout 'Lazer completo no condomínio' (Complete leisure facilities in the complex), using the word as a selling point for a lifestyle of convenience and luxury.

O anúncio diz que o condomínio tem academia e sauna.

Daily Social Interactions: Neighbors frequently discuss 'o condomínio' when complaining about rules or praising improvements. You might hear, 'Você vai na reunião de condomínio hoje?' (Are you going to the condo meeting today?). It is the context for many social frustrations, particularly regarding 'barulho' (noise) or 'vagas de garagem' (parking spots). In many ways, the 'condomínio' is a mini-republic with its own politics.

O síndico do condomínio é muito exigente com a limpeza.

News and Media: News reports often mention 'condomínios' in the context of urban development or security incidents. In big cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, the rise of 'condomínios fechados' is a frequent topic of sociological debate regarding social segregation and the privatization of public space. You will hear journalists analyze the 'valorização dos condomínios' in certain neighborhoods.

Houve um assalto no condomínio de luxo na Barra da Tijuca.

A prefeitura vai cobrar um novo imposto de todos os condomínios da região.

O condomínio é um reflexo da sociedade brasileira atual.

While condomínio seems straightforward, English speakers often stumble over its nuances and pronunciation. One of the most common errors is purely linguistic, while others are conceptual, stemming from differences between the housing markets in the US/UK and Lusophone countries. To speak naturally, learners must avoid treating it as a direct synonym for 'apartment' and recognize its broader administrative and financial implications.

Confusing 'Apartamento' and 'Condomínio': In English, people often say 'I live in a condo' to mean the unit itself. In Portuguese, if you say 'Eu moro num condomínio,' you are describing the complex. If you want to talk about your specific home, you should use 'apartamento' (apartment) or 'casa' (house). Mistaking the two can lead to confusion about whether you are discussing your private space or the shared facility.

Errado: Meu condomínio tem dois quartos. (Better: Meu apartamento tem dois quartos.)

Pronunciation Pitfalls: The stress in 'condomínio' is on the 'mí' (con-do-MÍ-nio). English speakers often put the stress on the 'do' or fail to pronounce the nasal 'on' at the beginning correctly. Furthermore, the 'io' at the end is a semi-vowel sound, not two distinct syllables like 'ee-oh'. Practicing the rhythm is essential for being understood by locals.

Correto: O condomínio [con-do-MÍ-nyo] é bem organizado.

Overlooking the 'Taxa': Learners often forget that 'condomínio' can mean the bill. If a landlord says 'O valor é mil reais mais o condomínio,' they are not saying the building costs a thousand reais; they are saying the rent is 1000 plus the variable maintenance fee. Forgetting this can lead to serious budgeting errors when renting in Brazil.

Cuidado: O valor do condomínio pode mudar todo mês.

Não confunda condomínio com 'prédio'. Prédio is just the physical building.

Lembre-se: condomínio é um substantivo masculino.

To expand your vocabulary and sound more like a native speaker, it is helpful to know words that are related to condomínio but carry slightly different meanings. Depending on whether you are talking about architecture, law, or daily life, you might choose a more specific term. Using these alternatives correctly will show a deeper understanding of the Portuguese language and the nuances of housing.

Prédio vs. Condomínio: 'Prédio' refers specifically to the physical building or structure. You can see a 'prédio' from the street. 'Condomínio' refers to the legal and social organization of the people living there. You might say 'O prédio é antigo,' but 'O condomínio é bem administrado.'

Edifício: This is a more formal and architectural term for 'prédio'. It is often used in addresses or formal descriptions. For example, 'Edifício Copan' is a famous building in São Paulo. You wouldn't call it 'Condomínio Copan' in a formal title, even though it functions as one.

Aquele edifício comercial não possui um condomínio residencial.

Conjunto Habitacional: This term usually refers to large-scale, often government-funded housing projects. While they are technically 'condomínios' in terms of shared space, the term 'conjunto habitacional' carries a connotation of public housing or lower-income developments.

O condomínio horizontal é composto por várias casas independentes.

Vila: In some cities, a 'vila' is a small cluster of houses on a private or semi-private dead-end street. It is a more charming, old-fashioned alternative to the modern 'condomínio fechado'. People who live in a 'vila' often have a very strong sense of community.

A vila onde ela mora é muito tranquila e arborizada.

