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inteiramente

A2 adverb #3,000 most common 12 min read

inteiramente

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips inteiramente in 30 Seconds

Explanation inteiramente in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe things and actions. You might already know the word 'inteiro' (whole), like in 'o bolo inteiro' (the whole cake). The word inteiramente is the adverb version of that. It means 'entirely' or '100%'. Even though it is a long word, it is easy to use because it never changes. You don't have to worry about if a noun is masculine or feminine. You can use it to say simple things like 'Estou inteiramente pronto' (I am entirely ready) or 'O livro é inteiramente em português' (The book is entirely in Portuguese). Think of it as a way to be very sure about what you are saying. It helps you move beyond just saying 'muito' (very) and allows you to express that something is complete. At this stage, focus on noticing the '-mente' ending, which is just like '-ly' in English. When you see this ending, you know it's a word that describes *how* something is or how something is done. Try using it with simple adjectives like 'novo' (new), 'velho' (old), or 'cheio' (full). For example, 'O copo está inteiramente cheio' (The glass is entirely full). This will help you sound more advanced than other beginners who only use basic words. Remember, in Portuguese, we don't say 'inteiramenta' for a girl; it's always 'inteiramente' for everyone!

As an A2 learner, you are building more complex sentences and starting to express opinions. inteiramente is very useful for agreeing or disagreeing with people. Instead of just saying 'Sim' or 'Eu concordo', you can say 'Eu concordo inteiramente' (I entirely agree). This makes your Portuguese sound much more natural and polite. You will also start to see this word in more contexts, like describing your work or your day. For instance, 'Meu dia foi inteiramente ocupado' (My day was entirely busy). At this level, you should pay attention to where the word goes in the sentence. It usually comes after the verb. If you say 'Eu esqueci inteiramente', it sounds better than putting the word at the beginning. You can also use it to describe physical states that are total. If a room is 'inteiramente escuro' (entirely dark), it means there is no light at all. This word helps you be precise. It's a great alternative to 'totalmente', which you might hear more often in songs or movies. By using inteiramente, you show that you have a slightly larger vocabulary and can handle longer, more formal words. Practice using it with verbs of change, like 'mudar' (to change). 'A cidade mudou inteiramente' (The city changed entirely). This is a great way to describe how things are different now compared to the past.

At the B1 level, you are becoming an intermediate speaker who can handle various social situations. inteiramente becomes a key word for adding emphasis and nuance to your speech. You can use it to talk about responsibilities and abstract concepts. For example, 'A culpa não foi inteiramente minha' (The fault was not entirely mine). This allows you to be more subtle in your explanations. You're not just saying 'it wasn't me'; you're saying 'I'm not the *only* one responsible'. This level of detail is exactly what B1 learners should aim for. You will also hear this word in professional settings. If you are at work, you might say 'Estou inteiramente à disposição para ajudar' (I am entirely at your disposal to help). This is a very professional and helpful phrase to know. You should also start comparing inteiramente with synonyms like 'plenamente' or 'totalmente'. While they mean similar things, inteiramente feels a bit more serious and considered. It's a great word to use in writing, like in an email or a short essay about your hobbies. 'Eu me dedico inteiramente ao piano nas horas livres' (I dedicate myself entirely to the piano in my free time). This shows a high level of commitment. Notice how the word adds a rhythmic flow to your sentences, making your Portuguese sound more melodic and less 'staccato'.

At the B2 level, you are expected to have a strong grasp of the language and be able to discuss complex topics with confidence. inteiramente is no longer just a vocabulary word; it's a stylistic tool. You should use it to define the scope of arguments or to describe absolute transformations in society or technology. For example, 'A economia tornou-se inteiramente dependente da tecnologia' (The economy became entirely dependent on technology). Here, the word provides a definitive boundary for your statement. You should also be comfortable using it with the negative 'não' to create sophisticated nuances. 'O problema não é inteiramente financeiro; é também cultural' (The problem isn't entirely financial; it's also cultural). This shows you can think critically in Portuguese. At this level, you should also be aware of the word's placement in compound tenses. 'Nós tínhamos inteiramente ignorado os sinais de perigo' (We had entirely ignored the danger signs). Placing the adverb between the auxiliary and the main verb is a sign of a more advanced speaker. You can also use it to describe emotional states with more depth. Instead of 'Ele estava triste', you could say 'Ele estava inteiramente desolado' (He was entirely desolated). This uses a more advanced adjective combined with our adverb to create a much stronger image. You are now moving beyond the literal meaning of 'whole' and using the word to show the intensity and totality of human experiences.

