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A2 verb #6,000 most common 13 min read

sussurrar

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips sussurrar in 30 Seconds

Explanation sussurrar in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'sussurrar' is a useful verb to describe a simple action: speaking very quietly. You might use it in a classroom or a quiet place. At this stage, focus on the present tense (eu sussurro, você sussurra). It is a regular verb, so it follows the same pattern as 'falar' or 'cantar'. Even if you don't use it frequently, understanding it when you hear it in a movie or a song is important. It helps you distinguish between different volumes of speech. A simple sentence like 'Eu sussurro um segredo' is a great way to start using this word. Think of it as the opposite of 'gritar' (to shout). Knowing this contrast helps you build a basic vocabulary of actions. You will mostly encounter it in the context of children playing or people in a library. It is an easy word to remember because the sound of the word 'sussurrar' actually sounds like a whisper. This onomatopoeic quality makes it a fun addition to your early Portuguese vocabulary. Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on the basic meaning: to talk very, very softly.

At the A2 level, you should start using 'sussurrar' in the past tense (Pretérito Perfeito and Imperfeito) to describe things that happened. For example, 'Ontem, ela sussurrou-me algo importante.' You should also learn common phrases like 'sussurrar ao ouvido' (to whisper in the ear). This level is where you begin to understand the social context—why someone would whisper. Is it a secret? Is it because they are in a church? You can also start using it with simple adverbs like 'baixinho' (very quietly) or 'suavemente' (softly). At A2, you are expected to handle basic social interactions, and knowing when to whisper (and how to say it) is part of that. You might also see this word in simple stories or descriptions of nature, such as 'o vento sussurra'. This expands your vocabulary from purely human actions to more descriptive, atmospheric language. Practice the conjugation carefully, especially the 'nós' form (sussurramos) and the 'eles' form (sussurram), as the endings are key to being understood. It's a regular '-ar' verb, so it reinforces the rules you've already learned for verbs like 'falar' and 'trabalhar'.

At the B1 level, you can use 'sussurrar' in more complex sentence structures, including the conditional and the subjunctive. For instance, 'Se eu tivesse um segredo, eu sussurrá-lo-ia ao teu ouvido' (If I had a secret, I would whisper it in your ear). You should also be able to distinguish 'sussurrar' from its synonyms like 'cochichar' (to gossip/whisper) and 'murmurar' (to murmur). At this stage, your Portuguese is becoming more nuanced. You understand that 'sussurrar' is often used for intimacy or respect for silence, while 'cochichar' might have a negative connotation of gossip. You can also use the noun form 'sussurro' (a whisper) in your writing to add variety. 'Ouvi um sussurro na escuridão' sounds much more advanced than just using the verb. B1 learners should also be comfortable with the figurative use of the word in literature or more descriptive speech. You might describe a quiet stream or the rustling of leaves using this verb. This level requires you to connect the word to emotions—whispering out of fear, love, or excitement. Practice using the verb in different tenses to talk about hypothetical situations or reported speech, such as 'Ele disse que ia sussurrar a resposta'.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the metaphorical and idiomatic uses of 'sussurrar'. You can use it to describe rumors in a professional or social setting: 'Sussurra-se que a empresa vai fechar' (It is rumored/whispered that the company will close). Your command of the verb should include its use in passive constructions and with various pronouns. You also understand the cultural nuances—for example, when whispering might be considered rude in a Portuguese-speaking culture. In your writing, you can use 'sussurrar' to create atmosphere and depth. You might contrast it with other verbs of sound to show a range of dynamics in a story. At B2, you should also be aware of regional differences in how the word might be pronounced or how frequently it is used compared to phrases like 'falar baixinho'. You can also use the word in the context of music and art, discussing how a Bossa Nova singer 'sussurra' the lyrics. This level is about precision and choosing 'sussurrar' over other verbs because it perfectly fits the breathy, quiet quality of the sound you want to describe. You are no longer just translating 'whisper'; you are using the word 'sussurrar' with all its Portuguese cultural and linguistic baggage.

At the C1 level, your use of 'sussurrar' is sophisticated and natural. You use it in complex literary analyses or high-level professional discussions to describe subtle communications. You understand the historical and etymological roots of the word and how it relates to other Romance languages. You can use it in the most advanced grammatical structures, such as the future subjunctive or personal infinitive, without hesitation. 'Quando sussurrares o meu nome, eu estarei lá' (When you whisper my name, I will be there). You are also sensitive to the 'onomatopoeic' value of the word in poetry and can discuss how the 's' sounds contribute to the mood of a text. At this level, you can distinguish between very subtle nuances, such as the difference between 'sussurrar', 'ciciar', and 'balbuciar', choosing the exact word to convey a specific phonetic and emotional quality. You might use 'sussurrar' to describe the 'whispering' of history or the 'whispering' of a conscience. Your vocabulary is so rich that 'sussurrar' is just one of many tools you use to describe the world with precision and elegance. You can also handle complex idiomatic expressions and understand how the word functions in various dialects of the Portuguese-speaking world.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'sussurrar' and its place in the Portuguese language. You use it with the same ease and nuance as a highly educated native speaker. You can appreciate and use the word in its most abstract and philosophical senses. For example, you might discuss 'o sussurro da alma' (the whisper of the soul) in a philosophical essay or a piece of creative writing. You are fully aware of the word's presence in the canon of Portuguese literature and can reference its use by great poets like Camões or Pessoa. Your pronunciation is perfect, capturing the breathy sibilance that makes the word so expressive. You can use 'sussurrar' in any register, from the most informal gossip to the most formal academic or legal context (e.g., describing a 'sussurrada' threat in a legal deposition). You understand the subtle play of sounds in the word and how it can be used for rhetorical effect. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile instrument that you play with total control. You can switch between 'sussurrar', 'segredar', 'murmurar', and 'ciciar' to create exactly the right tone, rhythm, and imagery in your speech and writing. You are a true master of the language's acoustic and emotional landscape.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

