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A2 verb #4,000 most common 18 min read

prezar

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips prezar in 30 Seconds

Explanation prezar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting your Portuguese journey. You might not use the verb prezar very often yourself, as it is a bit formal, but you will definitely see it! The most important thing for you to know is that prezar means 'to value' or 'to like very much with respect.' Think of it as a fancy way to say you think something is important. You will mostly see this word in the form Prezado or Prezada at the beginning of emails or letters. If you get an email that starts with 'Prezado Aluno' (Dear Student), it means the school is addressing you formally. At this stage, just remember: prezar = value/important.

As an A2 learner, you can start using prezar in simple sentences to talk about things you find important. You might say 'Eu prezo minha família' (I value my family) or 'Nós prezamos a honestidade' (We value honesty). It is a regular verb, so it follows the same pattern as 'falar' or 'amar' (prezo, preza, prezamos, prezam). Using prezar instead of just 'gostar' (to like) makes you sound more serious and respectful. It is a great word to use when you want to show that you have good manners and that you care about values, not just things.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using prezar in professional and social contexts. You can use it to explain your choices: 'Eu prezo muito o meu tempo livre, por isso não trabalho aos fins de semana' (I value my free time very much, so I don't work on weekends). You should also notice the difference between 'prezar algo' (to value something) and 'prezar por algo' (to ensure/look after something), which is common in Brazil. For example, 'A empresa preza pela segurança' (The company ensures safety). This level is about nuance—using the word to describe your personal philosophy and professional standards.

By B2, you should understand the reflexive form prezar-se and how it changes the meaning to 'to pride oneself.' For example: 'Ele se preza de ser um bom pai' (He prides himself on being a good father). You can use this to talk about identity and reputation. You should also be able to use prezar in more abstract discussions about society, politics, or art. 'É preciso prezar o patrimônio histórico da cidade' (It is necessary to value the city's historical heritage). At this level, you use prezar to build complex arguments about what is worth protecting in the world.

As a C1 learner, you use prezar with the precision of a native speaker. You recognize its literary weight and use it to add gravitas to your writing. You can distinguish between prezar, estimar, and valorizar based on the specific register and emotional tone required. You might use it in legal or academic contexts where the preservation of a right or a concept is paramount. Your use of the word reflects an understanding of Lusophone cultural values, where respect and 'dignidade' (dignity) are central. You can use the word to critique or praise with subtle sophistication.

At the C2 level, prezar is a tool for stylistic excellence. You might use it in high-level diplomatic correspondence, philosophical essays, or complex literary analysis. You understand its etymological roots and how it relates to the concept of 'preço' and 'apreço' in the history of the Portuguese language. You can play with its reflexive and non-reflexive forms to create rhythmic and impactful prose. For you, prezar is not just a verb; it is a reflection of a worldview that prioritizes ethics, tradition, and the deep recognition of worth in all things.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

prezar in 30 Seconds

Prezar is a formal Portuguese verb meaning to value, esteem, or cherish something or someone deeply, often used to express professional respect or moral commitment.
It is a regular -ar verb, but it can be used reflexively (prezar-se de) to mean 'to pride oneself' on a specific quality or action.
Commonly found in formal email salutations (Prezado/a), it sets a tone of serious regard and is essential for business and academic Portuguese.
While similar to 'valorizar,' prezar carries a heavier weight of respect and is typically reserved for abstract values, traditions, and significant personal relationships.

The Portuguese verb prezar is a sophisticated and multifaceted term that translates most directly to 'to value,' 'to esteem,' or 'to cherish.' While it shares a common ancestor with the English word 'prize' and 'price'—deriving from the Latin pretiāre—its application in modern Portuguese spans from high-level professional correspondence to deep personal declarations of respect. When a speaker uses prezar, they are not merely expressing a casual preference; they are indicating that the object of the verb holds a significant, often non-negotiable, status in their hierarchy of values. It suggests a conscious decision to uphold, protect, and honor something or someone because of their intrinsic worth or the importance of the relationship. This verb is particularly prevalent in formal contexts, such as business letters where 'Prezado(a)' serves as the standard formal salutation equivalent to 'Dear,' but it is also used in philosophical or ethical discussions regarding what a society or an individual should hold dear.

Semantic Nuance: Unlike the verb 'gostar' (to like), which is subjective and often fleeting, prezar implies a stable, long-term judgment of value. To 'prezar a liberdade' (value freedom) means one is willing to defend it, not just that they enjoy it.
The Prepositional Shift: In Brazilian Portuguese, a common variation is the use of 'prezar por,' which shifts the meaning slightly toward 'to watch over' or 'to ensure.' For example, 'prezar pela segurança' means to actively maintain and care for safety, whereas 'prezar a segurança' simply means to value it.
Social Hierarchy: Using this word instantly elevates the register of your speech. It is the language of diplomacy, high-level management, and literature. It signals that the speaker is educated and respectful of social protocols.

Nós prezamos muito a sua contribuição para este projeto acadêmico.
— Translation: We highly value your contribution to this academic project.