For C1 learners, inteiramente is a word that appears frequently in academic texts, high-level literature, and formal oratory. You should be able to distinguish its use from more technical terms like 'integralmente'. While 'integralmente' might be used for the 'full' text of a law, inteiramente is used for the 'entirely' original nature of a poem. You should use this word to add weight and authority to your arguments. In a debate, saying 'Essa afirmação é inteiramente infundada' (That statement is entirely groundless) is a powerful way to dismiss an incorrect point. You should also explore its use in fixed expressions and idiomatic structures. For instance, being 'inteiramente por fora' of a situation means being completely out of the loop. At this level, you should also pay attention to the prosody of the word—how the nasal 'in' and the rhythmic '-mente' can be used to control the pace of your speaking. In writing, inteiramente helps you avoid the 'low-frequency' feeling of repeating simpler adverbs. It contributes to a 'registre elevado' (high register) that is necessary for professional success in a Portuguese-speaking environment. You might use it to describe the methodology of a study: 'A pesquisa foi conduzida inteiramente de forma qualitativa'. This level of precision is what differentiates a C1 speaker from a B2 speaker. You are now using the word to not just describe completeness, but to define the very essence of the subject you are discussing.

At the C2 level, you have reached a near-native or native-like mastery of Portuguese. inteiramente is a word you use with total precision, often for rhetorical effect or to explore philosophical depths. You might use it in a literary analysis to discuss how a character is 'inteiramente moldado pelas circunstâncias' (entirely shaped by circumstances). You understand that the choice of inteiramente over 'totalmente' can change the entire tone of a sentence from a simple statement of fact to a poetic or emphatic declaration. You are also aware of regional nuances; you know that a speaker in Lisbon might use 'não é de todo' where a speaker in São Paulo might use 'não é inteiramente'. In your own writing, you use the word to create balance and rhythm in complex, multi-clause sentences. For example: 'Embora a proposta seja atraente, ela não nos parece inteiramente viável sob a ótica da sustentabilidade a longo prazo.' This sentence shows a mastery of syntax and vocabulary that is expected at the C2 level. You also recognize the word in the works of great authors like Fernando Pessoa or Machado de Assis, where it is used to describe the 'wholeness' of the human soul or the 'entirety' of an existential crisis. For you, inteiramente is not just a word meaning 'entirely'; it is a symbol of the absolute, a linguistic tool that allows you to express the concept of totality in all its complexity and beauty.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

inteiramente in 30 Seconds

Inteiramente means 'entirely' or 'completely' and is used to show 100% totality in actions or states.
It is a formal and polite adverb that adds precision and weight to your Portuguese sentences.
The word is invariable, meaning it never changes for gender or number, making it easy to use.
Commonly used to express full agreement, total changes, or that a service is free of charge.

The Portuguese adverb inteiramente is a powerful tool for expressing totality, completeness, and absolute states. At its core, it translates to "entirely," "completely," or "wholly" in English. Derived from the adjective inteiro (meaning whole or entire) and the suffix -mente (the equivalent of the English suffix -ly), this word functions as a modifier that leaves no room for doubt or partiality. In the landscape of Portuguese communication, inteiramente is used to emphasize that an action, a state of being, or a quality is present in its fullest possible extent. It is a word that bridges the gap between simple description and emphatic declaration. For example, saying someone is "responsible" is one thing, but saying they are inteiramente responsible shifts the weight of the statement to a level of absolute accountability.

Semantic Range: The word covers physical completeness, such as a glass being entirely full, as well as abstract completeness, such as being entirely in agreement with an idea.

Esta decisão depende inteiramente de você.

In this context, the use of the word removes any possibility of shared responsibility; the decision belongs to the individual alone. Linguistically, inteiramente is often preferred in formal writing, academic papers, and professional settings, though it is perfectly natural in elevated daily conversation. It carries a certain rhythmic elegance due to its five syllables, which allows a speaker to slow down and emphasize the "wholeness" of their thought. Understanding the nuances of this word requires looking at its Latin roots. The root integer refers to something untouched or whole. When you use inteiramente, you are essentially saying that the subject has not been fragmented or diminished. It is a word of integrity. In a world where things are often done halfway, inteiramente describes the rare state of being 100% committed or finished.

O projeto foi inteiramente financiado por doações.

Register and Tone: In formal letters, you might see 'inteiramente à disposição' (entirely at your disposal), a standard polite closing that signals full cooperation.

Eu concordo inteiramente com a sua análise do problema.

Grammatical Function: As an adverb, it never changes for gender or number. Whether you are talking about 'o homem' or 'as mulheres', the word remains 'inteiramente'.