sussurrar in 30 Seconds

Sussurrar is a regular Portuguese verb meaning 'to whisper' or 'to speak softly'.
It is used for secrets, romantic contexts, and in quiet public places like libraries.
The word is onomatopoeic, mimicking the sound of breathy speech with its 's' sounds.
It also describes natural sounds like the wind or waves in literary writing.

The Portuguese verb sussurrar is a beautiful, onomatopoeic word that perfectly captures the sound of air passing through the lips without vocal cord vibration. At its core, it means 'to whisper' or 'to speak very softly.' However, in the rich tapestry of the Portuguese language, it carries nuances that extend beyond mere volume control. It is a word deeply rooted in intimacy, secrecy, and the natural world. When you sussurrar, you are creating a private acoustic space between yourself and the listener, often excluding the rest of the world. This action is common in environments where silence is expected, such as libraries, churches, or during a film at the cinema, but it is equally prevalent in romantic settings where soft words are used to convey affection and closeness.

Acoustic Quality: The word itself, with its repeated 's' sounds, mimics the sibilant nature of a whisper. It describes a sound that is breathy and lacks the resonance of a full voice.
Social Context: Used primarily when sharing secrets (segredos) or when trying not to disturb others. It implies a level of confidentiality or respect for the surrounding environment.

Ela inclinou-se para sussurrar um segredo no meu ouvido durante a aula.

Beyond human interaction, sussurrar is frequently used in Portuguese literature to personify nature. You will often find poets describing how the wind 'sussurra' through the leaves of the trees or how the waves 'sussurram' against the shore. This metaphorical use elevates the word from a simple verb of communication to a descriptive tool that evokes atmosphere and mood. It suggests a gentle, continuous sound that is soothing and rhythmic. In a romantic context, 'sussurrar palavras doces' (to whisper sweet words) is a common expression used in songs and novels to denote deep emotional connection. It is important to note that while 'sussurrar' is the standard term, it focuses on the physical act of speaking quietly, whereas related words like 'cochichar' might imply a more gossipy or conspiratorial tone.

O vento começou a sussurrar por entre as árvores ao entardecer.

In daily life, you might use this verb when you are in a hospital and need to talk to a nurse without waking other patients, or when you are telling a child a bedtime story and want to create a magical, quiet atmosphere. It is a regular '-ar' verb, making it relatively easy for learners to conjugate across different tenses. Understanding the cultural weight of 'sussurrar' helps a learner move beyond basic translation and into the realm of expressive, nuanced Portuguese. Whether used for a secret, a soft romantic gesture, or a description of the natural world, 'sussurrar' remains one of the most evocative verbs in the language.

Não precisas de gritar; podes simplesmente sussurrar.

Etymological Connection: Derived from the Latin 'susurrare', it has maintained its phonetic link to the sound it represents for centuries across Romance languages.

Eles passavam horas a sussurrar planos para o futuro.

O mar parecia sussurrar canções antigas aos marinheiros.

Using sussurrar correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure and the common prepositions that accompany it. As a regular '-ar' verb, its conjugation follows the standard pattern (eu sussurro, tu sussurras, ele sussurra, etc.). The most common syntax is 'sussurrar algo a alguém' (to whisper something to someone) or 'sussurrar sobre algo' (to whisper about something). When you want to specify where the whisper is directed, especially if it's towards someone's ear, you use the phrase 'ao ouvido'. For example, 'Ele sussurrou o segredo ao meu ouvido.' This structure is vital for sounding natural in Portuguese. You can also use adverbs to modify the intensity or quality of the whisper, such as 'sussurrar baixinho' (to whisper very quietly) or 'sussurrar suavemente' (to whisper softly).

Direct Object Usage: You can sussurrar a name, a secret, or a prayer. 'Ela sussurrou o nome dele' (She whispered his name).
Prepositional Phrases: 'Sussurrar para' is also common, especially when emphasizing the recipient. 'Eu sussurrei para ela que estava na hora de ir.'

Nós sussurramos durante todo o filme para não incomodar os outros.

