lamentável in 30 Seconds
- Lamentável means regrettable or deplorable.
- It expresses sadness, disappointment, or disapproval.
- Use it for unfortunate events or bad actions.
- It is an invariable adjective.
- Definition
- The Portuguese adjective 'lamentável' describes something that is regrettable, deplorable, or worthy of regret or censure. It conveys a sense of sadness, disappointment, or disapproval about a situation or event. It's used when something unfortunate has happened, or when someone's actions are considered bad enough to warrant criticism or sorrow.
- Usage
- You would use 'lamentável' to express that a situation is sad, unfortunate, or unacceptable. It's a common way to voice disapproval or express empathy for a negative outcome. It can apply to personal misfortunes, societal issues, or even minor inconveniences that evoke a sense of regret. For example, a missed opportunity, a tragic accident, or a poorly executed plan could all be described as 'lamentável'. It carries a stronger emotional weight than simply saying something is 'bad' or 'sad'; it implies a deeper sense of regret or a stronger judgment.
O resultado final do projeto foi lamentável.
É lamentável que tantas pessoas sofram com a pobreza.
- Nuances
- The word 'lamentável' can be used in both personal and public contexts. Personally, you might describe a missed flight or a failed exam as 'lamentável'. In a broader sense, it can be used to comment on social injustices, political failures, or environmental disasters. The intensity of the word suggests a significant degree of negativity, making it suitable for situations that genuinely evoke sorrow or strong disapproval. It's not typically used for very minor inconveniences unless one is being hyperbolic or wants to express particular disappointment.
- Emotional Tone
- The emotional tone of 'lamentável' is one of sorrow, regret, disappointment, and sometimes indignation. It signals that the speaker feels a strong negative reaction to the described situation. It's a word that carries weight and is often used when discussing serious matters or when expressing a strong moral or emotional stance. It implies that the situation could have been better, or perhaps should have been, and its current state is a cause for concern or sadness.
- Placement in Sentences
- 'Lamentável' is an adjective, so it typically follows the noun it modifies or appears after a linking verb like 'ser' (to be) or 'estar' (to be). When it modifies a noun directly, it agrees in gender and number. However, 'lamentável' is invariable in gender; it remains the same for masculine and feminine nouns. For plural nouns, it also remains the same. It's common to see it used with 'ser' to describe the inherent quality of something or a situation's outcome. For example, 'A situação é lamentável.' (The situation is regrettable.) or 'Um erro lamentável.' (A regrettable mistake.)
- Common Structures
- 1. **Subject + Ser/Estar + Lamentável:** This is the most straightforward structure. 'Ser' is used for more permanent or inherent qualities, while 'estar' might be used for a temporary state of regret.
* Exemplo: 'O atraso foi lamentável.' (The delay was regrettable.)
* Exemplo: 'É lamentável que tenhamos perdido a reunião.' (It is regrettable that we missed the meeting.)
2. **Noun + Ser/Estar + Lamentável:** Similar to the above, but emphasizing the noun.
* Exemplo: 'A decisão deles foi lamentável.' (Their decision was regrettable.)
3. **Lamentável + Noun:** This structure is less common but can be used for emphasis, especially in more formal or literary contexts.
* Exemplo: 'Um lamentável engano causou o problema.' (A regrettable mistake caused the problem.)
A falta de comunicação foi um ponto lamentável na nossa colaboração.
- Conjunctions and Clauses
- 'Lamentável' is often used with conjunctions like 'que' (that) to introduce subordinate clauses that explain the reason for the regret.
* Exemplo: 'É lamentável que ele tenha se machucado.' (It is regrettable that he got hurt.)
* Exemplo: 'A notícia do acidente foi lamentável, mas esperávamos o melhor.' (The news of the accident was regrettable, but we hoped for the best.) - Expressing Stronger Feelings
- To intensify the meaning, you can use adverbs like 'muito' (very) or 'extremamente' (extremely) before 'lamentável'.
* Exemplo: 'Foi um erro muito lamentável.' (It was a very regrettable mistake.)
- News and Media
- You'll frequently encounter 'lamentável' in news reports, especially when discussing unfortunate events, accidents, crimes, or social issues. Journalists use it to describe situations that evoke public sympathy or condemnation. For example, a report might state: 'O número de vítimas do incêndio foi lamentável.' (The number of fire victims was lamentable.) or 'As condições de vida na região são lamentáveis.' (The living conditions in the region are lamentable.) It adds a tone of gravity and seriousness to the reporting.
