special occasion

[/ˈspɛʃəl əˈkeɪʒən/]
noun phrasepl: special occasions
ocasião especial
1. An important or memorable event that is celebrated or marked in some way; a time that is considered significant and worthy of special attention or celebration
We wear our best clothes for special occasions like weddings and anniversaries.
Usamos nossas melhores roupas para ocasiões especiais como casamentos e aniversários.
2. A memorable moment or event that differs from everyday routine and typically involves gathering with family or friends
This restaurant is perfect for a special occasion dinner.
Este restaurante é perfeito para um jantar de ocasião especial.
In Brazilian culture, special occasions are often marked by gathering with extended family and preparing special foods. Common special occasions include birthdays (aniversários), weddings (casamentos), anniversaries (aniversários de casamento), Christmas (Natal), New Year (Ano Novo), and Carnival (Carnaval). In American culture, special occasions similarly include weddings, anniversaries, holidays, and milestone birthdays, often involving dining out or hosting gatherings.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
milestonecelebrationmomentous eventsignificant eventimportant event
Antonyms / Antônimos
ordinary dayroutineeveryday occurrence

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
ocasião especial
Standard and widely used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
ocasião especial / momento marcante
Common usage; 'momento marcante' emphasizes the memorable aspect
São Paulo
ocasião especial / evento especial
'Evento especial' is also frequently used in business and formal contexts
Portugal
ocasião especial / momento especial
Both terms are used; Portuguese may emphasize 'momento' (moment) more frequently

Related Words

celebrationceremonyfestivityeventcommemorationmilestone

Related Idioms & Phrases

dress up for a special occasion
mark a special occasion
celebrate a special occasion
make the occasion special
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →