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B1 adjective 13 min read

memorável

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips memorável in 30 Seconds

Explanation memorável in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn adjectives. You might not use 'memorável' often yourself, but you can understand it as a very positive word, similar to 'very good' or 'special'. It is an adjective that stays the same for men and women. For example, 'A festa é memorável' (The party is memorable). You can think of it as something you want to keep in your head. At this level, focus on the fact that it is a 'big' version of 'bom' (good). It is often used to describe events like birthdays or trips. Even if you don't say it yet, recognizing it in a sentence will help you understand that someone is talking about a special moment. Remember: it ends in -vel, which is a common ending for adjectives in Portuguese.

At the A2 level, you can begin to use 'memorável' to describe your past experiences. When you talk about your last vacation or a special dinner, you can say 'A viagem foi memorável' or 'O jantar foi memorável'. You should notice that the word does not change for masculine or feminine nouns. This makes it a very useful tool for your vocabulary. You also start to learn how to make it plural: 'momentos memoráveis'. Notice the -vel changes to -veis. At this level, you can use it to replace simpler words like 'muito bom' or 'fantástico' when you want to sound a bit more descriptive. It helps you express that an event was not just fun, but something you will remember for a long time.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'memorável' comfortably in both speaking and writing. You understand the nuance that it describes something 'worthy of memory'. You can use it in more complex sentences, such as 'Foi uma experiência memorável porque conheci pessoas incríveis'. You are also becoming aware of its synonyms like 'inesquecível'. You should pay attention to the correct placement of the accent (memorável) and ensure you are using the correct plural form (memoráveis). This is a great level to start using the word in formal contexts, like writing a review of a book or a film, or describing a professional achievement. You understand that it carries a certain weight and shouldn't be used for every small thing.

At the B2 level, you use 'memorável' with precision and understand its role in different registers. You might use it in a formal essay to describe a historical event ('uma data memorável') or in a deep conversation about life experiences. You are aware of the subtle differences between 'memorável', 'marcante', and 'notável'. You can use adverbs of intensity to modify it, like 'absolutamente memorável' or 'pouco memorável' (if being slightly critical). You also recognize its use in literature and news media. Your pronunciation should be clear, with the correct open 'e' sound and stress on the 'á'. You can now use the word to add a touch of elegance to your Portuguese, showing that you have moved beyond basic vocabulary.

At the C1 level, you have a full grasp of the stylistic implications of 'memorável'. You might use it rhetorically or ironically. You understand how its placement (before or after the noun) can change the tone of a sentence, using 'um memorável encontro' to add a poetic or dramatic effect in your writing. You can discuss the etymology of the word and its connection to other words in the 'memória' family. Your usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker's, and you can pick up on the subtle connotations it carries in different Lusophone cultures (Portugal vs. Brazil vs. Angola). You use 'memorável' to construct complex narratives, often pairing it with sophisticated collocations and idiomatic expressions.

At the C2 level, you use 'memorável' as a master of the language. You can use it in academic papers, high-level political discourse, or complex literary analysis. You understand the philosophical implications of what makes something 'memorável' in a collective or historical sense. You can play with the word, perhaps using it in a pun or a very specific cultural reference. You are also aware of very rare or archaic synonyms and can choose 'memorável' specifically for its rhythmic qualities in a sentence. You can explain the word's history and its evolution within the Romance languages. For you, 'memorável' is just one of many tools used to create nuanced, evocative, and powerful communication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

memorável in 30 Seconds

Memorável means 'memorable' or 'noteworthy'. It describes things so special they are hard to forget.
It is a common-gender adjective, so it works for both masculine and feminine nouns without changing.
The plural is 'memoráveis'. Always remember the accent on the 'á' to keep the correct pronunciation.
It is often used for historical dates, big celebrations, and significant personal achievements.

The Portuguese adjective memorável is a sophisticated yet accessible word used to describe something that is worthy of being remembered or is easily retained in the mind due to its exceptional, unique, or significant nature. Rooted in the Latin 'memorabilis', it carries a sense of weight and importance that goes beyond the everyday. When a Portuguese speaker describes an event as memorável, they are signaling that the experience had a profound impact on them or on a collective group. It is not merely 'good' or 'nice'; it is an experience that stands out from the mundane flow of time. You will encounter this word in a variety of contexts, from personal celebrations like weddings and graduations to historical milestones and artistic triumphs. In the realm of sports, a 'golo memorável' (memorable goal) is one that fans will discuss for decades. In literature, a 'personagem memorável' is a character so well-drawn that they live on in the reader's imagination long after the book is closed.

