Portuguese · Real conversations
Expressing preferences: useful Portuguese phrases
Explain what you would enjoy and make a joint choice.
Start with the essentials
Start with the essential words and expressions below. Next, learn the five specific phrases in the reference table. Finally, read both sides of the exchange and try the linked rehearsal before revealing its sample replies. This collection connects to the broader vocabulary topic.
- I like it
eu gosto
I like it
- I don't like it
não gosto
I don't like it
- I love it!
eu amo! / adoro!
I love it!
- What do you recommend?
O que você recomenda?
What do you recommend?
Make the conversation more specific
| What you want to say | Portuguese |
|---|---|
| I like it | eu gosto I like it |
| I don't like it | não gosto I don't like it |
| I love it! | eu amo! / adoro! I love it! |
| What do you recommend? | O que você recomenda? What do you recommend? |
| I'd rather ... | Eu preferiria … Show English translationI'd rather … |
| I'm in the mood for ... | Estou com vontade de … Show English translationI'm in the mood for … |
| Either is fine with me. | Para mim, tanto faz. Show English translationEither is fine with me. |
| I'm not very keen on ... | Não gosto muito de … Show English translationI'm not very keen on … |
| What do you like about ...? | Do que você gosta em …? Show English translationWhat do you like about …? |
Read the other side of the exchange
Partner
Você gostaria de ir a outro lugar?
Would you like to go somewhere else?
You
Eu preferia ficar aqui.
I'd rather stay here.
Partner
Então vamos ficar. O que você quer beber?
Let's stay, then. What would you like to drink?
You
Estou com vontade de tomar café.
I'm in the mood for coffee.
Expressing preferences in other languages
A note on speaking Portuguese
These guides use Brazilian Portuguese. Você is a common everyday address; senhor or senhora may fit a more formal interaction. Eu gostaria and poderia can soften requests without making them complicated.
Keep the accents and nasal spellings, such as não and conexão. Portuguese in Portugal may use different everyday vocabulary or pronouns. The examples aim for broadly understandable Brazilian wording.