O condomínio logístico serve para empresas armazenarem produtos.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In international law, 'condominium' refers to a political territory over which multiple sovereign powers exert equal dominion, such as the New Hebrides before 1980.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌkɒn.dəʊˈmɪn.i.əʊ/

US /ˌkɑːn.dəˈmɪn.i.oʊ/

The primary stress is on the third-to-last syllable: con-do-MÍ-nio.

Rhymes With

domínio extermínio raciocínio vaticínio patrocínio escrutínio alumínio declínio

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'mí' as 'mi' without stress.
Pronouncing the final 'io' as two distinct syllables (ee-oh) instead of a diphthong.
Forgetting the nasal sound of the first 'on'.
Stress on the 'do' instead of the 'mí'.
Failing to pronounce the 'n' in the middle clearly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'condominium'.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct spelling and accentuation on the 'í'.

Speaking 5/5

Stress and nasal sounds can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 3/5

Generally clear in most dialects.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

casa apartamento morar pagar prédio

Learn Next

síndico zelador portaria assembleia taxa

Advanced

fração ideal inadimplência regimento interno chamada de capital direito de vizinhança

Grammar to Know

Contraction of 'em' + 'o' = 'no'

Eu moro no condomínio.

Agreement of masculine adjectives with 'condomínio'

O condomínio é seguro.

Pluralization of nouns ending in 'io'

Muitos condomínios novos.

Use of 'de' to indicate possession/origin

As regras do condomínio.

Stress on the proparoxytone-like ending 'ínio'

Con-do-mí-nio.

Examples by Level

Eu moro em um condomínio pequeno.

I live in a small condominium.

Uses the preposition 'em' + 'um'.

O condomínio tem um jardim bonito.

The condominium has a beautiful garden.

Definite article 'o' used as the subject.

Onde fica o seu condomínio?

Where is your condominium?

Question using the verb 'ficar' for location.

Meu amigo mora no condomínio ao lado.

My friend lives in the condominium next door.

Contraction 'no' (em + o).

O condomínio é muito seguro.

The condominium is very safe.

Adjective 'seguro' agrees with masculine 'condomínio'.

Eu gosto do meu condomínio.

I like my condominium.

Verb 'gostar' requires the preposition 'de' (de + o = do).

Um condomínio novo está sendo construído.

A new condominium is being built.

Indefinite article 'um' + adjective 'novo'.

O condomínio tem muitos apartamentos.

The condominium has many apartments.

Plural noun 'apartamentos' following the verb 'ter'.

O valor do condomínio subiu este mês.

The condo fee went up this month.

Here 'condomínio' refers to the fee.

Eles moram em um condomínio fechado.

They live in a gated community.

The adjective 'fechado' specifies the type of condo.

Preciso pagar o boleto do condomínio hoje.

I need to pay the condo bill today.

'Boleto do condomínio' is a common collocation.

O condomínio oferece piscina e academia.

The condo offers a pool and a gym.

Verb 'oferecer' used for amenities.

Não pode fazer barulho no condomínio após as 22h.

You can't make noise in the condo after 10 PM.

Impersonal use of 'pode' for rules.

O porteiro do condomínio é muito simpático.

The condo's doorman is very friendly.

Possessive 'do' connects 'porteiro' and 'condomínio'.

O condomínio é calmo durante a semana.

The condo is quiet during the week.

Adjective 'calmo' describing the atmosphere.

Quero comprar uma casa em um condomínio.

I want to buy a house in a condominium.

Preposition 'em' + indefinite article 'um'.

Haverá uma reunião de condomínio na próxima segunda.

There will be a condo meeting next Monday.

Future tense 'haverá' + 'reunião de condomínio'.

O síndico do condomínio foi reeleito ontem.

The condo manager was re-elected yesterday.

Passive voice 'foi reeleito'.

As regras do condomínio são muito rígidas.

The condo rules are very strict.

Plural feminine subject 'regras' with feminine adjective 'rígidas'.

O condomínio está economizando água este ano.

The condo is saving water this year.

Present continuous 'está economizando'.

Você recebeu o aviso do condomínio sobre a reforma?

Did you receive the condo notice about the renovation?

Direct object 'o aviso do condomínio'.

O condomínio contratou uma nova empresa de segurança.

The condo hired a new security company.

Past tense 'contratou' with 'condomínio' as the subject.

Muitas pessoas preferem morar em condomínio por causa da segurança.

Many people prefer to live in a condo because of security.

Compound preposition 'por causa de'.

O condomínio decidiu pintar as áreas comuns.

