Survival Portuguese for Tourists: Key Phrases & Insider Tips
Hello, fellow travelers and language enthusiasts! I’m a native Brazilian, and I’m excited to share my insider tips on mastering survival Portuguese—so you can navigate Brazil like a true local. Whether you're planning an unforgettable trip to our vibrant country or looking to boost your language skills, this guide is packed with essential phrases (always in Portuguese first, then in English), alternative expressions, and cultural insights that will make your experience smooth and enjoyable. And if you’re ready to go from survival mode to full fluency, our immersive courses at IDION are here to help you every step of the way.
Table of Contents
- Greetings & Basic Expressions
- Expressing Gratitude & Courtesy
- Shopping & Bargaining
- Asking for Directions
- At the Restaurant: Placing Your Order
- Hotel Check-In & Room Assistance
- Everyday Expressions
- Insider Tips & Cultural Curiosities
- Learn More with IDION
1. Greetings & Basic Expressions
Starting with a warm greeting goes a long way. Here are some common ways to say hello and kick off your conversations in Brazil:
- Olá
- Hello
- Alternatives: Oi, E aí
- Insider Tip: While “Olá” works everywhere, “Oi” and “E aí” are more informal and perfect for casual encounters.
- Bom dia
- Good morning
- Pronunciation: “bohm DEE-ah”
- Usage: Use until noon, always paired with a friendly smile.
- Boa tarde
- Good afternoon
- Usage: From noon until early evening.
- Boa noite
- Good evening / Good night
- Usage: Used both for greeting at night and for saying goodbye after dark.
- Tudo bem?
- How are you? / Everything good?
- Alternatives: Como você está?, Como vai?
- Note: This is a casual greeting rather than a literal inquiry. Expect a cheerful “Tudo bem!” in return.
2. Expressing Gratitude & Courtesy
Politeness is essential in Brazilian culture. Here’s how to show your gratitude and respond graciously:
- Obrigado (if you’re male) / Obrigada (if you’re female)
- Thank you
- Muito obrigado(a)
- Thank you very much
- De nada
- You’re welcome
- Alternatives: Imagina, Às ordens
- Insider Tip: Using “Às ordens” not only shows politeness but also conveys that you’re always ready to help.
3. Shopping & Bargaining
When exploring local markets, shops, or street vendors, these phrases will help you negotiate and shop like a pro:
- Quanto custa?
- How much does it cost?
Tip: Ask with a smile—it makes the negotiation process friendlier.
- Eu gostaria de comprar isso
- I would like to buy this
Usage: Point to the item for extra clarity.
- Você aceita cartão de crédito?
- Do you accept credit cards?
- Pode dar um desconto?
- Can you give me a discount?
Insider Tip: Keep your tone light and friendly—haggling is part of the fun in Brazilian markets.
4. Asking for Directions
Getting around in a new city is easier when you know the right phrases. Always start with the Portuguese, then follow with the English translation:
- Como eu chego em…?
- How do I get to…?
Examples & Alternatives:
- Como eu chego na rua [nome da rua]?
- How do I get to [the street name]?
- Como eu chego no restaurante [nome]?
- How do I get to the restaurant [name]?
- Como eu chego no metrô?
- How do I get to the subway?
- Pode me mostrar no mapa?
- Can you show me on the map?
- Estou perdido(a)
- I'm lost
Note: Admitting that you’re lost usually results in warm, immediate help.
5. At the Restaurant: Placing Your Order
Savor Brazil’s amazing cuisine by using these restaurant phrases:
- Eu gostaria de fazer um pedido
- I would like to place an order
Alternative Expression: In casual settings, you might also hear a friendly version like “Gostaria de fazer o check-in” to signal that you're ready to order.
- O que você recomenda?
- What do you recommend?
Tip: Ask for local specialties to enjoy an authentic taste of Brazil.
- A conta, por favor
- The check, please
- For beverages:
- Água, por favor
- Water, please
Alternatives: Refrigerante (soft drink), Cerveja (beer), Caipirinha (made with either vodka or cachaça), Café expresso (espresso)
Insider Tip: Always keep a glass of water on your table, especially during those hot Brazilian days.
6. Hotel Check-In & Room Assistance
Ensure a smooth start to your stay with these essential phrases when checking in or asking for assistance:
- Tenho uma reserva
- I have a reservation
- Gostaria de fazer o check-in
- I would like to check in
Insider Tip: Starting with a friendly “Bom dia” (Good morning) helps set a positive tone.
- Pode me ajudar com o meu quarto?
- Can you help me with my room?
Alternatives:
- Você poderia me ajudar a levar minha bagagem para meu quarto?
- Could you help me carry my luggage to my room?
- Meu ar condicionado não está ligando.
- My air conditioning isn’t working.
Note: Be clear about your needs to get the most effective assistance.
- Existe Wi-Fi disponível?
- Is there Wi-Fi available?
Alternative:
- Vocês têm Wi-Fi aqui? Poderia me passar a senha, por favor?
- Do you have Wi-Fi here? Could you please give me the password?
Tip: Staying connected is essential for planning your next adventure!
7. Everyday Expressions
These versatile phrases are useful for a variety of everyday situations:
- Desculpe
- Excuse me / I’m sorry
Usage: Great for minor interruptions or when you need to get someone’s attention.
- Você fala inglês?
- Do you speak English?
Tip: This question can be a lifesaver when facing a language barrier.
- Pode repetir, por favor? / Você poderia repetir, por favor?
- Can you repeat, please? / Could you repeat, please?
- Desculpe, eu não entendo
- Sorry, I don’t understand
Insider Tip: Being honest about your language skills often earns you patience and extra help.
8. Insider Tips & Cultural Curiosities
To really connect with Brazil, remember that language is only part of the experience. Here are some insider tips that go beyond the phrases:
Embrace the Rhythm
Brazilian Portuguese has a musical cadence. Listen closely to native speakers and try to mimic their rhythm—it will make your speech sound more natural.
Use Gestures Naturally
Brazilians are expressive! A friendly gesture, a smile, and direct eye contact can enhance your communication, even if your words aren’t perfect.
Regional Variations
Brazil is vast, and accents and vocabulary can vary by region. Whether you're in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, or the Northeast, embrace these differences—they’re part of the language’s charm.
Practice Daily
Even a few minutes a day can make a big difference. Repeat phrases out loud, record yourself, or immerse yourself in Brazilian music and TV shows to fine-tune your pronunciation.
Interactive Learning
Use language apps, join conversation groups, or simply chat with locals whenever possible. Every bit of practice helps!
Private Brazilian Portuguese Tutoring
For personalized guidance and rapid improvement, consider studying with private Brazilian Portuguese teachers who speak English. Their tailored lessons offer immediate feedback, native pronunciation tips, and cultural insights that can help you master the language more quickly and confidently. Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your conversational skills, one-on-one tutoring provides a focused and effective way to learn the nuances of Brazilian Portuguese.
Learn More with IDION
At IDION, we’re dedicated to taking you from survival Portuguese to full fluency. Our immersive courses are designed especially for English speakers eager to dive into the Brazilian language and culture. With interactive lessons, practical scenarios, and a supportive community, you’ll quickly gain the confidence to speak Portuguese naturally in any situation.
Ready to level up your Portuguese skills?
Visit lp.idion.com.br to explore our courses and start your journey toward fluency today!
