Portuguese Phrase
Sextou!
Meaning
Sextou! is a popular Brazilian Portuguese slang term that literally means 'It's Friday-ed!' or 'Friday-ed!'. It's an informal and enthusiastic way to announce the arrival of Friday, signaling the end of the work week and the beginning of the weekend.
When to use
This phrase is used exclusively on Fridays, typically towards the end of the workday or school day, to express excitement and relief that the weekend has arrived. It's a casual greeting or exclamation among friends, colleagues, or on social media.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sextou!
Origin of 'Sextou!'
'Sextou!' is a neologism formed from 'sexta-feira' (Friday) and the verb ending '-ou', which is characteristic of the past tense (preterite) in Portuguese. It implies that 'Friday has happened' or 'Friday has arrived' in an emphatic, celebratory way, similar to how one might say 'Rolou!' (It happened!) or 'Deu certo!' (It worked out!).
Informal Usage
This term is highly informal and part of contemporary Brazilian slang. While grammatically it looks like a verb, it functions more as an interjection or exclamation. It's a prime example of how language evolves to create concise and expressive terms for common sentiments.
🗨In Conversation
Finalmente! O trabalho acabou.
Finally! Work is over.
Sextou!
It's Friday!
✕Common Mistakes
Sextou! on a Tuesday.
This phrase is strictly for Fridays. Using it on any other day would be incorrect and confusing.
Sextou! (in a formal business meeting)
Sextou! is very informal. Avoid using it in highly formal or professional settings where slang is inappropriate.
↔Alternatives
É sexta-feira!
It's Friday!
Graças a Deus é sexta-feira!
Thank God it's Friday!
Chegou a sexta!
Friday has arrived!
Cultural Tip
Sextou! is deeply ingrained in Brazilian popular culture, especially among younger generations and on social media. It embodies the Brazilian spirit of celebrating life and looking forward to leisure time. It's often accompanied by emojis like party poppers or dancing figures, and signifies plans for relaxation, parties, or spending time with loved ones. It's a collective sigh of relief and anticipation.