lusófonas

Lusófono (plural Lusófonos; feminine lusófona, feminine plural lusófonas) is a term used to describe a person who speaks Portuguese as their native language or as a commonly used language. More broadly, it designates the Lusophone world, comprising the countries and communities where Portuguese plays a central linguistic and cultural role.

Origin and usage: The term derives from Luso-, rooted in Lusitania, the Roman name for a region corresponding to modern Portugal. It is widely used in linguistics, sociology, and cultural studies to group Portuguese-speaking populations and to refer to the shared language and heritage.

Geographic scope: The core Lusophone states are Portugal, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste (East Timor), all of which have Portuguese as an official language. Portuguese is also used in official capacities in regions such as Macau and in diaspora communities around the world. The Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), founded in 1996, is the main intergovernmental organization coordinating cooperation among its eight member states.

Language and culture: The Portuguese language is a Romance language with multiple standard varieties and numerous dialects. The Lusophone world features diverse literary, musical, and artistic traditions that reflect the historical ties stemming from exploration, colonization, and ongoing exchange among Portuguese-speaking communities.