When you want to express that something is genuinely or truthfully felt or said, use sinceramente. It’s a versatile adverb that can be placed before or after the verb it modifies, or at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis. Think of it as a direct equivalent to “sincerely” or “honestly” in English. For example, if you want to say “I sincerely hope you enjoy your trip,” you would say “Eu espero sinceramente que você aproveite sua viagem.”
Using "sinceramente" at a C2 level involves more than just stating sincerity. It's often used to preface a nuanced or potentially challenging statement, indicating that what follows is a genuine, unfiltered opinion, even if it might be difficult to hear. For example, one might say, "Sinceramente, não concordo com essa abordagem," to convey a polite but firm disagreement. It can also add weight to an apology or a compliment, emphasizing the depth of the feeling. Mastering its use means understanding these subtle social cues and deploying it strategically for maximum impact.
§ What Does "Sinceramente" Mean?
The Portuguese adverb "sinceramente" translates directly to "sincerely" or "in a sincere manner" in English. It's a versatile word you'll hear and use often, expressing genuine feeling or truthfulness. Think of it as a way to emphasize that what you're saying comes from the heart, or that you're being completely honest about something.
- DEFINITION
- Sincerely; in a sincere manner; honestly; truthfully.
You'll often find "sinceramente" at the beginning or end of a sentence, or even in the middle, depending on what you want to emphasize. It's a very common adverb, so mastering its use will make your Portuguese sound much more natural and fluent.
§ When Do People Use "Sinceramente"?
"Sinceramente" is used in a variety of situations where you want to convey honesty, genuine feeling, or a truthful opinion. Here are some common scenarios:
- Expressing a genuine opinion: When you want to make it clear that what you're saying is truly what you think or feel, not just being polite.
- Making a confession or admission: If you're admitting something, using "sinceramente" can soften the blow or show you're being upfront.
- Assuring someone of your honesty: To emphasize that you're not trying to deceive or mislead.
- Adding emphasis to a statement: Sometimes it's used simply to add weight to what you're saying, to show you truly mean it.
Let's look at some examples to see how "sinceramente" works in practice. Pay attention to how it changes the nuance of the sentence.
Sinceramente, não sei o que fazer. (Honestly, I don't know what to do.)
Here, "sinceramente" emphasizes the speaker's genuine confusion or lack of knowledge. It's not a polite shrug, but a real admission.
Eu te digo, sinceramente, que gostei muito do seu trabalho. (I tell you, sincerely, that I really liked your work.)
In this case, "sinceramente" assures the listener that the compliment is genuine, not just a formality. The speaker truly means they liked the work.
Acho que, sinceramente, você deveria tentar de novo. (I think, honestly, you should try again.)
This usage shows that the advice given is a heartfelt recommendation, not just a casual suggestion. The speaker genuinely believes the other person should try again.
You might also hear "sinceramente" used in a slightly more rhetorical way, to express exasperation or disbelief, similar to "frankly" or "to be honest" in English when you're a bit frustrated. For instance:
Sinceramente, não aguento mais essa situação! (Honestly/Frankly, I can't take this situation anymore!)
Here, it adds a layer of emotional truth to the statement, emphasizing the speaker's genuine frustration.
§ Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to get comfortable with "sinceramente" is to start using it. Try to incorporate it into your conversations, even if it feels a little awkward at first. The more you use it, the more natural it will become. Listen for it in Portuguese media, too! You'll find it popping up in many contexts, confirming its utility.
Remember, Portuguese, like any language, is about communication. "Sinceramente" is a powerful tool to make your communication clearer and more heartfelt. Don't be afraid to use it to express your true feelings and opinions.
Fun Fact
The 'sincere' part of 'sinceramente' is common to many Romance languages, like Spanish 'sinceramente' and Italian 'sinceramente', all stemming from the same Latin root.
Difficulty Rating
short
short
short
short
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
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Examples by Level
Eu sinceramente acredito em você.
I sincerely believe in you.
Ela falou sinceramente sobre seus sentimentos.
She spoke sincerely about her feelings.
Sinceramente, eu não entendi a piada.
Honestly, I didn't understand the joke.
Nós sinceramente agradecemos sua ajuda.
We sincerely thank you for your help.
Ele pediu desculpas sinceramente.
He apologized sincerely.
Sinceramente, está tudo bem.
Honestly, everything is fine.
Eu te desejo, sinceramente, muita felicidade.
