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Não importa

B1 noun 14 min read

Não importa

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Não importa in 30 Seconds

Explanation Não importa in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'Não importa' is introduced as a fixed, useful phrase for basic social survival. Beginners learn it as a single unit meaning 'It's okay' or 'No problem.' At this stage, you don't need to understand the conjugation of the verb 'importar.' You just need to know that when you make a small mistake—like stepping on someone's foot or mispronouncing a word—and the other person says 'Não importa,' they are telling you not to worry. It is a phrase of reassurance. You can also use it yourself to show that you are easy-going. For example, if a waiter asks if you want your water with or without ice and you don't have a strong feeling, you might say 'Não importa' (though 'Tanto faz' is better, 'Não importa' is understood). The focus for A1 is on the sound /nɐ̃w̃ im.ˈpɔɾ.tɐ/ and its immediate social utility in dismissing minor errors or choices. It helps build the 'social lubricant' vocabulary that makes early interactions less stressful. You will likely see it in short dialogues in textbooks where characters are making plans or apologizing for small mishaps. It is one of the first expressions that helps you feel like you are actually communicating in a natural way, rather than just reciting grammar rules. Just remember: it's a 'magic phrase' to make problems disappear!

For A2 learners, 'Não importa' begins to expand beyond a simple apology response. You start to see how it can be used with simple nouns to describe things that aren't important. For example, 'Não importa o dinheiro' (The money doesn't matter) or 'Não importa a hora' (The time doesn't matter). At this level, you are learning to link the phrase to specific subjects. You are also introduced to the idea that 'Não importa' can be used to express a lack of preference in more complex sentences. You might hear it in the context of travel or hobbies: 'Não importa o lugar, eu quero viajar' (No matter the place, I want to travel). A2 learners should also start to distinguish between 'Não importa' and 'Não tem problema.' While they are often interchangeable, 'Não importa' feels a bit more definitive about the lack of value or significance. You are also becoming more aware of the word order; you can see that 'Não importa' usually comes before the thing that doesn't matter. This is also a good time to practice the pronunciation of the nasal 'Não' followed by the 'i' of 'importa,' ensuring they don't blend into a single confusing sound. You are building the foundation for more complex logical structures that will come in the B levels.

At the B1 level, where you are now, 'Não importa' becomes a tool for expressing resilience and logical conditions. You are no longer just using it for small apologies; you are using it to build arguments. This is the level where you learn to use 'Não importa' followed by question words like 'quem' (who), 'onde' (where), 'como' (how), and 'quando' (when). For example: 'Não importa como você faz, o importante é o resultado' (It doesn't matter how you do it; the important thing is the result). This allows you to set up contrasts in your speech. You are also starting to encounter the subjunctive mood after 'Não importa o que...' (No matter what...). For instance, 'Não importa o que aconteça' (No matter what happens). This is a significant jump in complexity because it requires you to think about the uncertainty or hypothetical nature of the statement. You are also learning to use the phrase to express personal boundaries, such as 'Isso não importa para mim' (That doesn't matter to me). At B1, you should be able to use 'Não importa' to dismiss irrelevant information in a conversation and keep the focus on the main topic. You are moving from reacting to the world to actively shaping the conversation by deciding what is and isn't worth discussing.

At the B2 level, 'Não importa' is used with high frequency and precision. You are expected to use the subjunctive mood correctly and naturally after this phrase in almost all applicable contexts. You understand the subtle difference between 'Não importa que ele saiba' (It doesn't matter that he knows—stating a fact) and 'Não importa o que ele saiba' (No matter what he might know—hypothetical). You also start to use the phrase in more formal or abstract discussions. For example, in a debate about ethics or politics, you might say: 'Não importa a origem do candidato, mas sim suas propostas' (The candidate's origin doesn't matter, but rather their proposals). You are also able to recognize when 'Não importa' is being used sarcastically or dismissively in a way that might be rude, and you can adjust your own tone to avoid this. You are familiar with literary uses of the phrase and can understand it in complex songs or films where it might be used to express deep existential indifference or unconditional love. At this stage, 'Não importa' is not just a phrase; it's a logical operator that you use to structure complex thoughts and prioritize information in your discourse. You are also comfortable using synonyms like 'Pouco importa' to vary your register.