As janelas estavam inteiramente cobertas de gelo.

Ele vive inteiramente para o seu trabalho.

Ultimately, inteiramente is about the absence of parts; it is the whole truth, the whole effort, and the whole person. Whether you are writing a legal document or expressing your deepest feelings, this word provides the linguistic weight necessary to show that nothing has been left out.

Using inteiramente correctly involves understanding its placement and the verbs it most naturally accompanies. In Portuguese, adverbs of manner like those ending in -mente typically follow the verb they modify. This is the most standard and neutral position. For example, in the sentence "Ele mudou inteiramente," the adverb follows the verb "mudou" to show that the change was total. However, Portuguese is a flexible language, and for emphasis, the adverb can sometimes be moved to the beginning of a clause or placed between an auxiliary verb and a main verb.

Standard Placement: Place 'inteiramente' immediately after the main verb to describe the manner of the action: 'Eles agiram inteiramente de acordo com a lei.'

O clima mudou inteiramente durante a tarde.

When modifying an adjective, inteiramente precedes the adjective, just like in English. "O quarto estava inteiramente vazio" (The room was entirely empty). This usage is very common when describing physical states or environments. It is important to note that because inteiramente is an adverb, it does not agree with the noun. A common mistake for learners is trying to say "inteiramenta" for a feminine noun, which is incorrect. In compound tenses, inteiramente often sits between the auxiliary verb ter or haver and the past participle. For instance, "Eu tinha inteiramente esquecido do nosso compromisso" (I had entirely forgotten our appointment). This creates a smooth flow and emphasizes the verb.

A casa foi inteiramente destruída pelo fogo.

Negation: When used with 'não', it means 'not entirely' or 'not quite'. Example: 'Não estou inteiramente convencido.'

Isso não é inteiramente verdade, há outros fatores.

With Prepositions: It often precedes prepositional phrases starting with 'de' or 'com'. 'Ele vive inteiramente de música.'

O sucesso foi inteiramente inesperado para todos.

Ela se dedicou inteiramente ao estudo das línguas.

In summary, inteiramente is a versatile adverb that enhances the precision of your Portuguese. By mastering its placement—following verbs and preceding adjectives—you can convey a sense of thoroughness and commitment that shorter words often lack. Whether you are describing a physical state, an emotional conviction, or a professional commitment, this word ensures that your meaning is understood in its totality.

You will encounter inteiramente in a variety of contexts, ranging from the highly formal to the surprisingly intimate. In the realm of news and journalism, it is frequently used to describe the extent of events. For example, a reporter might say a city was "inteiramente evacuada" (entirely evacuated) or that a new law is "inteiramente nova" (entirely new). Its length and phonetic weight give it an authoritative air, making it a favorite for news anchors and politicians who wish to sound definitive.

Legal and Formal Contexts: In contracts, you will find phrases like 'inteiramente responsável' or 'inteiramente nulo' (entirely void). It defines the legal scope of an agreement.

O contrato é inteiramente transparente e justo.

In literature, inteiramente is a stylistic choice used to depict deep emotions or absolute transformations. A character might find themselves "inteiramente perdido" (entirely lost) in their thoughts. Famous Portuguese and Brazilian authors use the word to add a layer of intensity that "muito" or "todo" cannot provide. It suggests a qualitative shift, not just a quantitative one. In the world of customer service and business, you will often hear the phrase "Estou inteiramente à sua disposição" (I am entirely at your disposal). This is a standard, polite way of saying "I am here to help you with whatever you need." It is more formal than "Pode contar comigo" and is common in upscale hotels, banks, or corporate communications.

O serviço é inteiramente gratuito para novos usuários.

Marketing and Advertising: Ads use 'inteiramente grátis' to emphasize that there are no hidden fees. It creates trust through a promise of total transparency.

Este produto é inteiramente feito à mão.

You might also hear this word in religious or spiritual contexts, describing a person who has "inteiramente se entregado" (entirely surrendered) to their faith. It denotes a lack of ego or reservation. In personal relationships, using inteiramente can signal a deep level of sincerity. "Eu te amo inteiramente" is much more poetic and profound than a simple "Eu te amo muito."

Academic Lectures: Professors use it to define theories: 'Esta teoria é inteiramente baseada em fatos observáveis.'

O autor foi inteiramente original em sua abordagem.

A vila ficou inteiramente isolada após a tempestade.

Whether you are watching a Brazilian soap opera (telenovela), reading a Portuguese newspaper (Público), or listening to a formal speech, inteiramente will appear as a marker of completeness and conviction. It is a word that demands attention and provides a clear, unambiguous boundary to whatever it describes.

