bemvindos

Bem-vindos is a Portuguese expression used to welcome someone or a group. The forms vary by gender and number: bem-vindo (masculine singular), bem-vinda (feminine singular), bem-vindos (masculine plural or mixed gender), and bem-vindas (feminine plural). It functions both as an adjective and as an interjection or greeting in different contexts, such as at the start of a meeting, upon arrival, or on websites and signage.

Etymology: the term combines bem (good, well) with vindo (coming), from the verb vir (to come). The literal sense is “well coming,” reflecting hospitality and acceptance of guests or newcomers.

Usage: bem-vindos is widely used in informal and formal settings in Portuguese-speaking communities, including Brazil and Portugal. Examples include Sejam bem-vindos (Welcome, you all), Bem-vindos ao nosso site (Welcome to our site), or when greeting visitors at an event. The phrase can also appear in written notices, letters, or speeches to acknowledge and greet attendees.

Orthography and variation: the standard spelling in Portuguese uses a hyphen: bem-vindo, bem-vinda, bem-vindos, bem-vindas. The choice of form depends on the gender and number of the person or people being addressed. Some stylistic guides may vary in less common uses, but the hyphenated forms are conventional.

Noun usage: in rare cases, bem-vindo can be used as a noun to refer to the act or concept of being welcomed, though this is less common in everyday language.

See also: greetings, hospitality, welcome phrases in Portuguese.