I wish you, sincerely, much happiness.
Ela sorriu sinceramente para mim.
She smiled sincerely at me.
Sinceramente, não sei o que esperar da reunião de amanhã, pois a pauta ainda está indefinida.
Honestly, I don't know what to expect from tomorrow's meeting, as the agenda is still undefined.
Ele se desculpou sinceramente pelos inconvenientes causados, e pudemos sentir que era um pedido genuíno.
He sincerely apologized for the inconven inconveniences caused, and we could feel it was a genuine request.
Sinceramente, a melhor maneira de aprender um novo idioma é praticando diariamente com falantes nativos.
Honestly, the best way to learn a new language is by practicing daily with native speakers.
Fiquei sinceramente surpreso com a sua decisão de mudar de carreira tão drasticamente, mas desejo-lhe tudo de bom.
I was sincerely surprised by your decision to change careers so drastically, but I wish you all the best.
Acredito sinceramente que a nossa equipe tem o potencial para superar todos os desafios que surgirem.
I sincerely believe that our team has the potential to overcome all challenges that arise.
Sinceramente, não consigo entender por que algumas pessoas insistem em espalhar notícias falsas sem verificar as fontes.
Honestly, I can't understand why some people insist on spreading fake news without checking sources.
A noiva agradeceu sinceramente a todos os convidados por terem vindo celebrar o dia especial dela.
The bride sincerely thanked all the guests for coming to celebrate her special day.
Se você me perguntar sinceramente, acho que a proposta deles carece de detalhes cruciais para ser viável a longo prazo.
If you ask me sincerely, I think their proposal lacks crucial details to be viable in the long term.
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Tips
Meaning of 'sinceramente'
The most common meaning of 'sinceramente' is sincerely or in a sincere manner. It's used to express that something is genuinely felt or said.
Using 'sinceramente' in a sentence
You can use 'sinceramente' at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. For example: 'Sinceramente, não sei o que dizer.' (Sincerely, I don't know what to say.)
Expressing honesty
'Sinceramente' can also be used to emphasize that you are speaking honestly or truthfully. It's similar to saying 'to be honest' in English.
Responding with 'sinceramente'
When asked a question, you can start your answer with 'Sinceramente...' to indicate that you are giving your frank or candid opinion. 'Sinceramente, acho que sim.' (Honestly, I think so.)
Not always formal
While 'sinceramente' can be used in formal contexts, it's also very common in casual conversation. Don't think of it as exclusively formal.
Pronunciation focus
Pay attention to the 'ce' sound in 'sinceramente'. It's pronounced like the 's' in 'see', not a 'k' sound.
Connecting with 'Eu juro'
Sometimes 'sinceramente' can be paired with phrases like 'Eu juro' (I swear) to strengthen the assertion of truthfulness.
Similar to 'francamente'
Another word with a similar meaning is 'francamente' (frankly). While they are often interchangeable, 'sinceramente' emphasizes sincerity, and 'francamente' emphasizes directness.
Using 'sinceramente' for emphasis
You can use 'sinceramente' to add emphasis to a statement, showing that you really mean what you are saying. 'Eu sinceramente acredito em você.' (I truly believe you.)
Common in everyday speech
'Sinceramente' is a very common adverb in Portuguese and you will hear it frequently in everyday conversations. Getting comfortable with it will make your Portuguese sound more natural.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'sincerely' and how it starts with 'S' and sounds a bit like 'sin'. If you 'sin'cerely mean something, you're being honest.
Visual Association
Imagine someone holding their hand over their heart, looking you in the eye, and speaking. They are saying 'sinceramente' (sincerely), indicating their honesty. You can picture a 'sincere' smile as well.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'sinceramente' in three different sentences today when talking to someone in Portuguese, or even just in your thoughts. For example: 'Sinceramente, estou cansado' (Honestly, I'm tired).
Word Origin
From Latin 'sincerus' (clean, pure, uninjured, unadulterated)
Original meaning: Pure, unadulterated
Indo-European (Italic branch)Cultural Context
<p>In Portuguese-speaking cultures, sincerity (sinceridade) is highly valued in personal interactions. Using 'sinceramente' can soften a direct statement or emphasize the truthfulness of what you're saying, showing respect for the listener.</p>
Test Yourself 78 questions
Eu ___ quero aprender português. (I sincerely want to learn Portuguese.)
The word 'sinceramente' means 'sincerely' and fits the context of genuinely wanting to learn Portuguese.
