Essential Portuguese Phrases
Portugal remains a top tourist destination, particularly in the vibrant summer season. Planning a trip? Learn these essential Portuguese phrases for a smoother experience in any region or city—Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, Azores, or Madeira. Speaking even a few words of the local language can enrich your cultural experience.
“A que horas abre / fecha?” – What time do you open / close? Ensure your plans go smoothly by asking about opening and closing times. This key question is a must-have in your Portuguese survival kit.
“Onde é a casa de banho?” – Where is the toilet? Navigate unfamiliar places with ease by knowing how to ask for the bathroom. A crucial phrase for all tourists exploring Portugal.
“Tchim-tchim ou saúde” – Cheers Experience the Portuguese toast with “saúde.” The traditional “tchim-tchim” is used by some, but “saúde” remains the common and heartfelt choice for toasting good health.
While many Portuguese residents have a good command of English, demonstrating an interest in the local language can enhance your cultural experience. Whether in Portugal or another Portuguese-speaking country, familiarize yourself with these phrases:
Greeting Phrases:
- Olá – Hello
- Bom dia – Good morning
- Boa Tarde – Good afternoon
- Boa noite – Good evening
- Tchau – Goodbye (informal)
- Adeus – Goodbye (formal)
Politeness and Manners:
- Desculpe – Pardon me / I am sorry
- Por favor – Please
- Com licença – Excuse me
- Obrigado (if you are a man) / Obrigada (if you are a woman) – Thanks
- Desculpe (formal) / Desculpa (informal) – I am sorry
- De nada – You’re welcome
Essentials for Exploring and Dining:
- Um café – A coffee
- Água – Water
- Vinho – Wine
- Cerveja – Beer
- Pequeno-almoço – Breakfast
- Almoço – Lunch
- Jantar – Dinner
- Tenho uma reserva – I have a reservation
- A conta, por favor – The bill, please
Shopping Essentials:
- Quanto custa? – How much is it?
- Estou só a ver, obrigado – I’m just looking, thanks
- Aceita cartão de crédito? – Do you accept credit card?
Numbers:
- Sim – Yes
- Não – No
- Mais ou menos – So-so
- Um, Dois, Três, Quatro, Cinco, Dez, Vinte, Trinta, Quarenta, Cinquenta, Cem, Mil – One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Ten, Twenty, Thirty, Forty, Fifty, Hundred, Thousand
Language Assistance:
- O senhor fala inglês? – Do you speak English?
- Desculpe, não falo português. – I am sorry, but I don’t speak Portuguese
Prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Portugal by mastering these essential phrases. Your linguistic efforts will undoubtedly enhance your travel experience!