This page in your language
فارسی العربية Deutsch Español Français 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
A2 noun #4,500 most common 12 min read

esquisito

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips esquisito in 30 Seconds
Explanation esquisito in your Level:
At the A1 level, you should learn 'esquisito' as a basic adjective to describe things that are 'weird' or 'strange.' It is very common in everyday conversation. You use it just like 'bom' (good) or 'mau' (bad), usually after the thing you are talking about. For example, if you see a strange hat, you say 'um chapéu esquisito.' If you eat something and the taste is not what you expected, you can say 'A comida é esquisita.' Remember that if the noun is feminine, like 'casa' (house), you must change the ending to 'a': 'uma casa esquisita.' It's a useful word for when you don't know the specific word for something but you know it looks or feels 'different.' Think of it as the opposite of 'normal.' At this level, don't worry too much about the history of the word, just focus on using it to express that something is 'odd.' Use it with the verb 'ser' for things that are always weird ('Ele é esquisito') and 'estar' for things that are weird right now ('O tempo está esquisito').
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the A2 level, you can start using 'esquisito' to describe more than just physical objects. You can use it for behaviors and feelings. For instance, 'Eu me sinto esquisito' means 'I feel weird' (maybe you are getting sick). You should also learn that 'esquisito' is a 'false friend' if you know Spanish; it does NOT mean delicious in Portuguese. It always means something is a bit strange. You will also notice people using it as a noun: 'Aquele homem é um esquisito' (That man is a weirdo). This is slightly more advanced because it turns an adjective into a person's identity. At A2, you should be able to use it in the plural: 'Eles são esquisitos.' Also, start noticing how it's used in different contexts like the weather ('O céu está esquisito') or social situations ('O clima na festa estava esquisito'). It's a very flexible word for expressing a vague sense of 'not right.'
At the B1 level, you should understand the nuances between 'esquisito' and its synonyms like 'estranho' or 'peculiar.' While 'estranho' is often used for things that are unknown or unfamiliar, 'esquisito' often carries a more judgmental or specific tone of 'oddness.' You might use 'esquisito' to describe someone's eccentric personality. At this level, you can use the adverbial form 'esquisitamente' (strangely), although it is less common than 'de um jeito esquisito' (in a weird way). You should also be comfortable using 'esquisito' in complex sentences, such as 'Achei esquisito que ele não tenha me ligado ontem' (I found it strange that he didn't call me yesterday). This involves using the subjunctive mood in the second part of the sentence. You can also use it to describe abstract concepts, like a 'weird feeling' or a 'strange coincidence.'
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the B2 level, you should be aware of the etymological shift of 'esquisito' and how it differs from its Latin roots. This knowledge helps you understand older Portuguese literature where the word might occasionally have a more positive meaning, though this is rare. You should also be able to use 'esquisito' to describe subtle social dynamics. For example, describing a 'clima esquisito' in a business meeting implies a tension that isn't openly discussed. You can also use the diminutive 'esquisitinho' to add a layer of irony or to soften a criticism. At this level, you should be able to distinguish when to use 'esquisito' versus 'bizarro' (more intense) or 'atípico' (more formal/technical). You should also be able to use it in the context of being 'picky'—'Ele é muito esquisito para comer' (He is a very picky eater).
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the C1 level, you should have a native-like grasp of the word's connotations. You understand that 'esquisito' can sometimes be used to describe something so unique that it defies categorization, which can be a form of indirect praise in artistic circles, though it remains primarily a word for 'weird.' You are comfortable using it in idiomatic expressions and can identify regional differences in how it's used (e.g., its frequency in Brazilian vs. European Portuguese). You can use it to critique literature, art, or film, explaining *why* something is 'esquisito' (e.g., 'A narrativa é esquisita porque rompe com a linearidade temporal'). You also understand the social weight of the word; calling a colleague 'esquisito' in a formal report would be inappropriate, and you know to use 'comportamento atípico' or 'dificuldades de integração' instead.
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the C2 level, you can play with the word 'esquisito' in creative writing or high-level oratory. You can use it to evoke a specific mood of 'uncanniness' or 'unsettling strangeness' (similar to the German 'unheimlich'). You understand the full historical trajectory of the word from the Latin 'exquisitus' and can use this knowledge to appreciate puns or archaic references in classical Portuguese texts (like those of Camões or Eça de Queirós, though they would use it in the older sense). Your usage is precise: you know exactly when 'esquisito' is the only word that fits the specific 'flavor' of oddness you are describing, vs. when another word like 'extravagante' or 'inusitado' would be more accurate. You can also discuss the linguistics of 'false friends' using 'esquisito' as a primary example in a comparative study of Romance languages.
Sign up free to read full explanation
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

