Tampouco vs. Tão Pouco: Neither or So Little?
Tampouco means ‘neither’ or ‘not either’; tão pouco means ‘so little’ or ‘such a small amount.’
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 14, 2026
The short answer
Tampouco means ‘neither,’ ‘nor,’ or ‘not either.’ It adds a second negative idea to one already present, often translating English ‘either’ in a negative sentence. It is one word and tends to sound more formal than também não in casual conversation.
Use tampouco to add another negative
Tampouco does not usually need another não immediately before it. In a sequence, it links a new negative fact or preference to the previous one.
Não conheço a cidade e tampouco sei chegar ao hotel.
I don’t know the city, and I don’t know how to get to the hotel either.
Ela não confirmou o horário; eu tampouco recebi uma mensagem.
She didn’t confirm the time; I didn’t receive a message either.
Não quero café, tampouco chá.
I don’t want coffee or tea either.
Use tão pouco to describe a small amount
Tão pouco is two words: tão modifies pouco and means ‘so little’ or ‘such a small amount.’ It can describe time, money, food, or effort. The word pouco may change form when it modifies a feminine or plural noun: tão pouca água, tão poucos dias.
If you can replace the phrase with muito pouco, write tão pouco as two words. Unlike tampouco, it is not a negative connector by itself.
Dormi tão pouco que estou cansado.
I slept so little that I’m tired.
Temos tão pouco tempo antes do voo.
We have so little time before the flight.
Ela gastou tão pouca energia nessa tarefa.
She spent so little energy on that task.
Put it into practice
Tampouco adds a negative meaning like ‘neither’ or ‘not either.’ Tão pouco describes a small amount or degree.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I don’t want coffee or tea either”?
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