When someone says "Pois!", it's like they're saying "Exactly!", "Indeed!", or "That's right!". It shows they agree with what was just said.
You might also hear it if someone is getting a little impatient. If you're taking too long, they might say "Pois!" to gently hurry you up, almost like "Well, get on with it!" or "So?".
The meaning really depends on the context and how it's said. Pay attention to the speaker's tone!
Examples by Level
Pois, é isso mesmo.
Yes, that's right.
Simple affirmation.
Pois, vamos lá.
Okay, let's go.
Expressing agreement to an action.
Pois, eu entendi.
Yes, I understood.
Confirming understanding.
Pois, o livro está aqui.
Indeed, the book is here.
Confirming a fact.
Pois, é uma boa ideia.
Yes, it's a good idea.
Agreeing with an idea.
Pois, chegamos.
Well, we arrived.
Indicating arrival, mild emphasis.
Pois, faz sentido.
Yes, that makes sense.
Confirming logic.
Pois, o que queres?
So, what do you want?
Mild impatience/pushing for an answer.
Pois! É exatamente o que eu estava a pensar.
That's right! It's exactly what I was thinking.
Expresses strong agreement.
Pois, sim, podes vir amanhã de manhã.
Yes, you can come tomorrow morning.
Confirms with a slightly casual tone.
Pois, estou à espera há mais de uma hora!
Well, I've been waiting for over an hour!
Indicates mild impatience or frustration.
Pois, o projeto está quase pronto, falta só a revisão final.
Right, the project is almost ready, just the final review is missing.
Acknowledges and confirms a status.
Pois, não há muito mais a dizer sobre isso, creio eu.
Indeed, there isn't much more to say about that, I believe.
Agrees that a topic is exhausted.
Pois, é melhor irmos andando se não quisermos chegar tarde.
Right, we'd better get going if we don't want to arrive late.
Expresses agreement to a suggestion, often with a slight urgency.
Pois, já te disse que não, não insistas.
Indeed, I already told you no, don't insist.
Conveys firmness or slight irritation in a refusal.
Pois, parece que temos um problema sério aqui.
Well, it seems we have a serious problem here.
Acknowledges a difficult situation, often with a resigned tone.
Often Confused With
Often used interchangeably with 'apenas' and 'somente' for 'only' or 'just.' 'Só' is generally more common in informal speech.
Another synonym for 'only' or 'just,' similar to 'apenas' and 'só,' but sometimes perceived as slightly more formal than 'só'.
While 'também' means 'also' or 'too,' it can be confused with the intensifying role of 'mesmo' when 'mesmo' means 'even' or 'indeed.' However, their core meanings are distinct.
Idioms & Expressions
"Pois é!"
Exactly! / That's right! (Used to express agreement or confirmation)
A: Está chovendo de novo. B: Pois é! (A: It's raining again. B: Exactly!)
neutral"Pois não?"
Yes? / How can I help you? (Often used when answering the phone or responding to a call)
Cliente: Senhor Silva? Recepcionista: Pois não? (Client: Mr. Silva? Receptionist: Yes, how can I help you?)
formal"Pois sim!"
Yeah, right! / As if! (Used sarcastically to express disbelief)
A: Ele disse que vai me pagar amanhã. B: Pois sim! (A: He said he'll pay me tomorrow. B: Yeah, right!)
informal"Pois não!"
Of course! / By all means! (Used to give permission or agree enthusiastically)
A: Posso entrar? B: Pois não! (A: Can I come in? B: Of course!)
neutral"Pois então..."
So... / Well then... (Used to transition or indicate a pause in thought)
Pois então... o que vamos fazer hoje? (So... what are we going to do today?)
neutral"Pois bem!"
Alright then! / Very well! (Used to conclude a discussion or decision)
Pois bem, vamos começar a reunião. (Alright then, let's start the meeting.)
neutral"Pois claro!"
Of course! / Absolutely! (Strong agreement)
A: Você vem à festa? B: Pois claro! (A: Are you coming to the party? B: Absolutely!)
neutral"Pois quê?"
So what? / What about it? (Mildly defiant or challenging)
A: Você está atrasado! B: Pois quê? (A: You're late! B: So what?)
informal"E pois!"
And so! / And indeed! (Used for emphasis or to affirm something already known)
A: Você tinha razão. B: E pois! (A: You were right. B: And indeed!)
neutral"Pois está!"
That's it! / There you go! (Often used in Portugal to confirm something is done or correct)
A: Consegui! B: Pois está! (A: I did it! B: There you go!)
neutralEasily Confused
'Ainda' can mean 'still' or 'yet,' which can be confusing because its usage depends on context and sentence structure, especially in questions or negative statements.