In everyday life, you might not hear a teenager use prezar when talking about a new video game, but you will certainly hear a grandfather use it when talking about family traditions. It carries a sense of weight and history. In a professional setting, if a manager says they 'prezam a pontualidade,' it is a polite but firm way of saying that being late is a violation of the company's core values. The word acts as a bridge between emotion and ethics; you 'prezar' someone because you respect them, and you 'prezar' a quality because you believe it is right. It is also reflexive in some contexts: 'prezar-se de' means to take pride in something. For example, 'Ele se preza de ser um homem honesto' (He prides himself on being an honest man). This reflexive form reinforces the idea of self-worth and identity tied to specific virtues.

Eu sempre prezei a honestidade acima de tudo na minha carreira profissional.
— Translation: I have always valued honesty above everything in my professional career.

Furthermore, prezar is often used in the negative to express a lack of respect or a disregard for something. To say someone 'não preza a própria vida' (does not value their own life) is a serious observation about reckless behavior. It is a verb that demands an object of substance—one does not usually 'prezar' a sandwich, but one certainly 'preza' the culinary traditions of their country. This distinction helps learners understand that prezar is reserved for things that have moral, intellectual, or emotional significance. It is a word that builds character into the sentence itself.

Aquela empresa preza pelo bem-estar de todos os seus funcionários.
— Translation: That company values/cares for the well-being of all its employees.

To master prezar is to master the art of expressing importance in Portuguese. It allows you to move beyond the basic 'bom' (good) and 'gosto' (I like) into a realm of precise evaluation. Whether you are writing a formal letter, discussing politics, or telling a friend how much you value their loyalty, prezar provides the necessary weight to your words. It is a verb of stewardship; when you prezar something, you are its guardian. This sense of guardianship is what makes it so powerful in environmental contexts ('prezar o meio ambiente') or in the preservation of heritage ('prezar a cultura local'). It is a call to action through the lens of appreciation.

Como cidadãos, devemos prezar a democracia e os direitos humanos.
— Translation: As citizens, we must value democracy and human rights.

In conclusion, prezar is an essential tool for any learner looking to achieve fluency. It represents a level of linguistic maturity where you can articulate values with clarity and dignity. It connects the speaker to a long tradition of Romance language ethics where 'value' is not just a monetary concept but a moral one. By incorporating prezar into your vocabulary, you gain the ability to express deep respect, professional courtesy, and personal integrity in a way that resonates with native speakers across the Lusophone world.

Using prezar correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure and the specific contexts where it thrives. As a regular -ar verb, its conjugation is straightforward, but its syntactic behavior can vary slightly between European and Brazilian Portuguese. In its most common form, it functions as a direct transitive verb, meaning it takes an object directly without a preposition. For example, 'Eu prezo sua amizade' (I value your friendship). Here, 'sua amizade' is the direct object. This structure is universally accepted and is the most common way to express that you hold something in high regard. It is used for both people and abstract qualities like honesty, time, or silence.

Direct Transitive Usage: Standard: 'Nós prezamos a transparência em nossa empresa.' (We value transparency in our company). No preposition is needed between the verb and the noun.
Indirect Transitive (Brazilian Variation): Common in Brazil: 'Eles prezam pela qualidade do serviço.' (They value/ensure the quality of the service). The 'por' adds a nuance of 'looking after' or 'maintaining.'
Reflexive Usage (Prezar-se): 'Ela se preza de ser muito pontual.' (She prides herself on being very punctual). This construction requires the preposition 'de' after the reflexive verb.

Se você preza a sua saúde, deveria parar de fumar imediatamente.
— Translation: If you value your health, you should stop smoking immediately.

When using prezar in the past tense, it often serves to describe a long-held belief or a state of being that influenced past actions. 'Sempre prezei a liberdade de expressão' (I have always valued freedom of expression). In the future tense, it can sound like a promise or a commitment: 'Prezaremos sempre pela sua segurança' (We will always value/ensure your safety). It is also frequently found in the participle form 'prezado,' which functions as an adjective meaning 'esteemed' or 'dear.' This is the foundation of formal letter writing. 'Prezado cliente,' 'Prezado colega,' or 'Prezado Diretor' are standard ways to begin a professional communication. It sets a tone of mutual respect and seriousness that 'Caro' (Dear) might lack in a strictly corporate environment.

Prezado Senhor Silva, agradecemos o seu interesse em nossa proposta.
— Translation: Dear Mr. Silva, we thank you for your interest in our proposal.

In literary or academic writing, prezar can be used to describe the preservation of ideas or the high regard for certain authors or theories. 'O autor preza a clareza argumentativa' (The author values argumentative clarity). It can also be used in the negative to criticize someone's priorities. 'Ele não preza nem a própria família' (He doesn't even value his own family). This use of the negative is particularly strong in Portuguese, as it suggests a fundamental moral failing. Furthermore, the verb can be used with an infinitive in some rare, formal constructions, such as 'Prezo dizer que...' (I value/deem it important to say that...), though this is less common than using it with a noun phrase.

Nós prezamos o silêncio durante as sessões de meditação no templo.
— Translation: We value silence during the meditation sessions at the temple.

Another interesting usage is in the context of 'prezar-se de,' which translates to 'to pride oneself on.' This is a very useful phrase for describing character traits or professional standards. 'A empresa se preza de oferecer o melhor suporte técnico do mercado' (The company prides itself on offering the best technical support in the market). Note that the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) must match the subject. This construction is a great way to talk about strengths and unique selling points in a professional bio or a resume. It conveys a sense of dignity and commitment to excellence.

