edifices

[/ˈɛdɪfɪsɪz/]
nounpl: edifices
edifícios
1. large, impressive buildings or structures
The city's skyline is dominated by modern edifices.
O horizonte da cidade é dominado por edifícios modernos.
2. complex systems or structures, often used metaphorically
The edifices of democracy require constant maintenance.
Os edifícios da democracia exigem manutenção constante.
3. elaborate frameworks or institutions
Religious edifices stand as monuments to faith.
Os edifícios religiosos se destacam como monumentos à fé.
In both Brazilian and American English, 'edifices' is often used in formal or literary contexts to refer to impressive buildings. In Brazil, it's commonly used when discussing urban development and architectural heritage. The metaphorical use of 'edifice' to describe complex systems (political, social, religious) is prevalent in academic and formal discourse in both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
buildingsstructuresconstructionsmonumentsestablishments
Antonyms / Antônimos
ruinsdemolitions

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
edifícios
Most common usage for buildings and structures
Rio de Janeiro
edifícios
Standard usage, often refers to high-rise buildings
São Paulo
edifícios
Frequently used in urban context for tall commercial buildings
Portugal
edifícios
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; formal and literary contexts

Related Words

architectureconstructioninfrastructuremonumentstructurebuilding

Related Idioms & Phrases

edifice of lies - an elaborate structure of deceptions
edifice of society - the fundamental structures that hold society together
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