Olá!
Hi!
Language note: Pronounced roughly “oh-LAH”. In Portugal, the “á” is clearly stressed.
Culture note: A friendly, neutral greeting you can use anytime; pair it with “Bom dia/Boa tarde” if you want to sound extra local.
Context: At a Porto metro station entrance, a local metro staff member starts the conversation with you.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Olá
[oh-LAH]
Hello / Hi
Common greeting in European Portuguese, used in informal and neutral situations (any time of day).
No metro, digo "Olá" ao funcionário antes de perguntar como ir para Lisboa.
On the subway, I say "Hello" to the employee before asking how to get to Lisbon.
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