Eles se prezam de manter as tradições culinárias da região intactas.
— Translation: They pride themselves on keeping the region's culinary traditions intact.

Finally, it is important to distinguish prezar from similar-sounding verbs. Learners often confuse it with 'precisar' (to need) or 'pressar' (to hurry). While 'precisar' is about necessity, prezar is about value. You might 'precisar' (need) a car to get to work, but you 'prezar' (value) the safety features of that car. Similarly, 'apressar' is about speed, while prezar is about quality. A common saying in business is 'prezar a qualidade em vez da velocidade' (to value quality over speed). Understanding these distinctions will help you avoid common pitfalls and use the word with the precision of a native speaker.

Devemos prezar cada momento que passamos com as pessoas que amamos.
— Translation: We should cherish/value every moment we spend with the people we love.

The word prezar is a staple of formal and semi-formal Portuguese. If you are working in an office in Lisbon, São Paulo, or Luanda, you will encounter it daily in your inbox. It is the definitive word for professional respect. Beyond the workplace, prezar appears in political speeches, where leaders talk about 'prezar os valores democráticos' (valuing democratic values), and in legal documents where the importance of certain rights is emphasized. It is a word that signals 'this is important' without needing to raise one's voice. It is the language of the 'diplomata' and the 'acadêmico.'

Corporate Communication: In emails, newsletters, and official announcements. It creates a tone of professionalism and established authority. 'Prezados colaboradores' is a common way to address staff.
Literature and Journalism: In editorials or classic novels, used to describe a character's internal moral compass or a society's priorities. It is a 'high-register' verb.
Formal Ceremonies: At weddings, graduations, or funerals, where speakers reflect on what is truly valuable in life. 'Prezar o legado' (valuing the legacy) is a common theme.

O diretor sempre prezou a ética profissional acima do lucro imediato.
— Translation: The director always valued professional ethics above immediate profit.

In Brazil, you will often hear it in advertisements for luxury goods or high-end services. A car commercial might say, 'Para quem preza o conforto e a segurança' (For those who value comfort and safety). Here, the word is used to appeal to a consumer's sense of status and discernment. It suggests that the product is for someone who knows the true value of things and doesn't settle for less. In this context, prezar is a marketing tool that elevates the brand. Similarly, in European Portuguese, it is used in the hospitality industry. A high-end hotel might state that they 'prezam pela privacidade dos seus hóspedes' (value/ensure the privacy of their guests).

Prezamos a sua privacidade e não compartilhamos seus dados com terceiros.
— Translation: We value your privacy and do not share your data with third parties.

You will also hear prezar in the context of personal relationships among older generations or in more formal social circles. A parent might tell their child, 'Você deve prezar os seus estudos' (You must value your studies). It carries a paternalistic or instructional weight that 'estudar muito' (to study a lot) does not. It frames the activity as a matter of respect for one's future and opportunities. In literature, authors like Machado de Assis or Eça de Queirós used prezar to describe the social standing and self-image of their characters. When a character 'se preza,' they are maintaining their dignity in the face of social pressure.

Qualquer pessoa que se preze não aceitaria um suborno tão óbvio.
— Translation: Anyone who respects themselves would not accept such an obvious bribe.

In modern digital culture, prezar is making a comeback in 'slow living' and 'minimalism' circles. Influencers talk about 'prezar momentos' (valuing moments) instead of 'comprar coisas' (buying things). It fits perfectly into the discourse of intentionality and mindfulness. By using prezar, these speakers are distinguishing their lifestyle choices as being based on deep-seated values rather than trendy fads. Whether it's a podcast about mental health or a blog post about sustainable fashion, prezar is the go-to verb for expressing a commitment to what truly matters.

Nesta nova fase da vida, eu prezo mais a paz de espírito do que o sucesso financeiro.
— Translation: In this new phase of life, I value peace of mind more than financial success.

Finally, you will see it on signs in public spaces. 'Preze pela limpeza deste local' (Value/Ensure the cleanliness of this place) is a common sight in parks or public buildings in Brazil. It is a more polite and civic-minded way of saying 'Don't litter.' It appeals to the citizen's sense of shared value and responsibility for the environment. In all these contexts—from the corporate email to the park sign—prezar serves as a reminder that our actions should reflect what we value most.

Learning to use prezar correctly involves avoiding several common pitfalls that even intermediate speakers sometimes face. The most frequent mistake is confusing prezar with verbs that sound similar but have vastly different meanings. For example, 'precisar' (to need) is often mixed up with prezar because of the similar 'pre-' prefix. However, 'Eu preciso de você' (I need you) is a statement of necessity, while 'Eu prezo você' (I value you) is a statement of respect and affection. Mixing these up can lead to confusing social signals.