- Formal Speeches and Discussions
- In more formal settings, such as political speeches, academic lectures, or serious debates, 'lamentável' is used to express strong disapproval or regret about policies, decisions, or societal trends. A politician might say: 'É lamentável que o diálogo não tenha sido estabelecido.' (It is lamentable that dialogue was not established.) This elevates the discourse and emphasizes the speaker's concern or disappointment.
A perda cultural causada pela destruição do patrimônio histórico é lamentável.
- Personal Conversations (Expressing Disappointment)
- In everyday conversations, 'lamentável' is used to express strong disappointment or sadness about a personal setback or an unfortunate event affecting someone known. For instance, if a friend fails an important exam, you might say: 'Que pena, foi lamentável.' (What a shame, it was regrettable.) Or, about a personal mistake: 'Cometi um erro lamentável.' (I made a regrettable mistake.) It conveys a deeper level of empathy or regret than just saying 'triste' (sad).
- Literature and Art
- In literature, poetry, or dramatic works, 'lamentável' can be used to describe tragic situations, characters' misfortunes, or the overall somber tone of a piece. It's a word that adds emotional depth and can be used by narrators or characters to express profound sorrow or regret about the unfolding events.
- Confusing with 'Lamentar'
- A common mistake for learners is to confuse the adjective 'lamentável' with the verb 'lamentar' (to lament, to regret). While related in meaning, they function differently in a sentence. 'Lamentar' is an action, while 'lamentável' describes a state or quality.
* Incorrect: 'Eu lamentável o que aconteceu.' (This mixes adjective and verb structure.)
* Correct (using the verb): 'Eu lamento o que aconteceu.' (I lament/regret what happened.)
* Correct (using the adjective): 'O que aconteceu foi lamentável.' (What happened was regrettable.) - Gender and Number Agreement (Incorrect Assumption)
- Although many Portuguese adjectives change form to agree with the gender and number of the noun they modify, 'lamentável' is an exception. It is invariable, meaning it does not change. Learners might mistakenly try to make it agree with the noun.
* Incorrect: 'As situações são lamentáveiss.' (Adding an 's' to make it plural.)
* Incorrect: 'A decisão lamentávela foi tomada.' (Trying to make it feminine.)
* Correct: 'As situações são lamentável.'
* Correct: 'A decisão lamentável foi tomada.' The form 'lamentável' is used for all nouns, regardless of gender or number.
É lamentável que a partida tenha sido cancelada.
- Overuse or Underuse
- Some learners might overuse 'lamentável' for situations that are only mildly inconvenient, diluting its impact. Conversely, they might shy away from using it in contexts where it's appropriate, opting for weaker expressions. 'Lamentável' implies a significant degree of regret or censure. It's best reserved for situations that genuinely warrant sorrow or strong disapproval, rather than everyday minor annoyances. For instance, forgetting your keys might be 'chato' (annoying), but a major accident is 'lamentável'.
- Translating Directly from English
- Directly translating English phrases like 'it's a shame' can sometimes lead to awkward phrasing. While 'que pena' is a direct translation for 'what a shame', using 'lamentável' when expressing a deeper sense of regret or formal disapproval is more appropriate.
* Less nuanced: 'É uma pena que o evento tenha sido cancelado.' (It's a shame the event was canceled.)
* More impactful: 'É lamentável que o evento tenha sido cancelado.' (It is regrettable that the event was canceled.)
- Triste (Sad)
- 'Triste' is a more general term for 'sad'. While 'lamentável' implies a situation that causes sadness, 'triste' can refer to a person's emotional state or a generally unhappy situation. 'Lamentável' carries a stronger sense of regret or censure.
* 'Lamentável': A situation that evokes regret or disapproval.
* 'Triste': Feeling or causing sadness.
* Exemplo: 'A notícia do acidente foi lamentável e deixou todos muito tristes.' (The news of the accident was regrettable and left everyone very sad.) - Deplorável (Deplorable)
- 'Deplorável' is very close in meaning to 'lamentável' and is often interchangeable. It signifies something that deserves strong condemnation or disapproval, often due to its poor quality or moral reprehensibility. It can sometimes carry an even stronger sense of outrage than 'lamentável'.