In more advanced usage, 'sussurrar' can take on a figurative meaning in passive or impersonal constructions. For instance, 'Sussurra-se que o diretor vai se demitir' (It is whispered/rumored that the director is going to resign). In this context, it functions similarly to 'diz-se' (it is said) but adds a layer of secrecy or unofficial information. When describing the sounds of nature, the verb often appears in the third person singular or plural. 'As folhas sussurram ao vento' (The leaves whisper in the wind). This usage is very common in descriptive writing and poetry. It is also helpful to know how to use it in the imperative form when asking for silence: 'Sussurra, por favor, o bebé está a dormir' (Whisper, please, the baby is sleeping).

O que é que tu lhe sussurraste há pouco?

When constructing sentences with 'sussurrar', think about the 'why'. Are you whispering because of a secret? Use 'segredo'. Are you whispering because you are scared? Use 'com medo'. Are you whispering because you are in a quiet place? Use 'na biblioteca'. This contextual mapping will help you choose the right complements for the verb. Another interesting point is the use of the gerund (Portuguese 'gerúndio') or the infinitive with 'a' (common in Portugal). 'Ele está a sussurrar' vs. 'Ele está sussurrando'. Both mean 'He is whispering', but the former is more common in Portugal and the latter in Brazil. Mastering these small variations will make your Portuguese sound much more authentic and refined.

Não sussurres tão alto, senão todos vão ouvir!

Negative Commands: 'Não sussurres' (Don't whisper) uses the subjunctive form for the imperative, which is a key rule for A2/B1 learners to practice.

Eles sussurravam um ao outro enquanto caminhavam pelo parque.

Ela gosta de sussurrar quando está nervosa.

In the real world, sussurrar is a word that pops up in a variety of settings, ranging from the mundane to the highly dramatic. If you are living in or visiting a Portuguese-speaking country, you will most frequently hear it in social environments that require low volume. Imagine you are in a museum (museu) or a historical cathedral (sé). You will hear parents telling their children, 'Fala baixo, sussurra!' This is a direct application of the verb in a disciplinary but gentle context. In the workplace, 'sussurrar' might occur during a meeting when two colleagues need to exchange a quick, private thought without interrupting the speaker. Here, it signifies professionalism and discretion.

Media and Entertainment: In Portuguese 'telenovelas' (soap operas), 'sussurrar' is a staple. Characters often whisper plots, secrets, or declarations of love to create tension and drama. It’s a key verb for following the plot of many shows.
Literature and Poetry: From Fernando Pessoa to Clarice Lispector, Portuguese-language authors use 'sussurrar' to describe everything from the wind to the inner voices of their characters. It is a highly literary word.

No teatro, os atores às vezes precisam de sussurrar de forma a serem ouvidos pelo público.

Another modern context where you might encounter this word is in the world of ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response). Portuguese ASMR creators frequently use the word 'sussurros' in their video titles to attract viewers looking for relaxing, whispered content. This has given the word a new, digital life. Furthermore, in clinical settings, a doctor might 'sussurrar' to a colleague about a patient's condition to maintain privacy, or a therapist might use a 'voz sussurrada' (whispered voice) during a relaxation exercise. The word is also central to the concept of 'fofoca' (gossip). While 'cochichar' is more common for the act of gossiping, 'sussurrar' is used to describe the quiet way in which the information is delivered.

Ouvi alguém a sussurrar o meu nome no corredor escuro.

Music is another place where 'sussurrar' shines. Bossa Nova, for instance, is a genre characterized by its 'whispered' vocal style. Singers like João Gilberto often seem to be 'sussurrando' the lyrics directly into the listener's ear, creating an atmosphere of intense intimacy and 'saudade'. If you listen to Portuguese music, pay attention to how the lyrics describe the sea 'sussurrando' or a lover 'sussurrando' promises. Finally, in religious contexts, you will see people 'sussurrando preces' (whispering prayers) in churches. This is a sign of personal devotion and humility. By recognizing 'sussurrar' in these varied contexts, you start to see it not just as a verb, but as a cultural marker of how Portuguese speakers navigate private and public spaces.

A canção fala sobre o mar que gosta de sussurrar segredos à areia.

Legal and Formal Use: While rare in formal documents, it might appear in witness testimonies: 'Ele sussurrou uma ameaça antes de sair.'

O guia pediu-nos para sussurrar enquanto visitávamos o mosteiro.

Não consigo ouvir o que eles estão a sussurrar.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using sussurrar is confusing it with its near-synonym cochichar. While both involve speaking quietly, 'cochichar' almost always implies gossiping or telling secrets in a way that might be considered exclusionary or slightly rude. If you say 'Eles estão a sussurrar', you are describing the volume. If you say 'Eles estão a cochichar', you are implying they are talking about someone or something they shouldn't be. Another mistake is using the wrong preposition. In English, we say 'whisper in someone's ear', but in Portuguese, the most natural way is 'sussurrar ao ouvido' or 'sussurrar no ouvido'. Using 'em o ouvido' is grammatically correct but sounds clunky and unidiomatic.