The 'Precisar' Confusion: Mistake: 'Eu prezo de ajuda.' (Incorrect). Correct: 'Eu preciso de ajuda' (I need help) or 'Eu prezo a sua ajuda' (I value your help). Prezar doesn't take 'de' unless it's the reflexive 'prezar-se de.'
The 'Apressar' Confusion: Mistake: 'Não se preze!' (Meaningless). Correct: 'Não se apresse!' (Don't hurry!). Prezar is about value, while 'apressar' is about speed.
Misusing the Preposition 'Por': In formal European Portuguese, prezar is direct. Using 'prezar por' in a formal exam in Portugal might be marked wrong, though it is standard in Brazilian business contexts.

Errado: Eu prezo de café de manhã.
Correto: Eu prezo o meu café da manhã.
— Note: You value the breakfast, you don't 'value of' it.

Another common error is overusing the word in informal settings. While prezar is beautiful, using it to talk about trivial things can make you sound 'empolado' (pompous) or like you are trying too hard. For instance, saying 'Eu prezo muito esta pizza' (I value this pizza very much) is grammatically correct but socially awkward; 'Eu adoro esta pizza' or 'Esta pizza é ótima' would be much more natural. Reserve prezar for things with actual moral or emotional weight. It is a word that should be used with intention, not as a generic synonym for 'like.'

Errado: Você preza ir ao cinema hoje?
Correto: Você quer ir ao cinema hoje?
— Note: Prezar is not a substitute for 'want' or 'desire'.

Confusion also arises with the word 'preço' (price). Since they share an etymological root, some learners think prezar means 'to put a price on' or 'to charge.' This is not the case. The verb for pricing something is 'precificar' or 'avaliar.' If you say 'Eu vou prezar este carro,' a native speaker might think you are going to hold a ceremony to honor the car, rather than determining its market value. Always remember: prezar is about internal value and respect, not financial cost.

Errado: O vendedor vai prezar o produto.
Correto: O vendedor vai avaliar o produto.
— Note: Use 'avaliar' for estimating value/price.

Finally, watch out for the spelling. Because of the 'z' sound, some learners might be tempted to spell it with an 's' (presar). However, 'presar' (with an 's') is an archaic form or related to 'presa' (prey/capture), though very rarely used as a verb in modern Portuguese. The correct spelling for 'to value' is always with a 'z'. Maintaining this spelling distinction is crucial for written exams and professional emails. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you will ensure that your use of prezar is both sophisticated and accurate.

Lembre-se: Prezar (com Z) é valorizar. Presar (com S) está relacionado a capturar (raro).

Portuguese is rich with verbs that express appreciation, and choosing the right one depends on the level of intensity and the context of the relationship. Prezar sits in a unique spot: it is more formal than 'valorizar' but less intimate than 'amar.' Understanding its synonyms will allow you to vary your vocabulary and strike the right emotional chord. If you are writing a professional recommendation, you might use 'estimar.' If you are talking about personal ethics, you might use 'honrar.' Each of these alternatives carries a slightly different 'flavor' of value.

Valorizar: This is the most direct and common synonym. It can be used for both people ('valorizar um funcionário') and things ('valorizar um imóvel'). It is slightly less formal than prezar.
Estimar: Often used to express professional or friendly regard. 'Estimado' is another common salutation in letters, similar to 'Prezado,' but often feels a bit warmer.
Apreciar: Used when you enjoy or recognize the quality of something, like art, wine, or a gesture. It's more about 'enjoyment' than 'holding dear.'
Respeitar: While prezar involves respect, 'respeitar' is more about following rules or acknowledging boundaries. You can respect someone without necessarily 'prezando' their company.

Enquanto prezar foca no valor intrínseco, valorizar pode focar no aumento de importância ou preço.

When should you choose prezar over 'valorizar'? Use prezar when the value is moral, traditional, or deeply personal. For example, 'Prezo a memória dos meus antepassados' (I value the memory of my ancestors) sounds much more profound than 'Valorizo a memória.' On the other hand, use 'valorizar' when talking about skills or assets: 'O mercado valoriza profissionais bilíngues' (The market values bilingual professionals). In this case, prezar would sound slightly out of place because the 'value' is commercial and practical rather than emotional or ethical.

Eu estimo muito o trabalho que você faz pela comunidade local.
— Note: 'Estimar' adds a layer of affection to the respect.

Another alternative is 'cultivar.' While it literally means to cultivate (as in plants), it is often used metaphorically for relationships or habits. 'Devemos cultivar as amizades que prezamos' (We should cultivate the friendships we value). Here, 'cultivar' represents the action taken to maintain the value that prezar identifies. Using these two verbs together shows a high level of linguistic sophistication. It moves the conversation from a static state of 'valuing' to an active state of 'nurturing.'

É importante honrar os compromissos que você assume.
— Note: 'Honrar' is a strong alternative when talking about promises or traditions.

In summary, while prezar is a powerful word, knowing its neighbors in the semantic map of 'value' is essential. Whether you are aiming for the professional precision of 'estimar,' the practical utility of 'valorizar,' or the active nurturing of 'cultivar,' having these options allows you to express exactly how much and in what way you care about something. Portuguese is a language of nuances, and mastering these alternatives is the key to truly 'prezar' the beauty of the language itself.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The English words 'praise', 'prize', and 'price' all share the same Latin root as 'prezar'. This is why 'prezar' feels so similar to 'prize' in terms of holding something as a reward or of high worth.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /pɾe.ˈzaɾ/

US /pɾe.ˈzaʁ/

The stress is on the last syllable: pre-ZAR.

