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B1 noun 11 min read

linguagem

Examples linguagem in 30 Seconds
Explanation linguagem in your Level:
At the A1 level, you should understand 'linguagem' in its most basic and concrete forms. You will mainly encounter it in fixed phrases like 'linguagem corporal' (body language). At this stage, you don't need to worry about the deep linguistic differences between 'língua' and 'linguagem'. Just remember that 'linguagem' is often used for ways of communicating that don't involve just words. For example, if you see someone smiling, that is 'linguagem corporal'. You might also hear about 'linguagem de sinais' (sign language) if you are learning about how different people communicate. The goal at A1 is simply to recognize the word and know that it relates to communication. You should also be aware that it is a feminine word, so you say 'a linguagem'. Even at this early stage, knowing that 'linguagem' is the 'way' we communicate will help you. You might see it in simple books or posters about communication. It is a good word to know because it appears in many titles of books about social skills. Don't confuse it with 'língua' (the organ in your mouth or a language like English). Just think of 'linguagem' as 'communication style'.
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At the A2 level, you begin to see 'linguagem' used with simple adjectives. You will learn terms like 'linguagem simples' (simple language) and 'linguagem clara' (clear language). This is very useful when you are asking someone to speak more slowly or simply so you can understand them. You might say, 'Pode usar uma linguagem mais simples, por favor?' (Can you use simpler language, please?). At this level, you are also introduced to 'linguagem de programação' (programming language) if you are interested in technology. You start to notice that 'linguagem' is used for specific systems, like the 'linguagem das flores' or the 'linguagem dos animais'. You should be able to use the word in basic sentences to describe how someone is speaking. For example, 'A linguagem dele é muito difícil' (His language/way of speaking is very difficult). You are also learning that it is a feminine noun ending in '-agem', which is a common pattern for feminine nouns in Portuguese. This helps you with grammar agreement. You are building the foundation to distinguish between the general concept of communication and the specific languages of countries.
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At the B1 level, the distinction between 'língua' and 'linguagem' becomes more important. You should understand that 'língua' refers to a specific system like Portuguese or Italian, while 'linguagem' refers to the broader faculty or style. You will use 'linguagem' to discuss different registers of speech, such as 'linguagem formal' (formal language) and 'linguagem informal' (informal language). This is crucial for social integration, as you need to know when to adapt your style. You will also encounter 'linguagem figurada' (figurative language), which is essential for understanding metaphors and idiomatic expressions. At B1, you can participate in discussions about how people communicate in different settings. You might talk about the 'linguagem' used on social media versus the 'linguagem' used in a job interview. You are expected to use the word correctly in sentences that describe these different styles. You will also start to see it in more complex texts, such as news articles or short stories, where the author might analyze the 'linguagem' of a character. This level marks the transition from seeing the word as a simple label to seeing it as a versatile tool for describing human interaction.
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'linguagem' in academic and professional contexts. You will encounter specialized terms like 'linguagem técnica' (technical language), 'linguagem jurídica' (legal language), and 'linguagem científica' (scientific language). You should be able to explain why a certain 'linguagem' is appropriate for a specific situation. For example, you might discuss the importance of 'linguagem inclusiva' (inclusive language) in modern society. At this level, you are also expected to understand 'linguagem' in the context of art and media. You might analyze the 'linguagem cinematográfica' of a film or the 'linguagem visual' of an advertisement. You can use the word to talk about abstract concepts like the 'linguagem da alma' or the 'linguagem do amor'. Your ability to use the plural 'linguagens' correctly in phrases like 'as diversas linguagens da arte' shows a higher level of proficiency. You are no longer just translating the word; you are using it to categorize and analyze different modes of expression. You also understand the nuances of synonyms like 'discurso' and how they differ from 'linguagem'.
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At the C1 level, you use 'linguagem' with a high degree of precision and sophistication. You are aware of the semiotic and philosophical implications of the word. You can discuss the theories of 'linguagem' from famous linguists like Saussure or Chomsky. You understand that 'linguagem' is a system of signs and can analyze how these signs function in various discourses. You might write essays or give presentations on the 'linguagem do poder' or the 'linguagem da manipulação' in political contexts. Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'metalinguagem' (metalanguage), which is language used to describe language. You can navigate the subtle differences between 'linguagem', 'língua', 'fala', and 'vernáculo' without hesitation. In professional settings, you can critique the 'linguagem' of a report or a contract, suggesting improvements for clarity or impact. You are also sensitive to the cultural nuances of 'linguagem', such as how 'linguagem corporal' varies across different Lusophone cultures. At this level, 'linguagem' is a key concept in your ability to perform complex linguistic analysis and to communicate at a near-native level of abstraction.
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At the C2 level, your mastery of 'linguagem' is complete. You can use the word in its most philosophical and poetic senses. You might engage in deep debates about whether 'linguagem' shapes our reality or merely reflects it. You are capable of analyzing the most obscure 'linguagens', such as archaic legal language or highly experimental poetic language. You can switch between different 'linguagens' (registers, styles, and codes) with ease and fluidity. You understand the historical evolution of the word and its cognates in other Romance languages. In academic research, you might contribute to the study of 'linguagem' in cognitive science or artificial intelligence. You can appreciate and produce texts that play with the boundaries of 'linguagem', using 'metalinguagem' and wordplay to create complex meanings. For you, 'linguagem' is not just a word to be defined, but a vast field of human experience that you navigate with total confidence. You can also teach the nuances of the word to others, explaining the delicate balance between the social system of 'língua' and the individual and creative faculty of 'linguagem'. You are a true master of the medium.
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Examples