Semantic Range: The word encompasses everything from the 'remarkable' to the 'unforgettable'. It implies a quality that prevents an object or event from falling into the abyss of forgetfulness.
Emotional Resonance: It often carries a positive connotation, though it can describe a tragedy of such scale that it remains etched in history. However, in daily conversation, it is most frequently used to celebrate high points of human experience.

Aquela viagem à Madeira foi verdadeiramente memorável para toda a família.

This word is particularly useful for learners because it functions similarly to its English cognate 'memorable', making it an 'easy win' for expanding vocabulary while sounding more eloquent than simple adjectives like 'bom' (good) or 'lindo' (beautiful). It suggests a level of discernment and appreciation for the finer details of an experience. Whether you are discussing a 'conferência memorável' in a professional setting or a 'jantar memorável' with friends, the word elevates the discourse.

O discurso do diretor foi um momento memorável da cerimónia.

In terms of frequency, it appears often in journalism, travel writing, and formal speeches. It is a 'bridge word' that fits perfectly into the B1/B2 level of the CEFR, as it allows students to express complex feelings about the past with precision. It also helps in understanding the Portuguese penchant for nostalgia and 'saudade', as many things that cause saudade are, by definition, memoráveis.

A atuação da fadista foi tão memorável que o público aplaudiu de pé por dez minutos.

Understanding the nuance of this word involves recognizing that while something can be 'esquecível' (forgettable), 'memorável' is the trophy we give to events that survive the passage of time. It is a celebration of human perception and the value we place on our experiences.

Collective Memory: In a societal context, 'datas memoráveis' are holidays or anniversaries of great importance, such as the 25th of April in Portugal.

A queda do Muro de Berlim continua a ser uma data memorável para a Europa.

O seu contributo para a ciência é absolutamente memorável.

Register: While not overly formal, it is more common in written Portuguese or prepared speeches than in very casual street slang.

Using memorável correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of Portuguese adjective placement and agreement. As an adjective ending in '-l', it is a common-gender adjective, meaning the form remains the same regardless of whether the noun it modifies is masculine or feminine. For example, you would say 'um evento memorável' (masculine) and 'uma festa memorável' (feminine). This makes it easier for learners than adjectives that change from '-o' to '-a'. However, it must agree in number. The plural of memorável is memoráveis.

Plural Formation: Words ending in '-el' change to '-eis' in the plural. Example: 'momentos memoráveis' (memorable moments).

In terms of position, memorável typically follows the noun it describes. This is the standard position for descriptive adjectives in Portuguese. Placing it before the noun (e.g., 'um memorável evento') is possible but usually reserved for poetic or highly literary contexts, where it adds an emphatic or subjective flair.

Eles viveram experiências memoráveis durante o intercâmbio.

When used with the verb 'ser' (to be), it describes an inherent quality of the subject. 'A festa foi memorável' implies the party was inherently remarkable. It can also be modified by adverbs of intensity to provide more nuance.

Foi uma noite absolutamente memorável para todos os presentes.

Another important aspect is its use in comparisons. You can say 'Este concerto foi mais memorável do que o anterior' (This concert was more memorable than the previous one). In superlative forms, you can use 'o mais memorável' (the most memorable).

Superlative Usage: 'Aquele foi o dia mais memorável da minha vida.' (That was the most memorable day of my life.)

A sua interpretação foi a mais memorável da noite.

It is also frequently paired with nouns related to time and events, such as 'ocasião', 'vitória', 'conquista', 'encontro', and 'discurso'. Using these collocations will help you sound more natural. For instance, instead of saying 'uma coisa boa', saying 'uma ocasião memorável' instantly improves the quality of your Portuguese.

O golo foi marcado de uma forma memorável.

Prepositional Usage: It is rarely followed by a preposition, as it usually stands alone to describe a noun. However, you might see 'memorável por' in specific cases: 'Ele é memorável pela sua coragem' (He is memorable for his courage).