Rhymes With

amar falar lugar olhar pensar chegar andar estar

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'z' as an 's' (it should be a voiced 'z' like in 'zebra').
Stressing the first syllable (PRE-zar) instead of the second.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'precisar' (pre-si-ZAR).
In BP, forgetting to pronounce the 'r' at the end in casual speech, though it should be there in formal contexts.
Nasalizing the 'e' incorrectly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in emails and formal texts once you know 'Prezado'.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of formal registers to use appropriately.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is easy, but choosing the right context is tricky.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'precisar' or 'apressar' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

gostar valor respeito querer bom

Learn Next

estimar apreciar honrar negligenciar desprezar

Advanced

axiologia idiosincrasia deferência estatuto legado

Grammar to Know

Regular -ar Verb Conjugation

Eu prezo, tu prezas, ele preza, nós prezamos, vós prezais, eles prezam.

Direct vs Indirect Transitivity

Prezar algo (Standard) vs Prezar por algo (Common in Brazil).

Reflexive Verbs with Prepositions

Prezar-se + de (Ele se preza de ser honesto).

Participle as Adjective

O prezado colega (The esteemed colleague).

Negative Imperative

Não despreze o que você não conhece (Don't despise/undervalue...).

Examples by Level

Eu prezo meus amigos.

I value my friends.

Simple Subject + Verb + Direct Object.

Prezada Maria, como você está?

Dear Maria, how are you?

Prezada used as a formal feminine salutation.

Nós prezamos a escola.

We value the school.

First person plural conjugation: prezamos.

Você preza o seu tempo?

Do you value your time?

Interrogative sentence with 'você'.

Prezado Senhor, obrigado.

Dear Sir, thank you.

Prezado used as a formal masculine salutation.

Eles prezam a comida boa.

They value good food.

Third person plural conjugation: prezam.

Ela preza o silêncio.

She values silence.

Third person singular conjugation: preza.

Eu prezo a minha casa.

I value my house.

Possessive adjective 'minha' followed by 'casa'.

Nesta empresa, prezamos a pontualidade.

In this company, we value punctuality.

Abstract noun 'pontualidade' as a direct object.

Eu sempre prezei a honestidade dos meus pais.

I have always valued my parents' honesty.

Preterite tense: prezei.

Você deveria prezar mais a sua saúde.

You should value your health more.

Modal verb 'deveria' + infinitive 'prezar'.

Nós prezamos a qualidade dos nossos produtos.

We value the quality of our products.

Direct object with a prepositional phrase 'dos nossos produtos'.

O professor preza o esforço dos alunos.

The teacher values the students' effort.

Subject 'O professor' (singular) takes 'preza'.

Eles não prezam as regras do jogo.

They do not value the rules of the game.

Negative sentence with 'não'.

Eu prezo a liberdade acima de tudo.

I value freedom above everything.

Adverbial phrase 'acima de tudo'.

Minha avó preza muito as tradições de Natal.

My grandmother values Christmas traditions very much.

Adverb 'muito' modifying the verb 'preza'.

Prezamos por um ambiente de trabalho saudável.

We value/ensure a healthy work environment.

Indirect transitive usage with 'por' (Brazilian style).

Sempre prezei pela transparência nos negócios.

I have always valued/ensured transparency in business.

Preterite with 'pela' (por + a).

É importante prezar a privacidade dos usuários.

It is important to value the users' privacy.

Impersonal expression 'É importante' + infinitive.

Ela se preza de ser uma profissional ética.

She prides herself on being an ethical professional.

Reflexive form 'se preza de'.

Os cidadãos devem prezar o bem comum.

Citizens must value the common good.

Auxiliary 'devem' + infinitive.

Eu prezo a opinião de quem tem experiência.

I value the opinion of those who have experience.

Relative clause 'de quem tem experiência'.

Nós prezamos a diversidade em nossa equipe.

We value diversity in our team.

Direct transitive usage in a corporate context.

Se você preza a sua vida, use o cinto de segurança.

If you value your life, wear your seatbelt.

Conditional 'Se' clause.

O autor preza a concisão em seus textos acadêmicos.

The author values conciseness in his academic texts.

Specific noun 'concisão' showing stylistic value.

Eles se prezam de manter a palavra em qualquer situação.

They pride themselves on keeping their word in any situation.

Reflexive 'se prezam de' + infinitive.

Prezar a cultura local é fundamental para o turismo sustentável.

Valuing local culture is fundamental for sustainable tourism.

Infinitive as the subject of the sentence.

A instituição preza pela excelência acadêmica há décadas.

The institution has valued/ensured academic excellence for decades.

Present tense used for an ongoing action since the past.

Eu prezo o debate de ideias, desde que seja respeitoso.

I value the debate of ideas, as long as it is respectful.

Subjunctive 'seja' after 'desde que'.

Como você se preza de ser justo, deve ouvir os dois lados.

Since you pride yourself on being fair, you must hear both sides.

Conjunction 'Como' meaning 'since/because'.

Poucos políticos prezam a verdade acima dos interesses partidários.

Few politicians value the truth above party interests.

Quantifier 'Poucos' + plural verb 'prezam'.

