Meaning
Used to indicate that one wishes to ask something.
Cultural Background
Brazilians are very indirect. They might say 'Tenho uma perguntinha' (I have a little question) using the diminutive to sound more polite and less intrusive. In Portugal, 'questão' is often preferred over 'pergunta' in formal or academic contexts, as 'pergunta' can sometimes feel slightly more elementary. Similar to Portugal, formal address is highly valued. You might hear 'Tenho uma preocupação' (I have a concern) used in place of a question in community meetings.
Use 'Dúvida' in Brazil
If you are in a Brazilian school or office, saying 'Tenho uma dúvida' makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
Don't say 'Tenho uma question'
Learners often use the English word. Remember 'Pergunta' (A1) or 'Questão' (B2+).
Meaning
Used to indicate that one wishes to ask something.
Use 'Dúvida' in Brazil
If you are in a Brazilian school or office, saying 'Tenho uma dúvida' makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
Don't say 'Tenho uma question'
Learners often use the English word. Remember 'Pergunta' (A1) or 'Questão' (B2+).
Politeness first
Always start with 'Com licença' (Excuse me) before saying 'Tenho uma pergunta' to strangers.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct article for 'pergunta'.
Eu tenho ___ pergunta.
'Pergunta' is a feminine singular noun.
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the verb 'ter'.
Eu ____ uma pergunta sobre o Brasil.
The first person singular (Eu) form of 'ter' is 'tenho'.
Match the phrase to the most likely situation.
'Tenho uma dúvida sobre a gramática.'
'Dúvida' is commonly used by students when they don't understand a lesson.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Com licença. B: Pois não? A: ___________.
'Tenho uma pergunta' is the natural way to follow up 'Com licença' when seeking info.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Types of Questions
Informal
- • Dúvida
- • Perguntinha
Formal
- • Questão
- • Interrogação
Practice Bank
4 exercisesEu tenho ___ pergunta.
'Pergunta' is a feminine singular noun.
Eu ____ uma pergunta sobre o Brasil.
The first person singular (Eu) form of 'ter' is 'tenho'.
'Tenho uma dúvida sobre a gramática.'
'Dúvida' is commonly used by students when they don't understand a lesson.
A: Com licença. B: Pois não? A: ___________.
'Tenho uma pergunta' is the natural way to follow up 'Com licença' when seeking info.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, but it's more common to drop the 'Eu' unless you want to emphasize that *you* specifically have the question.
It is feminine. Always use 'uma pergunta', never 'um pergunta'.
'Pergunta' is a general inquiry. 'Questão' can mean a formal question, a matter, or an issue.
You say 'Tenho muitas perguntas'. Note that 'muitas' must also be feminine plural.
No, as long as you use a polite tone and perhaps start with 'Desculpe' or 'Com licença'.
It's a cultural habit. It implies you were following along but hit a 'doubt' or 'gap' in your understanding.
Related Phrases
Tirar uma dúvida
similarTo clear up a doubt/ask a question.
Fazer uma pergunta
synonymTo ask a question.
Pedir informação
builds onTo ask for information.
