How Do You Say “Please” in Portuguese? 🙏🇵🇹

The phrase “please” in European Portuguese is se faz favor.

The Phrase for “Please” in Portuguese

Se faz favor literally means “if you do favour.” It’s the standard polite way to say please in everyday Portuguese.

Examples

  • Pode ajudar-me, se faz favor?
    Can you help me, please?

  • Mais água, se faz favor.
    More water, please.

  • Traga-me a conta, se faz favor.
    Bring me the bill, please.



More Examples

  • Uma mesa para dois, se faz favor.
    A table for two, please.

  • Pode repetir, se faz favor?
    Can you repeat that, please?

  • Se faz favor, fecha a janela.
    Please, close the window.


    • 💡 Grammar Tip

  • Se faz favor is most common in Portugal, especially in cafés, shops, and restaurants.

  • Por favor is also correct — it’s more neutral and often used in formal writing or in Brazil.

  • Both mean “please,” but se faz favor feels warmer and more conversational.


    • 🌱 Rooted in Meaning

  • Se faz favor → literally “if you do a favour.”

  • Por favor → literally “for favour.”

    Both come from the Latin favorem, meaning kindness or goodwill.



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