If you want to check your current level before starting, you can use this quick Portuguese level test:
Portuguese level quiz.
Start here: how to use these lessons
Pick 5 phrases from the list below and repeat them out loud several times. Speaking early is one of the fastest ways to improve.
- Day 1–2: learn 5 phrases and practice saying them naturally.
- Day 3–5: add 5 more phrases and combine them in short conversations.
- Day 6–7: record yourself speaking and listen to your pronunciation.
If you’d like structured guidance and corrections, you can also
book a 30-minute trial class here.
Free Brazilian Portuguese lessons: essential starter phrases
These phrases appear constantly in everyday Brazilian conversations.
Greetings
- Oi! (Hi)
- Bom dia (Good morning)
- Boa tarde (Good afternoon)
- Boa noite (Good evening / good night)
Polite basics
- Por favor (Please)
- Obrigado / Obrigada (Thank you)
- Desculpa (Sorry)
- Com licença (Excuse me)
Conversation basics
- Como você se chama? (What’s your name?)
- Eu me chamo… (My name is…)
- Tudo bem? (How are you?)
- Eu não entendi (I didn’t understand)
- Pode repetir? (Can you repeat?)
Free Brazilian Portuguese lessons: sound more natural
Pronunciation is one of the keys to sounding natural in Brazilian Portuguese.
- ão is nasal (não, pão, coração).
- R at the beginning of words often sounds like an H (Rio, roupa).
- de / di can sound like “jee” (dia, dinheiro).
- te / ti can sound like “chee” (tia, time).
For a deeper explanation of Portuguese sounds, see this overview of
Portuguese phonology.
7-day mini plan
- Day 1: greetings and polite phrases.
- Day 2: questions like “Where?” “How?” and “Why?”.
- Day 3: introduce yourself.
- Day 4: food and ordering basics.
- Day 5: directions and everyday interactions.
- Day 6: record yourself speaking.
- Day 7: review everything and practice speaking again.
Common beginner mistakes
- Translating directly from English.
- Ignoring pronunciation early.
- Only reading instead of speaking.
FAQ
Are these free Brazilian Portuguese lessons for beginners?
Yes. These phrases and tips are designed specifically for beginners starting Brazilian Portuguese.
How long does it take to start speaking Portuguese?
Many learners can start basic conversations after a few weeks of consistent practice.
How can I check my Portuguese level?
You can verify your level using this quick test:
Portuguese level quiz.
What is the best next step after this guide?
If you want structured learning and feedback, you can
book a trial Portuguese class here.