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A2 noun #3,000 most common 13 min read

matrimónio

Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips matrimónio in 30 Seconds

Explanation matrimónio in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should recognize matrimónio as a formal word for marriage. You probably won't use it yourself yet; instead, you will use the word casamento. If you see matrimónio, just think 'marriage'. It is a masculine noun, so we say o matrimónio. At this stage, focus on simple sentences like 'O matrimónio é importante' (Marriage is important). You might see this word on a form when you visit a government office in a Portuguese-speaking country. Remember that it sounds very similar to the English word 'matrimony', which makes it easy to remember. Just don't use it when talking about your friend's wedding party! For that, use festa de casamento. A1 learners should also know that the verb for getting married is casar. While matrimónio is the noun, casar is the action. You will mostly hear this word in very formal introductions or on official documents. For example, if you are reading a very simple text about a royal family, they might use matrimónio to sound more important. Keep it in your passive vocabulary for now—words you understand when you see them, but don't necessarily need to speak every day.

As an A2 learner, you are starting to understand different 'registers' or levels of formality. You know that casamento is the normal word, but matrimónio is the 'fancy' word. You might use it in a short writing exercise about family traditions or legal rights. You should be able to form basic sentences using adjectives, such as 'Eles têm um matrimónio feliz' (They have a happy marriage). At this level, it is important to notice the difference between the noun and the verb. You 'casas' (marry), but you enter into a 'matrimónio'. You should also be aware of the spelling difference between Portugal (matrimónio) and Brazil (matrimônio). A2 learners often encounter this word in reading comprehensions about social changes or family structures. It is helpful to associate it with other 'family' words like família, pais, and filhos. If you are describing your marital status on a formal application, you might see a box for 'estado matrimonial'. Understanding this word helps you navigate official situations with more confidence. Try to use it once or twice in a formal writing task to show your teacher that you know high-level vocabulary, but remember to stick to casamento for daily chats.

At the B1 level, you can start using matrimónio to discuss more complex topics like culture, law, and social values. You should understand that this word refers more to the institution than the party. You can use it in phrases like 'as vantagens do matrimónio' (the advantages of marriage) or 'os desafios do matrimónio moderno' (the challenges of modern marriage). You should also be familiar with common collocations like 'contrair matrimónio' (to get married/contract marriage), which is much more formal than 'casar-se'. B1 learners should be able to distinguish between 'o matrimónio civil' and 'o matrimónio religioso'. In a discussion about traditions, you might say, 'Em Portugal, o matrimónio é visto como uma instituição muito tradicional.' You are now moving beyond just identifying the word to understanding its social implications. You might also encounter the adjective matrimonial in contexts like 'agência matrimonial' or 'conselheiro matrimonial' (marriage counselor). Using matrimónio correctly in a B1 level essay about society will significantly improve your grade because it shows a grasp of formal Portuguese. It allows you to talk about marriage as a concept rather than just a specific event that happened last weekend.

For B2 learners, matrimónio should be a tool for precision. You should use it when discussing legal rights, historical changes, or sociological theories. You understand the nuance: casamento is the act and the state, while matrimónio is the institution and the legal bond. You should be comfortable with phrases like 'dissolução do matrimónio' instead of just saying 'divórcio' when speaking in a formal or academic context. B2 learners should also recognize the word in literature and news reports without hesitation. You can discuss the 'crise do matrimónio' in modern society or the 'evolução das leis do matrimónio'. At this level, you should also know related terms like cônjuge (spouse) and regime de bens (property regime), which often appear alongside matrimónio in formal texts. You might also use it metaphorically, such as 'o matrimónio entre a tradição e a modernidade'. Your ability to switch between casamento and matrimónio based on who you are talking to is a key indicator of your fluency. In a formal debate, using matrimónio shows that you respect the gravity of the topic. You should also be aware of the historical context of the word and how it has shaped Portuguese family law over the centuries.

At the C1 level, you have a deep appreciation for the stylistic and historical weight of matrimónio. You can use it to evoke specific tones in your writing—perhaps a touch of irony, a sense of solemnity, or a strictly legalistic perspective. You are familiar with its Latin roots and how they influence the word's current usage. You should be able to analyze texts where matrimónio is used to critique social norms, as seen in the works of great Portuguese and Brazilian novelists. In professional settings, such as law or social work, you use this word as a standard technical term. You understand the subtle difference between 'matrimónio' and 'núpcias' (the latter being more poetic/ceremonial). C1 learners can use the word in complex structures like 'A indissolubilidade do matrimónio foi um tema central no Direito de Família durante décadas.' You also understand the cultural nuances, such as how the term is handled in the 'Concordata' (the treaty between Portugal and the Holy See). Your vocabulary is rich enough that you don't just know the word; you know its 'vibe'—its history, its legal power, and its literary potential. You can explain to others why matrimónio might be chosen over casamento in a specific speech or document to convey authority or tradition.

