Preciso que você

You follow this phrase with a verb in the subjunctive mood. This is the tricky part for many. Instead of saying você faz, you say você faça. It feels like you are expressing a wish or a requirement. Use it when you have a specific task in mind. It works for big favors and tiny requests alike. Just add the person's name if you want to be extra sweet.

Use it constantly in daily life. Use it at work when delegating a task. Use it at home when you need someone to grab milk. It is great for texting when you are in a rush. It is also perfect for doctors or teachers giving instructions. It shows you are in charge but still being respectful.

Avoid this if you want to be extremely indirect. If you are talking to a high-ranking official, try Seria possível... instead. Don't use it if you are just expressing a general need. For example, "I need a coffee" is just Preciso de um café. Only use this phrase when a person needs to take an action. Also, don't use it with your boss unless you have a very close relationship. It might sound like you are giving them orders!

Brazilians and Portuguese people value personal connection. Even when asking for something, we like to keep it warm. Preciso que você is direct but not aggressive. It reflects a culture that is helpful and communal. We often add por favor at the end to soften the blow. In some regions, you might hear Preciso que tu instead. This is common in the south of Brazil or in Portugal.

You can swap preciso for necessito to sound more formal. If you want to sound more urgent, try Eu realmente preciso que você. To make it a question, just change your tone: Preciso que você...? (Do I need you to...?). You can also use Quero que você (I want you to), but that is much more demanding. Stick with preciso to stay in everyone's good graces.