o que você quer dizer?
/ˈɔ ki vɔˈsɐ ˈkɛ(ʁ) d͡ʒiˈze(ɹ)/word by word
The English phrase "what do you mean?" is translated into Portuguese as o que você quer dizer?
This phrase is a question used to ask someone to clarify or explain their statement.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase o que você quer dizer? literally translates to "what do you want to say?"
Which one should you use?
While o que você quer dizer? specifically asks for a clarification of meaning, the phrase como assim? is often used to express confusion or disbelief at a situation.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The form o que você quer dizer? is informal.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Portugal, you might say O que querias dizer?, Como assim?, O quê? Não percebi, or O que é que estás a dizer?
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb querer (to want) is used in this phrase to express the intent or meaning behind a statement.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɔ ki vɔˈsɐ ˈkɛ(ʁ) dʒiˈze(ɹ)/
Did you know?
- The word você actually started as a highly respectful way to address someone, originating from the contraction of vossa mercee, which means 'your mercy'.
- While o que você quer dizer? is common in Brazil, speakers in Portugal frequently use não percebi (I didn't perceive/understand) to ask for clarification.
Examples in context
- Como assim? Achei que fosse semana que vem.How is that? I thought it was next week.
- O que cê tá falando? Eu nem fui convidado.What are you talking about? I wasn't even invited.
- Não entendi, o que você quer dizer?I didn't understand, what do you mean?
- Você está sendo vago. O que você quer dizer?You are being vague. What do you mean?
Example conversation
Beatriz and Felipe are discussing a confusing text message.
- BeatrizVocê disse que o plano mudou. O que você quer dizer?You said the plan changed. What do you mean?
- FelipeEu quero dizer que não podemos mais ir ao cinema.I mean that we can't go to the cinema anymore.
- BeatrizPor que, Felipe? Aconteceu algo?Why, Felipe? Did something happen?
- FelipeMeu carro quebrou e preciso consertá-lo.My car broke down and I need to fix it.