At the C2 level, you possess near-native mastery of matrimónio. You can use it with total flexibility, understanding every shade of meaning and every possible connotation. You might use it in a philosophical treatise on human relationships or in a high-level legal argument. You are aware of the word's place in the broader Romance language family and how its usage in Portuguese compares to 'matrimonio' in Spanish or Italian. You can use the word to create specific rhetorical effects, such as using an archaism to make a point about tradition. Your understanding includes the most obscure collocations and idiomatic uses. You can discuss the 'matrimónio de conveniência' with an understanding of its historical and modern legal implications. You are also sensitive to how the word's usage is evolving in contemporary Portuguese, perhaps becoming even more restricted to legal contexts as society becomes more secular. At this level, you could write a legal brief, a doctoral thesis, or a literary critique using matrimónio with perfect accuracy and stylistic flair. You don't just speak the language; you command its history and its formal structures, and matrimónio is a key part of that command. You can effortlessly explain the etymological journey from the Latin 'mater' to the modern legal institution, reflecting on how the word itself carries the history of the family in the Lusophone world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

matrimónio in 30 Seconds

Matrimónio is a formal noun meaning marriage, primarily used in legal and religious contexts.
It differs from 'casamento' by its higher register and focus on the institution rather than the party.
In Portugal, it is spelled with an acute accent (matrimónio), while in Brazil it uses a circumflex (matrimônio).
It is a masculine noun often used with verbs like 'contrair', 'celebrar', and 'dissolver'.

The Portuguese word matrimónio is a formal and sophisticated noun used to describe the state or ceremony of being married. While the word casamento is much more common in everyday conversation, matrimónio carries a weight of legal, religious, or official significance. It refers to the union between individuals, traditionally defined in legal codes as the basis of a family unit. In modern European Portuguese, it is the standard term used in legal documents, whereas in Brazilian Portuguese, casamento is used almost exclusively in all registers, though matrimónio remains understood as a high-register synonym.

Legal Context: In the Portuguese Civil Code, the term is used to define the contract and the institution of marriage itself. It encompasses the rights and duties of the spouses.
Religious Context: In the Catholic Church, which has a deep historical influence in Portugal, the 'Sacramento do Matrimónio' refers to the holy rite of marriage.
Social Register: Using this word in a casual bar setting might sound overly stiff or even sarcastic, as if you are speaking like a lawyer or a priest.

O matrimónio é um passo significativo na vida de qualquer casal que deseja formalizar a sua união perante a lei.

When discussing the institution of marriage as a concept in sociology, history, or law, matrimónio is the preferred choice. It implies a sense of permanence and institutional structure that the more flexible casamento (which can also mean the wedding party itself) sometimes lacks. For example, 'instituição do matrimónio' sounds much more academic than 'instituição do casamento'.

Eles decidiram contrair matrimónio numa cerimónia privada no registo civil.

Historically, the term is deeply rooted in Latin, where 'matrimonium' referred to the status of a woman becoming a mother ('mater'). This etymological root highlights the traditional view of marriage as an institution aimed at procreation and the legal protection of the family. Today, however, the term is gender-neutral in its application to same-sex or opposite-sex couples in Portuguese law.

O respeito mútuo é a base de um matrimónio duradouro e feliz.

Colloquial vs. Formal: Colloquial: 'Vou ao casamento da Maria.' (I'm going to Maria's wedding.) vs. Formal: 'O matrimónio foi celebrado solenemente.' (The marriage was solemnly celebrated.)

As leis sobre o matrimónio mudaram drasticamente no último século para garantir a igualdade.

In literature, you will find matrimónio used to evoke a sense of tradition or to emphasize the social contract aspect of a relationship. It is a word that commands respect and implies a level of seriousness that goes beyond the party and the celebration. It is about the bond, the contract, and the lifelong commitment. Understanding this word helps learners navigate formal environments, read legal documents, and appreciate the nuances of Portuguese literature and news reporting.

O contrato de matrimónio estabelece a comunhão de bens entre os cônjuges.

Nuance: While 'casamento' focuses on the act of getting married or the wedding day, 'matrimónio' focuses on the institution and the legal state of being married.

In summary, use matrimónio when you want to be formal, precise, or academic about the concept of marriage. It is a vital word for anyone looking to master the more formal registers of the Portuguese language.

Using matrimónio correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role and its preferred collocations. As a masculine noun, it is always preceded by masculine articles ('o', 'um') or pronouns ('este', 'aquele'). It often appears in phrases describing the beginning, the state, or the legalities of marriage. Unlike 'casamento', you rarely 'go to a matrimónio'; instead, you 'contract' it, 'celebrate' it, or 'dissolve' it.

