nounpl: niceties (already plural; singular: nicety)
sutilezas, delicadezas, formalidades
1. Polite or refined details and courtesies, especially formal social conventions
They exchanged the usual niceties before discussing business.
Eles trocaram as formalidades usuais antes de discutir negócios.
2. Fine or subtle points; details or distinctions of small importance
I don't have time for the niceties of grammar right now.
Não tenho tempo para as sutilezas da gramática agora.
3. Refined or delicate aspects of something; exactness or precision
The niceties of French cuisine require practice to master.
As delicadezas da culinária francesa requerem prática para dominar.
In both American and Brazilian English, 'niceties' often refers to social courtesies that can be either observed respectfully or bypassed when directness is preferred. In formal Brazilian business settings, 'niceties' (formalidades) are generally respected, while in more casual contexts, people may choose to 'skip the niceties' for efficiency. The word carries a slightly ambiguous tone—it can be appreciative of politeness or mildly dismissive of unnecessary formality depending on context.
NYC Slang
the formalities, the BS (when referring dismissively to social conventions)
Related Idioms & Phrases
skip the niceties (ir direto ao ponto - go straight to the point)
observe the niceties (cumprir as formalidades - follow proper etiquette)
dispense with niceties (dispensar as formalidades - drop the formalities)
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