For C1 learners, the use of 'Não importa' is mastered to the point of being second nature, and the focus shifts to the most subtle nuances of register and style. You understand how 'Não importa' fits into the broader system of Portuguese negation and emphasis. You can use it in academic writing to dismiss counter-arguments: 'Não importa, para os fins deste estudo, a variação regional do termo...' (For the purposes of this study, the regional variation of the term does not matter...). You are also aware of the historical and etymological roots of the verb 'importar' and how its meaning has shifted over time. You can distinguish between 'Não importa' and more sophisticated alternatives like 'É irrelevante,' 'É de somenos,' or 'Não vem ao caso,' choosing the one that perfectly fits the desired level of formality. You can also play with the phrase in creative writing, using it to create a specific rhythm or mood. You understand how the phrase can be used to create a sense of 'desapego' (detachment) in philosophical or spiritual contexts. At C1, your use of the phrase is characterized by its perfect integration into complex sentence structures and its contribution to the overall cohesion and coherence of your speech and writing.

At the C2 level, you have a native-like command of 'Não importa' and its place in the Lusophone world. You can identify regional preferences—for example, knowing that a speaker from Porto might use 'Não faz mal' in a situation where a Carioca would say 'Não importa' or 'Tá de boa.' you can use the phrase to navigate the most delicate social situations with perfect tact, knowing exactly when a 'Não importa' will comfort and when it might offend. You are familiar with the use of the phrase in classical Portuguese literature (like Camões or Machado de Assis) and how it has evolved. You can use it in complex legal or technical contexts where the 'importance' of a variable has specific consequences. You might even use the phrase to discuss linguistics itself, analyzing its role as an impersonal construction. Your command is so complete that you can use the phrase as a stylistic device, perhaps starting a series of sentences with 'Não importa...' to create an anaphoric effect in a speech. For a C2 learner, 'Não importa' is a tiny but powerful tool in an enormous kit, used with total awareness of its history, its grammar, and its profound social and emotional impact.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Não importa in 30 Seconds

Used to dismiss minor errors or irrelevant details in a conversation.
Functions as 'it doesn't matter' or 'never mind' in English.
Can be used alone or to introduce complex conditions with 'que' or 'onde'.
Often requires the subjunctive mood when referring to hypothetical situations.

The Portuguese expression Não importa is a fundamental pillar of daily communication, serving as a versatile tool for dismissing insignificant details, reassuring others, or indicating a lack of preference. At its core, it translates to "it doesn't matter," "never mind," or "it is not important." The phrase is composed of the negative particle não and the third-person singular present indicative form of the verb importar (to matter or to be important). While it literally means "it does not matter," its pragmatic use spans a wide spectrum of social interactions, from casual brush-offs to deep philosophical statements about what truly carries weight in life.

Literal Meaning: It does not matter; it has no importance.
Social Function: Used to minimize conflict, dismiss trivialities, or show indifference toward specific outcomes.
Register: Neutral to informal, though it can appear in formal literature to discuss abstract concepts of value.

In a conversational context, you will hear this expression when someone makes a small mistake and seeks forgiveness. For instance, if a friend arrives five minutes late and apologizes profusely, a common response is "Não importa, acabei de chegar também" (It doesn't matter, I just arrived too). This usage highlights the cultural value of flexibilidade (flexibility) in Lusophone cultures, where minor temporal or procedural deviations are often met with a shrug and a smile.

Se você esqueceu o livro, não importa; nós podemos dividir o meu.

Translation: If you forgot the book, it doesn't matter; we can share mine.

Furthermore, the expression is frequently used to introduce a clause that specifies what exactly lacks importance. In these cases, it is often followed by a relative pronoun or a conjunction like quem (who), onde (where), como (how), or se (if). For example, "Não importa quem você seja" (It doesn't matter who you are). This structure is powerful in rhetoric and songwriting, emphasizing that certain truths or emotions transcend specific circumstances. It serves as a linguistic equalizer, stripping away the variables to focus on a central point.

Não importa o que eles digam, eu confio em você.

Translation: No matter what they say, I trust you.

Context is king when using this phrase. If said with a sharp, descending intonation, it can sound dismissive or even rude, implying that the speaker is bored or annoyed by the topic. Conversely, when said with a soft, rising tone, it is a warm gesture of comfort. Understanding this duality is key for B1 learners who are moving beyond literal translations into the realm of emotional intelligence in Portuguese. It is not just about the words; it is about the space you create for the other person by devaluing a mistake or an irrelevant detail.

Para mim, não importa a cor do carro, desde que ele funcione.

Translation: To me, the color of the car doesn't matter, as long as it works.

In summary, "Não importa" is a linguistic bridge that connects indifference with acceptance. Whether you are dismissing a spilled coffee or declaring your undying loyalty regardless of the consequences, this phrase provides the grammatical and semantic structure to do so effectively. It is a phrase that simplifies the world, stripping away the noise to reveal what truly remains significant to the speaker.