Uma vitória memorável que ficará na história do clube.

In summary, focus on the plural 'memoráveis' and the placement after the noun to master this word in your daily speech and writing.

In the Lusophone world, memorável is a staple of media and formal communication. If you tune into a Portuguese news broadcast, especially during the cultural or sports segments, you are bound to hear it. Journalists use it to describe everything from a 'concerto memorável' by a world-famous artist to a 'desempenho memorável' (memorable performance) in a political debate. It provides the necessary gravitas to mark an event as something that transcends the daily news cycle. In Brazil, you might hear it used with a slightly more exuberant tone in television commentaries, while in Portugal, it often retains a more solemn, appreciative quality.

In the Arts: Art critics frequently use 'memorável' to describe films, exhibitions, and performances that leave a lasting impression. 'Uma obra memorável' is high praise indeed.

A crítica considerou a sua atuação no filme como memorável.

Social media is another place where this word has found a home. Influencers and travelers often use it in captions for photos of breathtaking landscapes or luxury experiences. Phrases like 'Um pôr do sol memorável' (A memorable sunset) are common on Instagram. However, unlike some words that become diluted by overexposure, memorável still maintains a certain level of prestige.

Obrigado por este dia memorável! #gratidão

In a corporate or academic setting, memorável is used to describe milestones. A 'conquista memorável' (memorable achievement) might refer to reaching a sales target or a university's anniversary. It is a way of acknowledging the hard work and historical significance of an event. In formal speeches, such as those at weddings or award ceremonies, the speaker will often refer to the 'ocasião memorável' to set a dignified tone.

Historical Discourse: History books are filled with 'datas memoráveis'. It is the standard term for significant dates in a nation's timeline.

A assinatura do tratado foi um ato memorável para a paz mundial.

You will also hear it in everyday storytelling. When a friend tells you about a crazy night out or a beautiful wedding they attended, they might say, 'Foi mesmo memorável!' to emphasize that they won't forget it anytime soon. It’s a way to distinguish that specific memory from the hundreds of other similar events they've experienced.

Tivemos uma conversa memorável sobre o futuro da empresa.

Cultural Nuance: In Portugal, the word can sometimes be used with a touch of irony to describe a spectacularly bad event, but this is less common than its positive use.

Aquele jantar de Natal foi memorável, mas pelas piores razões!

Whether in the high-stakes world of politics or the intimate setting of a family dinner, memorável is the word that marks the moments we keep.

Even though memorável is a cognate of 'memorable', learners often trip over a few specific hurdles. The most common mistake is related to spelling and pronunciation, particularly the placement of the accent. In Portuguese, the word has an acute accent on the second 'a' (á). This indicates that the stress is on that syllable. Some learners, influenced by English, might try to stress the first or third syllable, or forget the accent entirely in writing. Without the accent, the word is misspelled and the pronunciation changes.

Spelling Error: Writing 'memorable' (English spelling) instead of 'memorável'. Remember the '-ável' suffix.

Errado: Foi um dia memorable.
Correto: Foi um dia memorável.

Another frequent error involves the plural form. Many learners simply add an 's' to the end, resulting in 'memorávels', which is incorrect. In Portuguese, adjectives ending in '-el' or '-al' follow specific pluralization rules. For memorável, the '-l' is dropped and replaced with '-is', and the accent remains on the 'a'. The correct plural is memoráveis.

Errado: Momentos memorávels.
Correto: Momentos memoráveis.

Gender agreement is also a source of confusion, though ironically, memorável is easier than most adjectives. Some students try to create a feminine version like 'memorávela', which does not exist. As mentioned before, memorável is the same for both masculine and feminine nouns.

Over-Agreement: Avoid adding -a for feminine nouns. 'Uma experiência memorável' is correct; 'memorávela' is a common learner mistake.

Correto: Uma história memorável.
Errado: Uma história memorávela.

Confusion with the word 'memoriável' is also seen. While it looks like it could be a word, it is not a standard Portuguese term. Use memorável instead. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse memorável with inesquecível. While they are close synonyms, inesquecível is slightly stronger (unforgettable) and more emotional, whereas memorável is more about being 'worthy of memory' or 'noteworthy'.

A vitória foi memorável (noteworthy), mas o beijo foi inesquecível (unforgettable).

