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How to Say ‘Getting by.’ in Portuguese

Vou andando.

voh ahn-DAHN-doo

[voh ahn-DAHN-doo]

🇵🇹 In Portugal: This modest answer is extremely common, especially among older people. Saying you're "great" can sound boastful, so a mild complaint is the normal reply.

Phrase Breakdown

Vou

[voh]

I go / I keep

From 'ir'; here part of 'vou andando', meaning 'I'm getting by'.

Example

Vou andando, obrigado.

I'm getting by, thanks.

andando

[ahn-DAHN-doo]

going along

Gerund of 'andar'; 'vou andando' means 'so-so, getting by'.

Example

Lá vou andando.

I'm getting along.

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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