* Exemplo: 'As condições de trabalho eram deploráveis, lamentáveis.' (The working conditions were deplorable, regrettable.)
É lamentável que ele tenha perdido a oportunidade.
- Inaceitável (Unacceptable)
- 'Inaceitável' means 'unacceptable'. While something regrettable might also be unacceptable, 'inaceitável' focuses more on the breach of rules, norms, or standards, rather than the emotional aspect of regret.
* Exemplo: 'A violência contra civis é inaceitável e lamentável.' (Violence against civilians is unacceptable and regrettable.) - Desolador (Devastating/Heartbreaking)
- 'Desolador' suggests a much stronger feeling of devastation, heartbreak, or profound sadness. It's used for truly tragic or overwhelming situations. 'Lamentável' is less intense.
* Exemplo: 'O cenário pós-desastre era desolador; foi uma visão lamentável.' (The post-disaster scene was devastating; it was a lamentable sight.) - Que Pena (What a Shame)
- 'Que pena' is a more informal and less intense expression of disappointment or sympathy, similar to 'what a shame' or 'too bad' in English. It's used for less severe situations where 'lamentável' might be too strong.
* Exemplo: 'Perdeu o autocarro? Que pena!' (Missed the bus? What a shame!)
* Exemplo: 'É lamentável que tenha perdido o autocarro.' (It is regrettable that you missed the bus.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The concept of lamentation has been present in human culture for millennia, often associated with rituals, mourning, and expressions of deep sorrow. The word 'lamentável' carries this ancient weight of expressing profound regret or sadness.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'l' at the end as a 'w' sound.
- Not nasalizing the vowels 'a' and 'e' where indicated.
- Incorrect stress placement, e.g., on the first or second syllable.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'lamentável' is relatively common and its meaning is usually clear from context. However, understanding the nuances and its use in more complex sentence structures requires some practice. Its invariable nature can also be a point of confusion for learners initially.
Learners might struggle with the invariable aspect of the adjective and its correct placement in sentences, especially when forming subordinate clauses with the subjunctive mood after 'É lamentável que...'. Careful attention to grammar is needed.
Pronunciation, particularly the nasal vowels and the final 'l', can be challenging. Using the word naturally in conversation requires confidence and understanding of its appropriate contexts.
Recognizing the word when spoken, especially in fast speech or with different accents, can be difficult. Its pronunciation requires familiarity with Portuguese phonetics.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Subjunctive Mood after 'É lamentável que...'
É lamentável que ele tenha se atrasado.
Adjective Agreement (Invariable)
A situação é lamentável. Os resultados são lamentável.
Using 'Ser' and 'Estar' with Adjectives
O erro foi lamentável. (Describes the nature of the error) A situação está lamentável.
Adverbs Modifying Adjectives
Foi um erro muito lamentável.
Infinitive Clauses after 'Lamentável'
É lamentável ter perdido a oportunidade.
Examples by Level
Que pena, foi lamentável.
What a shame, it was regrettable.
Simple sentence structure with 'foi' (was) and the adjective 'lamentável'.
O erro foi lamentável.
The mistake was regrettable.
Subject (erro) + verb (foi) + adjective (lamentável).
É lamentável.
It is regrettable.
Impersonal expression using 'É' (It is) + adjective.
Uma situação lamentável.
A regrettable situation.
Adjective preceding the noun for emphasis.
O resultado foi lamentável.
The result was regrettable.
Subject (resultado) + verb (foi) + adjective (lamentável).
Um dia lamentável.
A regrettable day.
Adjective preceding the noun.
Que pena, foi lamentável.
What a shame, it was regrettable.
Simple sentence structure with 'foi' (was) and the adjective 'lamentável'.
O incidente foi lamentável.
The incident was regrettable.
Subject (incidente) + verb (foi) + adjective (lamentável).
É lamentável que o jogo tenha sido cancelado.
It is regrettable that the game was canceled.
Use of 'que' to introduce a subordinate clause with the subjunctive mood.
O atraso do voo foi lamentável para todos.
The flight delay was regrettable for everyone.
Adjective modifying 'atraso' (delay) and context for 'para todos' (for everyone).
Cometi um erro lamentável na prova.