Prezamos a confiança que nossos clientes depositam em nós.

We value the trust that our clients place in us.

Complex direct object with a relative clause.

A diplomacia exige prezar as normas internacionais de convivência.

Diplomacy requires valuing international norms of coexistence.

High-register vocabulary: 'convivência', 'exige'.

Ele se preza de uma linhagem de intelectuais renomados.

He prides himself on a lineage of renowned intellectuals.

Reflexive 'se preza de' followed by a noun phrase.

Prezar a estética não deve significar negligenciar o conteúdo.

Valuing aesthetics should not mean neglecting content.

Negative infinitive construction.

A empresa preza por protocolos de segurança rigorosíssimos.

The company values/ensures extremely rigorous security protocols.

Superlative 'rigorosíssimos'.

Sempre prezei a autonomia individual frente ao coletivismo.

I have always valued individual autonomy over collectivism.

Philosophical contrast using 'frente ao'.

Não se pode prezar o futuro sem respeitar o passado.

One cannot value the future without respecting the past.

Passive 'se' construction with modal 'pode'.

Prezo dizer que sua conduta foi exemplar durante a crise.

I deem it important to say that your conduct was exemplary during the crisis.

Formal use of 'Prezo' + infinitive.

Aqueles que prezam a liberdade devem estar sempre vigilantes.

Those who value freedom must always be vigilant.

Demonstrative 'Aqueles que' + plural verb.

Prezar a herança imaterial de um povo é salvaguardar sua própria alma.

To value a people's intangible heritage is to safeguard their very soul.

Metaphorical and philosophical subject-predicate structure.

A obra de arte se preza de uma originalidade que desafia cânones.

The work of art prides itself on an originality that defies canons.

Personification using the reflexive 'se preza'.

O estadista deve prezar a estabilidade institucional acima de querelas efêmeras.

The statesman must value institutional stability above ephemeral quarrels.

Sophisticated vocabulary: 'estadista', 'querelas', 'efêmeras'.

Prezar-se de uma virtude é, por vezes, o primeiro passo para a soberba.

To pride oneself on a virtue is, at times, the first step toward pride/arrogance.

Reflexive infinitive as a subject with parenthetical 'por vezes'.

Nesta tese, prezo a análise fenomenológica em detrimento da empírica.

In this thesis, I value phenomenological analysis over empirical analysis.

Academic register: 'em detrimento de'.

A civilização que não preza seus sábios está fadada ao declínio.

The civilization that does not value its wise men is destined for decline.

Complex sentence with a relative clause and passive 'fadada'.

Prezo a sobriedade expressiva como o ápice do refinamento literário.

I value expressive sobriety as the pinnacle of literary refinement.

Literary criticism register.

Se prezamos a verdade, não podemos nos furtar ao escrutínio público.

If we value the truth, we cannot avoid public scrutiny.

Formal verb 'furtar-se' + 'ao escrutínio'.

Common Collocations

prezar a amizade

prezar a honestidade

prezar pela qualidade

prezar a liberdade

prezar o silêncio

prezar a privacidade

prezar a pontualidade

prezar-se de ser

prezar as tradições

prezar a vida

Common Phrases

Prezado Senhor / Prezada Senhora

— The standard formal opening for a letter or email. It is the equivalent of 'Dear Sir/Madam'.

Prezada Senhora, acusamos a receção do seu pedido.

Prezar pela segurança

— To make safety a priority and ensure it is maintained. Very common in Brazil.

O evento preza pela segurança de todos os participantes.

Se prezar

— To have self-respect. Often used in the phrase 'quem se preza' (anyone with self-respect).

Qualquer pessoa que se preza faria o mesmo.

Prezar o bom nome

— To value one's reputation. It implies protecting one's image through good behavior.

A família sempre prezou o seu bom nome na cidade.

Prezar a ética

— To hold ethical standards in high regard. Common in professional discussions.

Devemos prezar a ética em todas as nossas decisões.

Prezar o diálogo

— To value communication and discussion as a way to solve problems.

O governo diz prezar o diálogo com os sindicatos.

Prezar a transparência

— To value openness and honesty, especially in administration or business.

Prezamos a transparência em nossas contas anuais.

Prezar o meio ambiente

— To value and care for nature. Often used in ecological campaigns.

Campanha para prezar o meio ambiente e reduzir o plástico.

Prezar a educação

— To hold a high value for schooling and good manners.

Meus pais sempre prezaram a educação formal.

Prezar a paz

— To value tranquility and the absence of conflict.

Neste momento da vida, eu prezo a paz acima de tudo.

Often Confused With

prezar vs precisar

Means 'to need'. Prezar is about value, precisar is about necessity.

prezar vs apressar

Means 'to hurry'. Completely different meaning despite similar sounds.

prezar vs presar

An archaic or rare spelling related to 'capture'. Always use 'z' for 'to value'.

Idioms & Expressions

"Quem se preza..."

— Used to describe what a person with dignity or self-respect would or would not do.

Quem se preza não aceita esse tipo de tratamento.

Neutral/Formal

"Prezar o seu quinhão"

— To value one's share or portion of something, often used metaphorically for one's role in life.

Cada um deve prezar o seu quinhão de responsabilidade.

