Meaning
To explain actions or decisions to those in authority.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'prestar contas' is a key term in the fight against corruption. The 'Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal' requires all public managers to account for their spending. In Portugal, the phrase is often associated with the 'Tribunal de Contas', a centuries-old institution that audits the state's finances. In Angola, the term is increasingly used in the context of economic reforms and the push for greater transparency in the oil sector. Used frequently in the context of international aid, where NGOs must 'prestar contas' to foreign donors to ensure continued funding.
Use the Noun Form
In professional writing, use 'prestação de contas' instead of the verb to sound more academic.
Watch the Tone
Saying 'Eu não te devo prestar contas' is very aggressive. Use it only if you are truly angry.
Meaning
To explain actions or decisions to those in authority.
Use the Noun Form
In professional writing, use 'prestação de contas' instead of the verb to sound more academic.
Watch the Tone
Saying 'Eu não te devo prestar contas' is very aggressive. Use it only if you are truly angry.
Regional Prepositions
Remember: 'ao' in Lisbon, 'pro' in São Paulo.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct form of 'prestar contas'.
O ministro foi convocado para _________ sobre os gastos da viagem oficial.
In a political context involving expenses, 'prestar contas' is the only correct professional term.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly in an informal but firm context?
Choose the best option:
This is a common way to tell someone they don't have the right to monitor your actions.
Fill in the missing part of the dialogue.
Chefe: 'João, você já terminou o relatório?' João: 'Sim, estou pronto para _________ do projeto na reunião de hoje.'
In a professional meeting about a project, 'prestar contas' is the standard phrase.
Match the phrase to the situation.
A company showing its annual budget to shareholders.
Transparency with shareholders is the definition of 'prestação de contas'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesO ministro foi convocado para _________ sobre os gastos da viagem oficial.
In a political context involving expenses, 'prestar contas' is the only correct professional term.
Choose the best option:
This is a common way to tell someone they don't have the right to monitor your actions.
Chefe: 'João, você já terminou o relatório?' João: 'Sim, estou pronto para _________ do projeto na reunião de hoje.'
In a professional meeting about a project, 'prestar contas' is the standard phrase.
A company showing its annual budget to shareholders.
Transparency with shareholders is the definition of 'prestação de contas'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, if you are explaining your progress to a teacher or a group leader, it is very appropriate.
No, it is frequently used for actions, decisions, and time management as well.
'Prestar contas' is formal/professional; 'dar satisfação' is informal/personal.
Always use the plural 'contas' in this specific idiom.
Related Phrases
Dar satisfação
similarTo give an explanation (usually personal)
Acertar as contas
similarTo settle a score or a debt
Pedir contas
contrastTo demand an explanation
Prestação de contas
specialized formThe formal act/document of accounting
