Dia dos Namorados vs. Dia de São Valentim
Although both Dia dos Namorados and Dia de São Valentim translate to Valentine's Day, the difference lies in geography and dates. Dia dos Namorados is the exclusive term used in Brazil (celebrated in June), while Dia de São Valentim is the standard term in Portugal (celebrated in February).
Dia dos Namorados
A2Literally translating to Lovers Day' or Boyfriends/Girlfriends' Day', this is the term used in Brazil. It is celebrated on June 12th, the eve of Saint Anthony's Day (the marriage saint). In Portugal, this phrase is also used mainly in casual conversation for the February 14th holiday.
No Brasil, o Dia dos Namorados é celebrado em junho.
(In Brazil, Valentine's Day is celebrated in June.)
Eu comprei flores para ela no Dia dos Namorados.
(I bought flowers for her on Valentine's Day.)
É difícil conseguir uma reserva no jantar do Dia dos Namorados.
(It is difficult to get a dinner reservation on Valentine's Day.)
Muitos casais trocam presentes no Dia dos Namorados.
(Many couples exchange gifts on Valentine's Day.)
Ele pediu ela em casamento no Dia dos Namorados.
(He proposed to her on Valentine's Day.)
Dia de São Valentim
A2Literally Saint Valentine's Day, this term is used primarily in Portugal, Angola, and Mozambique. It aligns with the international date of February 14th. This term is rarely used in Brazil unless specifically referring to the American or European holiday.
Em Portugal, o Dia de São Valentim é em 14 de fevereiro.
(In Portugal, Saint Valentine's Day is on February 14th.)
A tradição do Dia de São Valentim é antiga.
(The tradition of Saint Valentine's Day is old.)
Escrevi um poema para o Dia de São Valentim.
(I wrote a poem for Saint Valentine's Day.)
O Dia de São Valentim honra um santo cristão.
(Saint Valentine's Day honors a Christian saint.)
Vamos passar o Dia de São Valentim em Lisboa.
(We are going to spend Saint Valentine's Day in Lisbon.)
Summary
Use Dia dos Namorados if you are in Brazil (June 12th) or speaking casually in Portugal. Use Dia de São Valentim if you are in Portugal or referring to the international holiday on February 14th. Brazilians do not use Dia de São Valentim for their local celebration.