Portuguese Phrase
Sim, tudo bem.
Meaning
This is the standard, most common response to the greeting 'Tudo bem?'. It literally means 'Yes, everything well' and indicates that you are doing okay or that you agree with a proposed idea. It is a foundational phrase for any Portuguese learner.
When to use
Use this phrase as a polite reply when someone asks how you are doing or to confirm that a situation or plan is acceptable to you. It is appropriate for both formal and casual settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Simtudobem
Sim
The standard word for 'yes'. It is often followed by a comma in writing when starting a sentence.
Omission of 'está'
In this phrase, the verb 'está' (is) is omitted for brevity. The full grammatical form would be 'Sim, tudo está bem'.
Bem vs Bom
'Bem' is an adverb meaning 'well', while 'bom' is an adjective meaning 'good'. Use 'bem' to describe how you are doing.
🗨In Conversation
Oi, tudo bem?
Hi, how are you?
Sim, tudo bem. E você?
Yes, everything is fine. And you?
✕Common Mistakes
Sim, eu sou bem.
Avoid using the verb 'ser' for states of being; 'tudo bem' implies the verb 'estar' (to be temporarily).
Sim, tudo bueno.
Do not confuse Portuguese with Spanish; 'bueno' is Spanish, while the Portuguese equivalent here is 'bem'.
↔Alternatives
Tudo certo.
Everything is right / All good.
Tudo ótimo!
Everything is great!
Beleza.
Cool / Fine (Informal).
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, 'Tudo bem' is often used as both the question and the answer in passing. It is a social lubricant, and people often reply with 'Sim, tudo bem' even if they are having a rough day, just to maintain a positive social flow.