senhor
sir; Mr.; you (formal masculine)
Pronunciation
/seˈɲoʁ/ (BR) /sɨˈɲoɾ/ (PT)
Cultural Note
In Brazil, 'o senhor/a senhora' is the ultra-formal way to say 'you' — used with older people, authority figures, clients, and anyone you want to show respect to. It takes third-person verb forms. In Portugal, 'você' occupies this formal slot while 'o senhor' is reserved for very formal situations. Young Brazilians sometimes resist being called 'senhor' as it makes them feel old!
📝 Example Sentences
Bom dia, senhor. Em que posso ajudá-lo?
Good morning, sir. How can I help you?
O senhor gostaria de um café?
Would you like a coffee, sir?
Senhor Silva, o seu pedido está pronto.
Mr. Silva, your order is ready.