Nasal Sounds in Portuguese

Nasal sounds are one of the most distinctive and challenging aspects of learning Portuguese. These unique sounds are a hallmark of the language’s phonetic system and play a crucial role in ensuring clear and accurate communication.

In Portuguese, nasal sounds occur when air flows partially or entirely through the nose during speech. Both vowels and consonants can be nasalized, altering the pronunciation and even the meaning of words. This feature sets Portuguese apart from other Romance languages like Spanish and Italian, making it an essential area of focus for learners.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of nasal sounds in Portuguese and the common spellings that represent them. By understanding these key elements, you’ll be one step closer to mastering authentic Portuguese pronunciation. Read on.

Nasal vowels

Vowel sounds are speech sounds produced without any significant constriction or blockage of airflow in the vocal tract, allowing the vocal cords to vibrate freely.

Nasal vowels are a subcategory where the air flows through the nose (at least partially). Here are the Portuguese nasal vowels and the spellings representing them.

/ɐ̃/

When ‘a‘ is followed by two consonants, the first of which is either ‘n‘ or ‘m‘. Also, in words ending in ‘ã’:

cantiga (song)
mambo (mambo)
lã (wool)
…

/ẽ/

When ‘e‘ is followed by two consonants, the first of which is either ‘n‘ or ‘m‘:

quente (hot)
dente (tooth)
membro (member)
…

/ĩ/

When ‘i’ is followed by two consonants, the first of which is either ‘n’ or ‘m’. Also, in words ending in ‘im’:

impossível (impossible)
tinta (paint)
sim (yes)
…

/õ/

When ‘o‘ is followed by two consonants, the first of which is either ‘n‘ or ‘m‘. Also, in words ending in ‘om’:

sombra (shade/shadow)
ponte (bridge)
bom (good)
…

/ũ/

When ‘u‘ is followed by two consonants, the first of which is either ‘n‘ or ‘m‘. Also, in words ending in ‘um’:

juntar (join)
deslumbrante (dazzling)
comum (common)
…

Nasal diphthongs

Diphthongs are complex vowel sounds that begin with one vowel sound and glide into another within the same syllable, creating a seamless transition between the two.

Nasal diphthongs are a subcategory where the air flows through the nose (at least partially). Here are the Portuguese nasal diphthongs and the spellings representing them.

/ɐ̃w/

Spelled with ão(s) or am at the end of words:

pão (bread)
mãos (hands)
mergulham (they take a dip)
…

/ɐ̃j/

Spelled with ãe(s) at the end of words:

mãe (mother)
cães (dogs)
alemães (germans)
…

/õj/

Spelled with õe(s) at the end of words:

põe (put)
limões (lemons)
campeões (champions)
…

Nasal consonants

Consonant sounds are speech sounds produced by obstructing or restricting airflow in the vocal tract, typically involving the tongue, lips, teeth, or palate.

Nasal consonants are a subcategory where the air flows through the nose (at least partially). Here are the Portuguese nasal consonants and the spellings representing them.

/n/

Spelled with an n followed by a vowel:

neto (grandchild)
anão (dwarf)
anis (anis)
…

/m/

Spelled with an m followed by a vowel:

mal (evil)
mente (mind)
mesmo (same)
…

/ɲ/

Spelled with an nh:

estranho (weird)
dinheiro (money)
sozinho (alone)
…

To learn more about the European Portuguese sound system take a look at this one: Master European Portuguese Pronunciation: Essential Guide for Beginners and Beyond.

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