Confusing 'Sussurrar' with 'Murmurar': 'Murmurar' (to murmur) is often used for complaining under one's breath or speaking unclearly. 'Sussurrar' is a deliberate choice for low volume, usually clear enough for the intended listener.
Incorrect Conjugation: Some learners treat it as an irregular verb because of its long phonetic structure, but it is a perfectly regular '-ar' verb. Avoid adding extra 'u's or 's's in the conjugation.

Errado: Eu sussurro no o ouvido dele. Correto: Eu sussurro ao ouvido dele.

A subtle mistake involves the use of 'sussurrar' in the context of complaining. In English, you might whisper a complaint, but in Portuguese, 'resmungar' (to grumble) or 'murmurar' is more appropriate if the intent is negative. 'Sussurrar' is generally neutral or positive. Additionally, learners often forget the reflexive 'se' is not needed unless the verb is being used in a very specific, rare reflexive way (which is almost never). You don't 'sussurrar-se'; you just 'sussurrar'. Also, pay attention to the difference between the verb 'sussurrar' and the noun 'sussurro'. A common error is saying 'Eu ouvi um sussurrar' when you should say 'Eu ouvi um sussurro' (I heard a whisper). The infinitive as a noun is less common in this specific case.

Errado: Eles estão a cochichar o segredo. Correto: Eles estão a sussurrar o segredo.

Lastly, be careful with the word 'segredar'. While it means 'to whisper secrets', it is much more formal and less common in everyday conversation than 'sussurrar'. Using 'segredar' in a casual setting might make you sound like you are reading from a 19th-century novel. Stick to 'sussurrar' for most situations. Also, remember that 'sussurrar' is an intransitive verb (it doesn't need an object) but can also be transitive. You can just say 'Eles sussurram' (They whisper), but you can also say 'Eles sussurram palavras' (They whisper words). Forgetting that it can be used both ways can limit your sentence variety. Avoid over-using 'falar baixo' when 'sussurrar' is the more precise and evocative choice.

Errado: O vento grita suavemente. Correto: O vento sussurra suavemente.

Spelling Error: Writing 'susurar' with only one 's' in the middle. In Portuguese, to maintain the 's' sound between vowels, you must use 'ss'.

Tenta sussurrar para não acordar os vizinhos.

A Maria sussurrou que precisava de ajuda.

Portuguese is a language rich in synonyms, and sussurrar has several close relatives that you should know to improve your fluency. The most common alternative is cochichar. As discussed, 'cochichar' is more about the act of telling secrets or gossiping. If you see two people in a corner looking at someone and talking quietly, they are 'cochichando'. Another important word is murmurar. This word is closer to 'murmur' or 'mumble'. It often describes speaking in a low, indistinct voice, sometimes out of discontent or because one is talking to themselves. While 'sussurrar' is breathy, 'murmurar' usually involves some vocalization, just at a very low and perhaps unclear level.

Sussurrar vs. Cochichar: Sussurrar is about the volume; cochichar is about the intent (secrecy/gossip).
Sussurrar vs. Murmurar: Sussurrar is a breathy whisper; murmurar is a low, often indistinct vocalization.
Sussurrar vs. Segredar: Segredar is formal and specifically means 'to whisper secrets'.

Em vez de gritar, podes murmurar a tua resposta.

For more poetic or literary contexts, you might encounter ciciar. This is a very soft, sibilant whisper, often used to describe the sound of a light breeze or a very delicate voice. It's less common in everyday speech but beautiful in writing. Another verb, balbuciar, means to stammer or babble, often used when someone is so nervous or emotional that they can only whisper broken words. It’s useful for describing a specific type of whispered communication. If you want to be very literal, you can use the phrase falar em voz baixa (to speak in a low voice), which is a safe, all-purpose alternative to 'sussurrar' when volume is the only concern.

Ela começou a balbuciar desculpas quando foi apanhada.

When choosing between these alternatives, consider the 'texture' of the sound. Is it 'hissing' like the wind? Use 'sussurrar' or 'ciciar'. Is it 'grumbly' like someone complaining? Use 'murmurar'. Is it 'choppy' like someone crying? Use 'balbuciar'. Is it 'suspicious' like two people talking about you? Use 'cochichar'. This level of detail in your vocabulary choice is what separates an intermediate learner from an advanced speaker. Practice using each of these in a sentence to see how the meaning changes. For example, 'Ele sussurrou o nome dela' sounds romantic, while 'Ele murmurou o nome dela' might sound like he is dreaming or confused. Mastering these synonyms will give your Portuguese a much wider emotional and descriptive range.

O riacho parecia ciciar entre as pedras do caminho.

Colloquialism: In some regions, people use 'falar baixinho' more often than 'sussurrar' in daily conversation, as it sounds less formal.

Eles estão a cochichar no fundo da sala; deve ser fofoca.

Não segredes nada a ninguém sobre a festa surpresa.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The Latin root 'susurrus' is where we also get the English word 'susurration', which is a literary term for whispering or rustling.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /su.su.ˈʁaɾ/

US /su.su.ˈʁaʁ/

The stress is on the last syllable 'rar'.