Lastly, be careful with the register. Using memorável to describe something very trivial, like a sandwich you just ate (unless it really was life-changing), can sound a bit overly dramatic or sarcastic. While not a 'mistake' per se, it’s a matter of choosing the right level of intensity for the context.

Register Mismatch: Using such a 'big' word for a small thing might be seen as hyperbolic. Stick to 'bom' or 'gostoso' for everyday food.

O sanduíche estava bom (standard).
O banquete de casamento foi memorável (appropriate).

By avoiding these pitfalls, you will use the word with the confidence of a native speaker.

To truly master Portuguese, you need to know when to use memorável and when to reach for a synonym that might fit the context better. The most common alternative is inesquecível (unforgettable). While memorável highlights that something is 'worthy' of being remembered, inesquecível suggests that the memory is so powerful it is impossible to lose.

Memorável vs. Inesquecível: Memorável is more objective and formal. Inesquecível is more subjective and emotional.

Foi uma conferência memorável.
Foi um primeiro amor inesquecível.

Another great word is marcante (striking/impactful). This is used for things that 'leave a mark' (uma marca) on someone. It’s slightly more modern and very common in Brazil. If something is marcante, it changed your perspective or stayed with you because of its intensity.

Aquele professor teve uma influência marcante na minha carreira.

For more formal or historical contexts, you might use notável (notable/remarkable) or célebre (celebrated/famous). Notável emphasizes the excellence or quality of something, while célebre is often used for famous people, quotes, or historical events.

Formal Alternatives: Notável focus on quality. Célebre focus on fame/recognition.

Uma inteligência notável.
A célebre frase de Camões.

If you want to describe something that is memorable because it was strange or unusual, you could use curioso or peculiar. If it was memorable because it was huge or grand, épico or grandioso are better choices.

Foi uma final de campeonato épica.

On the flip side, the antonyms of memorável are esquecível (forgettable), banal (banal/commonplace), and insignificante (insignificant). Knowing these helps you define the boundaries of the word. A 'filme esquecível' is one you forget as soon as you leave the theater.

Antonym Comparison: Memorável vs. Banal: One is special, the other is ordinary and lacks interest.

Infelizmente, a sua apresentação foi bastante esquecível.

By understanding this constellation of words, you can describe your experiences with much greater precision, moving beyond simple adjectives and into the rich descriptive heart of the Portuguese language.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The suffix '-vel' in Portuguese comes from the Latin '-bilis', which always denotes capability or worthiness. This is why so many Portuguese adjectives look like English ones ending in '-able' or '-ible'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mɨ.muˈɾa.vɛɫ/

US /me.moˈɾa.vew/

Penultimate syllable (ra).

Rhymes With

Inesquecível Notável Amável Confortável Insuperável Admirável Vulnerável Saudável

Common Errors

Stressing the first syllable like in English 'memorable'.
Pronouncing the final 'l' as a clear 'l' (like 'light') instead of dark or vocalized.
Closing the 'á' sound too much; it should be very open.
Forgetting the accent on the 'á' when writing.
Pronouncing the 'v' like a 'b' (common in Northern Portugal).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'memorable'.

Writing 4/5

Requires remembering the accent on the 'á' and the irregular plural 'memoráveis'.

Speaking 3/5

The open 'á' and dark 'l' can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to spot.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Bom Especial Lembrar Memória Festa

Learn Next

Inesquecível Marcante Notável Célebre Extraordinário

Advanced

Rememoração Mnemónica Indelével Perene Efémero

Grammar to Know

Adjective Agreement (Number)

Um dia memorável -> Dias memoráveis.

Adjective Agreement (Gender)

O evento memorável / A festa memorável (No change).

Plural of nouns/adjectives ending in -el

Papel -> Papéis, Memorável -> Memoráveis.

Accentuation of Paroxítonas

Words ending in -l are accented on the penultimate syllable if that's where the stress is (e.g., memorável, fácil).

Adjective Position

Usually follows the noun: 'uma vitória memorável'.

Examples by Level

O meu aniversário foi memorável.

My birthday was memorable.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

Uma festa memorável para as crianças.

A memorable party for the children.

Adjective following a feminine noun.

Este dia é memorável.

This day is memorable.

