Preciso que me explique
I need you to explain to me
Literally: I need that to me you explain
In 15 Seconds
- A clear way to ask for clarification in any situation.
- Uses the subjunctive 'explique' to make a polite request.
- Perfect for work, school, or navigating complex social moments.
Meaning
This is a direct way to tell someone you need a clarification or a breakdown of something you don't understand yet. It is polite but firm, signaling that you are ready to listen and learn.
Key Examples
3 of 6At the office during a meeting
Preciso que me explique esse gráfico, por favor.
I need you to explain this chart to me, please.
Talking to a romantic partner
Preciso que me explique por que você está chateado.
I need you to explain why you are upset.
Texting a friend about a confusing meme
Não entendi nada! Preciso que me explique essa piada.
I didn't get it at all! I need you to explain this joke.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, directness is often softened with 'por favor' or 'por gentileza'. Without these, 'Preciso que me explique' can sound slightly demanding. In Portugal, the use of 'tu' vs 'você' is very strict. If using 'tu', the phrase becomes 'Preciso que me expliques'. In Angolan Portuguese, formal address is highly valued. You might hear 'Preciso que o senhor me explique' more often in professional settings. Similar to Portugal, Mozambique maintains a more formal distinction in registers, especially in urban centers like Maputo.
The Subjunctive Shortcut
If you are struggling with the subjunctive, remember: for -AR verbs, swap the 'A' for an 'E'. Explicar -> Explique.
Don't forget the 'que'!
English speakers often say 'Preciso você explicar'. This is a major error. You MUST include 'que'.
In 15 Seconds
- A clear way to ask for clarification in any situation.
- Uses the subjunctive 'explique' to make a polite request.
- Perfect for work, school, or navigating complex social moments.
What It Means
This phrase is your best friend when you are lost. It translates to 'I need you to explain to me.' It uses the subjunctive mood explique. This shows you are making a request. It is not just about facts. It is about seeking a deeper understanding of a situation or concept.
How To Use It
You start with Preciso que. This sets the stage for a necessity. Then you add me explique. This points the action toward you. You can add isso at the end to be specific. Or you can add melhor to ask for more detail. It is a very flexible building block for conversation.
When To Use It
Use it at work when a project feels like a puzzle. Use it with a partner when they are being cryptic. It is perfect for the classroom. Use it when a waiter explains a complex dish too fast. It shows you are engaged. It proves you actually care about what the other person is saying.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid it if you are truly angry. In a heated fight, it can sound like a demand for an excuse. Don't use it for very simple things. Asking someone to explain how to open a door might sound sarcastic. If you just missed a word, use Como? instead. Save this for concepts or processes.
Cultural Background
Portuguese speakers value clear communication but often speak in circles. This phrase is a bridge. It allows you to cut through the 'social fluff' politely. Brazilians, in particular, appreciate when you show interest in their perspective. It turns a potential misunderstanding into a moment of connection. It is a sign of respect for the other person's knowledge.
Common Variations
You can say Pode me explicar? for a softer touch. Use Preciso de uma explicação for something more formal. If you are with close friends, try Me explica isso direito. Adding por favor at the end is always a winning move. It keeps the tone warm and collaborative.
Usage Notes
This phrase sits comfortably in the 'neutral' category. It is safe for 90% of interactions. Just remember that the 'que' requires the subjunctive mood for the following verb.
The Subjunctive Shortcut
If you are struggling with the subjunctive, remember: for -AR verbs, swap the 'A' for an 'E'. Explicar -> Explique.
Don't forget the 'que'!
English speakers often say 'Preciso você explicar'. This is a major error. You MUST include 'que'.
Soften the blow
Add 'Poderia...' at the start to make it a polite request: 'Poderia me explicar? Eu preciso entender...'
Examples
6Preciso que me explique esse gráfico, por favor.
I need you to explain this chart to me, please.
Professional and direct for a work environment.
Preciso que me explique por que você está chateado.
I need you to explain why you are upset.
Used to open up emotional communication.
Não entendi nada! Preciso que me explique essa piada.
I didn't get it at all! I need you to explain this joke.
Casual and lighthearted for digital chats.
Preciso que me explique de onde veio essa taxa.
I need you to explain where this fee came from.
Firm but polite when dealing with bureaucracy.
Ainda estou com dúvida. Preciso que me explique a regra de novo.
I still have a doubt. I need you to explain the rule again.
Classic student-teacher interaction.
Sério? Preciso que me explique o prazer de colecionar pedras.
Seriously? I need you to explain the pleasure of collecting rocks.
Playful teasing between friends.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb 'explicar'.
Preciso que você me _______ (explicar) a regra.
The phrase 'Preciso que' triggers the present subjunctive.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct option:
Option C correctly uses the 'que' connector and the subjunctive mood.
Complete the dialogue with the most appropriate phrase.
Chefe: 'O projeto mudou.' Funcionário: 'Entendi, mas _______ as novas metas.'
This is the most professional and grammatically correct way to ask for clarification.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situation: You are at a pharmacy and don't understand how to take the medicine.
'Dose' refers to the medication dosage, which is relevant to the pharmacy.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesPreciso que você me _______ (explicar) a regra.
The phrase 'Preciso que' triggers the present subjunctive.
Choose the correct option:
Option C correctly uses the 'que' connector and the subjunctive mood.
Chefe: 'O projeto mudou.' Funcionário: 'Entendi, mas _______ as novas metas.'
This is the most professional and grammatically correct way to ask for clarification.
Situation: You are at a pharmacy and don't understand how to take the medicine.
'Dose' refers to the medication dosage, which is relevant to the pharmacy.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNot inherently, but it is direct. Adding 'por favor' makes it perfectly polite for any situation.
No, that is grammatically incorrect. You must use the subjunctive 'explique'.
'Explicar' is to give details on how something works. 'Esclarecer' is to clear up a specific doubt or confusion.
You can say 'Preciso que me expliques' if you are using the informal 'tu'.
Related Phrases
Pode me explicar?
similarCan you explain to me?
Não entendi
builds onI didn't understand.
Esclareça-me uma coisa
specialized formClarify one thing for me.
Como assim?
synonymHow so? / What do you mean?