For English speakers learning Portuguese, the word inteiramente presents a few common pitfalls that can reveal a non-native level of proficiency. The first and most frequent mistake is confusing the adverb inteiramente with the adjective inteiro (and its feminine/plural forms: inteira, inteiros, inteiras). In English, we often use 'whole' as an adjective and 'entirely' as an adverb. In Portuguese, you must remember that inteiramente is invariable. It does not matter if you are describing a group of women or a single male object; the adverb form never changes.

Agreement Errors: Incorrect: 'Elas estão inteiras satisfeitas.' Correct: 'Elas estão inteiramente satisfeitas.' (Adverbs don't agree with nouns).

A história é inteiramente fictícia, não baseada em fatos.

Another common error is overusing inteiramente in very casual, fast-paced street slang. While it is not "wrong," it can sound slightly out of place if you are using a lot of other slang terms. In these cases, Brazilians typically prefer totalmente or simply todo. For example, instead of saying "Estou inteiramente cansado," a native speaker at the gym might say "Tô todo quebrado." Using inteiramente there would sound like you are giving a formal report on your fatigue. Learners also sometimes struggle with the placement of the word in relation to the negative particle não. In English, "not entirely" and "entirely not" have very different meanings. In Portuguese, "não inteiramente" is the standard way to express partiality. Placing it elsewhere can confuse the listener.

Eu não concordo inteiramente com o que você disse.

False Friends and Interference: Don't confuse 'inteiramente' with 'internamente' (internally). They sound similar but have very different meanings!

Sua explicação foi inteiramente clara e útil.

Redundancy: Avoid 'muito inteiramente'. Since 'inteiramente' already means 100%, adding 'muito' (very) is redundant and grammatically awkward.

O filme é inteiramente em preto e branco.

A responsabilidade é inteiramente minha, eu errei.

Lastly, be careful with word order in questions. While "Você está inteiramente pronto?" is correct, putting the adverb at the very end ("Você está pronto inteiramente?") can sound a bit clunky in Portuguese compared to English. By keeping the adverb close to the word it modifies, you ensure clarity and maintain the natural melody of the language. Avoiding these common errors will help you use inteiramente with the confidence of a native speaker.

Portuguese is rich with adverbs of degree, and knowing when to use inteiramente versus its synonyms can greatly enhance your fluency. The most direct competitors are totalmente and completamente. While often interchangeable, they carry subtle differences in flavor. Totalmente is the workhorse of the three; it is used in almost every context and is the go-to word for emphasis in casual speech. Completamente is also very versatile but often leans towards physical or structural completion. Inteiramente, as we've noted, has a more formal and holistic tone.

Inteiramente vs. Totalmente: Use 'inteiramente' for abstract or formal wholeness (e.g., 'inteiramente livre'). Use 'totalmente' for everyday emphasis (e.g., 'totalmente louco').

O plano foi totalmente um fracasso (More common in speech).

Another alternative is plenamente. This word is beautiful and suggests not just completeness, but fulfillment or maturity. You might use plenamente when talking about being "fully aware" (plenamente consciente) or "fully satisfied" (plenamente satisfeito). It has a positive, almost glowing connotation that inteiramente lacks.

Integralmente: This word specifically implies that all components or parts of a system are present. It's common in technical manuals or legal codes.

A lei deve ser cumprida integralmente por todos os cidadãos.

For a more idiomatic or "old-school" feel, you might hear de todo. This is more common in Portugal than in Brazil. For example, "Não é de todo verdade" (It isn't true at all). It's a slightly more elegant way to express negation. In Brazil, you'll often hear the phrase por completo used as a phrasal adverb. "Ele esqueceu a senha por completo" (He forgot the password completely). This sounds very natural and less "heavy" than inteiramente.

Comparison Table: - Inteiramente: Formal, holistic, precise. - Totalmente: Casual, emphatic, universal. - Plenamente: Positive, full, mature. - Integralmente: Technical, legal, complete parts.

Estou plenamente convencido de que este é o caminho certo.

O prédio foi completamente reformado no ano passado.

By choosing the right synonym, you show that you understand not just the meaning of the words, but the social and stylistic context of the Portuguese language. While inteiramente is an excellent all-around choice for expressing completeness, knowing when to reach for plenamente or totalmente will make your Portuguese sound much more authentic and nuanced.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"O relatório foi inteiramente revisado pela diretoria."

Neutral

"Eu concordo inteiramente com o que você disse."

Informal

"Cara, eu tô inteiramente por fora desse assunto."