linguagem in 30 Seconds

  • Linguagem refers to the broad faculty of communication, including verbal, visual, and gestural systems, distinct from specific national languages like Portuguese.
  • It is a feminine noun ('a linguagem') commonly used to describe styles of speech, technical codes, or non-verbal communication methods.
  • Common examples include 'linguagem corporal' (body language), 'linguagem de programação' (programming language), and 'linguagem formal' (formal register).
  • Understanding the difference between 'língua' (specific language) and 'linguagem' (general communication) is key for intermediate and advanced learners.

The Portuguese word linguagem is a fundamental concept in linguistics and daily communication, but it is frequently misunderstood by English speakers due to its close relationship with the word língua. While both can translate to 'language' in English, linguagem refers to the broader, more abstract faculty of communication. It encompasses the entire system of signs—whether verbal, visual, gestural, or even mathematical—that humans use to convey meaning. When you speak about the 'language of flowers' or 'body language,' you are dealing with linguagem. In a professional context, it is used to describe specific styles of expression, such as legal language or scientific discourse. Understanding this word requires moving beyond a simple translation and recognizing it as the mechanism through which thought is articulated into a shareable form.

Abstract Faculty
The innate human ability to create and use complex systems of communication.
Specific Style
The particular way a person or group uses words, such as 'linguagem coloquial' (colloquial language).
Non-Verbal Systems
Communication that does not rely on spoken words, like 'linguagem de sinais' (sign language) or 'linguagem visual'.

A linguagem corporal diz muito sobre o que sentimos sem precisarmos falar uma única palavra.

In the digital age, the term has gained immense popularity in the field of technology. When programmers talk about Python, Java, or C++, they refer to them as linguagens de programação. This is because these are systems of signs and rules used to communicate instructions to a machine. Unlike a natural language like Portuguese (which is a língua), a programming language is a specialized linguagem designed for a specific technical purpose. This distinction is crucial: you would never call Portuguese a 'linguagem' in the sense of it being a national tongue; you call it a 'língua'. However, you can analyze the 'linguagem' used in a Portuguese poem, referring to the poet's choice of words and metaphors.

O cientista utilizou uma linguagem técnica que poucos conseguiram compreender durante a conferência.

Furthermore, linguagem is used to describe the communicative behavior of animals or even the symbolic meaning of art. For example, 'a linguagem das abelhas' (the language of bees) refers to the complex dances they perform to show others where nectar is located. In art, we speak of 'linguagem cinematográfica' to describe how camera angles, lighting, and editing work together to tell a story. It is a word that spans from the biological to the digital, from the artistic to the scientific, making it one of the most versatile nouns in the Portuguese lexicon for describing the act of expression.

A música é uma linguagem universal que une pessoas de diferentes culturas.

Muitos jovens utilizam uma linguagem própria nas redes sociais, cheia de gírias e abreviações.

Para aprender a programar, você precisa escolher uma linguagem de programação moderna.

Using linguagem correctly involves identifying the specific type of communication you are discussing. Since it is a feminine noun, it must be preceded by feminine articles like a, uma, esta, or aquela. It often appears with adjectives that define the register or the domain of the communication. For instance, in a formal setting, you might hear about linguagem formal, which requires strict adherence to grammatical rules and a sophisticated vocabulary. Conversely, in a casual setting, linguagem coloquial is the norm, allowing for slang and more relaxed structures.

Adjective Agreement
Adjectives must be feminine: 'linguagem clara', 'linguagem objetiva', 'linguagem rebuscada'.
Prepositional Phrases
Commonly paired with 'de': 'linguagem de sinais', 'linguagem de programação', 'linguagem de baixo calão'.
Verb Pairings
Common verbs used with it include 'usar', 'utilizar', 'dominar', 'aprimorar', and 'decifrar'.