I made a regrettable mistake on the test.
Using 'cometi' (I made) + adjective + noun.
A perda do emprego dele foi lamentável.
The loss of his job was regrettable.
Subject (perda) + verb (foi) + adjective.
É lamentável a falta de respeito.
The lack of respect is regrettable.
Impersonal construction with 'É' + noun + adjective.
O mau tempo tornou a viagem lamentável.
The bad weather made the trip regrettable.
Verb 'tornou' (made) + object + adjective.
Foi um acidente lamentável.
It was a regrettable accident.
Using 'Foi' (It was) + adjective + noun.
A situação política é lamentável.
The political situation is regrettable.
Subject (situação) + verb (é) + adjective.
É lamentável que a proposta tenha sido rejeitada sem uma análise completa.
It is regrettable that the proposal was rejected without a complete analysis.
Subordinate clause with subjunctive: 'tenha sido rejeitada'.
A falta de investimento em educação é um problema lamentável para o futuro do país.
The lack of investment in education is a regrettable problem for the country's future.
Adjective modifying 'problema' and providing context.
O comportamento dele foi lamentável e causou constrangimento a todos.
His behavior was regrettable and caused embarrassment to everyone.
Connecting two clauses with 'e' (and).
Considero lamentável a forma como a crise foi gerida.
I consider the way the crisis was managed regrettable.
Using the verb 'considero' (I consider) + adjective.
A notícia do aumento da violência urbana é profundamente lamentável.
The news of the increase in urban violence is profoundly regrettable.
Adverb 'profundamente' (profoundly) intensifying 'lamentável'.
Foi lamentável ter que testemunhar tal injustiça.
It was regrettable to have to witness such injustice.
Using the infinitive 'ter que testemunhar' (to have to witness).
A consequência dessa decisão foi lamentável para a economia local.
The consequence of that decision was regrettable for the local economy.
Adjective modifying 'consequência' (consequence).
O abandono de animais é uma prática lamentável que precisa ser combatida.
The abandonment of animals is a regrettable practice that needs to be combatted.
Adjective modifying 'prática' (practice) and introducing a purpose clause.
É lamentável que, apesar dos esforços, a situação humanitária não tenha apresentado melhoras significativas.
It is regrettable that, despite the efforts, the humanitarian situation has not shown significant improvements.
Complex sentence structure with concessive clause ('apesar de') and subjunctive ('tenha apresentado').
A forma como a mídia tratou o assunto foi, em minha opinião, lamentável e pouco ética.
The way the media treated the subject was, in my opinion, regrettable and unethical.
Expressing opinion and using multiple adjectives.
O descaso com o meio ambiente é um legado lamentável que deixaremos para as futuras gerações.
The disregard for the environment is a regrettable legacy that we will leave for future generations.
Figurative use of 'legado' (legacy) and future tense.
Considero lamentável que a burocracia excessiva impeça o desenvolvimento de novas iniciativas.
I consider it regrettable that excessive bureaucracy hinders the development of new initiatives.
Verb 'considero' + adjective + subordinate clause with subjunctive ('impeça').
A omissão das autoridades diante de um problema tão grave é, sem dúvida, lamentável.
The omission of the authorities in the face of such a serious problem is, without a doubt, regrettable.
Emphasis with 'sem dúvida' (without a doubt).
Foi lamentável observar a deterioração das relações diplomáticas entre os dois países.
It was regrettable to observe the deterioration of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Using the infinitive 'observar' (to observe) after 'lamentável'.
A desigualdade social que persiste em muitas cidades é um aspecto lamentável da nossa sociedade.
The social inequality that persists in many cities is a regrettable aspect of our society.
Adjective modifying 'aspecto' (aspect) and describing a persistent issue.
A ausência de um debate público informado sobre o tema é lamentável.
The absence of an informed public debate on the topic is regrettable.
Adjective modifying 'ausência' (absence).
É lamentável constatar que, apesar das advertências, a negligência persistiu, resultando em consequências desastrosas.
It is lamentable to note that, despite the warnings, negligence persisted, resulting in disastrous consequences.
Complex sentence structure with infinitive clauses and participial phrases.
A passividade com que certos governos lidaram com a crise climática é francamente lamentável.
The passivity with which certain governments dealt with the climate crisis is frankly regrettable.