Child friendly

"O gatinho sumiu inteiramente debaixo da cama!"

Slang

"A festa foi inteiramente top!"

Fun Fact

The suffix '-mente' actually comes from the Latin word for 'mind' (mens/mentis). So, 'inteiramente' originally meant doing something with a 'whole mind'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ĩ.tej.ɾa.ˈmẽ.tɨ/

US /ĩ.tej.ɾa.ˈmẽ.tʃi/

The primary stress is on the penultimate syllable 'men'.

Rhymes With

claramente realmente infelizmente certamente fortemente rapidamente livremente gentilmente

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'in' like English 'in' instead of a nasal vowel.
Stressing the 'tei' syllable instead of 'men'.
Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r' instead of a tap.
Making the final 'e' too loud in European Portuguese.
Forgetting the nasalization of the 'em' in 'mente'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize because of its similarity to 'entirely'.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the spelling and the '-mente' suffix.

Speaking 4/5

The nasal sounds and length can be a challenge for beginners.

Listening 3/5

Easy to hear, but can be confused with 'internamente' if spoken fast.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

inteiro muito todo com estar

Learn Next

totalmente plenamente integralmente absolutamente parcialmente

Advanced

íntegro inteireza inteirar-se holístico exaustivamente

Grammar to Know

Adverb Formation with -mente

Inteiro (adj) -> Inteiramente (adv)

Adverb Invariability

A casa (fem) está inteiramente (not inteiramenta) pronta.

Placement after Verbs

Ele mudou inteiramente.

Placement before Adjectives

O copo está inteiramente cheio.

Nasalization of 'in'

The 'in' in inteiramente is a nasal vowel /ĩ/.

Examples by Level

O café está inteiramente frio.

The coffee is entirely cold.

Notice how 'inteiramente' describes the adjective 'frio'.

O livro é inteiramente meu.

The book is entirely mine.

Here it emphasizes possession.

A sala está inteiramente vazia.

The room is entirely empty.

Used with the verb 'estar' to describe a temporary state.

Ele é inteiramente novo aqui.

He is entirely new here.

Modifying the adjective 'novo'.

Eu estou inteiramente pronto.

I am entirely ready.

Adverbs like 'inteiramente' don't change gender.

O carro é inteiramente azul.

The car is entirely blue.

Use this to describe a color that covers the whole object.

O bolo sumiu inteiramente.

The cake disappeared entirely.

The adverb follows the verb 'sumiu'.

A porta está inteiramente aberta.

The door is entirely open.

Shows the extent of the opening.

Eu concordo inteiramente com você.

I entirely agree with you.

A very common way to show full agreement.

A cidade mudou inteiramente nos últimos anos.

The city changed entirely in recent years.

Used with 'mudar' to show total transformation.

O serviço é inteiramente gratuito.

The service is entirely free.

Common in business and advertising.

Ela se esqueceu inteiramente do compromisso.

She entirely forgot about the appointment.

Emphasizes the verb 'esquecer'.

O filme é inteiramente em inglês.

The movie is entirely in English.

Describes the language used throughout the work.

A casa foi inteiramente pintada de branco.

The house was entirely painted white.

Passive voice construction with the adverb.

O plano é inteiramente secreto.

The plan is entirely secret.

Modifying the adjective 'secreto'.

Nós vivemos inteiramente do nosso trabalho.

We live entirely off our work.

Shows the source of income or livelihood.

A responsabilidade não é inteiramente minha.

The responsibility is not entirely mine.

Using 'não' to show partiality.

Estou inteiramente à sua disposição para o que precisar.

I am entirely at your disposal for whatever you need.

A formal and polite set phrase.

O autor dedica-se inteiramente à escrita de romances.

The author dedicates himself entirely to writing novels.

Reflexive verb 'dedicar-se' + adverb.

O projeto foi inteiramente financiado por investidores locais.

The project was entirely funded by local investors.

Common in business and news reports.

Não estou inteiramente convencido de que isso vá funcionar.

I'm not entirely convinced that this will work.

Expressing doubt or hesitation.

A vila ficou inteiramente isolada pela neve.

The village became entirely isolated by the snow.

Describing a physical state caused by weather.

O sucesso dela depende inteiramente do seu esforço.

Her success depends entirely on her effort.

Showing a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

A explicação foi inteiramente clara para todos os alunos.

The explanation was entirely clear to all the students.

Modifying 'clara' to show total understanding.

O sistema foi inteiramente reconfigurado para evitar falhas.

The system was entirely reconfigured to avoid failures.

Technical context showing a complete overhaul.