É essencial adaptar a sua linguagem ao público que você deseja atingir.

In academic writing, linguagem is used to analyze texts. You might write about the 'linguagem figurada' (figurative language) in a novel, referring to metaphors and similes. If you are discussing law, you speak of 'linguagem jurídica'. In these cases, the word describes a subset of the Portuguese language that has its own specific jargon and conventions. When constructing sentences, remember that linguagem can be both the subject and the object. For example, 'A linguagem evolui com o tempo' (Language evolves over time) treats it as an evolving entity, while 'Nós estudamos a linguagem' (We study language) treats it as a field of research.

O autor domina a linguagem poética como ninguém nesta geração.

One of the most common mistakes is using the word 'idioma' when you should use linguagem. If you want to say 'I love the language of love,' you should use linguagem (a linguagem do amor), not língua, because love is not a national dialect but a mode of expression. Similarly, if you are talking about the way a child speaks, you refer to 'linguagem infantil'. The sentence structure usually follows a simple Subject + Verb + Complement pattern, but because linguagem is often qualified by adjectives, the noun-adjective agreement is where most learners need to focus their attention.

A linguagem das flores era muito utilizada na era vitoriana para enviar mensagens secretas.

Para evitar mal-entendidos, prefira sempre uma linguagem direta e sem ambiguidades.

A linguagem inclusiva busca dar visibilidade a todos os grupos sociais.

You will encounter linguagem in a variety of real-world scenarios in Portuguese-speaking countries. In schools and universities, it is a constant topic of discussion. Teachers will talk about 'linguagem verbal e não-verbal' to explain how students communicate through both words and images. If you watch the news, journalists might comment on the 'linguagem agressiva' used by politicians during a debate. In these contexts, the word serves as a tool for social and rhetorical analysis, helping people understand the tone and intent behind a message.

The Tech Industry
In offices in São Paulo or Lisbon, developers discuss which 'linguagem' is best for a new app.
Art and Culture
Art critics use it to describe the 'linguagem visual' of a new exhibition at a museum like MASP.
Legal and Official Business
Lawyers deal with 'linguagem técnica' and 'linguagem jurídica' that can be difficult for laypeople.

Na aula de hoje, vamos estudar a linguagem publicitária e como ela nos convence a comprar.

In a more personal setting, you might hear a friend complain that 'a linguagem do meu chefe é muito confusa' (my boss's language is very confusing). Here, it refers to the boss's personal style of communication. You will also hear it in the context of accessibility. 'Libras' (Língua Brasileira de Sinais) is often referred to within the broader scope of 'linguagem de sinais', although technically it is a full 'língua'. The distinction is often blurred in casual conversation, but in formal education, the precision of the term linguagem is maintained to highlight the systematic nature of communication.

O documentário explora a linguagem secreta usada por prisioneiros para se comunicarem.

Finally, the word appears frequently in psychological and self-help contexts. Books on 'linguagem corporal' (body language) are bestsellers, teaching people how to read micro-expressions and posture. In these books, linguagem is presented as a code that can be cracked. Whether you are reading a technical manual, attending a lecture on semiotics, or just chatting with a friend about how someone 'speaks with their eyes,' linguagem is the essential term for the medium of the message.

A linguagem de programação mais popular do mundo atualmente é o JavaScript.

Muitos filósofos dedicaram suas vidas ao estudo da linguagem e sua relação com a realidade.

A linguagem das redes sociais é dinâmica e muda quase todos os dias.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make is using linguagem when they mean língua. In English, 'language' covers both the specific system (English, French) and the general concept. In Portuguese, if you say 'Eu falo a linguagem portuguesa,' it sounds very strange and technically incorrect. You should say 'Eu falo a língua portuguesa.' Use língua for anything that has a specific grammar, a dictionary, and a community of native speakers. Use linguagem for the way those speakers use the language, or for non-verbal systems.

Confusion with 'Idioma'
'Idioma' and 'língua' are synonyms for national languages. 'Linguagem' is not a synonym for these in that context.
Gender Errors
Learners often treat it as masculine because it ends in '-m'. Remember: words ending in '-agem' in Portuguese are almost always feminine.
Overuse in Translation
Don't translate 'I don't like your language' (meaning your tone) as 'língua'. Here, 'linguagem' or 'modo de falar' is correct.

Errado: Eu estou aprendendo a linguagem espanhola. Correto: Eu estou aprendendo a língua espanhola.

