Portuguese Phrase
O Natal é em dezembro.
Meaning
This phrase is a straightforward statement used to identify the month in which Christmas occurs. It utilizes the verb 'ser' to denote a fixed date or recurring event on the calendar. In Portuguese, months are typically written in lowercase unless they begin a sentence.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing holiday schedules, teaching calendar basics, or confirming the time of year for seasonal celebrations. It is a neutral and factual statement appropriate for any social setting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
ONataléemdezembro
O Natal
The masculine definite article 'O' is used here as 'Natal' is a masculine noun.
É (Ser)
The verb 'ser' is used for permanent characteristics, including dates and times.
Em
This preposition is the standard way to indicate 'in' when followed by a month in Portuguese.
🗨In Conversation
Quando é o Natal?
When is Christmas?
O Natal é em dezembro.
Christmas is in December.
✕Common Mistakes
O Natal está em dezembro.
Use the verb 'ser' (é) instead of 'estar' when referring to dates and calendar events.
O Natal é no dezembro.
Months of the year usually take the preposition 'em' without a definite article unless a specific year or context is specified.
↔Alternatives
O Natal cai em dezembro.
Christmas falls in December.
Comemoramos o Natal em dezembro.
We celebrate Christmas in December.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking countries, Christmas is a major family event often centered around a late-night feast on December 24th called 'Ceia de Natal'. In Brazil, because December is in the middle of summer, you will see tropical decorations and people celebrating in warm weather, unlike the snowy imagery common in the Northern Hemisphere.