Sua vida mudou inteiramente após ganhar a loteria.

His life changed entirely after winning the lottery.

Describing a major life transformation.

A decisão foi tomada de forma inteiramente democrática.

The decision was made in an entirely democratic way.

Modifying the adjective 'democrática' in a phrase.

O terreno é inteiramente plano e ideal para construção.

The land is entirely flat and ideal for construction.

Describing physical characteristics of land.

Ele agiu inteiramente por conta própria, sem consultar ninguém.

He acted entirely on his own, without consulting anyone.

Idiomatic use of 'por conta própria'.

A empresa é inteiramente gerida por mulheres.

The company is entirely managed by women.

Showing the composition of a group.

O filme é inteiramente baseado em fatos reais.

The movie is entirely based on real facts.

Common phrase in media and arts.

Sinto-me inteiramente renovado após as férias.

I feel entirely renewed after the holidays.

Describing a subjective emotional or physical state.

A teoria é inteiramente original e rompe com paradigmas.

The theory is entirely original and breaks with paradigms.

Academic context describing innovation.

O autor foi inteiramente fiel ao espírito da obra original.

The author was entirely faithful to the spirit of the original work.

Describing fidelity in artistic adaptation.

A região permanece inteiramente intocada pela civilização.

The region remains entirely untouched by civilization.

Describing environmental preservation.

O argumento é inteiramente falacioso e carece de lógica.

The argument is entirely fallacious and lacks logic.

Formal rhetoric used to dismiss an idea.

Ela se sente inteiramente à vontade em ambientes formais.

She feels entirely at ease in formal environments.

Idiomatic expression 'à vontade' (at ease).

A proposta foi inteiramente rejeitada pelo conselho.

The proposal was entirely rejected by the council.

Describing an absolute administrative outcome.

O processo é inteiramente automatizado, sem intervenção humana.

The process is entirely automated, without human intervention.

Describing modern industrial processes.

A responsabilidade recai inteiramente sobre os ombros do diretor.

The responsibility falls entirely on the director's shoulders.

Metaphorical use of 'ombros' (shoulders).

Sua obra é inteiramente permeada por um pessimismo existencial.

His work is entirely permeated by an existential pessimism.

High-level literary analysis.

O destino da nação está inteiramente nas mãos do povo.

The fate of the nation is entirely in the hands of the people.

Rhetorical use in political discourse.

A verdade não nos parece inteiramente acessível neste momento.

The truth does not seem entirely accessible to us at this moment.

Philosophical nuance using the royal 'nós'.

O projeto foi inteiramente concebido como um manifesto político.

The project was entirely conceived as a political manifesto.

Describing the intent and origin of a work.

A paisagem era inteiramente desprovida de qualquer sinal de vida.

The landscape was entirely devoid of any sign of life.

Using 'desprovida de' (devoid of) for high register.

Ele se entregou inteiramente à causa, sacrificando sua vida pessoal.

He gave himself entirely to the cause, sacrificing his personal life.

Describing total commitment and sacrifice.

A estrutura do poema é inteiramente orgânica e fluida.

The structure of the poem is entirely organic and fluid.

Describing aesthetic qualities in literature.

O silêncio era inteiramente absoluto, quase ensurdecedor.

The silence was entirely absolute, almost deafening.

Oxymoron 'ensurdecedor' (deafening) used for effect.

Common Collocations

Concordar inteiramente

Inteiramente grátis

Inteiramente novo

Inteiramente responsável

Inteiramente à disposição

Inteiramente baseado em

Mudar inteiramente

Inteiramente diferente

Inteiramente dedicado

Inteiramente vazio

Common Phrases

Não inteiramente

— Not completely; somewhat but not 100%.

Isso não é inteiramente verdade.

Inteiramente certo

— Absolutely correct or certain.

Você está inteiramente certo sobre isso.

Inteiramente satisfeito

— Fully satisfied with a service or result.

O cliente ficou inteiramente satisfeito.

Inteiramente por fora

— Completely out of the loop; unaware.

Estou inteiramente por fora dessa história.

Inteiramente gratuito

— Completely free of charge.

O evento é inteiramente gratuito.

Inteiramente focado

— Completely focused on a task.

Estou inteiramente focado no meu trabalho.

Inteiramente original

— Completely original; not copied.

A ideia foi inteiramente original.

Inteiramente à vontade

— Completely comfortable or at ease.

Sinta-se inteiramente à vontade na minha casa.

Inteiramente justo

— Completely fair or equitable.

O resultado foi inteiramente justo.

Inteiramente isolado

— Completely alone or separated.

