Você fala inglês?
/voˈse ˈfa.lɐ ĩˈɡle(j)s/word by word
The English phrase "do you speak english?" is translated into Portuguese as Você fala inglês?
This phrase is a question used to ask if someone has the ability to communicate in the English language.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In most of Brazil, Você is the standard way to say "you" in both informal and neutral situations.
How does it change in a sentence?
When increasing formality, you can replace Você with O senhor for a man or A senhora for a woman.
Did you know?
- The word você actually began as a highly respectful way to address someone, meaning 'your mercy'.
- While Você fala inglês? is standard, in Portugal you would more likely hear Fala inglês? without any word for 'you' at all.
- If you use você in certain parts of Portugal, it can actually sound more distant or even slightly impolite than using the person's name.
Examples in context
- Sim, eu falo inglês. Como posso ajudar?Yes, I speak English. How can I help?
- Oi, você fala inglês?Hi, do you speak English?
- Sim, eu falo inglês. Podemos conversar em inglês se preferir.Yes, I speak English. We can talk in English if you prefer.
- Com licença, você fala inglês?Excuse me, do you speak English?
- Desculpe, você fala inglês?Sorry, do you speak English?
Example conversation
Gabriel is lost in a city and asks Mariana for help.
- GabrielOlá, você fala inglês?Hello, do you speak English?
- MarianaSim, eu falo. Posso ajudar?Yes, I do. Can I help?
- GabrielOnde fica a estação de metrô?Where is the metro station?
- MarianaÉ logo ali na esquina.It is right there on the corner.