Adverb 'francamente' (frankly) intensifying 'lamentável'.
O silêncio ensurdecedor da comunidade internacional diante de atrocidades é um testemunho lamentável da nossa falha coletiva.
The deafening silence of the international community in the face of atrocities is a lamentable testament to our collective failure.
Metaphorical language ('silêncio ensurdecedor') and abstract nouns.
Considero lamentável que a busca por lucro a curto prazo tenha sobreposto os imperativos éticos e ambientais.
I consider it regrettable that the pursuit of short-term profit has overridden ethical and environmental imperatives.
Complex subordinate clause with subjunctive ('tenha sobreposto').
A instrumentalização política de tragédias humanas é uma prática lamentável que mina a confiança pública.
The political instrumentalization of human tragedies is a lamentable practice that undermines public trust.
Abstract nouns and a relative clause.
Foi lamentável ter que presenciar o desmantelamento de instituições democráticas sob o pretexto de 'ordem'.
It was regrettable to have to witness the dismantling of democratic institutions under the guise of 'order'.
Infinitive clause with a complex prepositional phrase.
A perpetuação de estereótipos prejudiciais na mídia é um reflexo lamentável de preconceitos arraigados.
The perpetuation of harmful stereotypes in the media is a lamentable reflection of ingrained prejudices.
Adjective modifying 'reflexo' (reflection) and describing underlying issues.
O declínio da participação cívica em detrimento do individualismo exacerbado é um fenômeno lamentável.
The decline of civic participation at the expense of exacerbated individualism is a lamentable phenomenon.
Abstract nouns and complex phrasing.
É lamentável que a busca incessante por progresso material tenha obscurecido a necessidade premente de preservar nosso ecossistema, um legado inestimável.
It is lamentable that the incessant pursuit of material progress has obscured the pressing need to preserve our ecosystem, an invaluable legacy.
Sophisticated vocabulary ('incessante', 'obscurecido', 'premente', 'inestimável') and complex sentence structure.
A complacência com que certas elites observam a erosão dos direitos humanos é um sintoma lamentável de uma sociedade em declínio moral.
The complacency with which certain elites observe the erosion of human rights is a lamentable symptom of a society in moral decline.
Abstract nouns, participial phrases, and strong descriptive adjectives.
O silêncio cúmplice de instituições voltadas para a justiça, diante de flagrantes violações, configura um cenário lamentável e perigoso.
The complicit silence of institutions dedicated to justice, in the face of flagrant violations, constitutes a lamentable and dangerous scenario.
Advanced vocabulary ('cúmplice', 'flagrantes', 'configura') and nuanced meaning.
Considero lamentável que a retórica polarizadora e a desinformação orquestrada tenham suplantado o diálogo racional e a busca pela verdade.
I consider it regrettable that polarizing rhetoric and orchestrated disinformation have supplanted rational dialogue and the pursuit of truth.
Complex vocabulary ('retórica polarizadora', 'orquestrada', 'suplantado') and abstract concepts.
A hipocrisia de discursos que clamam por liberdade enquanto restringem direitos fundamentais é, em última análise, lamentável e desonesta.
The hypocrisy of speeches that cry out for freedom while restricting fundamental rights is, ultimately, lamentable and dishonest.
Juxtaposition of opposing ideas and strong adverbs.
Foi lamentável testemunhar a orquestração de narrativas enganosas para manipular a opinião pública em tempos de crise.
It was lamentable to witness the orchestration of misleading narratives to manipulate public opinion in times of crisis.
Infinitive clause with complex object and purpose clause.
A mercantilização da cultura e a superficialidade com que temas complexos são abordados representam um empobrecimento lamentável do debate público.
The commodification of culture and the superficiality with which complex themes are addressed represent a lamentable impoverishment of public debate.
Abstract nouns and participial phrases.
A perpetuação de privilégios injustificados e a inércia diante da desigualdade crescente são aspectos lamentáveis de um sistema falho.
The perpetuation of unjustified privileges and the inertia in the face of growing inequality are lamentable aspects of a flawed system.
Abstract nouns and strong adjectives describing systemic issues.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— This phrase introduces a subordinate clause expressing regret about a situation. It's a very common way to use the word.
É lamentável que você não possa vir à festa.
— Used to describe a past event or situation that was regrettable. It's a concise way to express disapproval or sadness about something that has already happened.
