alms

[/ɑːmz/]
nounpl: alms (invariable)
esmola
1. Money, food, or other donations given to poor or needy people as an act of charity
She gave alms to the homeless person on the street corner.
Ela deu esmola para a pessoa sem-abrigo na esquina da rua.
2. Charitable donations or relief given to those in need, often with religious connotation
The church collected alms for the poor during the service.
A igreja arrecadou esmolas para os pobres durante o serviço religioso.
In both Brazilian and American cultures, alms-giving is historically rooted in religious traditions (Christianity, Judaism) and represents acts of compassion toward the poor. In Brazil, giving 'esmola' to street beggars and those in need remains a common charitable practice. The concept carries moral and spiritual significance in many communities and is often associated with organized charity and religious institutions.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
charitydonationcontributionreliefaid
Antonyms / Antônimos
greedselfishnessstinginess

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
esmola
Most common term for charitable donations to the poor
Rio de Janeiro
esmola
Standard usage, commonly given to street beggars
São Paulo
esmola
Standard usage in both urban and rural contexts
Portugal
esmola
Similar usage but with stronger religious and traditional connotations

Related Words

charitablegenerosityphilanthropybenevolencerelief

Related Idioms & Phrases

to give alms
to collect alms
alms for the poor
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