esquisito in 30 Seconds

  • Primarily means 'weird' or 'strange' in Portuguese.
  • A major false friend for Spanish speakers (it's not 'delicious').
  • Can describe people, objects, smells, sounds, or feelings.
  • Changes to 'esquisita' for feminine and 'esquisitos/as' for plural.
The word esquisito is one of the most essential adjectives in the Portuguese language, primarily used to describe something that is strange, weird, odd, or out of the ordinary. While its English counterparts are straightforward, the Portuguese term carries a specific flavor of 'unusualness' that can apply to people, situations, flavors, and physical sensations. Historically, the word derives from the Latin exquisitus, which originally meant 'sought out' or 'choice,' implying something refined or excellent. Interestingly, while Spanish kept this positive connotation (where exquisito means delicious or exquisite), Portuguese took a linguistic turn during the late Middle Ages. In Portuguese, the sense of 'unusual' evolved from 'rare and choice' into 'rare and therefore suspicious or strange.' This makes it a classic 'false friend' for Spanish speakers and an important distinction for English learners.
Daily Observation
When you see someone wearing a winter coat on a scorching summer day in Rio de Janeiro, you would lean to your friend and whisper that the situation is 'esquisita'. It covers everything from a 'funny' smell in the fridge to a person whose behavior makes you feel slightly uneasy.

A comida tem um gosto meio esquisito, você não acha?

Beyond just 'weird,' the word can function as a noun. When you say 'Ele é um esquisito,' you are literally calling someone 'a weirdo' or 'an oddball.' This usage is common in informal settings. It is also important to note that 'esquisito' is not always negative; sometimes it just denotes a sense of mystery or something that defies immediate explanation. However, if you are at a dinner party and want to compliment the food, never use 'esquisito'—you would be telling the host the food tastes 'funny' or 'off.' Instead, use 'delicioso' or 'maravilhoso.'
Social Nuance
Using this word about a person requires caution. Calling a friend 'esquisito' might be seen as a playful tease, but calling a stranger 'esquisito' is a direct insult to their character or appearance.

Ele tem um comportamento muito esquisito quando está sob pressão.

In academic or formal writing, you might prefer 'peculiar' or 'anômalo,' but in 95% of spoken Portuguese, 'esquisito' is the go-to term for anything that makes you tilt your head in confusion. It is a versatile tool for expressing that gut feeling that something isn't quite right. Whether it's the weather, a piece of art, or a sudden silence in a room, 'esquisito' captures that essence perfectly.
Grammatical Agreement
Remember that as an adjective, it must agree with the noun: 'um homem esquisito' (masculine singular), 'uma mulher esquisita' (feminine singular), 'homens esquisitos' (masculine plural), and 'mulheres esquisitas' (feminine plural).

Essas cores juntas ficam muito esquisitas.

O jeito que ele olha para as pessoas é esquisito.

.
Using esquisito correctly involves understanding its placement and the intensity you wish to convey. In Portuguese, adjectives usually follow the noun they modify. Saying 'um livro esquisito' places the emphasis on the book being strange. If you place it before the noun, 'um esquisito livro,' it sounds much more literary or poetic, which is rare for this specific word. Most commonly, it is used after the verb ser (to be - permanent) or estar (to be - temporary). This distinction is vital. 'Ele é esquisito' implies he is a strange person by nature. 'Ele está esquisito' implies he is acting strangely today, perhaps because he is sick or upset.
Physical Sensations
If you feel a sudden, unidentifiable pain or a tingle, you can say: 'Estou sentindo uma coisa esquisita no braço.' This tells the doctor or a friend that the sensation is abnormal and hard to describe.

Aquele prédio tem uma arquitetura bem esquisita, não acha?

