neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use 'dezessete' when discussing age, such as a birthday celebration or when referring to a group of 17 items. It can be heard in casual conversations among friends as well as in educational settings, like when teaching children how to count in Portuguese.
Synonyms & nuances
'Dezessete' specifically refers to the number seventeen and does not have close synonyms in terms of numeric value. However, it is important to distinguish it from 'dezesseis' (sixteen) and 'dezoito' (eighteen), as these numbers represent different values in counting.
Culture
'Dezessete' comes from the Latin word 'septemdecim', which directly translates to seventeen. In Brazilian culture, turning 17 is often celebrated as a significant milestone as it is the age when one transitions from adolescence into adulthood, and many prepare for their 'dezessete' parties, similar to a sweet sixteen in the U.S.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce 'dezessete'?
'Dezessete' is pronounced as 'deh-zeh-sete'. The emphasis is on the second syllable, and the 's' sounds like a soft 's' in English.
Q.Is 'dezessete' used in formal writing?
'Dezessete' can be used in both informal and formal contexts. However, in very formal writing, it is often better to use numerals or spell out numbers in words, depending on the style guide.
Q.What are common mistakes when using 'dezessete'?
A common mistake is confusing 'dezessete' with 'dezesseis' (sixteen) or 'dezoito' (eighteen). Make sure to double-check the context to ensure you're referring to the correct age or quantity.