Rhymes With

cantar falar andar olhar amar lugar mar pensar

Common Errors

Pronouncing the double 'ss' like a 'z' (it should always be a voiceless 's').
Failing to produce the strong 'rr' sound in the middle.
Stressing the second-to-last syllable instead of the last.
Making the 'u' sound too much like 'uh' (it should be a pure 'oo' sound).
Pronouncing it like the Spanish 'susurrar' with a tapped 'r' instead of the Portuguese guttural 'rr'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to its onomatopoeic nature and Latin roots.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the double 'ss' and double 'rr'.

Speaking 4/5

The combination of 's' and guttural 'rr' can be tricky for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Usually clear in context, but can be confused with 'cochichar'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

falar ouvir voz baixo segredo

Learn Next

cochichar murmurar gritar exclamar segredar

Advanced

ciciar balbuciar prolatar articular

Grammar to Know

Regular -ar Verbs

Eu sussurro, tu sussurras, ele sussurra.

Preposition 'a' with indirect objects

Sussurrar a alguém.

Contraction 'ao' (a + o)

Sussurrar ao ouvido.

Imperfect tense for descriptions

O vento sussurrava.

Imperative for commands

Sussurra!

Examples by Level

Eu sussurro para o meu amigo.

I whisper to my friend.

Present tense, 1st person singular.

Você sussurra na biblioteca?

Do you whisper in the library?

Interrogative sentence, 2nd person (você).

Eles sussurram um segredo.

They whisper a secret.

Present tense, 3rd person plural.

Ela sussurra 'olá'.

She whispers 'hello'.

Direct object 'olá'.

Nós sussurramos agora.

We are whispering now.

Present tense, 1st person plural.

O menino sussurra para a mãe.

The boy whispers to his mother.

Subject-verb agreement.

Não grite, sussurre!

Don't shout, whisper!

Imperative form (você).

Eu gosto de sussurrar.

I like to whisper.

Infinitive after the verb 'gostar'.

Ele sussurrou o segredo ao meu ouvido.

He whispered the secret in my ear.

Pretérito Perfeito (past tense).

Nós sussurrámos durante o filme.

We whispered during the movie.

European Portuguese past tense spelling.

Ela sempre sussurra quando o bebé dorme.

She always whispers when the baby sleeps.

Adverb of frequency 'sempre'.

O vento sussurrava entre as árvores.

The wind was whispering through the trees.

Pretérito Imperfeito (continuous past).

Por que é que tu sussurraste?

Why did you whisper?

Question in the past tense (tu).

Elas sussurravam no fundo da sala.

They were whispering at the back of the room.

Imperfect tense for background action.

Eu vou sussurrar a resposta para ti.

I am going to whisper the answer to you.

Future with 'ir' + infinitive.

Sussurra baixinho para ninguém ouvir.

Whisper very quietly so no one hears.

Imperative with adverb 'baixinho'.

Se eu te contar, tens de sussurrar.

If I tell you, you have to whisper.

Conditional structure.

Espero que ela sussurre o plano.

I hope she whispers the plan.

Present Subjunctive after 'espero que'.

Ouvimos um sussurro e ficámos com medo.

We heard a whisper and got scared.

Use of the noun 'sussurro'.

Ele sussurrava palavras de amor todas as noites.

He whispered words of love every night.

Imperfect tense for habitual action.

Não é educado sussurrar à frente dos outros.

It's not polite to whisper in front of others.

Impersonal expression 'não é educado'.

Ela sussurrou que estava pronta para sair.

She whispered that she was ready to leave.

Reported speech with 'que'.

O mar sussurrava canções de embalar.

The sea whispered lullabies.

Personification in literature.

Embora ele sussurrasse, eu não ouvi nada.

Although he whispered, I heard nothing.

Imperfect Subjunctive after 'embora'.

Sussurra-se que o diretor vai ser substituído em breve.

It is whispered that the director will be replaced soon.

Impersonal 'se' construction for rumors.

Ela costumava sussurrar para não acordar o marido doente.

She used to whisper so as not to wake her sick husband.

Verb 'costumar' + infinitive.

O ator teve de sussurrar, mas manter a projeção vocal.

The actor had to whisper but maintain vocal projection.

Complex infinitives and contrast.

Não suporto quando as pessoas sussurram em reuniões formais.

I can't stand it when people whisper in formal meetings.

Verb 'suportar' in the negative.

Os segredos eram sussurrados de geração em geração.

The secrets were whispered from generation to generation.

Passive voice.

Ele aproximou-se para lhe sussurrar uma proposta irrecusável.

He approached her to whisper an irresistible proposal.

Purpose clause with 'para'.

A brisa de verão sussurra através das janelas abertas.

The summer breeze whispers through the open windows.

Metaphorical use in descriptive prose.

Mesmo que sussurres, as paredes têm ouvidos.

Even if you whisper, the walls have ears.

Concessive clause with 'mesmo que' + subjunctive.

A narrativa é permeada por vozes que sussurram verdades esquecidas.

The narrative is permeated by voices that whisper forgotten truths.

High-level literary vocabulary.

Seria preferível que sussurrásseis as vossas queixas em privado.