When describing food, 'esquisito' is a polite (or sometimes not-so-polite) way to say you don't like it or it tastes spoiled. 'Este leite está com um cheiro esquisito' (This milk has a weird smell) is a warning to others. In the context of social interactions, if a conversation becomes awkward, you might describe the atmosphere as 'um clima esquisito.' This suggests a tension that is hard to pin down.
The 'Why' of Weirdness
We use 'esquisito' when we lack a more specific adjective. If something is ugly, say 'feio.' If it's scary, say 'assustador.' If it's simply 'not right' in a way you can't explain, 'esquisito' is your best friend.

Ela me deu um olhar esquisito quando eu mencionei o nome dele.

In the plural, the word follows standard rules: 'Meus vizinhos são muito esquisitos' (My neighbors are very weird). In professional settings, use it to describe data or results that don't match expectations: 'Os resultados do teste de hoje estão bem esquisitos.' This indicates that the data should be re-examined. Overall, the word is highly flexible and appears in almost every register of the language, from the street to the office.
Negation
To say something is NOT weird, you would say 'não é nada esquisito' or 'é perfeitamente normal.' This is often used to reassure someone who is worried about their own behavior.

Não achei o filme esquisito; achei apenas original.

O céu está com uma cor esquisita antes da tempestade.

.
You will hear esquisito everywhere in the Lusophone world. On Brazilian television, especially in 'telenovelas,' it's frequently used to describe the 'oddball' character in a neighborhood. In Lisbon, you might hear it in a café when someone is discussing a new modern art installation that they don't quite understand. It's a staple of conversational Portuguese because it acts as a linguistic safety net for things that are difficult to categorize.
In the Kitchen
Mothers often use it with children who are being 'picky eaters' (frescos). If a child refuses to eat something because it looks 'different,' the mother might say: 'Não seja esquisito, coma logo!' (Don't be picky/weird, eat up!). Here, it takes on a meaning of being overly fastidious or difficult.

Pare de ser esquisito com a comida e experimente esse peixe.

In the workplace, it’s used to describe anomalies. If a software developer sees a bug that doesn't make sense, they might say, 'O código está se comportando de um jeito esquisito.' In music, if a singer hits a wrong note or uses an unconventional scale, a critic might call the melody 'esquisita.' It’s also common in fashion; a piece of clothing that is too avant-garde for a person's taste is often dismissed as 'esquisita.'
In the News
Journalists might use it to describe a 'strange turn of events' (um rumo esquisito) in a political trial or a mysterious weather phenomenon. It adds a touch of human intrigue to the reporting.

O silêncio na sala de reuniões estava muito esquisito.

Even in sports, if a player who usually plays well starts making basic mistakes, the commentator might say, 'O jogador está esquisito hoje.' This implies something is wrong with his form or health. It is a word that bridges the gap between 'different' and 'wrong.' When you are learning Portuguese, pay attention to the tone. A soft 'esquisito' can mean 'interesting/unique,' but a sharp 'esquisito' is almost always a criticism.
The Subway/Bus
If you see someone talking to themselves or acting erratic on public transport, you might tell someone later: 'Tinha um cara esquisito no ônibus hoje.'

Achei esquisito que ela não tenha ligado de volta.

Essa música tem um ritmo esquisito, mas eu gosto.

.
The most common mistake English and Spanish speakers make with esquisito is misunderstanding its 'connotation' based on its etymological roots. For Spanish speakers, as mentioned, the word exquisito is a high compliment for food or art. In Portuguese, saying 'Esta comida está esquisita' to a Brazilian chef will likely result in a look of offense, as you just told them the food tastes weird or potentially rotten. English speakers often confuse 'esquisito' with 'exquisite.' If you want to say a dress is 'exquisite' (meaning beautiful and delicate), do not use 'esquisita.' Use 'primorosa,' 'belíssima,' or 'refinada.'
The Spanish Trap
Spanish: '¡Qué comida más exquisita!' (What delicious food!) vs. Portuguese: 'Que comida mais esquisita!' (What weird food!). This is a classic 'false friend' that can lead to major social blunders.

Não diga esquisito se você quer dizer 'maravilhoso'.

Another mistake is the gender agreement. Since 'esquisito' ends in 'o', learners often forget to change it to 'esquisita' when describing feminine nouns like 'pessoa' (person), 'comida' (food), or 'situação' (situation). 'Uma situação esquisito' is grammatically incorrect and sounds jarring to a native ear. Additionally, avoid using 'esquisito' to mean 'rare' in the sense of 'valuable.' For that, use 'raro.' If you say a diamond is 'esquisito,' you are implying there is something wrong with it, not that it is precious.
Usage with Verbs
Learners sometimes say 'Eu sinto esquisito.' Correct: 'Eu me sinto esquisito' (I feel weird) or 'Estou me sentindo esquisito.' The reflexive 'me' is necessary here.