Using Não importa correctly requires an understanding of its syntactic flexibility. It can function as an independent interjection, a main clause followed by a subordinate clause, or part of a correlative structure. For English speakers, the transition is relatively intuitive because it mirrors the usage of "it doesn't matter," but there are specific Portuguese grammatical nuances, particularly regarding the use of the subjunctive mood, that need careful attention.

As an Interjection: Used alone to respond to a question or an apology. Example: "Desculpe pelo atraso!" — "Não importa."
With Noun Phrases: Followed directly by the subject that is being deemed unimportant. Example: "Não importa o preço." (The price doesn't matter.)
With Subordinate Clauses: Followed by 'que' or relative adverbs. This often triggers the subjunctive mood. Example: "Não importa que ele seja rico." (It doesn't matter that he is rich.)

When you use "Não importa" followed by a verb, the choice of mood (Indicative vs. Subjunctive) depends on whether you are stating a fact or a hypothetical/uncertain condition. If you say "Não importa o que você faz," you are using the indicative to refer to habitual actions. However, "Não importa o que você faça" (Subjunctive) sounds more natural when expressing a general rule or a future possibility, meaning "no matter what you (might) do." This is a classic B1-level hurdle: recognizing that indifference toward an action often triggers the subjunctive because the specific action itself is secondary to the lack of importance.

Não importa onde você vá, eu sempre estarei com você.

Translation: No matter where you go, I will always be with you. (Note the use of the future subjunctive 'vá').

Another common pattern involves the preposition para to indicate to whom something doesn't matter. "Isso não importa para mim" (That doesn't matter to me). This is essential for expressing personal boundaries or preferences. You can also place the subject at the beginning for emphasis: "O seu passado não importa para nós" (Your past doesn't matter to us). This flexibility in word order allows the speaker to highlight the specific element they are dismissing.

Para o chefe, não importa como você faz o trabalho, desde que seja feito.

Translation: To the boss, it doesn't matter how you do the work, as long as it gets done.

In negative constructions, "Não importa" is already negative, but you might see it used in rhetorical questions: "O que importa?" (What matters?). The answer is often "Nada importa" (Nothing matters) or "Isso não importa." Beginners often confuse this with "não é importante," which is also correct but feels more like a descriptive state than a functional reaction. "Não importa" is more dynamic and conversational. It acts as an active dismissal rather than a passive observation of a quality.

Não importa se chover; nós vamos à praia de qualquer maneira.

Translation: It doesn't matter if it rains; we are going to the beach anyway.

To master this phrase, practice combining it with different question words. "Não importa quanto custa" (It doesn't matter how much it costs), "Não importa quando você chega" (It doesn't matter when you arrive), and "Não importa qual você escolhe" (It doesn't matter which one you choose). Each of these uses the phrase to set a condition of irrelevance, allowing the conversation to move forward to more important topics.

You will encounter Não importa in almost every corner of Lusophone life. From the bustling streets of São Paulo to the quiet cafés of Lisbon, it is the sound of letting go. In the domestic sphere, it is the phrase parents use to comfort a child who has broken a toy: "Não importa, querido, nós compramos outro." In the workplace, it is used by managers to prioritize results over methods: "Não importa como você organiza os arquivos, contanto que consiga encontrá-los." It is a phrase that facilitates the flow of life by removing obstacles of unnecessary concern.

In Pop Culture: Listen to Brazilian MPB or Portuguese Fado; the phrase often appears in lyrics about unconditional love or resilience against the odds.
In Customer Service: If you make a mistake on a form, a clerk might say "Não importa" to indicate they can fix it for you or that the detail isn't critical.
In Literature: Authors use it to reflect a character's stoicism or their complete disregard for social norms.

In Brazilian soap operas (telenovelas), "Não importa" is a staple of dramatic confrontations. A character might declare, "Não importa o que meu pai diz, eu vou me casar com ele!" (No matter what my father says, I will marry him!). Here, the phrase is not just about a lack of importance; it is an act of rebellion. It signals that the speaker has weighed the consequences and found them lacking in comparison to their desire. This dramatic usage is a great way for learners to see the emotional intensity the phrase can carry.

— Você perdeu o ônibus? — Sim, mas não importa, eu vou de táxi.

Translation: — Did you miss the bus? — Yes, but it doesn't matter, I'll take a taxi.

In the digital world, social media comments are full of this expression. When someone post a photo with a minor flaw, supporters might comment, "Não importa o ângulo, você está sempre linda!" (No matter the angle, you are always beautiful!). It serves as a tool for validation and community building. In these contexts, it is almost always positive, used to highlight a core truth (the person's beauty) by dismissing a peripheral variable (the camera angle).

Não importa se você é iniciante, o importante é começar.

Translation: It doesn't matter if you are a beginner; the important thing is to start.

