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How to Say ‘Hmm, I'm not sure.’ in Portuguese

Hum, não sei.

oom NOWN say

[oom NOWN say]

🇵🇹 In Portugal: This is the typical polite way to disagree in a Portuguese meeting. A flat Não would sound blunt, so people hedge first and then give a reason.

Phrase Breakdown

Hum

[oom]

hmm

A filler sound showing hesitation or thinking.

Example

Hum, deixe-me ver.

Hmm, let me see.

não

[NOWN]

not

Used to negate the meaning of a word or group of words.

Example

Não quero comer agora.

I don't want to eat now.

sei

[say]

know

To be aware of through observation or information.

Example

Eu sei a resposta.

I know the answer.

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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