Ele se sente esquisito em lugares muito cheios.

Finally, watch out for the pronunciation of the 'qui' syllable. It is pronounced like 'key' (IPA: /ki/), not 'kwee.' Saying 'es-kwee-zee-to' is a common phonetic error for English speakers. Ensure the 's' before the 'q' is a soft 'sh' sound in some dialects (like Rio) or a sharp 's' in others (like São Paulo), but the 'qui' must always be 'key.'
Confusion with 'Exquisito' (English)
If you want to describe a fine wine, call it 'excelente' or 'requintado.' If you call it 'esquisito,' you are suggesting it might be corked or vinegar-like.

A situação ficou esquisita depois da discussão.

Não é esquisito que ele não tenha vindo?

.
When you want to expand your vocabulary beyond esquisito, Portuguese offers several nuances of 'strangeness.' The most direct synonym is estranho. While they are often interchangeable, estranho is slightly more formal and broader in scope. Esquisito often implies a more personal, subjective feeling of 'weirdness' or 'eccentricity.' If you want to describe someone who is truly bizarre or 'out there,' you can use bizarro. Interestingly, bizarro in Portuguese traditionally meant 'brave' or 'gallant' (from Spanish bizarro), but under the influence of the English word 'bizarre,' its meaning has shifted almost entirely to 'very strange' or 'grotesque.'
Synonym Comparison
Estranho: Neutral, broad (e.g., a stranger, a strange occurrence).
Esquisito: Subjective, often implies 'peculiar' or 'off-putting.'
Bizarro: Intense, often implies something surreal or shocking.

Aquele comportamento foi totalmente bizarro.

Another alternative is peculiar, which is almost identical to the English 'peculiar.' It is more formal and suggests a specific characteristic that belongs only to that thing. Incomum (uncommon) is a great choice when you want to be objective—it simply means something doesn't happen often. If something is 'weird' because it doesn't follow a pattern, you might use anômalo (anomalous), though this is mostly used in scientific or technical contexts.
Slang Alternatives
In Brazil, you might hear 'cabuloso' (which can mean weird, scary, or even 'awesome' depending on context) or 'estranhão' (a big weirdo). In Portugal, 'marado' is a common slang term for someone who is 'weird' or 'crazy.'

Este quadro é muito peculiar, tem muitos detalhes.

If you are talking about food and it tastes 'weird' in a bad way, you could also say it's estragado (spoiled) or ruim (bad). If it has a 'funny' but not necessarily bad taste, you might say it's diferente. Understanding these alternatives allows you to be more precise. For example, 'Ele é um esquisito' is a judgment, while 'Ele é excêntrico' is an observation.
Formal Contexts
In a legal or medical document, you would never see 'esquisito.' You would see 'atípico' (atypical) or 'irregular.' These words carry the same core meaning of 'not normal' but without the emotional baggage.

O paciente apresentou um sintoma atípico.

Foi uma coincidência muito estranha.

.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Portuguese is the only major Romance language where this word shifted entirely from 'refined/choice' to 'strange.' In Spanish, Italian, and French, the cognates still mean something positive and high-quality.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɪʃ.ki.ˈzi.tu/
US /es.ki.ˈzi.tu/
The stress is on the penultimate syllable 'zi' (es-qui-ZI-to).
Rhymes With
bonito infinito grito escrito palpito mito distrito favorito
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'qui' as 'kwee' instead of 'key'.
  • Pronouncing the final 'o' as a strong 'oh' instead of a soft 'u'.
  • Stress on the first or second syllable.
  • Making the 's' silent.
  • Confusing the 'z' sound with an 's' sound in the third syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize but easy to confuse with English/Spanish cognates.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct gender/number agreement.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation of 'qui' is a common hurdle.

Listening 2/5

Very common in speech, easy to pick up.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

estranho bom mau coisa jeito

Learn Next

bizarro peculiar esquisitice atípico requintado

Advanced

estrambólico extravagante excêntrico

Grammar to Know

Adjective Agreement

O livro esquisito / A revista esquisita.