Finally, you will hear it in news reports when journalists discuss political or economic figures. "Não importa a afiliação partidária, todos concordam com a nova lei." (Regardless of party affiliation, everyone agrees with the new law). In this more formal context, it provides a way to generalize across diverse groups. For a learner, hearing "Não importa" in the news is a sign that the speaker is about to present a unifying fact or a consensus, making it a vital marker for listening comprehension.

Para a ciência, não importa a opinião pessoal, mas sim as evidências.

Translation: For science, personal opinion doesn't matter, but rather the evidence.

While Não importa is a relatively straightforward translation of "it doesn't matter," English speakers often fall into several traps involving word choice, mood, and register. Understanding these pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker and less like a translation algorithm. The most common error is using it in contexts where a different expression of indifference would be more idiomatic.

Confusion with 'Tanto faz': English speakers often use "Não importa" when they mean "either way is fine" or "I don't have a preference." In Portuguese, if someone asks "Do you want tea or coffee?", saying "Não importa" can sound a bit cold or dismissive. The better choice is "Tanto faz" (Either way/It's all the same).
Mood Errors (Subjunctive): Learners often forget to use the subjunctive after "Não importa que" or "Não importa o que." Saying "Não importa o que você *faz*" instead of "*faça*" can sound slightly off when talking about hypothetical future actions.
Overusing it for 'Never Mind': If you are trying to say "Never mind, I'll do it myself," the phrase "Deixa para lá" is often more natural than "Não importa." "Não importa" is about the value of the thing, while "Deixa para lá" is about dropping the subject or action.

Another subtle mistake is the misplacement of the preposition com. In English, we say "It doesn't matter *to* me." In Portuguese, we also use para ("Não importa para mim"). However, some learners mistakenly use com because they associate the verb importar-se (to care) with com ("Eu não me importo com isso"). Remember: Não importa (impersonal) uses para, while importar-se (reflexive/personal) uses com. This distinction is crucial for grammatical accuracy.

Errado: Não importa com o que você pensa.
Certo: Não importa o que você pensa.

Explanation: Do not add 'com' when using the impersonal 'Não importa'.

Wait until you hear the difference between "Não importa" and "Não tem importância." While they mean the same thing, "Não tem importância" is slightly more formal and often used in writing or polite social settings. Using "Não importa" in a very formal letter might be seen as too direct. Conversely, using "Não tem importância" in a very casual chat with friends might sound a bit stiff. Learning to match the phrase to the social context is a hallmark of the B1-B2 transition.

Errado: — Você quer pizza ou hambúrguer? — Não importa.
Certo: — Você quer pizza ou hambúrguer? — Tanto faz.

Explanation: Use 'Tanto faz' for choices between two or more options.

Finally, avoid translating "It doesn't matter" as "Não importa-se." The reflexive 'se' changes the meaning to "He/She doesn't care." If you want to say the situation itself lacks importance, keep the verb impersonal: "Não importa." If you want to say a person doesn't care, use the reflexive: "Ele não se importa." Mixing these up can lead to significant confusion about who is feeling what!

Portuguese is rich with expressions that convey varying degrees of indifference, unimportance, or dismissal. While Não importa is the most direct translation of "it doesn't matter," knowing its alternatives will allow you to fine-tune your message based on the situation, the person you are talking to, and the specific nuance you want to convey. From formal declarations of irrelevance to casual street slang, here is how to navigate the landscape of Portuguese indifference.

Não tem importância: The formal cousin of 'Não importa'. It literally means "It has no importance." Use this in professional emails or when speaking to someone you don't know well. It sounds more polite and measured.
Tanto faz: Used specifically for choices. If the outcome between two or more options is equal to you, this is your phrase. "Do you want to go at 5 or 6?" — "Tanto faz."
Deixa para lá: The equivalent of "Forget it" or "Never mind." Use this when you want to stop talking about a subject or when you decide a task is no longer worth the effort. It suggests a movement away from the topic.
Não vem ao caso: Meaning "That's not the point" or "That's irrelevant to the current discussion." This is very common in debates or arguments when someone brings up an unrelated fact.

In more informal Brazilian Portuguese, you might hear "Tô nem aí" (I don't even care/I'm not even there for that). This is much stronger and more dismissive than "Não importa." It conveys a total lack of interest or concern, often with a hint of defiance. On the other hand, "Sem problemas" (No problems) or "Tranquilo" (It's cool/calm) are positive ways to express that a situation doesn't matter because it hasn't caused any stress. These are excellent for social bonding.

— O restaurante está fechado. — Deixa para lá, vamos comer em casa.

Translation: — The restaurant is closed. — Forget it, let's eat at home.