The condo decided to paint the common areas.

Phrase 'áreas comuns' refers to shared spaces.

A inadimplência no condomínio aumentou devido à crise.

Delinquency in the condo increased due to the crisis.

Noun 'inadimplência' refers to unpaid fees.

O condomínio deve seguir as normas da prefeitura.

The condo must follow the city hall's regulations.

Modal verb 'deve' + infinitive 'seguir'.

A assembleia de condomínio votou contra a obra.

The condo assembly voted against the construction work.

'Assembleia' is the formal term for the meeting.

O condomínio possui um fundo de reserva para emergências.

The condo has a reserve fund for emergencies.

Formal verb 'possuir' instead of 'ter'.

Houve um conflito entre o síndico e o conselho do condomínio.

There was a conflict between the manager and the condo board.

Preposition 'entre' used for relationships.

O condomínio é responsável pela manutenção dos elevadores.

The condo is responsible for the maintenance of the elevators.

Adjective 'responsável' + preposition 'por'.

O valor do imóvel depende da qualidade do condomínio.

The property value depends on the quality of the condo.

Verb 'depender' + preposition 'de'.

A convenção do condomínio define os direitos dos moradores.

The condo convention defines the residents' rights.

A gestão do condomínio exige transparência financeira.

Condo management requires financial transparency.

Abstract noun 'gestão' as the subject.

A proliferação de condomínios fechados altera a dinâmica urbana.

The proliferation of gated communities alters urban dynamics.

Formal vocabulary like 'proliferação' and 'altera'.

O condomínio edilício é regido pelo Código Civil.

The building condominium is governed by the Civil Code.

Technical term 'condomínio edilício'.

É necessário convocar uma assembleia extraordinária de condomínio.

It is necessary to call an extraordinary condo meeting.

Adjective 'extraordinária' for non-routine meetings.

O condomínio deve zelar pela segurança e bem-estar de todos.

The condo must ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.

Verb 'zelar' + preposition 'por'.

A individualização do hidrômetro no condomínio é uma tendência.

Individualizing water meters in the condo is a trend.

Complex noun phrase 'individualização do hidrômetro'.

O síndico profissional tem se tornado comum em grandes condomínios.

The professional manager has become common in large condos.

Present perfect 'tem se tornado'.

Litígios entre vizinhos são frequentemente resolvidos pelo condomínio.

Disputes between neighbors are often resolved by the condo.

Noun 'litígios' for legal disputes.

A subjetividade das normas de convivência no condomínio gera debates acalorados.

The subjectivity of coexistence rules in the condo generates heated debates.

Abstract and complex sentence structure.

A natureza jurídica do condomínio é objeto de constante análise doutrinária.

The legal nature of the condominium is the subject of constant doctrinal analysis.

Highly formal and academic terminology.

O condomínio atua como um microssistema social com regras autônomas.

The condo acts as a social microsystem with autonomous rules.

Metaphorical use of 'microssistema'.

A desconstituição do condomínio requer quórum qualificado em assembleia.

The dissolution of the condo requires a qualified quorum in an assembly.

Legal terms 'desconstituição' and 'quórum qualificado'.

A segregação espacial promovida pelos condomínios de luxo é criticada por urbanistas.

Spatial segregation promoted by luxury condos is criticized by urbanists.

Sociopolitical vocabulary.

O condomínio deve mitigar os riscos de responsabilidade civil em áreas comuns.

The condo must mitigate the risks of civil liability in common areas.

Verb 'mitigar' and term 'responsabilidade civil'.

A implementação de tecnologias inteligentes no condomínio otimiza a gestão de recursos.

Implementing smart technologies in the condo optimizes resource management.

Modern technical vocabulary.

As assembleias virtuais de condomínio foram legitimadas pela legislação recente.

Virtual condo meetings were legitimized by recent legislation.

Passive voice with current legal context.

Common Collocations

Condomínio fechado

Taxa de condomínio

Reunião de condomínio

Assembleia de condomínio

Regras do condomínio

Administração do condomínio

Condomínio de luxo

Boleto do condomínio

Condomínio horizontal

Condomínio vertical

Common Phrases

Quanto é o condomínio?

— How much is the monthly maintenance fee? Essential for real estate.

Gostei do apartamento, mas quanto é o condomínio?

O condomínio está incluso?

— Is the condo fee included in the rent? Common question for tenants.

No valor do aluguel, o condomínio está incluso?

