Meaning:

‘Então’ means ‘so,’ ‘then,’ or ‘well’ in English. It’s a linking word that shows consequence or indicates the next step in a sequence.

It’s also used in conversation as a filler word—like ‘well, so…’ when you’re about to say something.

Examples:

• Portuguese: Terminei o trabalho, então vou descansar.

  English: I finished the work, so I’ll rest.

• Portuguese: Ele não veio, então decidimos começar sem ele.

  English: He didn’t come, so we decided to start without him.

• Portuguese: Então, como foi o teu dia?

  English: So, how was your day?