As 'still,' it indicates continuation (e.g., 'Ele ainda está aqui' - 'He is still here'). As 'yet,' it implies something has not happened but is expected to (e.g., 'Ele ainda não chegou' - 'He hasn't arrived yet').
Você já terminou? Ainda não. (Have you finished yet? Not yet.)
'Já' can mean 'already,' 'now,' 'anymore,' or even 'since'/'ago,' making its precise meaning tricky to grasp without clear contextual clues.
As 'already,' it shows completion (e.e., 'Eu já comi' - 'I already ate'). As 'now,' it can be an intensifier (e.g., 'Faz isso já!' - 'Do it now!'). In negative sentences, it can mean 'anymore' (e.g., 'Não faço mais isso já' - 'I don't do that anymore').
Você já foi a Portugal? (Have you already been to Portugal?)
'Mesmo' has multiple roles: an intensifier, meaning 'same,' or even 'really'/'indeed.' Learners often struggle to differentiate these uses.
As an intensifier, it emphasizes (e.g., 'Ele mesmo fez' - 'He himself did it'). As 'same,' it denotes identity (e.g., 'É o mesmo livro' - 'It's the same book'). It can also confirm (e.g., 'É mesmo verdade' - 'It's really true').
Ele disse isso mesmo. (He said exactly that.)
'Apenas' translates to 'only' or 'just,' similar to 'somente' or 'só.' The confusion arises from choosing the most natural-sounding option in different contexts.
While often interchangeable with 'só' and 'somente,' 'apenas' can sometimes feel slightly more formal. All convey restriction or exclusivity.
Eu tenho apenas um livro. (I have only one book.)
'Qualquer' means 'any' or 'whichever,' but its singular form can sometimes be confused with plural ideas, or its placement in a sentence can change its nuance.
It indicates an indefinite choice among multiple options (e.g., 'Qualquer dia' - 'Any day'). It can also express indifference (e.g., 'Qualquer coisa serve' - 'Anything will do').
Podes escolher qualquer um. (You can choose any one.)
Tips
Start with Agreement
The most common use of 'pois!' is to show agreement or confirmation, similar to 'yes, exactly!' or 'indeed!' in English. It's a quick way to show you're on the same page.
Use for Emphasis
You can use 'pois!' to add emphasis to an agreement. Imagine someone says something obvious, and you respond with a slightly drawn-out 'Poooois!' to mean 'well, obviously!' or 'of course!'
Mild Impatience
Be careful! 'Pois!' can also express mild impatience, especially if you're waiting for someone to do something or get to the point. The tone of your voice is key here.
Context is Everything
Like many interjections, the exact meaning of 'pois!' heavily depends on the context and the speaker's intonation. Pay attention to how native speakers use it.
Common in Brazil
While used in both European and Brazilian Portuguese, it's particularly common in Brazilian Portuguese for expressing agreement and confirmation.
Short and Sweet
It's a very short and concise way to communicate. Don't overthink it; just use it as a natural reaction.
Don't Confuse with 'Pois é'
While similar, 'pois!' is distinct from 'pois é', which often translates to 'that's right' or 'it is what it is' and can sometimes carry a sense of resignation. 'Pois!' is generally more direct agreement.
Sound Natural
Using 'pois!' effectively will make your Portuguese sound much more natural and less like you're translating directly from English. It's a very Portuguese way to respond.
Practice Listening
The best way to master 'pois!' is to listen to native speakers in various situations. Notice their tone and the circumstances in which they use it.
Try it Out
Don't be afraid to use it! Start by incorporating it when you genuinely agree with something. The more you use it, the more comfortable you'll become.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe most common use of 'pois!' is to express agreement or confirmation, similar to saying 'indeed!' or 'yes!' in English. It's often used as a quick, affirmative response.
Yes, 'pois!' can definitely show mild impatience. Imagine someone is taking a long time, and you might say 'Pois!' to encourage them to hurry up or acknowledge what you just said.
'Pois!' is generally informal. You'll hear it more often in casual conversations among friends or family, rather than in a formal business setting.
While both mean 'yes', 'sim' is a direct affirmative. 'Pois!' adds a bit more nuance – it's like saying 'yes, indeed!' or 'that's right!' It carries a bit more emphasis or feeling.
Absolutely! 'Pois!' often stands alone as a complete response. For example, if someone asks 'Did you finish the report?', you could just say 'Pois!' to mean 'Yes, I did!'
Yes, like many words, the frequency and specific nuances of 'pois!' can vary slightly between different Portuguese-speaking regions. However, its core meanings of agreement and mild impatience are generally understood.
