I'm learning português

curiosidade — meaning in English: curiosity

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for curiosity
irreverente
cidade
compra
luz
curiosidade
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Portuguese for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'curiosidade' in everyday conversations when discussing interests and desires to learn more about a topic. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Minha curiosidade sobre a história local me levou a visitar o museu,' which translates to 'My curiosity about local history led me to visit the museum.' It can also appear in academic settings, where students express curiosity about a subject matter during discussions.
Synonyms & nuances
'Curiosidade' can be closely associated with 'interesse,' which means 'interest.' However, 'curiosidade' carries a connotation of a deeper desire to explore or understand, while 'interesse' may imply a more superficial engagement. You would choose 'curiosidade' when expressing a profound inquisitiveness about something specific.
Culture
'Curiosidade' shares its roots with the Latin 'curiositas,' which means 'inquisitiveness.' In Portuguese culture, curiosity is often celebrated, encouraging a spirit of exploration, whether in art, science, or social interactions. Interestingly, in Brazil, there's a popular saying: 'A curiosidade é a mãe da ciência,' meaning 'Curiosity is the mother of science,' illustrating how valued this trait is in fostering innovation and discovery.
FAQ
Q.What does 'curiosidade' mean in English?
'Curiosidade' translates to 'curiosity' in English. It refers to the desire to learn or know about something, indicating a deeper interest in exploring topics or experiences.
Q.How do you use 'curiosidade' in a sentence?
You can use 'curiosidade' in sentences like 'Eu tenho curiosidade sobre arte moderna,' which means 'I have curiosity about modern art.' It can refer to both personal interests and general inquiries.
Q.Is 'curiosidade' used in formal contexts?
'Curiosidade' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In academic discussions or formal presentations, it can articulate a desire for knowledge, while in casual conversations, it can express personal interests.
Learn portuguese with Maspeak →
Portuguese Vocabulary