perfeitamente normal

You can use it as a standalone reaction. If a friend says they are nervous about a date, say it. You can also embed it into longer sentences. Use it with the verb ser (to be). For example: É perfeitamente normal sentir isso. It works for physical states, emotions, or technical glitches. It is a very flexible and stable collocation.

Use it when someone is overthinking a common situation. It works great at the doctor's office for symptoms. Use it in a job interview to discuss nerves. It is perfect for texting a friend who is stressed. Use it at a restaurant if you ask for a modification. It makes you sound empathetic and balanced. It is a great way to sound fluent without using complex slang.

Don't use it for things that are actually extreme. If a house is on fire, it is not perfeitamente normal. Avoid using it sarcastically unless you know the person well. It can sound dismissive if used while someone is truly grieving. Don't use it to describe a person's character directly. It is better for situations, reactions, or specific behaviors. Saying a person is perfeitamente normal can sound a bit boring or faint-praise.

Portuguese culture values social harmony and 'fitting in' to an extent. This phrase helps maintain that 'normality' in social interactions. It is often used to avoid 'mico' (social embarrassment). By calling something perfeitamente normal, you are saving face for someone else. It is a polite way to minimize drama. It reflects the generally laid-back but polite nature of Lusophone social circles.

You might hear completamente normal for more emphasis. Some people say super normal in very casual settings. In Portugal, you might hear naturalmente used in similar contexts. However, perfeitamente normal remains the most balanced version. It sounds educated but not stuffy. It is the 'Goldilocks' of reassuring phrases.