For a learner, the choice between "Não importa" and "Não faz mal" (common in Portugal) is often regional. "Não faz mal" literally means "It does no harm." It is a very gentle way to tell someone their mistake is forgotten. In Brazil, "Não tem problema" is the workhorse of this category. It is used for everything from a late arrival to a spilled drink. "Não importa" sits slightly higher on the scale of abstraction; it's less about the 'problem' and more about the 'value' of the information.

Essa discussão agora não vem ao caso; precisamos resolver o vazamento primeiro.

Translation: This discussion isn't relevant right now; we need to fix the leak first.

By diversifying your vocabulary with these alternatives, you avoid the monotony of repeating "Não importa" and begin to express the subtle social cues that make your Portuguese sound natural. Whether you are being polite, dismissive, or simply practical, there is a specific phrase for every level of unimportance.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The verb 'importar' actually has two distinct meanings in Portuguese: 'to import goods' and 'to matter'. They come from the same Latin root but diverged in usage.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /nɐ̃w̃ im.ˈpɔː.tə/

US /nɐ̃w̃ im.ˈpɔɹ.tə/

The primary stress is on the second syllable of 'importa' (POR).

Rhymes With

Horta Porta Torta Morta Escolta Volta Sorta Conforta

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'não' like 'now'. It must be nasal.
Making the 'i' in 'importa' too long like 'ee'. It is a short nasal vowel.
Failing to open the 'o' in 'importa'. It should be /ɔ/, not /o/.
Pronouncing the final 'a' too clearly. It is a reduced /ɐ/ sound.
Putting the stress on the first syllable: IM-porta.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Very easy to recognize in text.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of the subjunctive in complex sentences.

Speaking 2/5

Simple to pronounce but requires right intonation.

Listening 2/5

Easy to catch in slow speech, can blend in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Não Importar Tudo Bem Problema

Learn Next

Tanto faz Deixa para lá Apesar de Embora Contanto que

Advanced

Irrelevância Inconsequente Somenos Prescindível Desprezível

Grammar to Know

Subjunctive after impersonal expressions

Não importa que ele *venha*.

Negation with 'Não'

Eu *não* gosto.

Impersonal verbs in the 3rd person

Chove muito; importa pouco.

Relative pronouns in subordinate clauses

Não importa *quem* ligou.

Preposition 'para' for personal perspective

Não importa *para* mim.

Examples by Level

Não importa, está tudo bem.

It doesn't matter, everything is fine.

Simple impersonal use.

O café está frio? Não importa.

Is the coffee cold? It doesn't matter.

Responding to a question about quality.

Não importa o nome.

The name doesn't matter.

Followed by a simple noun phrase.

Você está atrasado? Não importa.

Are you late? It doesn't matter.

Used to reassure someone.

Não importa a cor.

The color doesn't matter.

Expressing lack of preference.

Desculpe! — Não importa.

Sorry! — It doesn't matter.

Standard response to an apology.

Não importa agora.

It doesn't matter now.

Adding an adverb of time.

Para mim, não importa.

To me, it doesn't matter.

Specifying the person involved with 'para'.

Não importa o preço do jantar.

The price of the dinner doesn't matter.

Noun phrase as subject.

Não importa onde vamos jantar.

It doesn't matter where we go to dinner.

Followed by 'onde' + indicative.

Não importa se você não tem dinheiro.

It doesn't matter if you don't have money.

Using 'se' (if) to set a condition.

Não importa a distância da praia.

The distance to the beach doesn't matter.

Dismissing a physical constraint.

Para eles, não importa o resultado.

For them, the result doesn't matter.

Externalizing the lack of importance.

Não importa o que você diz.

It doesn't matter what you say.

Using 'o que' with indicative (habitual).

Não importa quem ganha o jogo.

It doesn't matter who wins the game.

Using 'quem' with indicative.

Isso não importa para a nossa amizade.

That doesn't matter for our friendship.

Placing the phrase in a larger context.

Não importa o que você faça, eu te apoio.

No matter what you do, I support you.

Subjunctive mood 'faça' after 'o que'.

Não importa quanto tempo demore, eu espero.

No matter how long it takes, I'll wait.

Subjunctive 'demore' for future uncertainty.

Não importa como chegamos lá, o importante é ir.

It doesn't matter how we get there, the important thing is to go.

Contrastive sentence structure.

Não importa que ele não tenha experiência.

It doesn't matter that he doesn't have experience.

Subjunctive 'tenha' after 'que'.

Para o sucesso, não importa a sorte, mas o trabalho.

For success, luck doesn't matter, but work does.

Rhetorical use in an argument.

Não importa se chover, a festa continua.

It doesn't matter if it rains, the party continues.

Condition with 'se' + future/present.

Não importa qual caminho você escolha.