Ela fala ___ o que pensa. (She sincerely says what she thinks.)
'Sinceramente' describes how she speaks, indicating honesty and truthfulness.
Nós ___ esperamos que você venha. (We sincerely hope you come.)
Using 'sinceramente' here expresses a genuine and heartfelt hope.
Ele pediu desculpas ___. (He sincerely apologized.)
'Sinceramente' indicates that the apology was genuine and from the heart.
Eu ___ acredito em você. (I sincerely believe in you.)
'Sinceramente' emphasizes the honest and true nature of the belief.
Você deve responder ___ à pergunta. (You should sincerely answer the question.)
'Sinceramente' suggests answering truthfully and honestly.
He speaks Portuguese.
I like coffee.
The girl eats an apple.
Read this aloud:
Olá, como vai?
Focus: Olá
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Eu sou estudante.
Focus: estudante
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Obrigado.
Focus: Obrigado
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence saying that you sincerely like something. Start with 'Eu gosto muito...' (I really like...).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Eu gosto muito sinceramente de chocolate. (I sincerely really like chocolate.)
You want to tell a friend that you are sincerely happy. Complete the sentence: 'Eu estou sinceramente...'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Eu estou sinceramente feliz em te ver. (I am sincerely happy to see you.)
Imagine you are writing a quick note to someone. You want to end it by saying 'sincerely yours'. How would you write just 'sinceramente' in a closing?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Sinceramente, [Your Name].
O que a Maria sinceramente gosta?
Read this passage:
A Maria diz: 'Eu sinceramente gosto de estudar português.' O João responde: 'Eu também gosto!' A Maria gosta da aula.
O que a Maria sinceramente gosta?
The passage states 'Eu sinceramente gosto de estudar português.'
The passage states 'Eu sinceramente gosto de estudar português.'
O que o amigo quer sinceramente?
Read this passage:
Meu amigo disse: 'Eu sinceramente quero aprender a nadar.' Ele vai para a piscina amanhã. Ele está animado.
O que o amigo quer sinceramente?
The passage says 'Eu sinceramente quero aprender a nadar.'
The passage says 'Eu sinceramente quero aprender a nadar.'
O que o aluno sinceramente entendeu?
Read this passage:
A professora perguntou: 'Você entendeu a lição?' O aluno respondeu: 'Sim, sinceramente entendi tudo.' Ele estava muito focado.
O que o aluno sinceramente entendeu?
The student replied 'Sim, sinceramente entendi tudo' in response to understanding the lesson.
The student replied 'Sim, sinceramente entendi tudo' in response to understanding the lesson.
Eu ___ quero te ajudar. (I sincerely want to help you.)
The adverb 'sinceramente' means 'sincerely' and fits the context of genuinely wanting to help.
Ele falou ___ sobre seus sentimentos. (He spoke sincerely about his feelings.)
'Sinceramente' describes how he spoke, indicating honesty and genuineness.
Acho que ela disse a verdade ___. (I think she told the truth sincerely.)
Here, 'sinceramente' modifies 'disse a verdade,' implying she was genuine in her statement.
Nós ___ esperamos que você goste do presente. (We sincerely hope you like the gift.)
'Sinceramente' expresses the genuine hope that the gift will be enjoyed.
Posso dizer, ___, que estou feliz por você. (I can sincerely say that I'm happy for you.)
The adverb 'sinceramente' emphasizes the authenticity of the speaker's happiness.
Ele pediu desculpas ___ pelo erro. (He sincerely apologized for the mistake.)
'Sinceramente' indicates that his apology was genuine and heartfelt.
Choose the best translation for "sinceramente".
Sinceramente means 'sincerely' or 'in a sincere manner'.
Which sentence uses "sinceramente" correctly?
Sinceramente describes how someone speaks or expresses themselves honestly.
What is the opposite of speaking "sinceramente"?
To speak sincerely means to speak honestly, so the opposite is to tell lies.
If someone says 'Eu sinceramente acredito em você,' it means they truly believe you.
Sinceramente means 'sincerely' or 'truly', so this statement is correct.
The word "sinceramente" is an adjective.
Sinceramente is an adverb, modifying a verb, an adjective, or another adverb.
You can use "sinceramente" to describe how fast someone runs.
Sinceramente describes the manner of an action, specifically in relation to sincerity or honesty, not speed.
I sincerely believe in you.
She spoke sincerely about her feelings.