O atraso foi lamentável para todos os passageiros.
— Highlights a mistake that caused regret or negative consequences. It emphasizes the significance of the error.
O sistema cometeu um erro lamentável no cálculo.
— Describes circumstances that are unfortunate, sad, or worthy of disapproval. It's a general way to refer to negative conditions.
A pobreza extrema é uma situação lamentável.
— An intensified version of 'lamentável', indicating a very high degree of regret or sorrow.
A perda de vidas humanas é profundamente lamentável.
— To view or judge something as regrettable or deplorable.
Considero lamentável a falta de respeito demonstrada.
— Refers to an unfortunate or regrettable occurrence or piece of information.
É um fato lamentável que a negociação tenha falhado.
— Emphasizes that something is undeniably regrettable or deplorable.
A destruição do patrimônio histórico é sem dúvida lamentável.
— Used to connect two negative aspects, where the second is described as regrettable.
O evento foi caótico e lamentável.
— A common expression combining sympathy ('que pena') with a stronger statement of regret ('foi lamentável').
Ele não conseguiu o emprego? Que pena, foi lamentável.
Often Confused With
'Lamentar' is the verb meaning 'to regret' or 'to lament', while 'lamentável' is the adjective describing something as regrettable. You 'lamentar' something, and something is 'lamentável'.
'Triste' means sad. While a 'lamentável' situation is often sad, 'lamentável' implies a stronger sense of regret, disapproval, or censure, and is less about personal emotion and more about the quality of the situation itself.
'Deplorável' is very similar and often interchangeable with 'lamentável', both meaning 'deplorable' or 'regrettable'. 'Deplorável' can sometimes carry a stronger sense of outrage or moral condemnation.
Easily Confused
Both words share the same root and convey a sense of regret or sorrow.
Lamentar is a verb (to regret), while lamentável is an adjective (regrettable). You 'lamentar' (verb) an event that is 'lamentável' (adjective). For example, 'Eu lamento (verb) que a situação seja lamentável (adjective).'
Eu lamento muito que o resultado tenha sido lamentável.
Both words describe negative emotional states or situations.
'Triste' describes a feeling of sadness, whereas 'lamentável' describes a situation that evokes regret, disapproval, or censure. A lamentável situation often makes people triste, but not all triste situations are lamentáveis (e.g., personal sadness over a minor issue).
A notícia foi triste para ele, mas a causa foi lamentável para a sociedade.
They are very close synonyms and can often be used interchangeably.
'Lamentável' generally expresses regret or sorrow. 'Deplorável' often implies a stronger sense of moral condemnation or that something is shockingly bad or unacceptable. However, in many contexts, they convey the same degree of negativity.
As condições de vida eram deploráveis e a falta de ajuda, lamentável.
It is a direct synonym with a very similar meaning.
'Lastimável' is often considered slightly more formal or literary than 'lamentável'. While both mean regrettable, 'lastimável' might be found more in written or elevated speech, whereas 'lamentável' is more common in everyday usage.
Foi um erro lastimável que teve consequências lamentáveis.
Both describe negative situations, and something lamentable can often be unacceptable.
'Inaceitável' focuses on the breach of rules, norms, or standards; it is something that cannot be tolerated. 'Lamentável' focuses more on the regret, sorrow, or disapproval evoked by the situation. An action can be both lamentável and inaceitável.
O comportamento foi lamentável e completamente inaceitável.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + Foi/É + Lamentável.
O erro <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>foi lamentável</mark>.
É Lamentável que + Subjunctive.
É <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>lamentável</mark> que você não <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>tenha vindo</mark>.
Noun + Ser/Estar + Adverb + Lamentável.
A decisão <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>foi muito lamentável</mark>.
Lamentável + Noun + Relative Clause.
Uma <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>lamentável</mark> situação <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>que afetou a todos</mark>.
É lamentável + Infinitive Phrase.
É <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>lamentável</mark> <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>ver tanta destruição</mark>.
Considerar + Lamentável + Object + Clause.
Eu <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>considero lamentável</mark> <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>que a verdade tenha sido ocultada</mark>.
O que é Lamentável + Subject.
O que é <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>lamentável</mark> é a falta de empatia.
Lamentável + Conjunction + Contrast.