No matter which path you choose.

Subjunctive 'escolha' with 'qual'.

O passado não importa, o que conta é o agora.

The past doesn't matter; what counts is the now.

Philosophical dismissal of the past.

Não importa o quão difícil seja a tarefa.

No matter how difficult the task may be.

'Quão' + adjective + subjunctive 'seja'.

Não importa que digam o contrário, eu sei a verdade.

No matter if they say otherwise, I know the truth.

Subjunctive 'digam' indicating hypothetical opposition.

Não importa onde quer que você esteja.

No matter where you might be.

Emphatic use with 'quer que'.

A verdade é que não importa quem começou a briga.

The truth is, it doesn't matter who started the fight.

Embedded clause.

Não importa o motivo, a regra deve ser seguida.

No matter the reason, the rule must be followed.

Formal declarative style.

Não importa o que aconteça amanhã.

No matter what happens tomorrow.

Future uncertainty with subjunctive.

Para a empresa, não importa o custo, mas a qualidade.

To the company, the cost doesn't matter, but the quality does.

Business context.

Não importa o quanto você tente se esconder.

No matter how much you try to hide.

Subjunctive 'tente' with 'o quanto'.

Não importa a magnitude do desafio, a resiliência vence.

No matter the magnitude of the challenge, resilience wins.

Abstract noun use.

Pouco importa se ele concorda ou não.

It matters little whether he agrees or not.

Using 'pouco importa' for higher register.

Não importa que a ciência ainda não tenha todas as respostas.

It doesn't matter that science doesn't yet have all the answers.

Complex subjunctive construction.

Não importa o prisma pelo qual você analise o problema.

No matter the prism through which you analyze the problem.

Metaphorical/Academic use.

Não importa a quem você recorra, a decisão é final.

No matter whom you turn to, the decision is final.

Formal 'a quem' structure.

Para um artista, não importa a crítica, mas a expressão.

To an artist, criticism doesn't matter, but expression does.

Thematic contrast.

Não importa o quanto a sociedade mude, os valores ficam.

No matter how much society changes, values remain.

Sociological context.

Não importa o que se diga nos bastidores.

No matter what is said behind the scenes.

Passive voice with 'se'.

Não importa a efemeridade da vida, o amor é eterno.

No matter the ephemerality of life, love is eternal.

Sophisticated vocabulary (efemeridade).

Não importa que o destino se mostre adverso.

No matter if destiny proves adverse.

Literary/Poetic register.

Não importa o quão labiríntico seja o processo burocrático.

No matter how labyrinthine the bureaucratic process may be.

Complex adjective usage.

Pouco importa o clamor popular diante da justiça técnica.

The popular clamor matters little in the face of technical justice.

High-level political/legal discourse.

Não importa a roupagem que a verdade assuma.

No matter the clothing (guise) the truth assumes.

Metaphorical 'roupagem'.

Não importa que as circunstâncias nos tenham separado.

It doesn't matter that circumstances have separated us.

Compound subjunctive (tenham separado).

Não importa o viés ideológico da análise.

No matter the ideological bias of the analysis.

Academic/Intellectual register.

Não importa o quanto o tempo tente apagar as memórias.

No matter how much time tries to erase the memories.

Personification of 'tempo'.

Synonyms

Não tem importância Tudo bem Deixa para lá Não faz mal Tanto faz Pouco importa Não vem ao caso Sem problemas

Antonyms

Importa muito É fundamental É crucial Faz toda a diferença

Common Collocations

Não importa o que

Não importa onde

Não importa quando

Não importa quem

Não importa como

Realmente não importa

Não importa nada

Não importa se

Não importa o preço

Não importa a distância

Common Phrases

Não importa, deixa.

— It doesn't matter, let it be.

Você não entendeu? Não importa, deixa.

O que não importa...

— What doesn't matter is...

O que não importa é a opinião dele.

Isso não importa nada.

— That doesn't matter at all.

Para o meu pai, isso não importa nada.

Não importa o resto.

— The rest doesn't matter.

Estamos juntos, não importa o resto.

Não importa para ninguém.

— It doesn't matter to anyone.

Essa regra não importa para ninguém aqui.

Não importa o quanto.

— No matter how much.

Não importa o quanto você estude.

Não importa o qual.

— No matter which one.

Não importa o qual você prefira.

Diz que não importa.

— He/she says it doesn't matter.

Ela diz que não importa o atraso.

Já não importa.

— It doesn't matter anymore.

Esqueça isso, já não importa.

Se não importa para você...

— If it doesn't matter to you...

Se não importa para você, não importa para mim.

Often Confused With

Não importa vs Tanto faz

Use 'Tanto faz' for choices between options, not for dismissing errors.