Substantivization

O esquisito (The weirdo).

Ser vs Estar

Ele é esquisito (always) vs Ele está esquisito (now).

Positioning

Usually after the noun: 'um barulho esquisito'.

Diminutives

Esquisitinho (softens or mocks).

Sign up free to read full explanation

Examples by Level

1

O gato dele é muito esquisito.

His cat is very weird.

Masculine singular agreement.

2

Esta sopa tem um cheiro esquisito.

This soup has a weird smell.

Adjective follows the noun 'cheiro'.

3

Ela é uma menina esquisita.

She is a weird girl.

Feminine singular agreement.

4

Eu vi um carro esquisito na rua.

I saw a weird car on the street.

Standard word order: Noun + Adjective.

5

O dia está esquisito hoje.

The day is weird today.

Uses 'estar' for a temporary state.

6

Eles são vizinhos esquisitos.

They are weird neighbors.

Masculine plural agreement.

7

Não achei o livro esquisito.

I didn't think the book was weird.

Negative sentence structure.

8

Você é muito esquisito!

You are very weird!

Direct address using 'ser'.

1

Eu me sinto um pouco esquisito hoje.

I feel a bit weird today.

Reflexive verb 'sentir-se'.

2

Aquele homem é um esquisito.

That man is a weirdo.

Used as a noun (substantivized adjective).

3

A comida do hospital era esquisita.

The hospital food was weird.

Past tense 'era' (imperfect).

4

As cores daquela casa são esquisitas.

The colors of that house are weird.

Feminine plural agreement.

5

Ele tem um jeito esquisito de falar.

He has a weird way of speaking.

Modifying the noun 'jeito'.

6

Não seja esquisito, prove a fruta!

Don't be picky/weird, try the fruit!

Imperative mood (negative).

7

O clima na reunião ficou esquisito.

The atmosphere in the meeting got weird.

Verb 'ficar' used for a change in state.

8

Essa música é esquisita, mas eu gosto.

This music is weird, but I like it.

Contrast using 'mas'.

1

Achei esquisito que ela não tenha vindo.

I found it strange that she didn't come.

Subjunctive mood 'tenha vindo' after 'achei esquisito que'.

2

O motor está fazendo um barulho esquisito.

The engine is making a weird noise.

Gerund 'fazendo' for an ongoing action.

3

Ele sempre foi um cara meio esquisito.

He has always been a somewhat weird guy.

Use of 'meio' as an adverb of intensity.

4

A situação tomou um rumo esquisito.

The situation took a weird turn.

Idiomatic expression 'tomar um rumo'.

5

Não é esquisito que ninguém saiba disso?

Isn't it strange that nobody knows about this?

Interrogative negative structure.

6

Sentir esse vazio é muito esquisito.

Feeling this emptiness is very weird.

Infinitive 'sentir' as the subject.

7

Ela se veste de uma forma esquisita.

She dresses in a weird way.

Prepositional phrase 'de uma forma'.

8

O cachorro começou a agir de modo esquisito.

The dog started acting in a weird way.

Phrase 'de modo esquisito'.

1

Havia um clima esquisito pairando no ar.

There was a weird atmosphere hanging in the air.

Use of 'haver' in the imperfect tense.

2

A proposta dele soou bastante esquisita para nós.

His proposal sounded quite weird to us.

Verb 'soar' (to sound) used figuratively.

3

Ele é esquisito com horários, nunca se sabe.

He is picky/weird about schedules, you never know.

Preposition 'com' indicating the area of weirdness.

4

A peça de teatro era esquisita demais para o público.

The play was too weird for the audience.

Adverb 'demais' for excess.

5

Senti um calafrio esquisito nas costas.

I felt a weird chill down my spine.

Noun-adjective agreement.

6

O comportamento dela foi, no mínimo, esquisito.

Her behavior was, to say the least, weird.

Parenthetical expression 'no mínimo'.

7

É esquisito como as coisas mudam rápido.

It's weird how things change fast.

Impersonal 'é esquisito como'.

8

Ele tem uns hábitos alimentares bem esquisitos.

He has some very weird eating habits.

Indefinite article 'uns' for emphasis.

1

A estética do filme é propositalmente esquisita.

The film's aesthetic is intentionally weird.