O evento foi <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>lamentável</mark>, mas aprendemos muito.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially in media and formal discussions.
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Using 'lamentável' in plural form.
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The adjective 'lamentável' is invariable and does not change for number.
Learners sometimes add an 's' to 'lamentável' when referring to plural nouns, thinking it follows standard adjective agreement. However, 'lamentável' is an exception. For example, 'Os resultados foram lamentável' (not 'lamentáveis').
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Confusing 'lamentável' with 'lamentar'.
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Use 'lamentar' as a verb and 'lamentável' as an adjective.
It's common to mix up the verb 'lamentar' (to regret) with the adjective 'lamentável' (regrettable). Remember: you 'lamentar' something, and that something is 'lamentável'. Example: 'Eu lamento que a situação seja lamentável.'
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Using 'lamentável' for very minor issues.
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Reserve 'lamentável' for situations that genuinely warrant regret or disapproval.
While technically possible, using 'lamentável' for trivial matters can dilute its meaning. For small inconveniences, use less intense words like 'chato' (annoying) or 'que pena' (what a shame).
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Incorrect verb tense after 'É lamentável que...'.
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Always use the subjunctive mood after 'É lamentável que...'.
Portuguese grammar requires the subjunctive mood following expressions of emotion or judgment like 'É lamentável que...'. For example: 'É lamentável que ele <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>não tenha vindo</mark>.' (not 'não veio').
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Trying to make 'lamentável' agree in gender.
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'Lamentável' is invariable in gender.
Just as it's invariable in number, 'lamentável' also does not change for gender. You say 'o erro lamentável' (masculine) and 'a decisão lamentável' (feminine).
Tips
Invariable Adjective
Remember that 'lamentável' never changes its form. It stays 'lamentável' whether the noun is masculine, feminine, singular, or plural. This is a key rule to avoid errors.
Nasal Vowels
Practice the nasal vowels in 'la-' and '-men-' to achieve a correct pronunciation. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate their intonation.
Synonym Awareness
Be aware of synonyms like 'deplorável' and 'lastimável'. While similar, 'deplorável' can imply stronger moral condemnation, and 'lastimável' is often more literary.
Subjunctive Mood
When using 'É lamentável que...', you must follow it with the subjunctive mood in Portuguese. For example: 'É lamentável que você não possa vir.'
Connect to 'Lament'
Link the word 'lamentável' to the English word 'lament' (to express sorrow). Imagine someone lamenting a regrettable situation.
Expressing Disappointment
Use 'lamentável' to express strong disappointment about events, decisions, or behaviors that you find regrettable or unacceptable.
Verb vs. Adjective
Distinguish between the verb 'lamentar' (to regret) and the adjective 'lamentável' (regrettable). They are related but used differently in sentences.
Media Usage
You will frequently encounter 'lamentável' in news reports when discussing unfortunate events, social issues, or political failures.
Create Your Own Sentences
Write sentences describing hypothetical negative scenarios using 'lamentável' to solidify your understanding and usage.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'lame duck' (pato manco) that is so sad and sorry for itself, it's a truly 'lamentável' sight. The duck's sorrow makes the situation regrettable.
Visual Association
Picture a dark, stormy cloud raining down on a single, wilting flower. The scene evokes sadness and regret, making it 'lamentável'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'lamentável' in three different sentences describing hypothetical negative situations you might encounter in your daily life, focusing on conveying genuine regret.
Word Origin
The word 'lamentável' comes from the Latin word 'lamentabilis', which means 'worthy of lamentation' or 'deplorable'. This, in turn, derives from the verb 'lamentari', meaning 'to lament, to bewail, to cry out'.
Original meaning: Worthy of lamentation; deplorable.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseCultural Context
While 'lamentável' expresses regret, it should be used appropriately. Overusing it for minor inconveniences can diminish its impact. When discussing sensitive topics like death or suffering, 'lamentável' is fitting to express empathy and acknowledge the gravity of the situation.
In English, similar sentiments are expressed by 'regrettable', 'deplorable', 'unfortunate', or 'a shame'. The intensity and formality of 'lamentável' often align with 'deplorable' or 'regrettable'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
News reports about accidents or disasters
- É lamentável que tantas vidas tenham sido perdidas.
- O número de feridos é lamentável.
- A situação no local é lamentável.