Não importa vs Não me importo

This means 'I don't care' (personal), whereas 'Não importa' means 'It doesn't matter' (impersonal).

Não importa vs Deixa para lá

Use this to stop talking about something, while 'Não importa' is about the value of the thing.

Idioms & Expressions

"Não importa a cor do gato, desde que cace ratos"

— It doesn't matter how something is done as long as it works.

Ele é estranho, mas não importa a cor do gato, desde que cace ratos.

Informal/Proverbial

"Pouco importa o que o mundo pensa"

— Dismissing social pressure or gossip.

Eu vou seguir meu sonho, pouco importa o que o mundo pensa.

Neutral

"Não importa quem venha atrás"

— Regardless of future consequences or followers.

Eu vou abrir o caminho, não importa quem venha atrás.

Determined

"Não importa se é grego ou troiano"

— It doesn't matter who it is; it applies to everyone.

A lei é para todos, não importa se é grego ou troiano.

Literary

"O que importa é o que interessa"

— A humorous, redundant way to say 'only the important things matter'.

Não vamos discutir detalhes; o que importa é o que interessa.

Slang/Humorous

"Não importa o santo, desde que faça o milagre"

— The source doesn't matter as long as the result is achieved.

O remédio é caro? Não importa o santo, desde que faça o milagre.

Informal/Religious metaphor

"Não importa a casca, mas o miolo"

— Appearances don't matter, but the substance does.

O livro é feio, mas não importa a casca, mas o miolo.

Proverbial

"Não importa o vento, mas a direção das velas"

— Circumstances don't matter as much as how you react to them.

A crise está aí, mas não importa o vento, mas a direção das velas.

Inspirational

"Não importa o tamanho da luta"

— The scale of the difficulty is irrelevant to the determination.

Vamos vencer, não importa o tamanho da luta.

Rhetorical

"Não importa se a bota é velha"

— It doesn't matter if something is old if it still works.

O carro é antigo, mas não importa se a bota é velha.

Rural/Informal

Easily Confused

Não importa vs Importar

Can mean 'to matter' or 'to import'.

Context usually makes it clear. 'Não importa' is almost always 'it doesn't matter'.

Não importa o que o Brasil vai importar.

Não importa vs Importante

Adjective vs Verb.

'Importante' is a quality; 'Não importa' is an action/state.

É importante, mas não importa agora.

Não importa vs Importar-se

Reflexive form.

'Importar-se com' means 'to care about'. 'Não importa' is impersonal.

Eu não me importo, porque isso não importa.

Não importa vs Significar

Both relate to value.

'Significar' is about meaning; 'Importar' is about consequence.

Isso não significa nada, portanto não importa.

Não importa vs Interessar

Both relate to interest.

'Interessar' is about personal interest; 'Importar' is about objective importance.

Não me interessa, mas importa para a empresa.

Sentence Patterns

Não importa.

Não importa o/a [Noun].

Não importa a hora.

Não importa o que [Verb Subjunctive].

Não importa o que você faça.

Não importa se [Clause].

Não importa se ele vem.

Não importa onde/como [Verb Subjunctive].

Não importa onde você esteja.

Não importa o quão [Adj] seja.

Não importa o quão caro seja.

Não importa que [Clause Subjunctive].

Não importa que a economia mude.

Pouco importa [Clause].

Pouco importa o que se diz.

Word Family

Nouns

Importância (importance)

Importador (importer)

Importação (importation)

Verbs

Importar (to matter/to import)

Importar-se (to care)

Adjectives

Importante (important)

Importável (importable)

Desimportante

Significativo

Irrelevante

Valioso

Nulo

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and media.

Common Mistakes

Using 'Não importa' for preference between two choices. → Tanto faz.
If someone offers you two things, 'Não importa' sounds like you don't care about either, while 'Tanto faz' means both are equally good.
Saying 'Não importa-se'. → Não importa.
Adding 'se' makes it personal ('He doesn't care'). To say 'It doesn't matter', keep it impersonal: 'Não importa'.
Forgetting the subjunctive: 'Não importa o que você faz'. → Não importa o que você faça.
When the action is hypothetical or future, the subjunctive is required.
Using 'com' instead of 'para': 'Não importa com mim'. → Não importa para mim.
The impersonal 'Não importa' does not take 'com'. Only the reflexive 'importar-se' does.
Pronouncing 'Não' like 'Nao' (rhyming with cow). → Nasal 'Não'.
The nasalization is essential for being understood correctly in Portuguese.

Tips

Contextual Choice

Use 'Não importa' when you want to minimize the gravity of a situation. It's great for making people feel less guilty about small mistakes.