Adverb 'propositalmente' modifying the adjective.

2

O autor utiliza um vocabulário um tanto esquisito.

The author uses a somewhat strange vocabulary.

Phrase 'um tanto' to express degree.

3

Achei a reação dele esquisita, considerando o contexto.

I found his reaction strange, considering the context.

Complex sentence with a gerund clause.

4

Há algo de esquisito nessa história toda.

There is something weird about this whole story.

Structure 'algo de + adjective'.

5

A luz do entardecer deu um tom esquisito à paisagem.

The evening light gave a weird tone to the landscape.

Contraction 'à' (a + a).

6

Ele se tornou um eremita esquisito com o passar dos anos.

He became a weird hermit over the years.

Verb 'tornar-se' for transformation.

7

A coincidência foi tão esquisita que parecia planejada.

The coincidence was so weird that it seemed planned.

Consecutive clause 'tão... que'.

8

Ela tem uma percepção esquisita da realidade.

She has a weird perception of reality.

Abstract noun modification.

1

A obra transita entre o sublime e o esquisito.

The work moves between the sublime and the weird.

Using the adjective as an abstract noun.

2

O fenômeno, embora esquisito, tem explicação científica.

The phenomenon, although weird, has a scientific explanation.

Concessive conjunction 'embora'.

3

Sua prosa é marcada por um ritmo esquisito e sincopado.

His prose is marked by a weird and syncopated rhythm.

Literary analysis vocabulary.

4

É um sentimento esquisito, quase inefável.

It's a weird feeling, almost ineffable.

Use of high-level adjective 'inefável'.

5

A arquitetura brutalista pode parecer esquisita a olhos leigos.

Brutalist architecture can seem weird to lay eyes.

Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive.

6

O silêncio que se seguiu foi esquisito e carregado de tensão.

The silence that followed was weird and laden with tension.

Relative clause and compound adjective phrase.

7

Tal comportamento seria considerado esquisito em qualquer cultura.

Such behavior would be considered weird in any culture.

Conditional mood 'seria'.

8

Há uma beleza esquisita na decadência urbana.

There is a weird beauty in urban decay.

Oxymoron-like conceptual usage.

Common Collocations

gosto esquisito
cheiro esquisito
jeito esquisito
barulho esquisito
clima esquisito
sentimento esquisito
coisa esquisita
olhar esquisito
cor esquisita
sonho esquisito

Common Phrases

Que esquisito!

— How weird! Used as a reaction to something strange.

Ele não veio? Que esquisito!

Achar esquisito

— To find (something) strange.

Eu achei esquisito o comportamento dele.

Meio esquisito

— A bit weird. Used to soften the description.

Isso é meio esquisito, não?

Nada esquisito

— Not weird at all. Used to reassure someone.

Isso não é nada esquisito, é normal.

Um cara esquisito

— A weird guy/weirdo.

Tinha um cara esquisito na porta.

Ficar esquisito

— To become/get weird.

Depois que ela saiu, o clima ficou esquisito.

Parecer esquisito

— To seem weird.

Pode parecer esquisito, mas é a verdade.

Lugar esquisito

— A sketchy or strange place.

Não vá naquele bairro, é um lugar esquisito.

Maneira esquisita

— A strange way of doing something.

Ele resolveu o problema de uma maneira esquisita.

Sentir-se esquisito

— To feel weird (physically or mentally).

Estou me sentindo esquisito hoje.

Often Confused With

esquisito vs Exquisite (English)

English 'exquisite' means beautiful; Portuguese 'esquisito' means weird.

esquisito vs Exquisito (Spanish)

Spanish 'exquisito' means delicious; Portuguese 'esquisito' means strange.

esquisito vs Estranho

Similar, but 'estranho' is broader and can mean 'unknown/stranger'.

Idioms & Expressions

"Bicho esquisito"

— A weird creature or person. Often used for someone very antisocial.

Ele não fala com ninguém, é um bicho esquisito.

informal
"Esquisito que dói"

— Extremely weird (literally 'weird that it hurts').

Aquele vestido é esquisito que dói.

slang (Brazil)
"Dar uma de esquisito"

— To act strangely or play dumb.

Não dê uma de esquisito, você sabe do que estou falando.

informal
"Santo esquisito"

— Used to describe someone who seems too perfect or strange in their holiness.

