locais

Locais is a Portuguese noun in the plural that refers to places, sites or locations. The singular form is local, and the term is commonly used to designate physical spaces, geographic positions, or designated areas for particular functions. Locais can denote points on a map, regions within a territory, or spaces with specific uses.

The word derives from Latin locus, through the evolution of the Portuguese language. In everyday use, local can function as an adjective meaning “pertaining to a place,” as in hora local (local time) or serviço local. Locais as a noun typically contrast with lugar, another common term for “place,” with nuances: lugar often emphasizes a position or spot, while locais highlights a set or defined spaces within a context.

Locais appear across various domains. In geography and cartography, they denote positions on maps or within regions. In urban planning and architecture, locais indicate sites planned for development, preservation, or public use. In tourism and culture, locai s are referred to as sitios of interest, such as locais históricos (historic sites) or locais de interesse turístico (places of tourist interest). In civic contexts, locais de votação refer to polling places.

In contemporary language, locais can also be used more broadly to signify contexts or milieus, not only physical spaces. Related terms include lugar (place), localização (location or act of locating), and local (adjective).