That's a good question! The word 'pois' (without the exclamation mark) can indeed mean 'because' or 'since' in a more formal context, especially in written Portuguese. But when you see 'pois!' as an interjection, it has the meanings we've discussed – agreement, confirmation, or impatience.
Sure! Imagine this:
Speaker 1: 'A comida estava deliciosa!' (The food was delicious!)
Speaker 2: 'Pois!' (Indeed!)
Here's one:
Speaker 1: 'Vais contar-me ou não?' (Are you going to tell me or not?)
Speaker 2: 'Pois! Estou a chegar lá!' (Well! I'm getting there!) In this case, 'Pois!' implies 'Get on with it!' or 'Come on!'
Yes, 'pois!' is quite common in everyday, informal Portuguese conversation. You'll hear native speakers use it frequently for quick agreements or to express mild frustration.
Test Yourself 30 questions
Someone is agreeing to go somewhere.
Someone is strongly confirming something.
Someone is mildly impatient, indicating they already know.
Read this aloud:
Pois, é isso mesmo.
Focus: Pois
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Pois, concordo.
Focus: Pois
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Pois, vamos logo!
Focus: Pois, logo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
A: Vamos ao cinema mais tarde? B: Sim, ___!
Here, 'pois!' expresses agreement, like 'yes, indeed!'
A: Já está pronto? B: ___! Estou à sua espera há dez minutos.
In this context, 'pois!' indicates mild impatience, like 'Well, of course!' or 'Indeed!'
A: Este é o seu livro? B: ___!
'Pois!' confirms that the book belongs to the person, meaning 'Yes, it is!'
A: Ele disse que viria. B: ___ é! Mas ainda não chegou.
'Pois é!' confirms a known fact, often with a hint of resignation or 'That's right, but...' implied.
A: Vais trabalhar amanhã? B: ___! Tenho de acabar um projeto.
Here, 'pois!' confirms the necessity to work, meaning 'Yes, I am!' or 'Indeed!'
A: Podemos ir agora? B: ___! Estou pronto.
'Pois!' expresses confirmation and readiness, similar to 'Yes, let's go!'
Choose the best response to 'Vamos ao cinema hoje?'
'Pois!' here indicates enthusiastic agreement, fitting for accepting an invitation.
What does 'Pois, é verdade o que dizes' express?
In this context, 'Pois' is used to confirm or agree with what someone else has said, meaning 'Indeed, what you say is true'.
If someone says 'Já te disse para arrumar o quarto!' and you hear 'Pois!', what emotion is likely being conveyed?
When 'Pois!' follows a repeated instruction or complaint, it often conveys mild impatience or a 'tell me something I don't know' attitude.
The interjection 'pois!' can only be used to express agreement.
'Pois!' can also express confirmation or even mild impatience, depending on the context and intonation.
Saying 'Pois, pois...' with a rising intonation often indicates a lack of conviction.
Repetition of 'pois' with a questioning or rising tone can imply doubt or skepticism, rather than strong agreement.
When 'pois!' is used to agree, it usually has a neutral or falling intonation.
A neutral or falling intonation for 'pois!' generally signifies straightforward agreement or confirmation, without added emotion.
You are discussing a complex business strategy with a Portuguese colleague. They just presented an idea that clarifies a previous point you found confusing. Write a response expressing strong agreement and understanding, referencing their clarification. Use 'pois'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Pois! Agora sim, tudo faz sentido. Aquela explicação sobre a segmentação de mercado foi excelente e realmente esclareceu as minhas dúvidas. Estou totalmente de acordo com a nossa próxima etapa.
You are in a formal debate on environmental policy. The opposing speaker just finished their point, which you find somewhat obvious and understated given the urgency of the situation. Write a brief, slightly impatient interjection using 'pois' to acknowledge their point but subtly push for a more impactful discussion.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Pois! Já sabemos que a situação é grave, mas precisamos discutir soluções mais concretas e com impacto real, não apenas constatar o óbvio. Quais são as propostas a longo prazo?
You are organizing a large charity event and have been delegating tasks. Your assistant just confirmed that a critical vendor has committed. Write a short, appreciative message using 'pois' to acknowledge their excellent work and the confirmation.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Pois! Excelente trabalho em conseguir a confirmação do fornecedor principal. Era um ponto crucial para o evento. Muito obrigado pela sua dedicação e eficiência.
Qual é a intenção do acionista ao usar 'pois' nesta frase?
Read this passage:
Em uma reunião de acionistas, o CEO apresentou os resultados financeiros do último trimestre. "Os nossos lucros aumentaram 15%, superando as expectativas do mercado," afirmou ele com um sorriso. Um dos acionistas, conhecido pela sua perspicácia, levantou a mão e disse: "Pois! Isso é encorajador, mas e quanto à sustentabilidade desses resultados a longo prazo, considerando a volatilidade atual do setor?"
