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How to Say ‘Why did you come?’ in Portuguese

Porque é que veio?

POOR-kee eh kuh VAY-oo

[POOR-kee eh kuh VAY-oo]

Phrase Breakdown

Porque é que

POOR-kee eh kuh

Why

This common question opener means 'why'. Blend it smoothly: 'PUR-kyeh-kuh'.

Example

Porque é que chegou tarde?

Why did you arrive late?

Words in this phrase

Porque

[POOR-kee]

why

In 'porque é que', it introduces a 'why' question.

Example

Porque é que chegou tarde?

Why did you arrive late?

[eh]

Form of the verb 'ser' used to identify or state something.

Example

É meu interesse conhecer melhor a empresa.

It is my interest to get to know the company better.

que

[kuh]

that

Often used in expressions like claro que sim to reinforce the statement.

Example

Acho que podemos colaborar bem.

I think that we can collaborate well.

veio?

VAY-oo

did you come?

'Veio' is the past tense of 'vir' (to come), used for you (formal), he or she. Say 'VAY-yu'.

Example

Ele veio ontem.

He came yesterday.

Words in this phrase

veio

[VAY-oo]

you came (formal)

Past tense of 'vir' (to come) for 'você' or he/she.

Example

Ela veio de comboio.

She came by train.

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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