O náufrago ficou inteiramente isolado na ilha.

Often Confused With

inteiramente vs Internamente

Means 'internally'. It sounds similar but refers to the inside of something, not completeness.

inteiramente vs Inteiro

This is the adjective. Adverbs like 'inteiramente' modify verbs/adjectives; 'inteiro' modifies nouns.

inteiramente vs Intensamente

Means 'intensely'. While related to degree, it focuses on strength rather than wholeness.

Idioms & Expressions

"Estar inteiramente por fora"

— To have no idea about something; to be completely ignorant of a situation.

Não me pergunte sobre a festa, estou inteiramente por fora.

Informal

"Entregar-se inteiramente"

— To dedicate oneself completely to a person, cause, or activity.

Ele se entregou inteiramente à música.

Neutral/Poetic

"Inteiramente à mercê"

— Completely at the mercy of something or someone.

Eles estavam inteiramente à mercê do tempo.

Formal

"Ser inteiramente ouvidos"

— To be 'all ears'; to be listening very intently.

Pode falar, sou inteiramente ouvidos.

Informal

"Inteiramente por conta"

— Completely because of or by the responsibility of.

A festa foi inteiramente por conta da empresa.

Neutral

"Inteiramente sem jeito"

— Completely awkward or clumsy in a situation.

Fiquei inteiramente sem jeito com o elogio.

Informal

"Inteiramente de graça"

— Completely for free (sometimes used metaphorically).

Ele me ofendeu inteiramente de graça.

Informal

"Inteiramente às escuras"

— To be completely in the dark (metaphorically, lacking information).

Fomos deixados inteiramente às escuras sobre o projeto.

Neutral

"Viver inteiramente para"

— To live one's life solely for a specific purpose.

Ela vive inteiramente para os seus filhos.

Neutral

"Inteiramente de acordo"

— In full agreement; of one mind.

Estamos inteiramente de acordo com os termos.

Formal

Easily Confused

inteiramente vs Totalmente

They have the same meaning.

Totalmente is more common in casual speech; inteiramente is more formal/literary.

Tô totalmente sem grana vs. O projeto foi inteiramente financiado.

inteiramente vs Completamente

They have the same meaning.

Completamente often refers to finishing a task; inteiramente refers to the state of being whole.

Terminei completamente vs. A sala está inteiramente vazia.

inteiramente vs Plenamente

Both imply 100%.

Plenamente has a positive connotation of fulfillment (fully aware, fully satisfied).

Estou plenamente consciente do risco.

inteiramente vs Integralmente

Both mean 'in full'.

Integralmente is technical/legal, used for payments or full texts of laws.

Pagou o boleto integralmente.

inteiramente vs Absolutamente

Both show 100%.

Absolutamente is more emphatic and often used to mean 'definitely'.

Absolutamente não!

Sentence Patterns

Sujeito + estar + inteiramente + adjetivo

O café está inteiramente frio.

Sujeito + concordar + inteiramente + com + alguém

Eu concordo inteiramente com você.

Sujeito + não + é + inteiramente + adjetivo

Isso não é inteiramente verdade.

Sujeito + foi + inteiramente + particípio

A casa foi inteiramente destruída.

O + substantivo + depende + inteiramente + de + algo

O sucesso depende inteiramente do esforço.

Sujeito + dedicar-se + inteiramente + a + algo

Ela se dedica inteiramente à arte.

Algo + ser + inteiramente + desprovido + de + algo

O texto é inteiramente desprovido de sentido.

Sujeito + estar + inteiramente + à mercê + de + algo

Estamos inteiramente à mercê do acaso.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in both writing and speech, especially in formal contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'inteiramenta' for feminine nouns. → Inteiramente
Adverbs do not have gender in Portuguese. They are invariable.
Pronouncing 'in' like English 'in'. → /ĩ/
The 'in' must be nasalized. Your tongue shouldn't touch the roof of your mouth for the 'n'.
Saying 'muito inteiramente'. → Inteiramente
'Inteiramente' already means 100%, so 'muito' is redundant.
Confusing 'inteiramente' with 'internamente'. → Inteiramente
'Internamente' means internally; 'inteiramente' means entirely.
Putting 'inteiramente' at the start of every sentence. → Vary the placement.
While possible, it usually sounds more natural after the verb or before the adjective.

Tips

Adverb Agreement

Never change the ending of 'inteiramente'. It is always the same, regardless of who or what you are talking about.

Agreement Phrases

Memorize 'Concordo inteiramente' as a single block. It's a very useful and natural-sounding phrase.