Viver em condomínio

— The lifestyle of living in a shared complex. Often used in social contexts.

Viver em condomínio exige paciência e respeito.

Multa de condomínio

— A fine issued by the condo for breaking rules. A common frustration.

Recebi uma multa de condomínio por causa do barulho.

Síndico do condomínio

— The person in charge of managing the condo. A key figure in building life.

O síndico do condomínio é muito organizado.

Áreas comuns do condomínio

— The shared spaces like the pool or gym. Used when discussing facilities.

As áreas comuns do condomínio são muito bem cuidadas.

Entrada do condomínio

— The main gate or entrance. Used for directions or deliveries.

Te encontro na entrada do condomínio em cinco minutos.

Regimento interno do condomínio

— The official internal rules. Used in legal or disciplinary contexts.

O regimento interno do condomínio proíbe obras no domingo.

Chamada de capital do condomínio

— An extra fee for specific projects. Usually disliked by owners.

Houve uma chamada de capital para pintar o prédio.

Morador do condomínio

— A resident of the complex. Used in surveys or announcements.

Todo morador do condomínio tem direito a uma vaga.

Often Confused With

condomínio vs Apartamento

English speakers use 'condo' for the unit; Portuguese speakers use 'apartamento'.

condomínio vs Prédio

'Prédio' is just the physical building; 'condomínio' is the organization/fee.

condomínio vs Bairro

A 'bairro' is a neighborhood, while a 'condomínio' is a specific private complex.

Idioms & Expressions

"Briga de condomínio"

— A petty, long-lasting argument between neighbors over trivial things.

Aquela discussão no trabalho parecia uma briga de condomínio.

Informal

"Espírito de condomínio"

— A mindset focused on small-scale rules and neighborly surveillance.

Ele tem um espírito de condomínio, reclama de tudo.

Informal/Critical

"Síndrome de síndico"

— When someone acts bossy or controlling in a shared environment.

O novo chefe está com síndrome de síndico.

Slang/Informal

"Pagar o pato do condomínio"

— To take the blame or pay for a mistake made by the collective.

O síndico errou e todos os moradores pagaram o pato.

Informal

"Fofoca de condomínio"

— Gossip about the private lives of neighbors.

Não ligue para as fofocas de condomínio.

Informal

"Lei do silêncio"

— The strict rule regarding noise, usually associated with condo life.

Aqui no condomínio a lei do silêncio é levada a sério.

Neutral

"Vaga presa"

— A parking situation where one car blocks another, common in condos.

Minha vaga é presa, tenho que deixar a chave com o vizinho.

Informal

"Reunião de condomínio"

— Used metaphorically for any long, boring, and argumentative meeting.

A reunião de hoje foi pior que assembleia de condomínio.

Informal

"Taxa extra"

— Often used to describe any unexpected shared cost.

A vida é uma eterna taxa extra de condomínio.

Humorous/Informal

"Portaria 24 horas"

— Used as a synonym for safety and high maintenance costs.

Aquele bairro agora é todo portaria 24 horas.

Informal

Easily Confused

condomínio vs Condomínio vs. Edifício

Both refer to buildings.

'Edifício' is the architectural term for a large building. 'Condomínio' is the legal/social structure of residents.

O edifício é bonito, mas o condomínio é mal gerido.

condomínio vs Condomínio vs. Taxa

People use the same word for both.

Context determines if it's the place or the bill. 'Moro no condomínio' (place) vs 'Paguei o condomínio' (bill).

O condomínio (lugar) é ótimo, mas o condomínio (taxa) é caro.

condomínio vs Condomínio vs. Vila

Both are clusters of homes.

A 'vila' is usually a small, older, open street of houses. A 'condomínio' is a modern, often closed, legal entity.

Ela trocou o condomínio de luxo por uma vila charmosa.

condomínio vs Condomínio vs. Loteamento

Both involve dividing land.

In a 'loteamento', the streets are public. In a 'condomínio', the streets and areas are private property of the owners.

Este bairro começou como um loteamento e virou um condomínio.

condomínio vs Síndico vs. Zelador

Both work for the condo.

The 'síndico' is the elected manager (like a CEO). The 'zelador' is the employee who supervises maintenance and cleaning.

O síndico contratou um novo zelador para o condomínio.

Sentence Patterns

Eu moro no [Nome] Condomínio.

Eu moro no Condomínio Girassol.

O condomínio tem [Facilidade].

O condomínio tem uma quadra de tênis.

