Só, Apenas, and Somente: How to Say ‘Only’ in Portuguese
Só is common in conversation, while apenas and somente often sound more deliberate or formal. See how context sets the meaning.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Só is a very common way to say “only” or “just.” It can limit a person, quantity, time, or action. The part of the sentence you want to limit should be clear from context.
Use só in everyday conversation
Só tenho dez minutos agora.
I only have ten minutes right now.
Quero só confirmar o endereço.
I just want to confirm the address.
Use apenas or somente for emphasis
Apenas and somente can also mean “only.” They often sound more deliberate, written, or formal than só, although speakers use them in conversation too. Choose the form that fits your tone rather than treating one as a strict rule.
A inscrição está aberta apenas para alunos matriculados.
Registration is open only to enrolled students.
Somente pessoas com reserva podem entrar.
Only people with a reservation may enter.
Notice which part of the sentence is limited
Só can appear in different positions, and the intended emphasis can shift. Só a Ana respondeu limits who responded; a Ana só respondeu pode suggest she responded but did nothing else. When the distinction matters, move só next to the word or action you mean to limit.
Só a Ana respondeu ao e-mail.
Only Ana replied to the email.
A Ana só respondeu ao e-mail; não ligou.
Ana only replied to the email; she didn’t call.
Put it into practice
Só is a natural everyday choice; position it carefully so readers know what “only” limits.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Only people with a reservation may enter”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.