Qual é a intenção do acionista ao usar 'pois' nesta frase?
Neste contexto, 'pois' serve como uma transição para uma pergunta mais aprofundada, reconhecendo o que foi dito mas sem se limitar a isso, o que é típico do seu uso para introduzir uma ressalva ou um novo ponto de vista após uma confirmação ou assentimento inicial. A intenção é ir além da superfície.
Neste contexto, 'pois' serve como uma transição para uma pergunta mais aprofundada, reconhecendo o que foi dito mas sem se limitar a isso, o que é típico do seu uso para introduzir uma ressalva ou um novo ponto de vista após uma confirmação ou assentimento inicial. A intenção é ir além da superfície.
O uso de 'pois' pelo engenheiro sugere:
Read this passage:
A discussão sobre o novo projeto arquitetónico estava acalorada. O arquiteto principal defendeu: "A estrutura proposta é inovadora e cumpre todos os requisitos de segurança e estética." Um engenheiro da equipa, com um olhar crítico, respondeu: "Pois! A inovação é importante, mas não podemos ignorar os custos de manutenção a longo prazo, que parecem excessivos no modelo atual."
O uso de 'pois' pelo engenheiro sugere:
O engenheiro usa 'pois' para reconhecer a afirmação sobre a inovação ('A inovação é importante'), mas imediatamente adiciona uma ressalva ou uma preocupação crucial sobre os custos de manutenção, indicando que o reconhecimento inicial é seguido por uma crítica ou um ponto a ser considerado.
O engenheiro usa 'pois' para reconhecer a afirmação sobre a inovação ('A inovação é importante'), mas imediatamente adiciona uma ressalva ou uma preocupação crucial sobre os custos de manutenção, indicando que o reconhecimento inicial é seguido por uma crítica ou um ponto a ser considerado.
A função de 'pois' na fala do entrevistador é:
Read this passage:
Numa entrevista de emprego para um cargo de alta gestão, o candidato explicava a sua vasta experiência em liderança de equipas. "Já liderei equipas multifuncionais em projetos complexos por mais de dez anos," afirmou ele com confiança. O entrevistador acenou com a cabeça e disse: "Pois! Essa experiência é certamente um ponto forte. Agora, como lida com a pressão de prazos apertados e a gestão de crises inesperadas?"
A função de 'pois' na fala do entrevistador é:
O entrevistador usa 'pois' para confirmar que a experiência é valiosa ('Essa experiência é certamente um ponto forte') e, em seguida, usa essa confirmação como um trampolim para fazer uma nova pergunta, mudando o foco da discussão para outras habilidades importantes para a vaga.
O entrevistador usa 'pois' para confirmar que a experiência é valiosa ('Essa experiência é certamente um ponto forte') e, em seguida, usa essa confirmação como um trampolim para fazer uma nova pergunta, mudando o foco da discussão para outras habilidades importantes para a vaga.
This expresses a sense of 'I told you so' or confirmation of a foreseen outcome.
This conveys mild impatience, suggesting an action is overdue.
This clearly indicates strong agreement with a previous statement.
/ 30 correct
Perfect score!
Start with Agreement
The most common use of 'pois!' is to show agreement or confirmation, similar to 'yes, exactly!' or 'indeed!' in English. It's a quick way to show you're on the same page.
Use for Emphasis
You can use 'pois!' to add emphasis to an agreement. Imagine someone says something obvious, and you respond with a slightly drawn-out 'Poooois!' to mean 'well, obviously!' or 'of course!'
Mild Impatience
Be careful! 'Pois!' can also express mild impatience, especially if you're waiting for someone to do something or get to the point. The tone of your voice is key here.
Context is Everything
Like many interjections, the exact meaning of 'pois!' heavily depends on the context and the speaker's intonation. Pay attention to how native speakers use it.
Related Content
Related Phrases
More emotions words
a sério?
A2seriously?, an expression of surprise, disbelief, or to check earnestness
abalado
A2Emotionally disturbed or upset; shaken.
abalar
A2To shake or disturb (emotionally); to affect deeply.
abalo
A2Shock, emotional disturbance; a sudden, disturbing, or upsetting emotional experience.
abandonado
B1Left by the owner or inhabitants; deserted.
abatidamente
B1In a dejected or disheartened manner; dejectedly.
abatido
A2Dejected; sad and depressed; dispirited.
abatimento
A2Dejection; a sad and depressed state; low spirits.
abertamente
A2openly, frankly; without concealment; publicly.
abismado
B1Filled with astonishment or wonder.