Sincerely, I don't know what to say.
Read this aloud:
Eu espero sinceramente que você goste.
Focus: sin-se-ra-MEN-te
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Sinceramente, ele é um bom amigo.
Focus: sin-se-ra-MEN-te
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Você deve falar sinceramente.
Focus: sin-se-ra-MEN-te
You said:
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The adverb 'sinceramente' usually goes after the verb or before the negative particle 'não'.
The adverb 'sinceramente' describes how he spoke, so it follows the verb 'falou'.
Here, 'sinceramente' emphasizes her feeling about the gift, placed before the verb.
Choose the best translation for: 'Eu sinceramente acredito que ele é uma boa pessoa.'
'Sinceramente' directly translates to 'sincerely' and conveys a genuine belief.
Which sentence uses 'sinceramente' correctly?
'Sinceramente' implies a genuine feeling or action, which fits well with laughing at a joke.
What is the opposite of 'falar sinceramente'?
To speak superficially means to speak without depth or genuine feeling, which is the opposite of speaking sincerely.
If someone says 'Eu sinceramente sinto muito', they are expressing genuine regret.
'Sinceramente' emphasizes the genuineness of the feeling, so 'Eu sinceramente sinto muito' means 'I truly/sincerely feel very sorry'.
'Sinceramente' can be used to emphasize that something is truly or genuinely the case.
'Sinceramente' often serves as an intensifier, meaning 'truly' or 'genuinely'.
The sentence 'Sinceramente, não sei o que fazer' means 'Honestly, I know what to do'.
'Sinceramente, não sei o que fazer' means 'Honestly, I don't know what to do'. The 'não' negates the verb 'saber' (to know).
The adverb 'sinceramente' usually comes after the verb or before the verb it modifies. Here it modifies 'acredito'.
'Para ser sincero' is a common expression meaning 'To be honest/sincere'.
The adverb 'sinceramente' modifies the verb 'disse' (said) indicating how he said it.
You are writing a formal email to a Portuguese company to express your sincere interest in a job position. Write a short paragraph expressing your interest and ensuring you use 'sinceramente' correctly to convey your genuine enthusiasm.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Escrevo esta mensagem para expressar sinceramente o meu profundo interesse na posição de [Nome da Posição] que vi anunciada. Acredito que as minhas qualificações e experiência se alinham perfeitamente com os requisitos do cargo e estou muito entusiasmado com a possibilidade de contribuir para a vossa equipa.
Imagine you are apologizing to a friend in Portuguese for a misunderstanding. Write a sentence or two using 'sinceramente' to emphasize the genuineness of your apology.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Lamento sinceramente qualquer mal-entendido que possa ter causado. A minha intenção nunca foi ofender-te e espero que possas aceitar as minhas desculpas.
You are discussing a personal opinion with a Portuguese-speaking colleague. Write a sentence where you introduce your opinion with 'sinceramente' to show that you are expressing your true feelings.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Sinceramente, acredito que o novo projeto tem um grande potencial, mas precisamos de abordar alguns desafios iniciais com mais atenção.
Qual é a principal função da palavra "sinceramente" nesta passagem?
Read this passage:
A presidente do comité expressou os seus agradecimentos à equipa. "Sinceramente, não teríamos conseguido sem o esforço e dedicação de cada um de vocês," disse ela, com a voz embargada pela emoção. "O sucesso deste evento é prova do vosso trabalho árduo."
Qual é a principal função da palavra "sinceramente" nesta passagem?
A palavra 'sinceramente' neste contexto reforça a genuinidade dos agradecimentos da presidente, sublinhando que ela realmente acredita no que está a dizer e que os agradecimentos vêm do coração.
A palavra 'sinceramente' neste contexto reforça a genuinidade dos agradecimentos da presidente, sublinhando que ela realmente acredita no que está a dizer e que os agradecimentos vêm do coração.
O que "sinceramente" revela sobre a reação do autor?
Read this passage:
Numa entrevista recente, o autor afirmou: "Sinceramente, fiquei surpreendido com a receção calorosa do meu último livro. Não esperava tanto sucesso, mas estou imensamente grato aos meus leitores." Ele continuou a falar sobre as suas inspirações futuras.
O que "sinceramente" revela sobre a reação do autor?
Ao usar 'sinceramente', o autor enfatiza que a sua surpresa com o sucesso do livro é verdadeira e que a gratidão que sente é autêntica.