Another mistake involves the plural form. While 'languages' is common in English, in Portuguese, you must decide if you are talking about 'línguas' (Spanish and French) or 'linguagens' (visual and auditory). If you are a student of 'Modern Languages', the degree is usually called 'Línguas Modernas'. If you are studying 'Communication', you might study 'Linguagens da Comunicação'. Mixing these up can make your speech sound academic when it should be simple, or vice versa.

Errado: O linguagem que ele usa é difícil. Correto: A linguagem que ele usa é difícil.

Finally, be careful with 'linguagem de programação'. English speakers sometimes say 'língua de programação' by mistake. While it makes sense logically, the standard term is always linguagem. This is because programming is seen as a method of communication with a computer, not a natural language spoken by a culture. Paying attention to these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and less like a translation program.

Errado: A linguagem inglesa é global. Correto: A língua inglesa é global.

Errado: Ele usa um linguagem muito baixo. Correto: Ele usa uma linguagem muito baixa (ou de baixo calão).

Errado: Eu não entendo a linguagem dos pássaros (if referring to a specific dialect). Correto: A linguagem dos pássaros (referring to their general communication system).

To truly master linguagem, you must understand its neighbors in the semantic field. The most obvious alternative is língua, but there are others like idioma, fala, and discurso. Each of these carries a specific nuance that linguagem does not. While linguagem is the system or faculty, fala is the actual act of speaking. You might have the faculty of language (linguagem), but lose your speech (fala) due to a medical condition.

Língua vs. Linguagem
Língua is a social product (Portuguese); Linguagem is the human faculty of communication.
Fala
The individual, concrete act of using the language. It is personal and vocal.
Discurso
The language put into action within a context, often implying a certain ideology or intent.

Embora falem a mesma língua, a linguagem dos dois amigos é completamente diferente.

Another term to consider is vernáculo, which refers to the native language of a specific place or group, often in contrast to a literary or foreign language. In the digital world, you might hear código (code). While all programming languages are linguagens, not all codes are languages. For instance, a QR code is a code, but it doesn't have the grammatical structure to be called a linguagem in the linguistic sense. Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the most precise word for your context, which is a hallmark of an advanced learner.

O linguajar (a variation) daquela região é repleto de termos arcaicos.

We also have the word dialeto (dialect), which is a regional variation of a language. While a dialect is a form of linguagem, the term linguagem is much broader. You could say that a specific dialect has a very unique 'linguagem' (style of expression). Finally, in literature, you might see expressão. While linguagem is the system, expressão is the result of using that system to convey a feeling or thought. By varying your vocabulary among these terms, you will avoid repetition and demonstrate a deeper understanding of Portuguese linguistics.

A linguagem técnica pode ser uma barreira para a comunicação entre especialistas e o público leigo.

O estudo das linguagens artísticas é fundamental para entender a história da humanidade.

A linguagem administrativa deve ser simplificada para facilitar o acesso do cidadão aos serviços públicos.

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Examples by Level

1

A linguagem corporal é importante.

Body language is important.

Note the feminine article 'a'.

2

Eu não entendo essa linguagem.

I don't understand this language (way of speaking).

Demonstrative 'essa' agrees with feminine 'linguagem'.

3

A linguagem de sinais é bonita.

Sign language is beautiful.

'De sinais' is a prepositional phrase qualifying the noun.

4

O bebê usa uma linguagem simples.

The baby uses simple language.

'Uma' is the indefinite feminine article.

5

A linguagem das flores é um mistério.

The language of flowers is a mystery.

Possessive 'das' (de + as) refers to 'flores'.

6

Ela gosta de linguagem visual.

She likes visual language.

No article needed after 'de' in this general sense.

7

A linguagem do amor é universal.

The language of love is universal.

'Universal' is an adjective that doesn't change gender here.

8

Use uma linguagem clara.

Use clear language.

Imperative verb 'use' followed by the object.

1

Esta linguagem de programação é fácil.

This programming language is easy.

'Esta' points to the specific noun 'linguagem'.

2

O professor usa uma linguagem técnica.

The teacher uses technical language.

'Técnica' must be feminine to agree with 'linguagem'.

3

A linguagem dos animais é fascinante.

The language of animals is fascinating.

'Fascinante' is a common adjective for both genders.

4

Eu prefiro a linguagem coloquial.

I prefer colloquial (casual) language.

Verb 'preferir' indicates a choice or preference.

5

A linguagem dele é muito agressiva.

His language is very aggressive.

Possessive 'dele' (of him) follows the noun.

6

Precisamos de uma linguagem comum.

We need a common language.