Demonstrative pronoun + noun + verb + adjective.

Um momento memorável com a família.

A memorable moment with the family.

Adjective following a masculine noun.

A viagem foi memorável.

The trip was memorable.

Using the past tense of 'ser'.

O jogo de futebol foi memorável.

The football game was memorable.

Describing a common event.

Foi um presente memorável.

It was a memorable gift.

Adjective modifying 'presente'.

É uma música memorável.

It is a memorable song.

Adjective modifying 'música'.

Tivemos momentos memoráveis na praia.

We had memorable moments at the beach.

Plural form 'memoráveis'.

A formatura do meu irmão foi memorável.

My brother's graduation was memorable.

Possessive 'do meu irmão'.

Ela contou uma história memorável ontem.

She told a memorable story yesterday.

Past tense verb 'contou'.

O concerto foi muito memorável.

The concert was very memorable.

Use of intensifier 'muito'.

Eles visitaram lugares memoráveis em Lisboa.

They visited memorable places in Lisbon.

Plural agreement 'lugares memoráveis'.

Foi uma experiência memorável para mim.

It was a memorable experience for me.

Prepositional phrase 'para mim'.

O filme tem cenas memoráveis.

The movie has memorable scenes.

Plural noun and adjective.

Aquele jantar foi memorável.

That dinner was memorable.

Demonstrative 'aquele'.

O discurso do presidente foi memorável e inspirador.

The president's speech was memorable and inspiring.

Using two adjectives to describe a noun.

Considero este livro uma obra memorável da literatura.

I consider this book a memorable work of literature.

Verb 'considerar' + direct object + complement.

A vitória da equipa foi um evento memorável para a cidade.

The team's victory was a memorable event for the city.

Noun phrase as the subject.

Guardamos recordações memoráveis da nossa infância.

We keep memorable memories of our childhood.

Verb 'guardar' (to keep/save).

A exposição de arte foi verdadeiramente memorável.

The art exhibition was truly memorable.

Adverb 'verdadeiramente' for emphasis.

Foi um encontro memorável entre dois velhos amigos.

It was a memorable meeting between two old friends.

Prepositional phrase 'entre dois...'.

A paisagem do topo da montanha era memorável.

The landscape from the top of the mountain was memorable.

Imperfect past 'era' for description.

Ela teve uma carreira memorável no teatro.

She had a memorable career in the theater.

Noun 'carreira' modified by 'memorável'.

O 25 de Abril é a data mais memorável da história de Portugal.

April 25th is the most memorable date in Portugal's history.

Relative superlative 'a mais memorável'.

A sua atuação foi memorável pela intensidade emocional.

Her performance was memorable for its emotional intensity.

Prepositional phrase explaining why ('pela...').

A conferência proporcionou debates memoráveis sobre o clima.

The conference provided memorable debates about the climate.

Verb 'proporcionar' (to provide/afford).

Apesar do frio, o passeio foi memorável.

Despite the cold, the walk was memorable.

Concessive clause 'Apesar do...'.

Eles criaram uma marca memorável no mercado tecnológico.

They created a memorable brand in the tech market.

Metaphorical use of 'marca'.

A hospitalidade daquela família foi memorável.

The hospitality of that family was memorable.

Abstract noun 'hospitalidade' as subject.

Foi um feito memorável que mudou o rumo da empresa.

It was a memorable feat that changed the course of the company.

Relative clause 'que mudou...'.

As suas palavras foram memoráveis e cheias de sabedoria.

His words were memorable and full of wisdom.

Adjective phrase 'cheias de sabedoria'.

A obra de Saramago é repleta de personagens memoráveis.

Saramago's work is full of memorable characters.

Adjective phrase 'repleta de...'.

O declínio do império foi marcado por eventos memoráveis.

The decline of the empire was marked by memorable events.

Passive voice 'foi marcado por'.

Foi um memorável exemplo de resiliência humana.

It was a memorable example of human resilience.

Adjective placed before the noun for emphasis.

A sinfonia culminou num final absolutamente memorável.

The symphony culminated in an absolutely memorable finale.

Verb 'culminar' + preposition 'em'.

O autor descreve a cena de uma forma memorável e vívida.

The author describes the scene in a memorable and vivid way.

