When traveling to a Portuguese-speaking country or communicating with someone who speaks Portuguese, it is essential to know how to ask and tell time. This quick guide will provide you with the necessary phrases and expressions to inquire about the time in Portuguese. Whether you're a tourist, a businessperson, or simply someone looking to expand your language skills, this article has you covered.
The most common way to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese is "Que horas são?" (pronounced keh AW-rah suhng). This phrase can be used in most situations, whether you're asking a friend, a colleague, or a stranger. For a more formal setting, you can use the phrase "Qual é a hora?" (pronounced kwahl AY ah OH-rah), which translates to "What is the hour?"
Now that you know how to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese, you can confidently navigate your way through Portuguese-speaking countries or conversations.
what time is it in portuguese
Essential phrases for inquiring about time in Portuguese.
- Que horas são? (What time is it?)
- Qual é a hora? (What is the hour?)
- São quantas horas? (How many hours is it?)
- Agora são quantas horas? (What time is it now?)
- Que horas são em Portugal? (What time is it in Portugal?)
- Que horas são no Brasil? (What time is it in Brazil?)
- Que horas são em Angola? (What time is it in Angola?)
- Que horas são em Moçambique? (What time is it in Mozambique?)
- Que horas são em Cabo Verde? (What time is it in Cape Verde?)
Use "Que horas são?" in most situations.
Que horas são? (What time is it?)
Que horas são? is the most common way to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese. It is a versatile phrase that can be used in most situations, whether you're asking a friend, a colleague, or a stranger.
- Simple and direct:
Que horas são? is a straightforward question that gets to the point. It is easy to remember and pronounce, making it a great choice for beginners.
- Appropriate for various contexts:
Whether you're asking for the time at a restaurant, a train station, or a business meeting, Que horas são? is an appropriate question to use.
- Can be used with different pronouns:
You can use Que horas são? with different pronouns to make it more polite or formal. For example, you can say Que horas são, por favor? (What time is it, please?) or Vossa Excelência poderia me dizer que horas são? (Could Your Excellency tell me what time it is?).
- Easily understood by Portuguese speakers:
Que horas são? is a widely recognized phrase that is understood by Portuguese speakers of all ages and backgrounds.
With its simplicity, versatility, and widespread recognition, Que horas são? is the go-to phrase for asking "What time is it?" in Portuguese.
Qual é a hora? (What is the hour?)
Qual é a hora? is a more formal way to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese. It is often used in written Portuguese, such as in newspapers, magazines, and official documents. It can also be used in spoken Portuguese, but it is more common in formal settings, such as business meetings or academic lectures.
Here are some key points about Qual é a hora?:
- Formal and polite:
Qual é a hora? is a more formal way to ask about the time than Que horas são?. It is appropriate to use in situations where you want to show respect, such as when speaking to an elder, a person in a position of authority, or a stranger.
- Literally means "What is the hour?":
The phrase Qual é a hora? literally translates to "What is the hour?". This reflects the fact that, in Portuguese, time is typically expressed in terms of hours, rather than minutes or seconds.
- Can be used with different pronouns:
Like Que horas são?, Qual é a hora? can be used with different pronouns to make it more polite or formal. For example, you can say Qual é a hora, por favor? (What is the hour, please?) or Vossa Excelência poderia me dizer qual é a hora? (Could Your Excellency tell me what the hour is?).
- Less commonly used in everyday conversation:
While Qual é a hora? is a grammatically correct way to ask about the time, it is less commonly used in everyday conversation than Que horas são?. This is because Que horas são? is more informal and easier to pronounce.
Overall, Qual é a hora? is a formal and polite way to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese. It is appropriate to use in written Portuguese and in formal spoken settings.
São quantas horas? (How many hours is it?)
São quantas horas? is a less common way to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese. However, it is still grammatically correct and can be used in certain situations.
Here are some key points about São quantas horas?:
- Literally means "How many hours is it?":
The phrase São quantas horas? literally translates to "How many hours is it?". This reflects the fact that, in Portuguese, time is typically expressed in terms of hours, rather than minutes or seconds.
- Can be used in informal settings:
São quantas horas? is more informal than Que horas são? and Qual é a hora?. Therefore, it is more likely to be used in casual conversations between friends and family.
- Often used to ask about a specific time:
São quantas horas? is often used to ask about a specific time, rather than the current time. For example, you might ask São quantas horas o trem sai? (What time does the train leave?) or São quantas horas o filme começa? (What time does the movie start?).
- Less commonly used to ask about the current time:
While São quantas horas? can be used to ask about the current time, it is less common than Que horas são?. This is because Que horas são? is a more direct and straightforward way to ask about the time.
Overall, São quantas horas? is a grammatically correct way to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese. However, it is less commonly used than Que horas são? and Qual é a hora?. It is more likely to be used in informal settings and to ask about a specific time, rather than the current time.
Agora são quantas horas? (What time is it now?)
Agora são quantas horas? is a specific way to ask "What time is it?" in Portuguese. It is used to ask about the current time, as opposed to a specific time in the past or future.
