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How to Say ‘I don't understand’ in Portuguese

Não percebo

neh-ow per-SAY-boo

[neh-ow per-SAY-boo]

💬 Usage Tip: perceber is the everyday Portugal word for "to understand", not "perceive". You'll also hear entendo, but percebo is the more local choice.

Phrase Breakdown

Não

[neh-ow]

do not

Used to negate an instruction or command.

Example

Não faça isso!

Do not do that!

percebo

[per-SAY-boo]

I understand

First person singular of 'perceber' (to understand); very common in Portugal.

Example

Agora percebo tudo.

Now I understand everything.

Related guides

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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