café — meaning in English: coffee

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Guess the translation for coffee

com certeza

sim

café

carro

muito

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informal very common

Usage

Native Portuguese speakers commonly use the word 'café' in social settings, particularly during breakfast or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. For instance, you might hear friends suggesting a quick 'café' during a chat at a local café or a family gathering where a rich brew of coffee is served.

Synonyms & nuances

While 'café' specifically refers to coffee, another close term is 'café-com-leite,' which is coffee with milk. You would use 'café' when referring to the drink in its pure form, whereas 'café-com-leite' indicates a specific preparation that includes milk.

Culture

'Café' has its roots in the Arabic word 'qahwa,' which means 'wine' or 'intoxicating drink.' Coffee has played a significant role in Brazilian culture, where the drink is often enjoyed in both casual and formal settings. In fact, Brazil is one of the largest coffee producers in the world, making 'café' a staple not just in language but also in the country's economy and social fabric.

FAQ

Q.What does 'café' mean in English?

'Café' translates to 'coffee' in English and is used to refer to the beverage made from roasted coffee beans.

Q.How do you order coffee in Portuguese?

You can simply say 'Um café, por favor,' which means 'A coffee, please.' If you want it with milk, say 'Um café-com-leite, por favor.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'café'?

A common mistake is using 'café' when referring to a café or coffee shop. In Portuguese, 'café' specifically means the drink, while 'cafeteria' or 'café' can be used to refer to a coffee shop.

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Portuguese Vocabulary