With Verbs: Common verbs include: contrair (to contract), celebrar (to celebrate/perform), dissolver (to dissolve), and abençoar (to bless).

Eles decidiram contrair matrimónio após cinco anos de namoro.

In Portuguese syntax, matrimónio often functions as the subject of a sentence when discussing social trends or as an object in legal descriptions. For example, 'O matrimónio civil é obrigatório em Portugal' (Civil marriage is mandatory in Portugal). Note that even if a couple has a religious wedding, they must perform the civil ceremony for it to be legally recognized.

O matrimónio entre pessoas do mesmo sexo foi legalizado em 2010.

You will also see matrimónio used in more abstract or metaphorical ways in high-level literature, such as 'o matrimónio entre a arte e a técnica' (the marriage between art and technique). This usage parallels the English use of 'marriage' to describe a perfect combination of two different elements.

A união estável oferece direitos semelhantes aos do matrimónio.

Prepositional Phrases: Phrases like 'fora do matrimónio' (outside of marriage) or 'pelo matrimónio' (by marriage) are common in formal writing.

O casal celebrou as suas bodas de prata, vinte e cinco anos de matrimónio.

When constructing complex sentences, matrimónio allows for a level of precision that signals the speaker's education level. For instance, 'Os deveres inerentes ao matrimónio' (The duties inherent to marriage) sounds official and serious. In contrast, 'As coisas que tens de fazer quando casas' (The things you have to do when you marry) is much more informal.

A fidelidade é um dos pilares do matrimónio cristão.

Plural Form: The plural is 'matrimónios'. It is used when discussing multiple marriages, such as 'matrimónios de conveniência' (marriages of convenience).

Ultimately, mastering the use of matrimónio involves recognizing its formal boundaries. Use it in writing, in official contexts, or when you want to emphasize the institutional nature of the union. For everyday chat about your friend's wedding, stick to casamento.

In the real world, you won't hear matrimónio during a casual dinner or at a loud party. Instead, its presence is felt in the structured environments of Portuguese society. The most common place to hear it is within the walls of a Conservatória do Registo Civil (Civil Registry Office). Here, the official performing the ceremony will use the word to describe the legal act taking place.

The News and Media: Journalists and news anchors use it when reporting on legislation, demographic statistics (e.g., 'o número de matrimónios em Portugal diminuiu'), or celebrity unions in a formal tone.

O telejornal informou que o matrimónio real será transmitido ao vivo.

Another frequent setting is the church. During a wedding mass, the priest will refer to the 'santo matrimónio'. This religious context reinforces the word's association with tradition and sacred vows. If you attend a Catholic wedding in Portugal or Brazil, you will hear this word repeated throughout the liturgy as a way to distinguish the spiritual union from the mere social event.

O padre falou sobre a importância do matrimónio na construção da família.

In the academic world, specifically in the fields of Law, Sociology, and History, matrimónio is the technical term. Professors and students use it to discuss the evolution of family structures. For instance, a lecture might be titled 'A Evolução do Matrimónio na Europa Contemporânea'. In this setting, using the word casamento might seem too simplistic or imprecise.

Na faculdade de direito, estudamos as causas de nulidade do matrimónio.

Literature and Art: Classic novels by authors like Eça de Queirós or Machado de Assis often use 'matrimónio' to depict the social expectations and constraints of their time.

O romance descreve o matrimónio como um contrato social desprovido de amor.

Finally, you will encounter this word on official certificates. If you ever need to translate a Portuguese birth or marriage certificate, Assento de Matrimónio will be the title at the top of the page. This is the legal record of the union. Even if people don't say it while drinking coffee, they certainly see it on the papers that define their legal identity.

Preciso de uma cópia autenticada do meu assento de matrimónio.

Formal Invitations: High-end wedding invitations might use the phrase 'convidam para o matrimónio de seus filhos' to add an air of elegance.

In summary, matrimónio is the word of the 'official' world—the world of law, religion, high art, and formal documentation. Hearing it instantly shifts the tone of the conversation to something more serious and established.

For English speakers, the most common mistake is overusing matrimónio because it sounds so much like the English word 'matrimony'. While 'matrimony' is also formal in English, 'marriage' is the standard translation for both casamento and matrimónio. Using matrimónio in a casual context—like asking a friend 'How is your matrimónio?'—will sound very strange, almost as if you are mocking them or speaking like a 19th-century character.

Over-Formality: Mistake: 'Queres vir ao meu matrimónio?' (Do you want to come to my matrimony?) Correct: 'Queres vir ao meu casamento?' (Do you want to come to my wedding?)

Muitos alunos confundem matrimónio com a festa de casamento.

Another error relates to the distinction between the ceremony and the institution. Casamento can mean both the legal union and the party/celebration. Matrimónio almost always refers to the union or the institution. If you want to talk about the cake, the music, and the dancing, never use matrimónio. You are talking about the festa de casamento.