Literary

"Não se prezar ao trabalho"

— To not even bother to do the work; to be lazy or dismissive of effort.

Ele nem se prezou ao trabalho de ler o relatório.

Informal (Regional)

"Prezar a pele"

— To value one's own skin, meaning to be cautious or to avoid danger.

Ele preza a pele e nunca se envolve em brigas.

Informal

"Prezar o pão de cada dia"

— To value one's livelihood or job deeply because it provides sustenance.

Temos que prezar o pão de cada dia e trabalhar com dedicação.

Traditional

"Prezar os seus"

— To value 'one's own' (family, close friends, or community).

Um bom líder sempre preza os seus.

Neutral

"Prezar a prata da casa"

— To value local talent or internal employees over outside options.

O clube precisa prezar a prata da casa em vez de contratar estrangeiros.

Journalistic/Sports

"Prezar a palavra empenhada"

— To value a promise given; to be a person of one's word.

Ele preza a palavra empenhada como se fosse um contrato.

Formal

"Não prezar a língua"

— To not value the language, meaning to speak or write it poorly or without care.

Muitos jovens hoje em dia não prezam a língua portuguesa.

Academic/Conservative

"Prezar o chão que pisa"

— To have deep respect for the place where one lives or comes from.

Ele é um homem simples que preza o chão que pisa.

Informal/Poetic

Easily Confused

prezar vs precisar

Similar prefix 'pre-' and 's/z' sound.

Precisa is 'need' (necessity). Preza is 'value' (respect).

Eu preciso de água (need). Eu prezo sua ajuda (value).

prezar vs pressar

Phonetically similar in fast speech.

Pressar is related to speed/hurry. Prezar is related to quality/worth.

Não me apresse (don't rush me). Eu prezo a calma (I value calm).

prezar vs preço

Same etymological root.

Preço is the noun 'price'. Prezar is the verb 'to value'.

Qual é o preço? (price). Eu prezo a qualidade (value).

prezar vs prender

Both start with 'pre-'.

Prender is 'to catch/arrest'. Prezar is 'to value'.

A polícia vai prender o ladrão. Eu prezo a justiça.

prezar vs prever

Both start with 'pre-'.

Prever is 'to predict/foresee'. Prezar is 'to value'.

Eu prevejo chuva. Eu prezo o sol.

Sentence Patterns

Eu prezo [noun].

Eu prezo a honestidade.

Nós prezamos pela [noun].

Nós prezamos pela segurança.

É importante prezar [noun].

É importante prezar a saúde.

[Subject] se preza de [verb].

Ela se preza de ser pontual.

Se você preza [noun], [imperative].

Se você preza seu emprego, chegue cedo.

Prezar [noun] não significa [verb].

Prezar a tradição não significa ignorar a inovação.

Prezo dizer que [clause].

Prezo dizer que sua ajuda foi essencial.

A civilização que preza [noun] tende a [verb].

A civilização que preza a justiça tende a prosperar.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in professional and formal written Portuguese; moderate in spoken language.

Common Mistakes

Using 'prezar de' for simple valuation. → Eu prezo a sua ajuda.
Prezar is usually a direct verb. You only use 'de' with the reflexive form 'prezar-se de'. Saying 'Eu prezo de sua ajuda' is a common error for English speakers who want to say 'value of'.
Confusing 'prezar' with 'precisar'. → Eu preciso de um café / Eu prezo o meu café.
These sound similar but 'precisar' is 'to need' and 'prezar' is 'to value'. Mixing them up can make you say you 'value' something when you actually 'need' it, or vice versa.
Spelling it 'presar'. → Prezar.
Because 's' between vowels sounds like 'z', learners often misspell it. 'Presar' is not a standard word for 'to value'.
Using 'prezar' for casual likes. → Eu gosto de pizza / Eu adoro este filme.
Saying 'Eu prezo esta pizza' sounds like you are giving the pizza a medal of honor. Use 'gostar' or 'adorar' for casual preferences.
Forgetting the reflexive pronoun in 'prezar-se'. → Ele se preza de ser justo.
If you want to say someone prides themselves on something, you must use the reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, se). 'Ele preza de ser justo' is incomplete.

Tips

Resume Power Word

Use 'prezar' in your CV to sound professional. Instead of saying 'I like quality,' say 'Prezo pela qualidade e pelo rigor técnico.' It shows you are serious about your work.

Direct vs. Indirect

If you are in Portugal, stick to 'prezar algo'. If you are in Brazil, 'prezar por algo' is perfectly fine and very common in business contexts to mean 'to ensure'.

The Formal Handshake

Think of 'prezar' as a linguistic handshake. It’s polite, firm, and establishes a level of mutual respect. It’s perfect for people you respect but aren't necessarily 'close' to.

The 'Z' Factor

Always spell it with a 'Z'. Even though 'S' sometimes makes a 'Z' sound in Portuguese, 'prezar' is from the same family as 'prezo' and 'apreço', and it always takes the 'Z'.

Beyond 'Gostar'

When you want to say you 'value' an abstract concept like 'freedom' or 'democracy,' 'prezar' is a much better choice than 'gostar'. It adds moral weight to your statement.