Expressing disappointment in personal matters
- Foi lamentável não ter conseguido o emprego.
- Que pena, foi lamentável.
- Cometi um erro lamentável.
Discussing social or political issues
- A desigualdade social é lamentável.
- É lamentável a falta de ação governamental.
- O descaso com o meio ambiente é lamentável.
Describing a negative outcome of a project or plan
- O resultado final foi lamentável.
- O desenvolvimento do projeto foi lamentável.
- Uma decisão lamentável prejudicou a todos.
Commenting on negative behavior
- O comportamento dele foi lamentável.
- Fez uma observação lamentável.
- É lamentável que ele tenha agido assim.
Conversation Starters
"Have you heard about the recent event? It was quite lamentável."
"I made a lamentável mistake yesterday, and I'm still feeling bad about it."
"What do you think about the current situation? I find it rather lamentável."
"It's lamentável that so many opportunities are missed due to lack of communication."
"Do you recall a time when something happened that you considered truly lamentável?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a situation from your past that you consider lamentável. What did you learn from it?
Think about a societal problem that you find lamentável. What are its causes and potential solutions?
Write about a personal mistake that you regret. How did you feel, and what made it lamentável?
Imagine you have to explain the word 'lamentável' to someone who doesn't know it. Provide examples.
Reflect on a time you witnessed or experienced something lamentável. How did it affect you and others involved?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, 'lamentável' is always used to describe something negative. It signifies regret, disappointment, or disapproval. It's never used to describe something positive or neutral.
No, 'lamentável' is an invariable adjective. It does not change its form regardless of the gender or number of the noun it modifies. You would say 'o erro lamentável', 'a situação lamentável', 'os resultados lamentáveis'.
'Triste' means sad and usually refers to an emotional state or a generally unhappy situation. 'Lamentável' describes a situation or action that is regrettable or deserves censure. You might feel triste about a lamentável situation, but 'lamentável' focuses on the inherent quality of the event or action itself.
While it can technically be used, it's generally reserved for situations that evoke a significant degree of regret or disapproval. Overusing it for minor inconveniences can lessen its impact. For small issues, expressions like 'que pena' (what a shame) or 'chato' (annoying) might be more appropriate.
They are very close synonyms and often interchangeable. 'Deplorável' can sometimes carry a stronger sense of moral condemnation or indicate something is shockingly bad, while 'lamentável' focuses more on regret or sorrow. In most contexts, they convey a similar level of negativity.
'Lamentar' is the verb (to regret), and 'lamentável' is the adjective (regrettable). You 'lamentar' something that is 'lamentável'. For example: 'Eu lamento (verb) que o resultado tenha sido lamentável (adjective).'
'Lamentável' can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it generally carries a more serious tone than casual expressions. It's common in news, formal discussions, and also in personal conversations to express significant disappointment.
Yes, you can intensify it with adverbs like 'muito' (very) or 'profundamente' (profoundly). For example: 'Foi um erro muito lamentável.' or 'A perda foi profundamente lamentável.'
Common phrases include 'É lamentável que...', 'foi lamentável', 'um erro lamentável', and 'uma situação lamentável'.
The stress is on the third syllable: la-men-TA-vel. Pay attention to the nasal vowels in 'la' and 'men' and pronounce the final 'l' clearly.
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Summary
Lamentável is used to describe situations or actions that are regrettable, deplorable, or deserve censure, conveying a strong sense of sadness, disappointment, or disapproval.
- Lamentável means regrettable or deplorable.
- It expresses sadness, disappointment, or disapproval.
- Use it for unfortunate events or bad actions.
- It is an invariable adjective.
Invariable Adjective
Remember that 'lamentável' never changes its form. It stays 'lamentável' whether the noun is masculine, feminine, singular, or plural. This is a key rule to avoid errors.
Context is Key
Use 'lamentável' for situations that genuinely evoke regret, disapproval, or sadness. Avoid using it for minor inconveniences unless you intend to be hyperbolic.
Nasal Vowels
Practice the nasal vowels in 'la-' and '-men-' to achieve a correct pronunciation. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate their intonation.
Synonym Awareness
Be aware of synonyms like 'deplorável' and 'lastimável'. While similar, 'deplorável' can imply stronger moral condemnation, and 'lastimável' is often more literary.
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