A festa foi ótima, mas o matrimónio em si foi uma cerimónia curta.

Gender agreement is also a pitfall. Because 'marriage' is neutral in English, learners sometimes forget that matrimónio is masculine. You must use 'o', 'meu', 'este', 'feliz', etc. A common mistake is saying 'a matrimónio' or 'minha matrimónio' by confusing it with 'a união' (the union), which is feminine.

O seu matrimónio (masculine) é um exemplo para todos nós.

Regional Differences: In Brazil, using 'matrimônio' is even rarer in speech than in Portugal. Using it in Brazil might make you sound like you are reading from a 1920s law book.

Não use matrimónio em conversas informais no Brasil; prefira sempre 'casamento'.

Finally, avoid using matrimónio to refer to your spouse. In English, you might say 'my marriage is happy', but you wouldn't call your husband 'my matrimony'. In Portuguese, some learners confuse the state with the person. To refer to a spouse, use cônjuge (formal), marido (husband), or mulher/esposa (wife).

Ele é o meu cônjuge, e o nosso matrimónio é sólido.

Preposition Errors: Mistake: 'Casado em matrimónio'. Correct: 'Unidos pelo matrimónio'. The preposition 'pelo' (by/through) is the standard way to express the means of the union.

By keeping these distinctions in mind—register, gender, and regional spelling—you will use matrimónio with the precision of a native speaker and avoid sounding unintentionally archaic or grammatically incorrect.

Understanding matrimónio also means knowing its synonyms and related terms, each of which carries a different flavor or context. The most obvious alternative is casamento, but there are several others that are useful for specific situations.

Casamento: The all-purpose word for marriage and wedding. It is used 95% of the time in conversation. If in doubt, use 'casamento'.
Núpcias: A very formal, poetic term usually referring to the wedding night or the ceremony itself (e.g., 'noite de núpcias'). It is plural and sounds quite romantic or old-fashioned.
União: Meaning 'union'. It is often used to describe couples who live together without a formal marriage ('união de facto' in Portugal or 'união estável' in Brazil).

O matrimónio é uma forma de união legalmente reconhecida.

In a legal or bureaucratic context, you might encounter enlace. This word literally means 'link' or 'bond' and is a very elegant way to refer to a wedding, often seen in high-society wedding announcements or newspaper social columns.

O enlace matrimonial foi o evento do ano na cidade.

For the opposite of matrimónio, we have divórcio (divorce) or anulação (annulment). When a marriage is dissolved, the legal term is 'dissolução do matrimónio'. Another related term is celibato (celibacy), which is the state of not being married, usually for religious reasons.

A dissolução do matrimónio pode ser um processo complexo.

Bodas: This refers to wedding anniversaries, such as 'bodas de ouro' (50 years) or 'bodas de prata' (25 years). It comes from the same root as 'wedding' in some contexts but specifically denotes the milestone.

Eles celebraram cinquenta anos de matrimónio com as suas bodas de ouro.

Finally, the adjective matrimonial is very common. It is used in phrases like 'leito matrimonial' (marriage bed), 'regime matrimonial' (legal rules of the marriage), and 'agência matrimonial' (dating/marriage agency). This adjective is much more common than the noun in semi-formal speech.

O regime matrimonial padrão em Portugal é o de comunhão de adquiridos.

Conjugal: Another related adjective meaning 'marital' or 'relating to the couple'. For example, 'vida conjugal' (married life).

By diversifying your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can tailor your Portuguese to any social or professional setting, ensuring you always sound appropriate and precise.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word comes from 'mater' (mother) and the suffix '-monium' (signifying an action, state, or office). Historically, it emphasized the role of the woman in becoming a mother within a legal framework.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mɐ.tɾi.ˈmɔ.nju/

US /ma.tɾi.ˈmõ.nju/

The stress is on the third syllable: ma-tri-MÓ-nio.

Rhymes With

património antimónio demónio parcimónio insomnio testemunho cerimónia colónia

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 'o' as a strong 'oh' instead of a light 'u'.
Missing the stress on the 'mó' syllable.
Merging the 'ni' and 'o' too much; they should be a clear diphthong.
Confusing the accent marks between Portugal and Brazil.
Nasalizing the 'a' unnecessarily.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate 'matrimony'.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of accents and formal collocations like 'contrair'.

Speaking 3/5

The stress on the third syllable can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Very distinct sound, usually easy to pick out in formal speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

casamento família lei amor pessoa

Learn Next

cônjuge divórcio núpcias herança parentesco

Advanced

indissolubilidade consanguinidade bigamia monogamia nupcialidade

Grammar to Know

Nouns ending in -io are usually masculine in Portuguese.

O matrimónio, o edifício, o rádio.

Adjectives must agree in gender and number with 'matrimónio'.

Matrimónios felizes (masculine plural).

