📦⬆️

How to Say ‘On top’ in Portuguese

Em cima

EHN SEE-ma

[EHN SEE-ma]

💬 Usage Tip: Em cima is a very common two-word phrase meaning "on top" or "up above." Portuguese often uses these little preposition phrases where English might use one word, like em frente for "ahead."

Phrase Breakdown

[EHN]

In a position of being above something else.

Example

O livro está em cima da mesa.

The book is on the table.

cima

[SEE-ma]

Top

The highest or uppermost point or part.

Example

Há um vaso em cima do armário.

There is a vase on top of the cabinet.

Guides for Portuguese learners

The Portuguese You Actually Need in Your First Month in PortugalThe European Portuguese phrases for your first weeks in Portugal: paperwork, renting a flat, the bank, the health centre, cafés, trains and your new neighbours.

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