Sério?

Using it is incredibly easy because the word doesn't change. You don't need to worry about gender or plurals here. Just say Sério? with a rising intonation at the end. If you want to emphasize it, you can stretch the 'e' sound: Sééério?. In text messages, you will often see it followed by multiple question marks to show extra shock. It is the perfect 'filler' word to keep a conversation going without having to say much.

You can use this in almost any daily interaction. Use it at a restaurant if the waiter says they are out of your favorite dessert. Use it with friends when they share juicy gossip about their weekend. It works perfectly in a meeting if a colleague suggests a wild new idea. It is a great way to show you are listening and engaged in what the other person is saying. Even if you don't understand the whole sentence, a well-timed Sério? makes you sound like a pro.

Avoid using it in extremely formal ceremonies, like during a wedding vow or a high-court legal proceeding. In those cases, it might sound like you are questioning the person's honesty. Also, be careful with your tone if someone is sharing very sad news. If a friend says their dog passed away, a sharp Sério? might sound like you're surprised they're sad. In those moments, a softer tone or a different phrase like Sinto muito (I'm sorry) is better.

Brazilians and Portuguese people are generally very expressive and communicative. We love to react to stories with emotion. Sério? is a reflection of this cultural trait of active listening. It’s not just a question; it’s a social cue that says 'I am present in this conversation.' It became the standard reaction because it’s shorter and punchier than saying Isso é verdade? (Is that true?). It’s the verbal equivalent of a raised eyebrow.

If you want to sound more casual, you can say É sério? (Is it serious?). In some parts of Brazil, you might hear Fala sério! which is more like 'You've got to be kidding me!' or 'No way!'. If you are truly shocked, you can combine it: Sério? Não acredito! (Really? I don't believe it!). For a more formal touch, you might use Verdade? (Truth?), which carries a similar meaning but feels a bit softer.