Adverbial phrase 'de uma forma...'.

As conquistas memoráveis da ciência no século XX.

The memorable achievements of science in the 20th century.

Noun phrase with multiple modifiers.

A sua contribuição para a paz foi um ato memorável.

His contribution to peace was a memorable act.

Abstract concept as the subject.

Recordamos hoje a memorável jornada dos descobridores.

We remember today the memorable journey of the explorers.

Emphasis through adjective placement.

A efemeridade da vida torna cada instante potencialmente memorável.

The fleetingness of life makes every moment potentially memorable.

Philosophical subject and complex adverb 'potencialmente'.

O historiador analisou as datas memoráveis sob uma nova ótica.

The historian analyzed the memorable dates from a new perspective.

Idiomatic expression 'sob uma nova ótica'.

Trata-se de uma memorável incursão pelo mundo da metafísica.

It is a memorable incursion into the world of metaphysics.

Formal construction 'Trata-se de...'.

A retórica do orador transformou o banal em memorável.

The speaker's rhetoric transformed the banal into the memorable.

Substantivized adjectives 'o banal', 'o memorável'.

A arquitetura da cidade é um mosaico de eras memoráveis.

The city's architecture is a mosaic of memorable eras.

Metaphorical use of 'mosaico'.

O seu legado, embora memorável, permanece envolto em mistério.

His legacy, though memorable, remains shrouded in mystery.

Concessive conjunction 'embora' with an adjective.

As nuances memoráveis daquela interpretação teatral.

The memorable nuances of that theatrical interpretation.

Focus on high-level vocabulary ('nuances').

Uma memorável simbiose entre a técnica e a emoção.

A memorable symbiosis between technique and emotion.

Abstract noun 'simbiose' with adjective before it.

Common Collocations

Data memorável

Momento memorável

Viagem memorável

Discurso memorável

Vitória memorável

Experiência memorável

Noite memorável

Ocasião memorável

Personagem memorável

Atuação memorável

Common Phrases

Tornar algo memorável

— To make something memorable by adding a special touch.

A música ajudou a tornar o evento memorável.

Um dia para ser memorável

— A day destined or intended to be remembered.

Hoje tem tudo para ser um dia memorável.

Nada de memorável

— Nothing special; nothing worth remembering.

A reunião foi longa, mas não aconteceu nada de memorável.

Pelas razões memoráveis

— For the right (or wrong) reasons that make it stick in the mind.

Ele é conhecido pelas suas ações memoráveis na comunidade.

Verdadeiramente memorável

— Truly memorable; used for extra emphasis.

Foi uma hospitalidade verdadeiramente memorável.

Recordações memoráveis

— Memorable recollections or memories.

Tenho recordações memoráveis dos meus avós.

Feito memorável

— A memorable feat or achievement.

A chegada à Lua foi um feito memorável da humanidade.

Encontro memorável

— A memorable meeting or encounter.

Foi um encontro memorável de grandes mentes.

Cena memorável

— A memorable scene (in a movie or life).

Aquela cena memorável do filme de ação.

Legado memorável

— A legacy that will be remembered.

O artista deixou um legado memorável para as gerações futuras.

Often Confused With

memorável vs Memoriável

A non-existent word that learners sometimes invent by mistake. Always use 'memorável'.

memorável vs Memorable

The English spelling. Remember to add the accent and change the ending to '-ável' in Portuguese.

memorável vs Lembrável

Technically correct but very rare. 'Memorável' is much more common and natural.

Idioms & Expressions

"Ficar na memória"

— To stay in the memory; often used as a verbal equivalent of being memorável.

Aquele concerto vai ficar na memória de todos.

Neutral

"Marcar uma época"

— To mark an era; used for something so memorável it defines a period.

Os Beatles marcaram uma época memorável na música.

Neutral

"Entrar para a história"

— To go down in history; used for extremely memorável events.

Esta vitória vai entrar para a história como memorável.

Neutral

"Ser um marco"

— To be a milestone; related to being memorável.

A invenção da internet foi um marco memorável.

Neutral

"Não sair da cabeça"

— To not leave one's head; an informal way to say something is memorável.

Aquela música memorável não me sai da cabeça.

Informal

"Fazer história"

— To make history.

Eles fizeram história com aquele golo memorável.