Ela é um santo esquisito, nunca reclama de nada.

informal
"Fazer cara esquisita"

— To make a weird face, usually in disgust.

Ele fez cara esquisita quando viu o preço.

neutral
"Rir de um jeito esquisito"

— To have a creepy or unusual laugh.

Ele ri de um jeito esquisito que me dá medo.

neutral
"Conversa esquisita"

— A suspicious or strange conversation.

Eles estavam tendo uma conversa esquisita no canto.

neutral
"Ter um pé no esquisito"

— To have a tendency toward the strange or unconventional.

Toda a família dele tem um pé no esquisito.

informal
"Mundo esquisito"

— Used to comment on the strangeness of life/society.

Vivemos em um mundo muito esquisito.

neutral
"Papo esquisito"

— Strange or creepy talk/topic.

Vem cá com esse papo esquisito não!

informal (Brazil)

Easily Confused

esquisito vs requintado

This is what people mean when they think of 'exquisite'.

Requintado means refined/sophisticated; esquisito means weird.

O jantar foi requintado.

esquisito vs estranho

They are near-synonyms.

Estranho is more neutral; esquisito is more subjective/odd.

Um homem estranho (a stranger/strange man).

esquisito vs bizarro

Both mean weird.

Bizarro is much stronger/surreal.

Um sonho bizarro.

esquisito vs delicioso

Spanish speakers use 'exquisito' for this.

Delicioso is for taste; esquisito is for weirdness.

Este bolo está delicioso.

esquisito vs raro

The original Latin meaning was 'rare'.

Raro means infrequent/valuable; esquisito means odd.

Um selo raro.

Sentence Patterns

A1

O [noun] é esquisito.

O carro é esquisito.

A1

A [noun] é esquisita.

A casa é esquisita.

A2

Eu me sinto [adjective].

Eu me sinto esquisito.

A2

Que [noun] esquisito!

Que barulho esquisito!

B1

Achei esquisito que [subjunctive].

Achei esquisito que ele saísse cedo.

B1

De um jeito [adjective].

Ele anda de um jeito esquisito.

B2

Ficar com um [noun] esquisito.

Ficar com um gosto esquisito na boca.

C1

Algo de [adjective].

Há algo de esquisito nesta sala.

Word Family

Nouns

esquisitice (weirdness/oddity)
esquisitão (big weirdo)
esquisitice (peculiarity)

Verbs

esquisitar (to make weird or become weird - rare)

Adjectives

esquisito
esquisitinho (a bit weird)

Related

estranho
esquisitismo
esquisitório
esquisitice
estranheza
Sign up free to see all examples

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in daily spoken Portuguese.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'esquisito' to mean 'delicious'. → delicioso / excelente

    This is the most common mistake for Spanish speakers. In Portuguese, it means the opposite of 'good' for food.

  • Pronouncing 'es-kwee-zi-to'. → es-ki-zi-to

    The 'u' after 'q' is silent in this word.

  • Omiting the reflexive 'me' in 'Eu sinto esquisito'. → Eu me sinto esquisito.

    To feel an emotion or state, you must use the reflexive form of the verb 'sentir'.

  • Using 'esquisito' for 'exquisite' art. → primoroso / refinado

    It will sound like you are insulting the artwork.

  • Forgetting gender agreement with 'pessoa'. → Uma pessoa esquisita.

    'Pessoa' is always feminine, so the adjective must be 'esquisita'.

Tips

The Dinner Rule

Never use 'esquisito' at a dinner party unless you want to insult the host's cooking. Stick to 'ótimo' or 'delicioso'.

Agreement

Always match the ending with the noun. Situations (situations) are 'esquisitas', but noises (barulhos) are 'esquisitos'.

Calling People Weird

Calling someone 'esquisito' is quite direct. If you want to be softer, use 'ele tem um jeito diferente' (he has a different way).

The False Friend

Forget the English word 'exquisite' when you see this. They are opposites in terms of social value today.

The 'Qui' Sound

Practice saying 'key-key-key' then 'es-key-zi-to'. This is the most common mistake for learners.

Softening

Add 'meio' before it ('meio esquisito') to sound like a native speaker who is being cautious with their judgment.

Augmentatives

Use 'esquisitão' to describe someone who is extremely weird. It's common among young people in Brazil.