Prepositions like 'de' or 'por' are used to link matrimónio to other nouns.

Certidão de matrimónio, unidos pelo matrimónio.

The definite article is often used before abstract nouns in Portuguese.

O matrimónio é sagrado (Marriage is sacred).

Verbs of 'entering' or 'starting' often take specific prepositions.

Entrar em matrimónio (to enter into marriage).

Examples by Level

O meu matrimónio é feliz.

My marriage is happy.

Matrimónio is masculine, so we use 'o' and 'meu'.

O que é o matrimónio?

What is marriage?

Simple question structure.

Eles querem um matrimónio simples.

They want a simple marriage.

Adjective 'simples' follows the noun.

O matrimónio é uma união.

Marriage is a union.

Using the verb 'ser' for definitions.

Onde é o matrimónio?

Where is the marriage (ceremony)?

Using 'onde' for location.

O matrimónio civil é rápido.

The civil marriage is fast.

Civil is an adjective modifying matrimónio.

O matrimónio dele é em Maio.

His marriage is in May.

Dele = of him/his.

Eu respeito o matrimónio.

I respect marriage.

Direct object with 'o'.

O matrimónio é um contrato legal em Portugal.

Marriage is a legal contract in Portugal.

Focus on the legal definition.

Eles celebraram o matrimónio na igreja.

They celebrated the marriage in the church.

Preterite tense of 'celebrar'.

Muitos jovens esperam para contrair matrimónio.

Many young people wait to contract marriage.

Contrair + matrimónio is a formal collocation.

O estado do matrimónio exige compromisso.

The state of marriage requires commitment.

Exige is the verb 'exigir' (to require).

O matrimónio religioso tem tradições antigas.

Religious marriage has ancient traditions.

Antigas agrees with tradições (feminine plural).

Nós fomos testemunhas do matrimónio.

We were witnesses of the marriage.

Testemunhas is a feminine noun even for men.

O matrimónio dela durou cinquenta anos.

Her marriage lasted fifty years.

Durou is the past of durar.

É preciso documentos para o matrimónio.

Documents are needed for the marriage.

Impersonal 'é preciso' structure.

O matrimónio entre pessoas do mesmo sexo é legal.

Marriage between people of the same sex is legal.

Discussing social laws.

O matrimónio de conveniência é proibido por lei.

Marriage of convenience is prohibited by law.

De conveniência is a common phrase.

A base de um bom matrimónio é a comunicação.

The basis of a good marriage is communication.

Abstract noun 'comunicação'.

Eles assinaram o assento de matrimónio ontem.

They signed the marriage record yesterday.

Assento is the formal word for record/entry.

O matrimónio traz novas responsabilidades legais.

Marriage brings new legal responsibilities.

Traz is from the verb trazer (to bring).

O conselheiro ajuda casais no matrimónio.

The counselor helps couples in marriage.

Casais is the plural of casal (couple).

O matrimónio católico é considerado indissolúvel.

Catholic marriage is considered indissoluble.

Indissolúvel means it cannot be dissolved.

A cerimónia de matrimónio foi muito solene.

The marriage ceremony was very solemn.

Solene is an adjective for serious/formal events.

O matrimónio evoluiu de um contrato social para uma união de amor.

Marriage evolved from a social contract to a union of love.

Evoluiu is the preterite of evoluir.

A dissolução do matrimónio requer intervenção judicial.

The dissolution of marriage requires judicial intervention.

Dissolução is the formal word for ending.

O regime de bens no matrimónio deve ser escolhido pelo casal.

The property regime in marriage must be chosen by the couple.

Regime de bens is a legal term.

O matrimónio putativo é aquele que é nulo mas produz efeitos.

Putative marriage is one that is void but produces effects.

Putativo is a specialized legal term.

A taxa de matrimónios tem diminuído nos centros urbanos.

The rate of marriages has been decreasing in urban centers.

Tem diminuído is the present perfect.

O matrimónio confere direitos sucessórios aos cônjuges.

Marriage grants inheritance rights to the spouses.

Sucessórios relates to succession/inheritance.

A liberdade de contrair matrimónio é um direito fundamental.

The freedom to contract marriage is a fundamental right.

Fundamental is an adjective.

O matrimónio exige a plena comunhão de vida.

Marriage requires the full communion of life.

Plena means full or complete.

A indissolubilidade do matrimónio foi um dogma central por séculos.

The indissolubility of marriage was a central dogma for centuries.

Complex noun phrase.

O matrimónio, enquanto instituição, reflete os valores de uma época.

Marriage, as an institution, reflects the values of an era.

Enquanto is used here to mean 'as/in the capacity of'.

A nulidade do matrimónio pode ser declarada pelo tribunal eclesiástico.

The nullity of marriage can be declared by the ecclesiastical court.

Eclesiástico refers to the church.