Neutral

"Deixar rasto"

— To leave a trail; to leave a lasting impact.

A sua passagem pela empresa deixou um rasto memorável.

Literary

"Ficar gravado"

— To be engraved (in the mind).

O teu sorriso ficou gravado como um momento memorável.

Emotional

"Ser de se tirar o chapéu"

— To be 'hats off' worthy; very impressive and memorável.

A atuação dele foi de se tirar o chapéu, realmente memorável.

Informal

"Valer por mil"

— To be worth a thousand; exceptionally good/memorável.

Aquele abraço memorável valeu por mil palavras.

Informal

Easily Confused

memorável vs Inesquecível

They have very similar meanings.

Memorável is 'worthy of memory' (objective/formal). Inesquecível is 'impossible to forget' (subjective/emotional).

Um discurso memorável (formal). Um beijo inesquecível (emotional).

memorável vs Marcante

Both describe things that stay in the mind.

Marcante implies an impact or change in the person. Memorável simply implies it's worth remembering.

Uma experiência marcante que mudou a minha vida.

memorável vs Notável

Both indicate something special.

Notável focuses on the high quality or skill involved. Memorável focuses on the memory aspect.

Um progresso notável na medicina.

memorável vs Célebre

Both relate to things being famous or known.

Célebre is for well-known people or quotes. Memorável is for events or experiences.

Um escritor célebre. Uma festa memorável.

memorável vs Histórico

Both used for big events.

Histórico specifically means it belongs to history. Memorável is more about the individual or collective memory.

Um acordo histórico entre os dois países.

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] + é + memorável.

A festa é memorável.

[Noun] + foi + memorável.

O concerto foi memorável.

Foi um/uma [Noun] + memorável.

Foi uma viagem memorável.

Tivemos momentos + memoráveis.

Tivemos momentos memoráveis.

Tornar + [Noun] + memorável.

Eles tornaram o dia memorável.

O mais memorável de + [Context].

O mais memorável de tudo foi o final.

Um memorável + [Noun].

Um memorável exemplo de coragem.

A natureza memorável de + [Noun].

A natureza memorável do evento surpreendeu a todos.

Word Family

Nouns

Memória (Memory)

Memorial (Memorial)

Memorando (Memorandum)

Memorização (Memorization)

Verbs

Memorizar (To memorize)

Rememorar (To recall/remember)

Comemorar (To celebrate/commemorate)

Adjectives

Memorial (Memorial/Relating to memory)

Memorativo (Commemorative)

Mnemónica

Lembrança

Recordação

Esquecimento

Mente

How to Use It

frequency

High in written media, medium-high in spoken language.

Common Mistakes

Momentos memorávels → Momentos memoráveis
Adjectives ending in -l form the plural with -is, not just -s.
Uma festa memorávela → Uma festa memorável
Adjectives ending in -l are the same for masculine and feminine.
Memoravel (without accent) → Memorável
The accent is mandatory because it is a paroxítona ending in 'l'.
Stressing the first syllable (ME-mo-ra-vel) → Me-mo-RÁ-vel
The stress must be on the 'á' syllable.
Foi um memorável evento → Foi um evento memorável
While the first is possible, the second is much more common in standard speech.

Tips

Plural Rule

Remember that adjectives ending in -el change to -eis in the plural. This applies to memorável -> memoráveis. It's a very consistent rule for this class of words.

Upgrade Your 'Bom'

Whenever you are tempted to say 'foi muito bom', try 'foi memorável' instead. It instantly makes your Portuguese sound more advanced and expressive.

The Open 'Á'

Make sure the 'á' is open and clear. It's the 'heartbeat' of the word. If you mumble it, the word loses its impact.

Accentuation

In Portuguese, the accent is not optional. Writing 'memoravel' without the accent is a spelling error. Always include the 'á'.

Historical Context

Use 'data memorável' when talking about national holidays or historical events. It shows you understand the significance of those dates to Portuguese speakers.

Intensity

Pair it with 'absolutamente' for maximum effect. 'Foi absolutamente memorável!' is a very strong and natural way to express high praise.

Formal vs Informal

While 'memorável' is great for speeches and writing, in very casual slang-heavy talk, you might hear 'inesquecível' or 'top' (slang) more often.

