Não curto

Using it is incredibly simple. You just put it before the thing you don't like. You can say não curto japa if you aren't feeling sushi tonight. You can also use it on its own as a response. If a friend asks if you want to go to a heavy metal concert, a simple vixi, não curto works perfectly. It’s very flexible. You can use it for music, food, people's behavior, or even weekend plans.

This is your go-to phrase for social settings. Use it when hanging out with friends or coworkers you know well. It’s perfect for the group chat when deciding on a movie. Use it at a party when someone offers you a drink you don't like. It makes you sound like a local who knows the social cues. It keeps the conversation flowing without sounding like you're complaining. It's the ultimate 'no thanks' for the modern age.

Avoid this in very formal settings. Don't say não curto to your CEO during a performance review. It might sound a bit too 'teenager' or dismissive in a serious meeting. Also, avoid it when you need to be very clear about a serious dislike. If something is actually offensive or dangerous, não curto is way too weak. In those cases, stick to a firm não gosto or não aceito. Don't use it for people you actually respect but just met.

In Brazil, being direct can sometimes feel a bit 'dry' or rude. Brazilians love to soften their negatives. Não curto became popular with the rise of surf culture and youth movements in the 80s and 90s. It’s part of a relaxed lifestyle. It reflects the Brazilian desire to keep things 'light' even when saying no. It’s also the basis for the 'Like' button on social media in Portuguese, which is Curti.

If you really don't like something, you can say não curto nem um pouco. If you want to sound even more casual, try curto não. In some regions, you might hear não curto muito, which is a polite way to decline. You can also change the person: ele não curte (he doesn't like it). If you want to sound extra 'Paulista' (from São Paulo), add a meu at the end: não curto, meu.