'Precisar de' always requires the preposition 'de'.

7

A linguagem escrita é diferente da falada.

Written language is different from spoken (language).

Comparison using 'diferente de'.

8

Ela estuda a linguagem das abelhas.

She studies the language of bees.

Direct object 'a linguagem' follows the verb 'estuda'.

1

A linguagem formal é exigida no trabalho.

Formal language is required at work.

'Exigida' is the past participle used as an adjective.

2

O autor utiliza muita linguagem figurada.

The author uses a lot of figurative language.

'Muita' agrees with the feminine noun 'linguagem'.

3

A linguagem inclusiva é um tema atual.

Inclusive language is a current topic.

'Atual' is an adjective modifying 'tema'.

4

Devemos evitar a linguagem de baixo calão.

We should avoid vulgar language.

'Baixo calão' is a set phrase for profanity.

5

A linguagem das redes sociais muda rápido.

The language of social media changes fast.

Verb 'muda' agrees with the singular subject 'linguagem'.

6

Ele domina a linguagem jurídica perfeitamente.

He masters legal language perfectly.

Adverb 'perfeitamente' modifies the verb 'domina'.

7

A linguagem poética emociona os leitores.

Poetic language moves the readers.

Verb 'emociona' means to cause emotion.

8

A linguagem publicitária é muito persuasiva.

Advertising language is very persuasive.

'Persuasiva' agrees with 'linguagem'.

1

A linguagem é a base da cultura humana.

Language is the basis of human culture.

Generic use of the noun without specific qualifiers.

2

O filme tem uma linguagem cinematográfica única.

The film has a unique cinematographic language.

'Única' agrees with the feminine 'linguagem'.

3

A linguagem científica busca a objetividade.

Scientific language seeks objectivity.

Verb 'busca' means to search for or seek.

4

Analise a linguagem utilizada no discurso.

Analyze the language used in the speech.

Imperative 'analise' is a formal command.

5

A linguagem dos quadrinhos é mista.

The language of comics is mixed (verbal and visual).

'Mista' refers to the combination of text and image.

6

Existem diversas linguagens de programação.

There are several programming languages.

Plural 'linguagens' used with 'diversas'.

7

A linguagem administrativa pode ser obscura.

Administrative language can be obscure.

'Pode ser' expresses possibility.

8

A linguagem da música não precisa de tradução.

The language of music does not need translation.

'Tradução' is the noun for translation.

1

A metalinguagem é a linguagem que fala de si.

Metalanguage is the language that speaks of itself.

'Metalinguagem' is a specialized term in linguistics.

2

A linguagem é um sistema complexo de signos.

Language is a complex system of signs.

'Signos' refers to semiotic signs (signifier/signified).

3

O filósofo questiona a essência da linguagem.

The philosopher questions the essence of language.

Verb 'questiona' implies deep inquiry.

4

A linguagem diplomática exige muita cautela.

Diplomatic language requires great caution.

'Exige' means to require or demand.

5

A linguagem arcaica dificulta a leitura do texto.

Archaic language makes reading the text difficult.

'Dificulta' is a verb derived from 'difícil'.

6

A linguagem jornalística deve ser imparcial.

Journalistic language should be impartial.

'Dever' expresses obligation or ideal state.

7

A linguagem subliminar influencia o consumidor.

Subliminal language influences the consumer.

'Subliminar' refers to things below the threshold of consciousness.

8

A linguagem é o espelho do pensamento.

Language is the mirror of thought.

Metaphorical use of 'espelho' (mirror).

1

A linguagem transcende a mera comunicação.

Language transcends mere communication.

Verb 'transcende' suggests going beyond limits.

2

A arbitrariedade é uma característica da linguagem.

Arbitrariness is a characteristic of language.

Refers to the linguistic concept that signs are arbitrary.

3

A linguagem performativa cria realidades.

Performative language creates realities.

'Performativa' refers to speech acts that do something.

4

A opacidade da linguagem é um tema recorrente.

The opacity of language is a recurring theme.

'Opacidade' refers to the lack of transparency in meaning.

5

A linguagem é a morada do ser, segundo Heidegger.

Language is the house of being, according to Heidegger.

A famous philosophical quote from Martin Heidegger.

6

A desconstrução da linguagem revela ideologias.

The deconstruction of language reveals ideologies.

'Desconstrução' is a term from Derrida's philosophy.

7

A linguagem poética desafia a lógica formal.

Poetic language challenges formal logic.

Verb 'desafia' means to challenge.

8

A linguagem é um organismo vivo em constante mutação.

Language is a living organism in constant mutation.

'Mutação' refers to biological-like change.

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