practical gift

[PRAK-ti-kul gift]
nounpl: practical gifts
presente prático
1. A gift that is useful, functional, and serves a practical purpose in daily life rather than being merely decorative or sentimental
For her birthday, I gave her a practical gift—a high-quality kitchen knife set.
Para o aniversário dela, dei um presente prático—um jogo de facas de cozinha de alta qualidade.
2. A gift chosen for its utility and ability to be used regularly, often prioritizing function over aesthetics
His parents gave him a practical gift of a new backpack for college.
Seus pais deram a ele um presente prático de uma mochila nova para a faculdade.
In Brazilian culture, practical gifts are increasingly appreciated as society values efficiency and functionality. However, gift-giving traditionally emphasizes personal meaning and emotional connection. Practical gifts are often given in professional contexts or when the recipient's needs are well-known. In American culture, practical gifts represent thoughtfulness and respect for the recipient's lifestyle, though they are sometimes viewed as less romantic than sentimental gifts.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
useful giftfunctional giftutilitarian giftsensible gift
Antonyms / Antônimos
decorative giftsentimental giftornamental giftfrivolous gift

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
presente prático
Most common and widely understood term throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
presente útil
Alternative common usage in informal contexts
São Paulo
presente prático/útil
Both terms used interchangeably in business and everyday contexts
Portugal
prenda prática
Portuguese European uses 'prenda' instead of 'presente'

Related Words

gift-givingpresentutilityfunctionalitypurpose-driveneveryday items

Related Idioms & Phrases

a gift that keeps on giving
the gift of practicality
think outside the box with gifts
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