As regras do condomínio proíbem [Ação].

As regras do condomínio proíbem animais no elevador.

O valor do condomínio inclui [Serviço].

O valor do condomínio inclui água e gás.

Devido à [Causa], o condomínio decidiu [Ação].

Devido à infiltração, o condomínio decidiu reformar o teto.

A gestão do condomínio pauta-se pela [Valor].

A gestão do condomínio pauta-se pela transparência absoluta.

Quanto custa o [Substantivo] do condomínio?

Quanto custa o aluguel do condomínio?

Preciso falar com o [Pessoa] do condomínio.

Preciso falar com o zelador do condomínio.

Word Family

Nouns

condômino (resident/owner)

condomínio (the entity/building)

condominial (adjective used as noun in legal contexts)

Verbs

condominizar (to turn into a condominium - rare)

administrar (to manage a condo)

Adjectives

condominial (relating to a condo)

condominiado (rarely used)

síndico

apartamento

prédio

taxa

assembleia

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely frequent in urban contexts.

Common Mistakes

Eu moro em uma condomínio. → Eu moro em um condomínio.
Condomínio is a masculine noun. You must use the masculine indefinite article 'um'.
O condomínio do meu apartamento é três quartos. → Meu apartamento tem três quartos.
You cannot use 'condomínio' to describe the internal features of your private home unit.
Vou pagar a condomínio. → Vou pagar o condomínio.
The monthly fee is also masculine. Use 'o' or 'do'.
O prédio decidiu aumentar a taxa. → O condomínio decidiu aumentar a taxa.
A 'prédio' (building) doesn't make decisions; the 'condomínio' (the legal entity of owners) does.
Pronouncing it as 'con-do-mi-NI-o'. → Pronouncing it as 'con-do-MÍ-nio'.
The stress is on the 'mí', not the 'ni'. This is a very common pronunciation error.

Tips

Learn the Related People

To master the context of 'condomínio', also learn 'síndico' (manager), 'zelador' (caretaker), and 'porteiro' (doorman). You will interact with these people frequently.

Watch the Articles

Remember that 'condomínio' is masculine. Use 'o' and 'um'. When talking about paying it, always say 'pagar o condomínio', never 'pagar a condomínio'.

Understand the Fee

In Brazil, the 'condomínio' fee is often very high. When looking for a place to stay, always ask if the fee is included in the price, or you might get a surprise bill.

The Magic 'Í'

Focus on the 'mí' sound. It's the heart of the word. If you say it flatly, it sounds robotic. Add a little stress and pitch to that 'í'.

Condo vs. Apartment

Don't say 'meu condomínio tem dois banheiros'. Say 'meu apartamento'. Use 'condomínio' for the whole building or the shared rules.

The Meeting Drama

Condo meetings (assembleias) are famous for being long and dramatic. If you live in one, attending is the best way to understand local politics and practice your Portuguese!

Read the Rules

The 'regimento interno' is your bible. If you are renting an Airbnb in a condomínio, ask for the rules so you don't get the owner fined.

Identification

When arriving at a condomínio, always state your name and who you are visiting clearly to the 'porteiro'. Security is very strict.

The Boleto

The 'boleto' (payment slip) for the condomínio usually arrives a few days before the end of the month. Paying on time is crucial to avoid high interest rates.

Vertical vs Horizontal

Use 'vertical' for towers and 'horizontal' for gated house communities. This will make you sound like a pro when discussing real estate.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'CON' (together) + 'DOM' (home/domain) + 'MINIO' (mini-world). It's a mini-world where people own homes together.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant 'C' shape made of apartment windows, with a shared pool in the center.

Word Web

Síndico Taxa Segurança Piscina Vizinhos Apartamento Assembleia Regras

Challenge

Try to find three 'condomínios' in your city and check if they have a specific name on the gate.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'condominium', which is a combination of 'con-' (together) and 'dominium' (ownership or domain).

Original meaning: The term originally referred to joint sovereignty or joint ownership of a territory or property by two or more parties.

Romance (Latinate).

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'condomínios fechados' can be a sensitive topic related to social inequality and urban segregation.

While 'condo' is common in the US, in the UK, 'block of flats' or 'managed estate' is more common, though the legal structure is similar.