Email Etiquette

If you receive an email starting with 'Prezado(a)', respond with a similar level of formality. It's a sign that the conversation is professional.

The Prize Connection

Remember: Prezar = Prize. If something is a prize to you, you prezar it. This helps you remember both the meaning and the 'Z' spelling.

Respecting Elders

When talking to older Portuguese speakers, using 'prezar' to talk about family or traditions will show that you understand and respect their cultural values.

Self-Respect

Use 'se prezar' to talk about dignity. 'Ele se preza demais para mentir' means he has too much self-respect to lie. It’s a very powerful way to describe character.

Don't Overuse

Don't use 'prezar' for small things like food or games unless you're being poetic. It's a 'heavy' word that should be saved for things that truly matter.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the word 'PRIZE'. When you PREZAR something, you treat it like a PRIZE. They even sound similar: PRE-zar / PRIZE.

Visual Association

Imagine a person holding a small, fragile glowing heart in their hands with great care. This represents the act of 'prezar'—valuing something delicate and important.

Word Web

valor respeito amizade honra ética estimar prezado apreço

Challenge

Try to write three things you 'prezar' in your life right now using the structure: 'Eu prezo [noun] porque [reason].'

Word Origin

The word comes from the Latin 'pretiāre', which is derived from 'pretium' (price, value). It entered Portuguese during the development of the Romance languages, evolving from the literal sense of 'setting a price' to the metaphorical sense of 'valuing' or 'esteeming'.

Original meaning: To value, to appraise, or to set a price on something.

Romance (Latin-based)

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but avoid using it sarcastically, as it can sound very biting due to its formal nature.

English speakers might find 'prezar' a bit stiff, but it's the perfect equivalent to 'to hold dear' or 'to value highly' in professional or serious contexts.

The formal salutation 'Prezado Senhor' in the works of Machado de Assis. Legal texts in the Brazilian Constitution regarding the 'prezo' for human rights. Fado lyrics in Portugal that often 'prezam' lost love or 'saudade'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Professional Email

Prezado Senhor
Prezada Equipe
Prezamos sua parceria
Prezado Cliente

Personal Values

Prezo a honestidade
Prezo a família
Prezo a minha liberdade
Prezo o tempo

Business Ethics

Prezar pela transparência
Prezar pela qualidade
Prezar a ética
Prezar o meio ambiente

Social Criticism

Não preza ninguém
Quem se preza não faz isso
Não preza a própria vida
Falta de prezo

Academic Writing

O autor preza a clareza
Prezar o rigor científico
Prezar as fontes
Prezar o debate

Conversation Starters

"Quais são os valores que você mais preza em uma amizade?"

"Você preza mais a estabilidade ou a aventura na sua carreira?"

"Na sua cultura, as pessoas costumam prezar muito as tradições antigas?"

"Você preza o silêncio quando está trabalhando ou prefere música?"

"Como a sua empresa preza pelo bem-estar dos funcionários?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre uma pessoa que você preza muito e explique os motivos desse sentimento.

Reflita sobre os valores que você preza hoje em dia em comparação com o que prezava há cinco anos.

Como você pode prezar mais o seu tempo livre na próxima semana?

Descreva uma situação em que você teve que defender algo que você preza muito.

O que significa para você 'se prezar' em um ambiente de trabalho difícil?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but usually in a semi-formal or serious context. You wouldn't use it to talk about liking a movie, but you would use it to talk about valuing a friend's honesty or a professional's work. It's common in Brazil to say 'prezar pela qualidade' (to value/ensure quality).

'Valorizar' is more common and can apply to anything, including money or skills. 'Prezar' is more formal and usually applies to abstract values, ethics, or deep respect for people. For example, you 'valorizar' a house's price, but you 'prezar' your family's history.

Use 'Prezado' for a man, 'Prezada' for a woman, and 'Prezados' for a group. For example: 'Prezado Senhor Silva' or 'Prezada Equipe de Vendas'. It is very professional and widely used.

In Brazilian Portuguese, 'prezar por' is very common and means to ensure or look after something (e.g., 'prezar pela limpeza'). In European Portuguese and very formal grammar, 'prezar' is usually a direct transitive verb (no 'por').

It means 'anyone who has self-respect' or 'anyone who values their own dignity'. It's used to describe behaviors that are expected of a respectable person. 'Quem se preza não mente' (Anyone with self-respect doesn't lie).

Yes, it is a perfectly regular -ar verb. It follows the same conjugation pattern as 'falar', 'cantar', and 'amar'. This makes it very easy to conjugate once you know the stem 'prez-'.

Usually, it is used for abstract things (honesty, time, silence) or people. Using it for simple physical objects like a 'sandwich' or a 'pen' sounds strange unless the object has great sentimental or historical value.

The direct opposite is 'desprezar', which means to despise, look down on, or treat as worthless. Another opposite could be 'negligenciar' (to neglect) something you should be valuing.

'Prezado' is more formal than 'caro'. 'Caro' is like 'Dear' among acquaintances or in semi-formal contexts, while 'Prezado' is strictly professional and respectful, often used when you don't know the person well.

Use the reflexive form 'prezar-se de'. For example: 'Eu me prezo de ser pontual' (I pride myself on being punctual). Don't forget the 'de' before the verb or noun that follows.