It would be preferable if you whispered your complaints in private.

Vós form (archaic/formal) in the subjunctive.

O sussurrar constante das máquinas tornava o ambiente opressivo.

The constant whispering of the machines made the environment oppressive.

Infinitive used as a noun (gerundial sense).

Ela limitou-se a sussurrar uma prece antes do veredito.

She merely whispered a prayer before the verdict.

Reflexive verb 'limitar-se a'.

Havia algo de sinistro na forma como ele sussurrava o meu nome.

There was something sinister in the way he whispered my name.

Abstract subject 'algo de sinistro'.

Os conspiradores sussurravam planos de revolta nas tabernas.

The conspirators whispered plans of revolt in the taverns.

Historical/narrative context.

A voz dela, embora sussurrada, carregava uma autoridade inegável.

Her voice, though whispered, carried an undeniable authority.

Past participle used as an adjective.

Ao sussurrares tais acusações, assumes um risco enorme.

By whispering such accusations, you take an enormous risk.

Personal infinitive with 'ao'.

A obra de arte parece sussurrar segredos ontológicos aos que a contemplam.

The work of art seems to whisper ontological secrets to those who contemplate it.

Philosophical and academic register.

Não obstante o sussurrar das dúvidas, ele avançou com o projeto.

Despite the whispering of doubts, he moved forward with the project.

Formal conjunction 'não obstante'.

A sonoridade da língua portuguesa permite sussurrar poemas com uma doçura ímpar.

The sonority of the Portuguese language allows for whispering poems with unique sweetness.

Complex subject and predicate structure.

O autor utiliza o verbo 'sussurrar' para evocar uma atmosfera de mistério e clausura.

The author uses the verb 'sussurrar' to evoke an atmosphere of mystery and cloister.

Literary analysis register.

Quiçá o destino nos sussurre o caminho a seguir nas horas de incerteza.

Perhaps destiny will whisper the path to follow in hours of uncertainty.

High-literary 'quiçá' + subjunctive.

A subtileza com que ela sussurrava as suas críticas era quase impercetível.

The subtlety with which she whispered her criticisms was almost imperceptible.

Complex noun phrase as subject.

Em momentos de meditação, é possível ouvir o sussurrar do próprio pensamento.

In moments of meditation, it is possible to hear the whispering of one's own thought.

Existential construction.

O sussurrar das folhas secas sob os pés anunciava a chegada do outono.

The whispering of dry leaves underfoot announced the arrival of autumn.

Metonymy and sensory description.

Common Collocations

sussurrar ao ouvido

sussurrar baixinho

sussurrar um segredo

sussurrar suavemente

sussurrar promessas

sussurrar com medo

sussurrar preces

sussurrar no escuro

sussurrar ameaças

sussurrar docemente

Common Phrases

Sussurrar aos sete ventos

— Actually an ironic twist on 'gritar aos sete ventos' (to shout to the world). It implies a secret that everyone knows.

A notícia já foi sussurrada aos sete ventos.

Sussurro de esperança

— A small, quiet sign of hope. Used in emotional or literary contexts.

Ainda resta um sussurro de esperança.

Voz sussurrada

— The specific tone of voice used when whispering. Often used in descriptions.

Ele falou com uma voz sussurrada.

Sussurrar por entre dentes

— To whisper while clenching teeth, usually out of anger or frustration.

Ele sussurrou por entre dentes que ia sair.

Sussurrar no vácuo

— To speak or whisper when no one is listening or responding. Metaphorical.

Sinto que estou a sussurrar no vácuo.

Apenas um sussurro

— Used to describe something very quiet or subtle.

O barulho era apenas um sussurro.

Sussurrar de prazer

— To make soft sounds of enjoyment or satisfaction.

Ela sussurrou de prazer ao provar o doce.

Sussurrar no silêncio

— To speak in a way that emphasizes the surrounding quiet.

É difícil sussurrar no silêncio total.

Sussurrar com o olhar

— A poetic way to say communicating something subtle through eye contact.

Eles pareciam sussurrar com o olhar.

Ouvir sussurros

— To hear rumors or quiet conversations.

Ouvi sussurros sobre a mudança de gerência.

Often Confused With

sussurrar vs cochichar

Cochichar implies gossip or telling secrets to exclude others, while sussurrar is just about volume.

sussurrar vs murmurar

Murmurar is more about speaking indistinctly or complaining, while sussurrar is a clear but breathy whisper.

sussurrar vs ciciar

Ciciar is a much more literary and specific term for a soft, sibilant sound, rarely used in daily speech.

Idioms & Expressions

"Sussurrar aos ouvidos de Deus"

— To pray very sincerely and quietly, implying a direct connection to the divine.

Ela sussurrava aos ouvidos de Deus todos os dias.

religious/poetic

"Paredes que sussurram"

— Refers to a place where secrets are easily revealed or where history is felt.

Neste castelo antigo, as paredes sussurram segredos.

literary

"Sussurrar para o umbigo"

— To speak so quietly or indistinctly that you are basically talking to yourself.