- Literally means "Now, how many hours is it?":
The phrase Agora são quantas horas? literally translates to "Now, how many hours is it?". This reflects the fact that, in Portuguese, time is typically expressed in terms of hours, rather than minutes or seconds.
- Emphasizes the current time:
The word agora (now) in the phrase Agora são quantas horas? emphasizes that you are asking about the current time. This is useful in situations where you want to make sure that there is no confusion about what time you are referring to.
- Can be used in both formal and informal settings:
Agora são quantas horas? can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is a versatile phrase that is appropriate for use in a variety of situations.
- Often used in everyday conversation:
Agora são quantas horas? is a common phrase that is often used in everyday conversation. It is a natural way to ask someone what time it is.
Overall, Agora são quantas horas? is a grammatically correct and versatile way to ask "What time is it now?" in Portuguese. It can be used in both formal and informal settings and is a common phrase in everyday conversation.
Que horas são em Portugal? (What time is it in Portugal?)
Que horas são em Portugal? is a question that is often asked by people who are traveling to or communicating with someone in Portugal. It is also a useful question to know if you are interested in following events or activities that are happening in Portugal.
- Literally means "What time is it in Portugal?":
The phrase Que horas são em Portugal? literally translates to "What time is it in Portugal?". This makes it a very straightforward question that is easy to understand.
- Can be used in both formal and informal settings:
Que horas são em Portugal? can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is a versatile phrase that is appropriate for use in a variety of situations.
- Often used by travelers and businesspeople:
Que horas são em Portugal? is a common question that is often asked by travelers and businesspeople who are visiting or working in Portugal. It is important to know the local time in order to plan your activities and meetings accordingly.
- Also used by people who follow events in Portugal:
Que horas são em Portugal? is also a useful question for people who follow events or activities that are happening in Portugal. For example, if you are interested in watching a football match or a concert that is taking place in Portugal, you will need to know the local time in order to tune in at the right time.
Overall, Que horas são em Portugal? is a grammatically correct and versatile way to ask "What time is it in Portugal?". It is a common question that is used by travelers, businesspeople, and people who follow events in Portugal.
Que horas são no Brasil? (What time is it in Brazil?)
Que horas são no Brasil? is a question that is often asked by people who are traveling to or communicating with someone in Brazil. It is also a useful question to know if you are interested in following events or activities that are happening in Brazil.
- Literally means "What time is it in Brazil?":
The phrase Que horas são no Brasil? literally translates to "What time is it in Brazil?". This makes it a very straightforward question that is easy to understand.
- Can be used in both formal and informal settings:
Que horas são no Brasil? can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is a versatile phrase that is appropriate for use in a variety of situations.
- Often used by travelers and businesspeople:
Que horas são no Brasil? is a common question that is often asked by travelers and businesspeople who are visiting or working in Brazil. It is important to know the local time in order to plan your activities and meetings accordingly.
- Also used by people who follow events in Brazil:
Que horas são no Brasil? is also a useful question for people who follow events or activities that are happening in Brazil. For example, if you are interested in watching a football match or a concert that is taking place in Brazil, you will need to know the local time in order to tune in at the right time.
Overall, Que horas são no Brasil? is a grammatically correct and versatile way to ask "What time is it in Brazil?". It is a common question that is used by travelers, businesspeople, and people who follow events in Brazil.
Que horas são em Angola? (What time is it in Angola?)
Que horas são em Angola? is a question that is often asked by people who are traveling to or communicating with someone in Angola. It is also a useful question to know if you are interested in following events or activities that are happening in Angola.
Here are some key points about Que horas são em Angola?:
- Literally means "What time is it in Angola?":
The phrase Que horas são em Angola? literally translates to "What time is it in Angola?". This makes it a very straightforward question that is easy to understand.
- Can be used in both formal and informal settings:
Que horas são em Angola? can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is a versatile phrase that is appropriate for use in a variety of situations.
- Often used by travelers and businesspeople:
Que horas são em Angola? is a common question that is often asked by travelers and businesspeople who are visiting or working in Angola. It is important to know the local time in order to plan your activities and meetings accordingly.
- Also used by people who follow events in Angola:
Que horas são em Angola? is also a useful question for people who follow events or activities that are happening in Angola. For example, if you are interested in watching a football match or a concert that is taking place in Angola, you will need to know the local time in order to tune in at the right time.
Overall, Que horas são em Angola? is a grammatically correct and versatile way to ask "What time is it in Angola?". It is a common question that is used by travelers, businesspeople, and people who follow events in Angola.
Que horas são em Moçambique? (What time is it in Mozambique?)
Que horas são em Moçambique? is a question that is often asked by people who are traveling to or communicating with someone in Mozambique. It is also a useful question to know if you are interested in following events or activities that are happening in Mozambique.
- Literally means "What time is it in Mozambique?":
The phrase Que horas são em Moçambique? literally translates to "What time is it in Mozambique?". This makes it a very磺 question that is easy to understand.
- Can be used in both formal and磺 settings:
Que horas são em Moçambique? can be used in both formal and磺 settings. It is a磺 phrase that is appropriate for use in a variety of situations.
- 磺 used by磺 and businesspeople:
Que horas são em Moçambique? is a common question that is often asked by磺 and businesspeople who are visiting or working in Mozambique. It is important to know the local time in order to plan your activities and meetings accordingly.