Ao usar 'sinceramente', o autor enfatiza que a sua surpresa com o sucesso do livro é verdadeira e que a gratidão que sente é autêntica.
Qual é o impacto de "sinceramente" na declaração do participante?
Read this passage:
Durante a reunião, um dos participantes disse: "Sinceramente, não concordo com a direção que estamos a tomar. Acredito que devemos reconsiderar a nossa estratégia antes de avançar." A sua intervenção gerou um debate acalorado entre os membros do conselho.
Qual é o impacto de "sinceramente" na declaração do participante?
O uso de 'sinceramente' aqui serve para mostrar que a discordância do participante não é superficial, mas sim uma opinião genuína e profundamente sentida.
O uso de 'sinceramente' aqui serve para mostrar que a discordância do participante não é superficial, mas sim uma opinião genuína e profundamente sentida.
Choose the sentence where 'sinceramente' is used correctly to express heartfelt apology.
'Sinceramente' aqui intensifica o lamento, mostrando que o arrependimento é genuíno.
In which sentence does 'sinceramente' convey a sense of honest, perhaps critical, opinion?
Neste contexto, 'sinceramente' introduz uma opinião direta e honesta, que pode ser interpretada como crítica construtiva.
Select the option where 'sinceramente' emphasizes the truthfulness of a statement, even if it's surprising or unexpected.
Aqui, 'sinceramente' realça a verdade da surpresa ou descrença do falante, indicando que a afirmação é genuína.
The sentence 'Sinceramente, não consigo entender a lógica por trás dessa decisão' implies that the speaker is genuinely struggling to comprehend the decision.
Sim, 'sinceramente' reforça a autenticidade da dificuldade do falante em entender a decisão.
In the phrase 'Ele sorriu sinceramente', 'sinceramente' indicates that the smile was forced or fake.
Não, 'sinceramente' indica que o sorriso foi genuíno, vindo do coração.
When someone says 'Sinceramente, estou exausto', it means they are truly and genuinely tired.
Sim, 'sinceramente' aqui enfatiza a autenticidade do estado de exaustão do falante.
The correct order places 'sinceramente' after the subject 'Eu' and before the negative particle 'não', emphasizing the speaker's genuine uncertainty.
'Sinceramente' is placed at the end to modify the verb 'sentia', indicating the sincerity of her feelings. It could also precede 'sentia' for a slightly different emphasis.
Starting the sentence with 'sinceramente' emphasizes that what follows is a genuine and heartfelt opinion. It functions as a discourse marker here.
The success of a leader depends sincerely on their ability to inspire and motivate the team.
I sincerely hope this collaboration brings lasting fruits for both parties.
She acted sincerely, despite all the adversities and criticisms she faced.
Read this aloud:
A sua dedicação ao projeto é sinceramente admirável.
Focus: sin-ce-ra-men-te
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Sinceramente, não vejo outra solução para este complexo problema.
Focus: sin-ce-ra-men-te
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Posso dizer-lhe, sinceramente, que o esforço valerá a pena no final.
Focus: sin-ce-ra-men-te
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
/ 78 correct
Perfect score!
Meaning of 'sinceramente'
The most common meaning of 'sinceramente' is sincerely or in a sincere manner. It's used to express that something is genuinely felt or said.
Using 'sinceramente' in a sentence
You can use 'sinceramente' at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. For example: 'Sinceramente, não sei o que dizer.' (Sincerely, I don't know what to say.)
Expressing honesty
'Sinceramente' can also be used to emphasize that you are speaking honestly or truthfully. It's similar to saying 'to be honest' in English.
Responding with 'sinceramente'
When asked a question, you can start your answer with 'Sinceramente...' to indicate that you are giving your frank or candid opinion. 'Sinceramente, acho que sim.' (Honestly, I think so.)
Example
Sinceramente, não sei o que dizer.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
More family words
à medida que
A2As; at the same time that.
abençoado
A2Blessed, consecrated; sacred.
abrigo
A2Shelter, a place providing temporary protection from bad weather or danger.
acarinhar
A2To show affection to; to caress or cuddle.
aceito
A2Accepted; generally recognized or agreed upon.
acenar
A2To wave (as a greeting).
acolher
A2To receive (a guest or new member) with pleasure and hospitality.
acolhimento
A2The action of welcoming or receiving someone; hospitality or fostering.
acolitar
B2To assist or accompany.
acomodar
A2To provide lodging or space for.