Para de sussurrar para o umbigo e fala para fora!

informal/humorous

"Um sussurro na tempestade"

— Something very small or insignificant in the middle of a chaotic situation.

A minha opinião foi apenas um sussurro na tempestade.

metaphorical

"Sussurrar com a consciência"

— To reflect deeply or feel the quiet nagging of one's morals.

Ele sussurrava com a consciência antes de dormir.

philosophical

"Sussurrar no deserto"

— To give advice or information that is ignored or goes to waste.

Avisá-lo foi como sussurrar no deserto.

metaphorical

"Sussurros de corredor"

— Rumors or gossip spread in an office or institution.

Os sussurros de corredor dizem que haverá cortes.

professional

"Sussurrar à sorte"

— To hope for good luck through a quiet, almost superstitious wish.

Ele sussurrou à sorte antes de lançar os dados.

colloquial

"Sussurrar a verdade"

— To tell a difficult truth in a gentle or cautious way.

Às vezes, é preciso sussurrar a verdade.

general

"Sussurrar para as estrelas"

— To dream or wish for something impossible or very distant.

Ela passava a noite a sussurrar para as estrelas.

poetic

Easily Confused

sussurrar vs suspirar

Sounds similar and both involve breath.

Suspirar means 'to sigh' (releasing a long breath), while sussurrar means 'to whisper' (speaking).

Eu suspiro de cansaço, mas sussurro um segredo.

sussurrar vs murmurar

Both mean speaking quietly.

Murmurar often involves vocalization and can be indistinct; sussurrar is breathy and usually intentional for privacy.

Ele murmurou um insulto, mas sussurrou um elogio.

sussurrar vs segredar

Both involve whispering.

Segredar is specifically for secrets and is more formal; sussurrar is the general verb for whispering.

Eles segredaram o plano, mas sussurraram durante o filme.

sussurrar vs cochichar

Very close in meaning.

Cochichar is informal and often carries a negative connotation of gossip.

Parem de cochichar sobre mim!

sussurrar vs resmungar

Low volume speech.

Resmungar means to grumble or complain; it is not necessarily a whisper.

Ele resmunga o dia todo.

Sentence Patterns

Eu [verb] [object].

Eu sussurro segredos.

[Subject] [verb-past] ao ouvido de [person].

Ele sussurrou ao ouvido da Maria.

Se [subject] [subjunctive], [conditional].

Se eu soubesse, eu sussurraria.

Sussurra-se que [clause].

Sussurra-se que ele vai casar.

Apesar de [subject] [infinitive personal], [clause].

Apesar de eles sussurrarem, eu ouvi.

O [noun] [adjective] sussurrava [metaphor].

O mar revolto sussurrava vingança.

Não [verb-imperative]!

Não sussurres!

Espero que tu [verb-subjunctive].

Espero que tu sussurres.

Word Family

Nouns

sussurro (whisper)

sussurração (act of whispering)

Verbs

sussurrar (to whisper)

Adjectives

sussurrante (whispering/rustling)

sussurrado (whispered)

cochichar

murmurar

segredar

ciciar

voz

How to Use It

frequency

High in literature, medium-high in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 'susurar' with one 's'. → sussurrar
In Portuguese, a single 's' between vowels is pronounced like a 'z'. To keep the 's' sound, you must use 'ss'.
Confusing 'sussurrar' with 'suspirar'. → sussurrar
Suspirar means to sigh. Sussurrar means to whisper. They are related to breathing but have different meanings.
Saying 'sussurrar em o ouvido'. → sussurrar ao ouvido
While 'em o' (no) is possible, 'ao ouvido' is the most idiomatic and common way to express this in Portuguese.
Using 'sussurrar' when you mean 'gossip'. → cochichar
Sussurrar is about volume; cochichar is about the social act of sharing secrets/gossip.
Treating 'sussurrar' as an irregular verb. → sussurrar (regular)
Despite its length, it follows all the standard rules for -ar verbs. Don't overcomplicate the conjugation.

Tips

Master the 'SS'

Ensure the double 's' is always voiceless, like the 's' in 'sun'. If you make it sound like a 'z', it will sound incorrect to native ears.

Use it for Nature

Don't just use 'sussurrar' for people. Use it to describe the wind, the sea, or rustling leaves to make your Portuguese sound more poetic and advanced.

Remember the Preposition

Always try to use 'ao ouvido' instead of just 'no ouvido' to sound more like a native speaker when talking about whispering in someone's ear.

Sussurrar vs. Cochichar

Use 'sussurrar' when you want to be neutral. Use 'cochichar' only when you want to imply that secrets or gossip are being shared.

Atmosphere Building

In creative writing, use 'sussurrar' to lower the energy of a scene and create a sense of intimacy or suspense.

Listen for the 'RR'

The strong 'rr' in 'sussurrar' is a key identifier. Even when whispered, native speakers will often preserve the guttural quality of that sound.

Music Connection

Listen to Bossa Nova to hear the 'sussurrado' vocal style. It's a great way to practice the soft, breathy pronunciation required for this verb.

