Portuguese Phrase
Respira fundo.
Meaning
A direct, informal command telling someone to take a deep breath. It can be used to help someone relax, prepare for a physical effort, or recover from a moment of stress.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to encourage a friend, family member, or colleague to calm down, before a sport activity, during a meditation session, or simply to remind someone to breathe more fully.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Respirafundo
Imperative (2nd person singular)
The verb "respirar" drops the final "-r" and adds an "-a" for the informal command: "respira".
Adverb "fundo"
"Fundo" modifies the verb, meaning "deeply" or "to a great depth".
🗨In Conversation
Respira fundo.
Take a deep breath.
Obrigado, já me sinto melhor.
Thanks, I already feel better.
✕Common Mistakes
Respire fundo.
"Respire" is the formal (tu/você) imperative; using it in a casual setting can sound overly formal.
Respira fundo!
Adding an exclamation mark is fine for emphasis, but learners sometimes forget the period in written Portuguese, which can change the tone.
Respira fundo muito.
The adverb "muito" is unnecessary; "fundo" already conveys depth.
↔Alternatives
Faça uma respiração profunda.
Make a deep breath.
Inspire bem fundo.
Inhale deeply.
Respire bem fundo, por favor.
Breathe in deeply, please.
Cultural Tip
Breathing exercises are a common part of Brazilian wellness routines, especially in practices like yoga, capoeira warm‑ups, and even in school physical‑education classes. While "respira fundo" is informal, using the formal "respire fundo" is appropriate when speaking to strangers, elders, or in a professional setting.