Sensory Details

Use it for smells and tastes that you can't identify. It's the perfect word for a 'funny smell'.

Subtitles

When watching Portuguese movies, look for 'esquisito' in the subtitles when characters are looking at something suspicious.

Storytelling

Use 'esquisito' to create mystery in your writing. A 'personagem esquisito' immediately makes the reader curious.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Exquisite' but gone wrong. If something was supposed to be exquisite but ended up 'weird,' it's 'esquisito.'

Visual Association

Imagine a person wearing a 'tuxedo' (exquisite) but with 'clown shoes' (esquisito).

Word Web

weird strange odd peculiar creepy off funny-tasting eccentric

Challenge

Try to find three things in your room right now that you could describe as 'esquisito' and say them out loud.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'exquisitus', the past participle of 'exquirere' (to search out diligently). It is composed of 'ex-' (out) and 'quaerere' (to seek).

Original meaning: Originally meant something carefully chosen, refined, or of superior quality.

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

Calling a person 'esquisito' can be offensive. Use 'diferente' or 'original' if you want to be kinder.

English speakers must avoid the 'exquisite' trap. It is a 100% false friend in modern usage.

The song 'Esquisito' by some Brazilian indie bands often explores themes of non-conformity. Characters in Brazilian soaps (novelas) like 'Dona Hermínia' often use it to describe annoying neighbors. Commonly used in Portuguese translations of 'Alice in Wonderland' for 'Curiouser and curiouser!'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Food

  • Isso tem um gosto esquisito.
  • O leite está esquisito.
  • Que tempero esquisito!
  • A textura é esquisita.

Social

  • Ele é um cara esquisito.
  • Ficou um clima esquisito.
  • Ela me olhou esquisito.
  • Não seja esquisito!

Health

  • Estou me sentindo esquisito.
  • Senti uma dor esquisita.
  • Ele está com um semblante esquisito.
  • Minha cabeça está esquisita.

Mechanics

  • O motor faz um barulho esquisito.
  • O computador está esquisito.
  • A chave girou de um jeito esquisito.
  • O freio está esquisito.

Weather

  • O céu está esquisito.
  • O tempo está esquisito hoje.
  • Esse vento está esquisito.
  • A luz está esquisita.

Conversation Starters

"Você já comeu alguma coisa com um gosto muito esquisito?"

"Qual foi o filme mais esquisito que você já viu na vida?"

"Você acha esquisito quando as pessoas falam sozinhas na rua?"

"Você já se sentiu esquisito em um lugar novo?"

"Qual é o hábito mais esquisito que você tem?"

Journal Prompts

Descreva uma situação esquisita que você presenciou esta semana no trabalho ou na escola.

Se você pudesse ser um 'esquisito' famoso, quem seria e por quê?

Escreva sobre um sonho esquisito que você teve recentemente e tente usar o máximo de adjetivos possíveis.

Como você reage quando alguém age de um jeito esquisito com você?

Existe algum lugar na sua cidade que você acha esquisito? Descreva-o.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No! If you say the food is 'esquisita,' the cook will think it tastes bad or strange. Use 'deliciosa' instead.

They are very similar. 'Estranho' is more general and can mean 'unfamiliar.' 'Esquisito' often implies a specific kind of 'oddness' or 'eccentricity.'

Most of the time, yes. However, in artistic contexts, it can sometimes mean 'unconventional' or 'unique,' but it's still safer to use it for things you find odd.

You can say 'um esquisito' or the augmentative 'um esquisitão' for more emphasis.

Yes, the primary meaning is the same. However, Brazilians use it very frequently in slang, while in Portugal it might sound slightly more literal.

Yes, 'sentir-se esquisito' is a very common way to say you don't feel like your usual self, often physically.

Always like the English word 'key.' Never like 'kwee.'

The feminine plural is 'esquisitas.' Example: 'Aquelas histórias são esquisitas.'

Yes, 'esquisitice' is the word for 'weirdness' or 'an odd habit.'

Yes, especially with food. 'Ele é esquisito para comer' means 'He is a picky eater.'

Sign up free for tips & notes

Test Yourself 97 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Portuguese describing a weird car.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'I feel a bit weird today.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Que cheiro esquisito!' out loud. Focus on the 'qui' sound.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write the adjective: [Audio: esquisita]

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 97 correct

Perfect score!

Sign up free to practice

Related Content

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!