Meaning
A command to refrain from an action.
Cultural Background
Brazilians often use 'Não faz isso' (informal) even in semi-formal settings. It sounds warmer and less 'textbook'. In Portugal, using 'Não faça isso' is strictly for people you address as 'você'. For friends, 'Não faças isso' is the rule. Similar to Portugal, the distinction between formal and informal is often more pronounced than in Brazil.
Soften the blow
Add 'por favor' at the end to make it a request rather than a harsh command.
The 'Faz' Trap
In Brazil, you will hear 'Não faz isso' 90% of the time. Learn 'faça' for exams, but 'faz' for the streets.
Meaning
A command to refrain from an action.
Soften the blow
Add 'por favor' at the end to make it a request rather than a harsh command.
The 'Faz' Trap
In Brazil, you will hear 'Não faz isso' 90% of the time. Learn 'faça' for exams, but 'faz' for the streets.
Test Yourself
Which is the most common neutral way to say 'Don't do that'?
___ faça isso.
'Não' is the standard negative particle for commands.
Complete the command using the correct form of 'fazer'.
Por favor, não ____ (você) isso.
'Faça' is the imperative form for 'você'.
Match the phrase to the context.
Context: A child is about to draw on the wall.
This is a corrective command suitable for the situation.
What would you say to stop someone?
A: 'Vou pular da janela!' B: '____!'
You want to stop the dangerous action.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises___ faça isso.
'Não' is the standard negative particle for commands.
Por favor, não ____ (você) isso.
'Faça' is the imperative form for 'você'.
Context: A child is about to draw on the wall.
This is a corrective command suitable for the situation.
A: 'Vou pular da janela!' B: '____!'
You want to stop the dangerous action.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsIt depends on the tone. It can be a helpful warning or a sharp rebuke. Adding 'por favor' always helps.
Yes, if you are advising someone against a course of action, but 'Eu sugeriria não fazer isso' is more professional.
'Isso' refers to the action the other person is doing. 'Isto' would refer to something the speaker is doing. Use 'isso' for commands.
You would say 'Não o faça' (formal) or 'Não faz isso' (informal).
Yes, but they are more likely to use 'Não faças isso' with friends (the 'tu' form).
The opposite is 'Faça isso' (Do that).
Related Phrases
Para com isso
synonymStop with that
Nem pense nisso
similarDon't even think about it
Deixe disso
similarDrop it / Let it be
