Meaning
Indicating uncertainty or possibility; 'maybe' or 'perhaps'.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'Quem sabe' is often paired with 'né?' to create a friendly, inviting tone. In Portugal, it is used more sparingly and often in more serious or reflective contexts. Used similarly to Brazil, often in casual social settings. Used in urban settings to express possibility regarding future events.
Use your shoulders
A slight shrug makes the phrase sound much more natural.
The 'Né' factor
Adding 'né' at the end makes you sound like a local.
Meaning
Indicating uncertainty or possibility; 'maybe' or 'perhaps'.
Use your shoulders
A slight shrug makes the phrase sound much more natural.
The 'Né' factor
Adding 'né' at the end makes you sound like a local.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct expression.
A: Você acha que ele vai ganhar? B: ________, é difícil dizer.
The context implies uncertainty, making 'Quem sabe' the correct choice.
Which of these is the best way to express uncertainty?
Choose the most natural response to 'Vamos viajar?'
It is the only option that expresses uncertainty.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Será que vai chover? B: ________.
It is a natural response to a question about the future.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesA: Você acha que ele vai ganhar? B: ________, é difícil dizer.
The context implies uncertainty, making 'Quem sabe' the correct choice.
Choose the most natural response to 'Vamos viajar?'
It is the only option that expresses uncertainty.
A: Será que vai chover? B: ________.
It is a natural response to a question about the future.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt can be, but usually it's a statement of uncertainty.
Only if the email is very informal.
Related Phrases
Talvez
synonymMaybe
Vai saber
similarWho knows
Quem sabe, né?
specialized formMaybe, right?
Sei lá
similarI don't know