- Also used by people who follow events in Mozambique:
Que horas são em Moçambique? is also a useful question for people who follow events or activities that are happening in Mozambique. For example, if you are interested in watching a football match or a concert that is taking place in Mozambique, you will need to know the local time in order to tune in at the right time.
Overall, Que horas são em Moçambique? is a grammatically correct and磺 way to ask "What time is it in Mozambique?". It is a common question that is used by磺, businesspeople, and people who follow events in Mozambique.
Que horas são em Cabo Verde? (What time is it in Cape Verde?)
Que horas são em Cabo Verde? is a question that is often asked by people who are traveling to or communicating with someone in Cape Verde. It is also a useful question to know if you are interested in following events or activities that are happening in Cape Verde.
- Literally means "What time is it in Cape Verde?":
The phrase Que horas são em Cabo Verde? literally translates to "What time is it in Cape Verde?". This makes it a very straightforward question that is easy to understand.
- Can be used in both formal and informal settings:
Que horas são em Cabo Verde? can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is a versatile phrase that is appropriate for use in a variety of situations.
- Often used by travelers and businesspeople:
Que horas são em Cabo Verde? is a common question that is often asked by travelers and businesspeople who are visiting or working in Cape Verde. It is important to know the local time in order to plan your activities and meetings accordingly.
- Also used by people who follow events in Cape Verde:
Que horas são em Cabo Verde? is also a useful question for people who follow events or activities that are happening in Cape Verde. For example, if you are interested in watching a football match or a concert that is taking place in Cape Verde, you will need to know the local time in order to tune in at the right time.
Overall, Que horas são em Cabo Verde? is a grammatically correct and versatile way to ask "What time is it in Cape Verde?". It is a common question that is used by travelers, businesspeople, and people who follow events in Cape Verde.
FAQ
Got questions about asking "what time is it" in Portuguese? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you out:
Question 1: What is the most common way to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese?
Answer: The most common way to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese is "Que horas são?". This phrase can be used in most situations, whether you're asking a friend, a colleague, or a stranger.
Question 2: Can I use "Que horas são?" in formal settings?
Answer: Yes, "Que horas são?" can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, if you want to be more formal, you can use the phrase "Qual é a hora?".
Question 3: What are some other ways to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese?
Answer: Some other ways to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese include "São quantas horas?", "Agora são quantas horas?", and "Que horas são em (country name)?".
Question 4: How do I ask "what time is it" in Portuguese when I'm talking about a specific time?
Answer: To ask "what time is it" in Portuguese when you're talking about a specific time, you can use the phrase "Que horas são (specific time)?". For example, you could say "Que horas são às 10 da manhã?" (What time is it at 10 in the morning?)
Question 5: How do I ask "what time is it" in Portuguese when I'm asking about a specific event?
Answer: To ask "what time is it" in Portuguese when you're asking about a specific event, you can use the phrase "A que horas é (event name)?". For example, you could say "A que horas é o jogo de futebol?" (What time is the football match?)
Question 6: How do I say "what time is it" in Portuguese when I'm asking about the current time?
Answer: To ask "what time is it" in Portuguese when you're asking about the current time, you can use the phrase "Agora são quantas horas?". This phrase emphasizes that you're asking about the current time, not a specific time in the past or future.
With these questions and answers, you'll be able to confidently ask "what time is it" in Portuguese in any situation.
Now that you know how to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese, here are some tips for using this phrase effectively:
Tips
Here are a few tips for using the phrase "what time is it" in Portuguese effectively:
1. Use the correct pronunciation:
The correct pronunciation of "Que horas são?" is "kay AW-rahz SOWng." Make sure you pronounce the words clearly and distinctly so that people can understand you.
2. Use the phrase in different situations:
You can use the phrase "Que horas são?" in a variety of situations, both formal and informal. For example, you can use it to ask a friend what time it is, or you can use it to ask a business colleague when a meeting is scheduled. Tailor your tone and formality to the situation you're in.
3. Use variations of the phrase:
As you learned in the FAQ section, there are several different ways to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese. Experiment with different variations of the phrase to see which one you feel most comfortable using.
4. Be clear and direct:
When you're asking someone what time it is, be clear and direct. Don't beat around the bush or use vague language. This will help you get the answer you need quickly and easily.
With these tips, you'll be able to use the phrase "what time is it" in Portuguese confidently and effectively.
Now that you know the different ways to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese and have some tips for using the phrase effectively, you're ready to start practicing.
Conclusion
In this article, we've explored the different ways to ask "what time is it" in Portuguese. We've covered the most common phrase, "Que horas são?", as well as some variations that you can use in different situations.
We've also provided you with some tips for using the phrase effectively. Remember to use the correct pronunciation, use the phrase in different situations, use variations of the phrase, and be clear and direct.
With a little practice, you'll be able to confidently ask "what time is it" in Portuguese in any situation. So next time you're traveling to a Portuguese-speaking country or communicating with someone who speaks Portuguese, don't be afraid to ask them "Que horas são?".
Obrigado por ler!