Gostos

Gostos is the plural form of the Portuguese noun gosto, meaning taste, liking, preference, or flavor. The term covers both sensory impressions, such as the taste of food, and subjective preferences, such as musical or aesthetic tastes. In everyday language, gostos is used to refer to what a person or group enjoys or dislikes.

Etymology and related terms: Gostos derives from Latin gustus, meaning taste or sensation. It is closely related to the Spanish gusto and to the general concept of taste in many Romance languages. The related verb gostar or gostar de means to like, while gosto expresses the noun form of that idea.

Usage and phrases: Common expressions include ter gosto (to have a taste or preference), ter bom gosto (to have good taste), and dar gosto (to be pleasing or enjoyable). Gostos pode be used in plural to discuss various preferences, as in gostos e desgostos (likes and dislikes). In culinary contexts, gosto describes flavor profiles, for example, gosto intenso (intense taste) or gosto suave (mild flavor). The phrase bom gosto often carries a cultural or social connotation, signaling refinement, though evaluations of taste remain subjective.

Cultural context: Gostos reflect personal and regional differences in what is considered pleasant or desirable. While some tastes are linked to cuisine, others pertain to art, music, fashion, and lifestyle. The concept of gosto plays a role in how communities negotiate shared standards of appreciation as well as individual expression.