O matrimónio morganático era comum entre a nobreza europeia.

Morganatic marriage was common among European nobility.

Morganático is a historical legal term.

A sociologia estuda o matrimónio como um rito de passagem.

Sociology studies marriage as a rite of passage.

Rito de passagem is a standard academic phrase.

O matrimónio serve frequentemente como fio condutor em romances clássicos.

Marriage often serves as a common thread in classic novels.

Fio condutor is a metaphorical expression.

A emancipação feminina alterou a dinâmica interna do matrimónio.

Female emancipation altered the internal dynamics of marriage.

Dinâmica interna is a complex concept.

O matrimónio é a pedra angular da estrutura familiar tradicional.

Marriage is the cornerstone of the traditional family structure.

Pedra angular is a metaphor for 'cornerstone'.

A ontologia do matrimónio transcende a mera formalidade contratual.

The ontology of marriage transcends mere contractual formality.

Ontologia is a philosophical term.

O matrimónio é amiúde instrumentalizado para fins de ascensão social.

Marriage is often instrumentalized for purposes of social climbing.

Amiúde is a sophisticated synonym for 'often'.

A desinstitucionalização do matrimónio é um fenómeno da pós-modernidade.

The deinstitutionalization of marriage is a phenomenon of postmodernity.

Very complex sociological terminology.

O matrimónio, sob a ótica do Direito Canónico, possui regras estritas.

Marriage, from the perspective of Canon Law, has strict rules.

Sob a ótica de = from the perspective of.

A precariedade dos laços afetivos no matrimónio contemporâneo é notória.

The precariousness of affective bonds in contemporary marriage is notorious.

Precariedade and laços afetivos are high-level terms.

O matrimónio in extremis é realizado quando um dos nubentes está a morrer.

Marriage in extremis is performed when one of the betrothed is dying.

In extremis is a Latin legal/medical phrase.

A exegese dos textos bíblicos sobre o matrimónio é vasta e complexa.

The exegesis of biblical texts on marriage is vast and complex.

Exegese means critical interpretation.

O matrimónio não é um fim em si mesmo, mas um devir constante.

Marriage is not an end in itself, but a constant becoming.

Devir is a philosophical term for 'becoming'.

Common Collocations

contrair matrimónio

matrimónio civil

matrimónio religioso

laços do matrimónio

dissolução do matrimónio

estado matrimonial

matrimónio de conveniência

leito matrimonial

sacramento do matrimónio

fidelidade matrimonial

Common Phrases

Unidos pelo matrimónio

— United by marriage. Used in formal announcements or ceremonies.

Eles estão unidos pelo matrimónio há dez anos.

Fora do matrimónio

— Outside of marriage. Usually refers to children born to unmarried parents.

Antigamente, filhos fora do matrimónio tinham menos direitos.

Promessa de matrimónio

— Promise of marriage. A formal engagement or betrothal.

Ele fez uma promessa de matrimónio solene.

Anulação de matrimónio

— Annulment of marriage. A legal or religious declaration that a marriage was never valid.

A anulação de matrimónio é um processo difícil na igreja.

Impedimento ao matrimónio

— Impediment to marriage. A legal reason why two people cannot marry.

A idade mínima é um impedimento ao matrimónio sem autorização.

Certidão de matrimónio

— Marriage certificate. The official document proving the union.

Preciso de uma cópia da certidão de matrimónio.

Deveres do matrimónio

— Duties of marriage. The legal and moral obligations of spouses.

O respeito é um dos deveres do matrimónio.

Matrimónio estável

— Stable marriage. A long-lasting and healthy union.

Eles construíram um matrimónio estável ao longo das décadas.

Matrimónio arranjado

— Arranged marriage. A marriage planned by families rather than the couple.

O matrimónio arranjado ainda existe em algumas culturas.

Consumação do matrimónio

— Consummation of marriage. The first sexual act after the wedding.

A consumação do matrimónio era verificada em tempos antigos.

Often Confused With

matrimónio vs casamento

Casamento is the general term; matrimónio is the formal/institutional term.

matrimónio vs património

Património means 'heritage' or 'assets'. They sound similar but have completely different meanings.

matrimónio vs cerimónia

Cerimónia is the event itself; matrimónio is the union resulting from it.

Idioms & Expressions

"Atar o nó do matrimónio"

— To tie the knot of marriage. A common way to say 'get married' formally.

Finalmente decidiram atar o nó do matrimónio.

formal/poetic

"Entrar em matrimónio"

— To enter into marriage. Emphasizes the transition into the married state.

Ao entrar em matrimónio, eles mudaram de vida.

formal

"O jugo do matrimónio"

— The yoke of marriage. Often used ironically to describe the burdens of married life.

Ele queixa-se do jugo do matrimónio todos os dias.

informal/ironic

"Santo matrimónio"

— Holy matrimony. Specifically refers to marriage as a religious sacrament.

