The Portuguese Language

Portuguese started in Portugal, a small country in Europe. Today, it is spoken in many places around the world. Brazil has the most Portuguese speakers, with over 200 million. Portuguese is also spoken in parts of Africa and Asia. Like French and Italian, it comes from Latin.

Portuguese Around the World

Long ago, sailors from Portugal traveled to many lands. They took their language with them. That is why Portuguese is spoken in Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique today. Brazilian Portuguese and Portugal Portuguese are a little different. They sound like two versions of the same language.

A map of where old Portuguese was once spoken.
A map of where old Portuguese was once spoken. (Fobos92 / Wikimedia Commons)

Sounds and Words

Portuguese has some unique sounds. It uses nasal sounds, which come partly through the nose. The word for hello is 'ola.' The word for thank you is 'obrigado' for boys and 'obrigada' for girls. Portuguese is known for being warm and friendly.

Fun Facts

  • Portuguese is the sixth most spoken language in the world.
  • Brazil has more Portuguese speakers than Portugal.
  • The word 'marmalade' comes from Portuguese.

Did You Know?

Portuguese sailors helped spread the language to four continents hundreds of years ago!