Context Clues

If you hear 'memorável' in a sports broadcast, it's almost certainly referring to a goal, a win, or a player's career performance.

Cognate Power

Take advantage of the fact that it's a cognate. You already know what it means; you just need to learn the Portuguese 'flavor' of the word.

Emotional Range

Don't be afraid to use it for personal things. 'O nosso primeiro encontro foi memorável' is a beautiful and romantic thing to say.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the word 'Memory' + 'Able'. If something is 'Memory-Able', it is 'Memorável'. The 'á' accent is like a little flag marking a special spot in your memory.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant golden trophy sitting on a shelf in your brain. That trophy represents a 'momento memorável'.

Word Web

Memória Lembrar Especial História Inesquecível Marcante Evento Festa

Challenge

Try to describe three 'momentos memoráveis' from your last year using the word in both singular and plural forms.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'memorabilis', which is the adjective form of 'memorare' (to bring to mind/mention).

Original meaning: Worthy of being mentioned or remembered.

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

Generally a very safe, positive word. No major taboos.

Directly equivalent to 'memorable', but sounds slightly more formal/elegant in daily Portuguese than it might in casual American English.

The 25th of April (Revolution of the Carnations) is often called a 'data memorável'. Amália Rodrigues is often described as having 'atuações memoráveis'. The 1950 World Cup final (Maracanazo) is a 'data memorável' for Brazilians.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Travel

Uma viagem memorável
Vistas memoráveis
Encontros memoráveis
Férias memoráveis

Social Events

Um casamento memorável
Uma festa memorável
Uma noite memorável
Um brinde memorável

Professional/Academic

Uma conquista memorável
Um discurso memorável
Uma carreira memorável
Um projeto memorável

Sports

Um golo memorável
Uma vitória memorável
Um desempenho memorável
Uma final memorável

Arts/Media

Um filme memorável
Uma cena memorável
Uma atuação memorável
Uma obra memorável

Conversation Starters

"Podes descrever um momento memorável da tua infância?"

"Qual foi a viagem mais memorável que já fizeste?"

"Lembras-te de algum professor que tenha sido memorável para ti?"

"Qual é, para ti, a data mais memorável da história do teu país?"

"Viste algum filme memorável recentemente?"

Journal Prompts

Escreve sobre uma experiência memorável que mudou a tua forma de pensar.

Descreve um jantar memorável: quem estava lá, o que comeram e por que foi especial.

Quais são os três ingredientes necessários para tornar uma festa memorável?

Reflete sobre um feito memorável que alcançaste no trabalho ou nos estudos.

Se pudesses reviver um dia memorável da tua vida, qual escolherias?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'memorável' is a common-gender adjective. It stays the same for both. For example, 'um momento memorável' and 'uma viagem memorável'. This is common for Portuguese adjectives ending in -l.

The plural form is 'memoráveis'. You drop the '-l' and add '-is'. Don't forget to keep the accent on the 'á'. Example: 'momentos memoráveis'.

Yes, 'memorável' is much more sophisticated than 'bom'. While 'bom' just means good, 'memorável' implies that something was so good it deserves to be remembered forever.

The acute accent goes on the second 'a' (á). It is a paroxítona word ending in 'l', which requires an accent. It also helps you remember to stress that syllable: me-mo-RÁ-vel.

Usually, it has a positive connotation. However, it can be used for very significant negative events (like a tragedy) or ironically to describe something that was 'memorably bad'. But 90% of the time, it's positive.

They are very close. 'Memorável' is 'worthy of memory' and sounds a bit more formal. 'Inesquecível' means 'unforgettable' and is often used for more personal, emotional things like love or a beautiful sunset.

Yes, it is used in all Portuguese-speaking countries. Brazilians might use 'marcante' or 'inesquecível' slightly more often in casual speech, but 'memorável' is very common in media and formal contexts.

Yes, you can say 'um memorável dia', but it sounds very poetic or formal. In normal conversation, always put it after the noun: 'um dia memorável'.

Common pairings (collocations) include: data memorável, momento memorável, vitória memorável, viagem memorável, and discurso memorável.

In Portugal, it's a 'dark l' (tongue tip up, back of tongue raised). In Brazil, it's usually pronounced like a 'w' or 'u' sound (vocalized l).