The movie 'Neighboring Sounds' (O Som ao Redor) by Kleber Mendonça Filho explores the tensions within a Brazilian condomínio. The book 'A Vida em Condomínio' by various authors often explores the legal complexities. Brazilian sitcoms like 'Sai de Baixo' often feature characters living in these environments.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Real Estate

Qual o valor do condomínio?
O condomínio tem lazer completo?
É um condomínio fechado?
O condomínio aceita pets?

Daily Life

Vou descer para a área comum do condomínio.
O boleto do condomínio já chegou?
A reunião de condomínio foi cancelada.
O porteiro do condomínio avisou sobre a encomenda.

Legal/Financial

A convenção do condomínio é clara.
O fundo de reserva do condomínio está baixo.
O condomínio entrou na justiça contra o morador.
A taxa de condomínio é reajustada anualmente.

Complaints

Vou reclamar com o síndico do condomínio.
O barulho no condomínio está insuportável.
As regras do condomínio não são cumpridas.
O elevador do condomínio quebrou de novo.

Socializing

Vamos fazer um churrasco no condomínio?
Conheci meus vizinhos no condomínio.
O condomínio organiza festas juninas.
As crianças brincam juntas no condomínio.

Conversation Starters

"Você mora em casa de rua ou em condomínio?"

"O que você acha das regras do seu condomínio?"

"O condomínio onde você mora tem piscina?"

"Você costuma ir às reuniões de condomínio?"

"Quanto você paga de taxa de condomínio por mês?"

Journal Prompts

Descreva como seria o seu condomínio ideal. Quais facilidades ele teria?

Quais são as vantagens e desvantagens de viver em um condomínio fechado?

Escreva sobre uma situação engraçada ou difícil que aconteceu no seu condomínio.

Como a vida em condomínio afeta a relação entre as pessoas na cidade?

Você acha que os condomínios trazem mais segurança ou apenas isolamento social?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Geralmente, o valor do condomínio inclui a manutenção das áreas comuns, o salário dos funcionários (porteiros, zeladores), água, segurança e, às vezes, o gás. Itens como energia da unidade privada e internet costumam ser pagos separadamente. É importante verificar o detalhamento no boleto mensal.

O condomínio vertical refere-se a prédios de apartamentos, onde as unidades estão umas sobre as outras. O condomínio horizontal refere-se a conjuntos de casas construídas em um terreno compartilhado, geralmente em condomínios fechados de casas. Ambos possuem áreas comuns e taxas de manutenção.

O síndico é a pessoa eleita pelos moradores (ou um profissional contratado) para administrar o condomínio. Ele é responsável por gerenciar as contas, garantir o cumprimento das regras, contratar serviços de manutenção e representar o condomínio legalmente. O mandato geralmente dura dois anos.

O não pagamento da taxa de condomínio pode resultar em multas pesadas e juros. Legalmente, o condomínio pode entrar com uma ação judicial rápida para cobrar a dívida. Em casos extremos, o imóvel pode ser leiloado para pagar os débitos, mesmo que seja a única residência da família.

É uma reunião oficial onde os proprietários discutem e votam assuntos importantes, como o orçamento anual, obras no prédio e a eleição do síndico. Existem assembleias ordinárias (anuais) e extraordinárias (para assuntos urgentes). As decisões tomadas em assembleia são obrigatórias para todos.

A maioria dos condomínios permite animais, mas pode haver regras sobre o tamanho, o uso do elevador de serviço e a circulação nas áreas comuns. O Supremo Tribunal Federal do Brasil decidiu que condomínios não podem proibir animais, desde que eles não representem risco à segurança ou ao sossego.

O regimento interno é o conjunto de regras que disciplina o dia a dia dos moradores. Ele define horários de silêncio, regras para uso da piscina, salão de festas e garagem. É um documento fundamental para a boa convivência entre os vizinhos e deve ser respeitado por todos.

É uma porcentagem da taxa de condomínio guardada para despesas inesperadas ou grandes reformas futuras. Funciona como uma poupança do condomínio. O uso desse dinheiro geralmente precisa ser aprovado em assembleia, exceto em casos de emergência absoluta, como um cano estourado.

Não, o condomínio não pode proibir a entrada de visitantes autorizados pelo morador. No entanto, o condomínio pode exigir a identificação do visitante na portaria por questões de segurança. O direito de propriedade garante que o morador receba quem desejar em sua unidade.

É um complexo residencial cercado por muros ou grades, com acesso controlado por uma portaria. Oferece maior privacidade e segurança aos moradores, além de áreas de lazer privativas. Tornou-se um modelo de moradia muito popular em grandes cidades brasileiras.