porra
What does porra mean? porra is a Portuguese strong that translates to “fuck / shit / damn / hell” in English.
Literal Translation
semen / cum
Meaning & Usage
"fuck / shit / damn / hell"
The most versatile word in Brazilian Portuguese. Literally 'cum/semen' but functions as noun, verb, adjective, and interjection.
Examples in the Wild
Porra! Esqueci minha carteira! (Fuck! I forgot my wallet!) / Que porra é essa? (What the fuck is this?)
When to Use It
Context
- Informal settings where profanity is accepted
- Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
- As a spontaneous exclamation
Avoid
- Professional or formal settings
- Around elders or authority figures
- Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations
Cultural Context
Ubiquitous in Brazilian speech across all classes (except formal). Can express anger, joy, surprise, emphasis. 'Porra nenhuma' = absolutely nothing. 'Que porra é essa?' = What the fuck is this? Milder than English equivalents; rarely results in physical confrontation unless directed aggressively.
More in Portuguese 🇧🇷
View all →puta
“whore / bitch / slut”
Woman who sells sex; highly offensive gendered slur.
buceta
“cunt / pussy”
Vulgar slang for female genitalia.
filho da puta
“son of a bitch / motherfucker”
Attack on parentage; implies illegitimacy and low birth.
imbecil
“imbecile / moron”
Stupid or incompetent person.
baitola
“faggot”
Another strong slur for gay men.
foder
“to fuck / to screw up”
Sexual intercourse; to ruin/mess up.
merda
“shit / crap”
Excrement; standard exclamation for frustration.
arrombado
“asshole / scumbag / busted”
From 'arrombar' (to break down/bust open), implying anal tearing.