The Nasal Sound

Focus on the nasal vowels. Both the 'in' at the start and the 'em' in 'mente' should be nasalized.

Formal vs Informal

Use 'inteiramente' when you want to sound more professional or serious. Use 'totalmente' with friends.

Rhythm

Listen for the rhythmic beat of the word. Five syllables: IN-TEI-RA-MEN-TE.

Negation

Use 'não inteiramente' to express that something is mostly true but has some exceptions.

Customer Service

Use 'inteiramente à disposição' in professional emails to leave a great impression.

Suffix Logic

Remember that almost any adjective can become an adverb by adding '-mente' to the feminine form.

Regional Differences

In Portugal, the 'e' at the end is like a whisper. In Brazil, it sounds like 'chee'.

Synonym Swap

Try replacing 'muito' with 'inteiramente' in your sentences to see if it makes your point stronger.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the English word 'entirely'. They both start with 'inte/enti' and end with a suffix that means '-ly'. Inteiramente = Entirely.

Visual Association

Imagine a whole pizza (inteiro) and you eat the whole thing (inteiramente).

Word Web

inteiro totalmente completamente plenamente integralmente inteireza inteirar inteirado

Challenge

Try to say 'Eu concordo inteiramente' five times fast while focusing on the nasal 'in' and 'em' sounds.

Word Origin

From the Portuguese adjective 'inteiro' + the adverbial suffix '-mente'. 'Inteiro' comes from the Latin 'integer', meaning untouched, whole, or fresh.

Original meaning: In Latin, 'integer' referred to something that had not been touched or broken into parts.

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but avoid using it sarcastically in formal settings as it can sound dismissive.

English speakers often over-rely on 'muito' or 'totalmente'. Learning 'inteiramente' helps bridge the gap to a more professional or 'educated' register of Portuguese.

The song 'Inteiramente Sua' (Entirely Yours), a common theme in romantic ballads. Legal documents often start with 'O presente contrato é inteiramente regido pelas leis...' News reports on disasters: 'A cidade foi inteiramente destruída'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Agreement

Concordo inteiramente
Estou inteiramente de acordo
Você tem inteiramente razão
É inteiramente verdade

Business/Advertising

Inteiramente grátis
Inteiramente gratuito
Inteiramente à disposição
Inteiramente financiado

States of Being

Inteiramente vazio
Inteiramente cheio
Inteiramente novo
Inteiramente diferente

Obligation/Responsibility

Inteiramente responsável
Inteiramente por minha conta
Inteiramente culpado
Inteiramente dependente

Change/Transformation

Mudar inteiramente
Reforma inteiramente
Inteiramente renovado
Inteiramente transformado

Conversation Starters

"Você concorda inteiramente com as novas regras da empresa?"

"O seu trabalho é inteiramente em português ou você usa inglês também?"

"Você já se sentiu inteiramente perdido em uma cidade nova?"

"Qual é um serviço que deveria ser inteiramente gratuito na sua opinião?"

"Você acha que as pessoas mudam inteiramente ao longo da vida?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre um momento em que você se sentiu inteiramente feliz e realizado.

Descreva um projeto ao qual você se dedicou inteiramente no passado.

O que na sua vida mudou inteiramente nos últimos cinco anos?

Você acha que é possível ser inteiramente honesto o tempo todo?

Descreva um lugar que você visitou que parecia inteiramente intocado.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but usually to describe their state or commitment. For example, 'Ele é inteiramente dedicado' (He is entirely dedicated). You wouldn't use it to describe their physical body (you'd use 'inteiro' for that).

Yes, it is very common in Portugal, especially in formal speech. However, the pronunciation is slightly different, with the final 'e' being much softer.

There is very little difference in meaning. 'Totalmente' is more frequent in informal, everyday Brazilian Portuguese, while 'inteiramente' sounds a bit more formal and precise.

No. Adverbs in Portuguese are invariable. You say 'O homem está inteiramente pronto' and 'A mulher está inteiramente pronta'.

No. 'Inteiramente' already means 100%, so adding 'muito' (very) is redundant and incorrect.

It usually follows the verb it modifies (Ele mudou inteiramente) or precedes the adjective it modifies (O quarto é inteiramente novo).

Yes, it is a very common word, especially in news, business, and formal writing. It is considered an A2-level word.

It is a polite way to say 'entirely at your service' or 'available to help you with anything'.

Not directly, but using it in phrases like 'Eu te amo inteiramente' implies a deep, sincere wholeness of emotion.

Try to say 'ee' while letting some air escape through your nose. It should not sound like the English word 'in' with a hard 'n'.