surprises

[sərˈpraɪzɪz]
noun/verbpl: surprises
surpresas
1. An unexpected or astonishing event, fact, or thing (noun)
The party was full of surprises for the birthday girl.
A festa estava cheia de surpresas para a aniversariante.
2. A feeling of mild astonishment or shock caused by something unexpected (noun)
She looked at him in surprise when he announced the news.
Ela o olhou com surpresa quando ele anunciou a notícia.
3. To cause someone to feel mild astonishment or shock (verb)
He surprises me with his intelligence every time we talk.
Ele me surpreende com sua inteligência toda vez que conversamos.
4. To come upon someone unexpectedly (verb)
The police surprises the criminals in their hideout.
A polícia surpreende os criminosos no esconderijo deles.
In Brazilian culture, 'surpresa' (surprise) is often associated with celebrations and festas. Birthday parties frequently include planned surprises for the honoree. In American culture, surprises are highly valued as expressions of thoughtfulness and affection, particularly in romantic contexts and holidays.
NYC Slang
plot twist; curveball
Synonyms / Sinônimos
astonishesamazesshocksstartlesstunscatches off guard
Antonyms / Antônimos
expectsanticipatespredicts

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
surpresas
Standard term used across all of Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
surpresas
Common usage, sometimes with more emphatic pronunciation
São Paulo
surpresas
Standard usage in business and formal contexts
Portugal
surpresas
Same term used, with slightly different pronunciation emphasis

Related Words

unexpectedastonishmentamazementshockwonderrevelation

Related Idioms & Phrases

to my surprise
take by surprise
surprise party
spring a surprise on someone
expect the unexpected
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