O padre abençoou o santo matrimónio.

religious

"Cadeias do matrimónio"

— Chains of marriage. A negative way to describe the lack of freedom in marriage.

Muitos temem as cadeias do matrimónio.

literary

"Porto seguro do matrimónio"

— The safe harbor of marriage. Describes marriage as a place of stability.

Ela encontrou o seu porto seguro no matrimónio.

poetic

"Matrimónio de papel"

— Paper marriage. A marriage that exists only on paper, usually for legal benefits.

Foi apenas um matrimónio de papel para o visto.

informal

"Honrar o matrimónio"

— To honor the marriage. To be faithful and respectful to one's spouse.

Ele prometeu honrar o matrimónio até ao fim.

formal

"Quebrar o matrimónio"

— To break the marriage. Usually refers to adultery or causing a divorce.

A traição acabou por quebrar o matrimónio.

neutral

"Votos de matrimónio"

— Marriage vows. The promises made during the ceremony.

Eles escreveram os seus próprios votos de matrimónio.

neutral

Easily Confused

matrimónio vs Património

They share the same suffix '-mónio' and sound very similar.

Matrimónio refers to marriage. Património refers to inherited property, assets, or cultural heritage.

O matrimónio deles foi feliz, mas o seu património era pequeno.

matrimónio vs Testemunho

Both end in a similar nasal/vowel sound in some dialects.

Matrimónio is marriage. Testemunho is a testimony or witness statement.

O testemunho no tribunal ajudou a anular o matrimónio.

matrimónio vs Parcimónia

Similar formal ending.

Matrimónio is marriage. Parcimónia means frugality or being careful with money.

Eles vivem o seu matrimónio com muita parcimónia.

matrimónio vs Cerimónia

Often occur together.

Cerimónia is the act of the ritual. Matrimónio is the state/institution.

A cerimónia de matrimónio foi linda.

matrimónio vs Cônjuge

Related to marriage.

Matrimónio is the union. Cônjuge is the person (spouse) you are married to.

O meu cônjuge respeita o nosso matrimónio.

Sentence Patterns

O [matrimónio] é [adjetivo].

O matrimónio é bom.

Eles querem [contrair matrimónio].

Eles querem contrair matrimónio em breve.

O matrimónio de [Pessoa] durou [tempo].

O matrimónio da Maria durou dez anos.

A [lei] sobre o matrimónio [verbo].

A lei sobre o matrimónio mudou ontem.

A [instituição] do matrimónio é [conceito].

A instituição do matrimónio é a base da sociedade.

O matrimónio [enquanto] [conceito]...

O matrimónio enquanto contrato social é complexo.

Sob a [ótica] do matrimónio...

Sob a ótica do matrimónio, os direitos são iguais.

A [dissolução] do matrimónio implica...

A dissolução do matrimónio implica a partilha de bens.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in writing and formal speech; rare in casual daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using 'matrimónio' for the wedding party. → Use 'festa de casamento'.
'Matrimónio' refers to the institution or ceremony, not the celebration/party.
Saying 'a matrimónio'. → Say 'o matrimónio'.
The word is masculine, despite its English equivalent being gender-neutral.
Omitting the accent: 'matrimonio'. → 'matrimónio' (PT) or 'matrimônio' (BR).
In Portuguese, the accent is mandatory to indicate the stressed syllable and vowel quality.
Using 'matrimónio' in casual chat with friends. → Use 'casamento'.
It sounds too stiff and formal for a relaxed conversation.
Confusing 'matrimónio' with 'património'. → Use 'matrimónio' for marriage and 'património' for assets.
These are distinct words with very different meanings despite sounding similar.

Tips

Use for Formality

If you are writing an invitation or a formal letter, 'matrimónio' adds a touch of class that 'casamento' doesn't have. It signals that the event is serious and significant.

Masculine Gender

Always remember it is 'o matrimónio'. Many learners confuse it with feminine words like 'a união'. Keep your adjectives masculine too!

Open Stress

In Portugal, the 'ó' is open and bright. Make sure you emphasize that syllable (ma-tri-MÓ-nio) to sound like a native. Don't swallow the end of the word.

The Accent Matters

The accent mark tells you where the stress is. In Portugal, it's an acute accent (´). In Brazil, it's a circumflex (^). Using the wrong one shows which dialect you are following.

Not for Parties

If you are talking about the cake, the DJ, or the open bar, stick to 'casamento'. Using 'matrimónio' in those cases sounds like you are at a funeral instead of a party.

Official Documents

When looking for your marriage certificate in a Portuguese-speaking country, look for the word 'Matrimónio'. It is the standard header for such documents.

Church Settings

In a religious context, 'matrimónio' is the preferred term as it refers to the sacrament. Using 'casamento' is fine, but 'matrimónio' shows deeper respect for the rite.

Reading Clues

When you see 'matrimónio' in a novel, the author is often highlighting the social or legal constraints of the characters' lives rather than their romantic feelings.

Register Awareness

Using 'matrimónio' with friends might be seen as a joke. Use it when speaking to people in positions of authority or in formal ceremonies.

Cognate Power

Since it looks like 'matrimony', use that to your advantage. Just remember the Portuguese version is used slightly more often than the English one in formal settings.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Matrimony'. It is a direct cognate. 'Matri-' is for mother (mater), and '-mónio' is like a ceremony. The Mother of all ceremonies!

Visual Association

Imagine a large, heavy gold ring resting on a stack of legal documents. The weight and the paper represent the 'matrimónio'.

Word Web

Casamento Cônjuge Família Igreja Lei Amor Contrato Fidelidade

Challenge

Try to write a three-sentence formal letter inviting an imaginary ambassador to your 'matrimónio'. Use at least two other formal words like 'honra' or 'presença'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'matrimonium'.

Original meaning: The state or condition of motherhood.

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

Be aware that while matrimónio is gender-neutral in law, some older speakers might still associate it with traditional gender roles due to its etymology.

The word 'matrimony' in English is used almost exclusively in wedding vows or very formal religious settings. In Portuguese, its equivalent is slightly more common but still restricted to formal registers.

The Portuguese Civil Code (Código Civil) - the primary legal reference for matrimónio. The 'Sacramento do Matrimónio' in the Catholic Catechism. Classic literature like 'Os Maias' by Eça de Queirós.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Registry Office

Quero marcar o matrimónio.
Quais são os documentos para o matrimónio?
O matrimónio civil é aqui?
Preciso do assento de matrimónio.

In a Church

O sacramento do matrimónio.
Abençoar o matrimónio.
Votos de matrimónio.
Cerimónia de matrimónio.

Legal Discussion

Dissolução do matrimónio.
Regime de bens no matrimónio.
Direitos do matrimónio.
Anulação do matrimónio.

Academic/Sociological

A instituição do matrimónio.
História do matrimónio.
Evolução do matrimónio.
Matrimónio na era moderna.

Formal Invitations

Convidam para o matrimónio.
Honram-nos com a presença no matrimónio.
Celebração do matrimónio.
Enlace matrimonial.

Conversation Starters

"Qual é a sua opinião sobre a importância do matrimónio na sociedade atual?"

"Acha que o matrimónio civil deve ter as mesmas regras em todo o mundo?"

"Como é que as tradições de matrimónio mudaram no seu país nos últimos anos?"

"Conhece alguém que tenha tido um matrimónio de conveniência?"

"Prefere um matrimónio grande e luxuoso ou uma cerimónia simples?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre o que significa para si a palavra matrimónio e como ela difere de um simples namoro.

Descreva como seria o seu matrimónio ideal, focando na atmosfera e na importância legal.

Reflexione sobre o impacto do matrimónio na vida de uma pessoa e as responsabilidades que ele traz.

Analise como o conceito de matrimónio evoluiu na literatura que você leu recentemente.

Discuta as vantagens e desvantagens de contrair matrimónio em uma idade jovem.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'matrimónio' is always a masculine noun. You must use masculine articles like 'o' or 'um' and masculine adjectives like 'feliz' or 'longo'. This is true even if the marriage is between two women.

No, that is a common mistake. For the party, the food, and the dancing, you should use 'festa de casamento'. 'Matrimónio' refers to the legal union or the formal ceremony itself.

'Casamento' is the everyday word used for both the wedding and the state of being married. 'Matrimónio' is formal and usually refers to the legal or religious institution. Think of 'marriage' vs. 'matrimony'.

The most formal way is to use the verb 'contrair'. So, you would say 'contrair matrimónio'. In daily life, you would just say 'casar' or 'casar-se'.

The main difference is spelling: 'matrimónio' in Portugal (acute accent) and 'matrimônio' in Brazil (circumflex accent). In Brazil, it is also even more formal and less common in speech than in Portugal.

It refers to a 'marriage of convenience', where the couple marries for reasons other than love, such as legal status, money, or political gain. It is a common legal and social phrase.

Yes. Since the legalization of same-sex marriage in Portugal (2010) and Brazil (2013), the legal term 'matrimónio' applies to all legal unions regardless of the gender of the spouses.

Yes, just like in English. You can speak about the 'matrimónio' between two ideas, like 'o matrimónio entre a teoria e a prática' (the marriage between theory and practice).

It comes from the Latin 'mater' (mother). Historically, the legal institution of marriage was primarily concerned with establishing the legal status of a woman as a mother and her children as legal heirs.

It is an 'annulment', a legal or religious process that declares a marriage null and void from the beginning, as if it never legally happened, usually due to a specific legal impediment.