Subjunctive Alert

Always check if you need the subjunctive after 'Não importa o que'. If it's a future possibility, use 'faça', 'diga', 'seja', etc.

Nasal 'Não'

Make sure your 'Não' doesn't sound like 'Now'. Practice by holding your nose; the sound should vibrate in your nasal cavity.

Social Lubricant

In Brazil, using 'Não importa' followed by 'está tudo bem' is a very friendly way to handle minor social friction.

Expand your 'No'

Don't just say 'Não importa'. Try 'Não tem problema', 'Deixa pra lá', and 'Tudo certo' to vary your speech.

Effective Conjunction

Use 'Não importa' to start a paragraph when you want to focus on a universal truth regardless of specific conditions.

Catch the Rhythm

Listen for the 'im-POR-ta' beat. The stress is strong on the 'POR', which helps identify the word even in fast speech.

Intonation Matters

A rising intonation at the end of 'importa' makes it sound more like a question or a gentle reassurance.

Professionalism

In a business meeting, 'Não importa o custo' shows determination, but 'O custo não é um fator impeditivo' is even more formal.

Mnemonic

Think of the song 'No Matter What' by Boyzone. Translate the title to 'Não importa o quê' to remember it.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'No Important'. 'Não' (No) + 'Importa' (Important). If it's not important, it 'não importa'.

Visual Association

Imagine a person sweeping away a pile of dust. The dust represents the small problems, and as they sweep, they say 'Não importa'.

Word Web

Importância Importante Importar Desimportante Nada Problema Tudo bem Tanto faz

Challenge

Try to use 'Não importa' three times today: once to forgive a small mistake, once to express a lack of preference, and once to dismiss a worry.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'importare', which meant 'to bring in' or 'to carry into'. In Medieval Latin, it took on the figurative meaning of 'being of consequence' or 'mattering'.

Original meaning: To bring in or carry (as in goods or cargo).

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

Be careful with tone; saying it too abruptly can seem like you are shutting someone down.

English speakers often use 'Never mind' or 'It's okay.' 'Não importa' is slightly more formal than 'Never mind' but less formal than 'It is of no consequence.'

The song 'Não Importa' by various Brazilian artists. Machado de Assis uses variations in his literature. Telenovela scripts frequently use it for dramatic effect.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Apologizing

Não importa, esquece.
Não importa, acontece.
Não importa, está perdoado.
Não importa o atraso.

Making Choices

Não importa a cor.
Não importa o lugar.
Não importa a hora.
Não importa qual.

Giving Advice

Não importa o passado.
Não importa o que digam.
Não importa o medo.
Não importa a dificuldade.

Business

Não importa o custo.
Não importa a origem.
Não importa o método.
Não importa a marca.

Relationships

Não importa a distância.
Não importa o tempo.
Não importa o erro.
Não importa nada.

Conversation Starters

"Não importa o tempo que leve, você acha que vale a pena aprender português?"

"Para você, não importa o dinheiro se você tiver saúde?"

"Não importa o que aconteça no mundo, o que te faz feliz?"

"Você acha que não importa a idade para começar um novo hobby?"

"Não importa onde você mora, qual é o seu lugar favorito no mundo?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre algo que antes era muito importante para você, mas agora não importa mais.

Não importa o que as pessoas pensem, qual é o seu maior sonho na vida?

Descreva um dia em que tudo deu errado, mas você decidiu que isso não importava.

Não importa a dificuldade, como você se mantém motivado para estudar?

Pense em um conflito recente. Como dizer 'não importa' poderia ter ajudado?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, especially in Brazil. If someone says sorry, you can say 'Não importa' to mean it's no big deal. However, 'Não tem problema' is even more common for this.

It can be if said with a harsh tone, like 'I don't care, shut up.' But usually, it is polite or neutral. Use a soft tone to ensure it sounds like reassurance.

'Tanto faz' is for choosing between options (Tea or coffee? Tanto faz). 'Não importa' is for saying something has no consequence (The coffee is cold? Não importa).

No. If you follow it with a noun (Não importa o preço) or a factual statement in the present (Não importa o que ele diz - referring to a habit), you use the indicative. Use the subjunctive for hypothetical or future events.

'Não importa para mim' is the most common and natural way to say it in modern Portuguese.

It's better to use 'Não tem importância' or 'É irrelevante' in formal writing to sound more professional.

It's a more emphatic and slightly more formal way to say 'It matters very little' or 'It's of no consequence'.

The best translation is 'Não importa o que aconteça' or simply 'Não importa o quê'.

Yes, but you will also hear 'Não faz mal' very frequently in similar contexts.

Yes. 'Eu perdi a chave, mas agora não importa.' (I lost the key, but now it doesn't matter.)