Learning some basic phrases in the local language can greatly enhance your travel experience. When dining out in Portugal or other Portuguese-speaking countries, knowing how to ask for the bill politely is essential. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “Can I have the bill, please?” in Portuguese, with both formal and informal options. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. How to Say “Can I Have the Bill, Please?” – Formal
In formal situations, it’s important to use polite language. Here are a few ways to ask for the bill politely in Portuguese:
1. Pode trazer a conta, por favor?
(Can you bring the bill, please?)2. Por favor, o senhor/a senhora poderia trazer a conta?
(Could you bring the bill, please?)3. Desculpe, poderia trazer a conta para mim, por favor?
(Excuse me, could you bring the bill for me, please?)
Remember to use the appropriate gender agreement when addressing the waiter or waitress. “O senhor” is used for addressing a male server, while “a senhora” is used for a female server.
2. How to Say “Can I Have the Bill, Please?” – Informal
In more casual settings or when speaking with friends, you can use informal language to ask for the bill. Here are a few options:
1. Podes trazer a conta, por favor?
(Can you bring the bill, please?)2. Por favor, poderias trazer a conta?
(Could you bring the bill, please?)3. Desculpa, podes trazer a conta para mim, por favor?
(Sorry, could you bring the bill for me, please?)
Similarly, remember to use gender agreement when addressing waitstaff informally. “Podes” is used for addressing a male server, while “poderias” is used for a female server.
3. Tips and Examples
When asking for the bill in Portuguese, adding polite phrases and expressions can further enhance your request. Here are a few additional tips and examples:
Expressing Gratitude
Showing gratitude is always appreciated. Consider using these phrases to thank the waitstaff after they bring the bill:
1. Muito obrigado/a.
(Thank you very much.)2. Agradeço muito.
(I am very grateful.)
Using “Por Favor”
Adding “por favor” (please) to your request makes it even more polite:
1. Pode trazer a conta, por favor?
(Can you bring the bill, please?)2. Desculpa, podes trazer a conta para mim, por favor?
(Sorry, can you bring the bill for me, please?)
Non-Verbal Gestures
In addition to using the right phrases, you can also use non-verbal gestures to indicate that you want the bill. Here are a few common gestures:
- Make eye contact with the waiter/waitress and slightly raise your hand.
- Hold your hand up, with the palm facing upwards, and mimic signing a bill.
- Make a writing motion in the air using your index finger.
Remember, non-verbal gestures may vary slightly between different regions.
Key Vocabulary
Here are some essential Portuguese words and phrases related to asking for the bill:
- Conta – Bill
- Por favor – Please
- A moça – The waitress
- O moço – The waiter
- Desculpa – Sorry
- Muito obrigado/a – Thank you very much
- Agradeço muito – I am very grateful
By using these phrases and understanding the key vocabulary, you’ll be able to confidently request the bill during your stay in a Portuguese-speaking country.
Conclusion
Requesting the bill politely is an essential skill for any traveler or visitor. In this guide, we have explored different ways to ask for the bill in Portuguese, both formally and informally. Remember to adjust your language based on the situation and to add polite expressions and non-verbal cues to enhance your request. Enjoy your dining experiences in Portuguese-speaking countries and make the most out of your travel adventures!