Rumors

Remember the construction 'Sussurra-se que...' to talk about things people are saying behind the scenes.

The Snake Hint

Visualize the 'S' sounds as a snake's hiss to remember the word for whisper.

Daily Practice

Try whispering your Portuguese practice sentences today. It's a fun way to incorporate the verb into your routine!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the 'ss' in the middle of 'suSSurrar' as the 'shhh' sound you make when you want someone to be quiet and whisper.

Visual Association

Imagine a snake (S-shaped) whispering a secret into someone's ear. The 'S' sounds in the word mimic the snake's hiss.

Word Web

silêncio segredo ouvido vento voz baixinho intimidade noite

Challenge

Try to say 'sussurrar' five times fast without making the 's' sounds turn into 'z' sounds. Then, try to use it in a sentence about a secret.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'susurrare', which means to hum, buzz, or whisper. It is an onomatopoeic root that has survived into modern Romance languages.

Original meaning: To make a low, continuous humming or whispering sound.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Galician-Portuguese > Portuguese

Cultural Context

Be careful not to 'cochichar' (gossip-whisper) in formal Portuguese business meetings as it is seen as unprofessional.

English speakers might use 'whisper' for both secrets and complaining; Portuguese speakers prefer 'sussurrar' for the former and 'murmurar' or 'resmungar' for the latter.

The song 'Sussurro' by various Bossa Nova artists. Literary descriptions in 'Os Lusíadas' where the sea whispers. ASMR channels on YouTube from Brazil and Portugal using 'sussurros'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Library/Study Hall

Podes sussurrar?
Temos de sussurrar aqui.
Não sussurres tão alto.
O bibliotecário pediu para sussurrarmos.

Romantic Setting

Sussurra-me algo doce.
Ele sussurrou que a amava.
Sussurrar ao luar.
Um sussurro apaixonado.

Sharing Secrets

Vou sussurrar o segredo.
Sussurra ao meu ouvido.
Eles estão a sussurrar planos.
O que é que ele te sussurrou?

Nature/Description

O vento sussurra nas árvores.
O mar sussurra na areia.
As folhas sussurram ao vento.
Um sussurro da natureza.

Cinema/Theater

Sussurra durante o filme.
Não sussurres, as pessoas ouvem.
Eles sussurravam sobre a cena.
Podes sussurrar a tradução?

Conversation Starters

"Tu costumas sussurrar quando tens um segredo importante?"

"Achas que é falta de educação sussurrar quando estamos em grupo?"

"Gostas de ouvir o vento a sussurrar nas árvores durante a noite?"

"Alguma vez sussurraste a resposta errada a um amigo num teste?"

"Qual foi a última coisa que alguém te sussurrou ao ouvido?"

Journal Prompts

Escreve sobre um momento em que tiveste de sussurrar para não seres apanhado.

Descreve os sons da natureza usando o verbo 'sussurrar' e outros verbos de som.

O que sentes quando alguém te sussurra um segredo? Escreve sobre essa sensação.

Imagina uma cidade onde ninguém pode falar alto, apenas sussurrar. Como seria a vida lá?

Relata uma conversa importante que tiveste que aconteceu inteiramente em sussurros.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'sussurrar' is used in all Portuguese-speaking countries. However, in casual Brazilian Portuguese, you might hear 'falar baixinho' more frequently, whereas 'sussurrar' remains very common in literature and formal speech in both regions.

It is a regular verb. In the Pretérito Perfeito: eu sussurrei, tu sussurraste, ele sussurrou, nós sussurrámos, eles sussurraram. In the Pretérito Imperfeito: eu sussurrava, tu sussurravas, ele sussurrava, nós sussurrávamos, eles sussurravam.

The main difference is intent. 'Sussurrar' refers to the physical act of speaking quietly. 'Cochichar' refers to the act of sharing secrets or gossip, often in a way that excludes others. You 'sussurra' because it's a library; you 'cochicha' because you have juicy gossip.

Absolutely! It is very common in Portuguese to say 'o vento sussurra nas árvores' (the wind whispers in the trees). This is a standard literary and poetic use of the verb.

Yes, 'sussurrar' is a completely regular '-ar' verb. It follows the same conjugation rules as 'falar' (to speak) or 'amar' (to love) in all tenses.

The most idiomatic way is 'sussurrar ao meu ouvido'. You can also say 'sussurrar no meu ouvido', but 'ao' is very common and sounds very natural.

The noun is 'sussurro'. For example: 'Ouvi um sussurro' (I heard a whisper). It can also be used in the plural: 'sussurros'.

Like many cultures, whispering (especially 'cochichar') in a group can be seen as 'falta de educação' (rude) because it suggests you are talking about someone present. However, 'sussurrar' in a library or cinema is expected and polite.

Yes, in the impersonal form 'sussurra-se', it means 'it is rumored' or 'it is whispered'. Example: 'Sussurra-se que haverá mudanças' (It is rumored that there will be changes).

While not as common as other verbs, 'sussurros de corredor' is a frequent professional idiom for office rumors. Poetically, you might hear 'sussurrar aos ouvidos de Deus' for deep prayer.