If you’ve ever found yourself pondering the choice between por favor and se faz favor in Portuguese, rest assured that both options are correct and widely used.
Which on is better?
The simple answer is both are equally good. Some argue that por favor is the more formal choice, while others defend the formality of se faz favor. In reality, either option is acceptable, and the decision often comes down to personal preference.
Furthermore, when it comes to se faz favor it can manifest with the verb in the present tense or take on various forms indicating both increased politeness and, conversely, a bit more distance:
- Se fizesse favor
- Se fazia favor
- Se fizer favor
- Fazia favor
- Faça favor (command tense)
Alternative Pronunciations
In informal settings, it’s common to encounter shortened and colloquial pronunciations, such as “faxavor” and “faz favor.” These informal variations, while not considered standard, are frequently used in everyday conversations, contributing to the dynamic nature of spoken Portuguese. Embracing these informal pronunciations can add authenticity to language learning and help learners navigate the diverse linguistic landscape of Portuguese with ease.
So, whether you opt for the standard or informal expressions, the key is to feel comfortable using them in different contexts.
In Conclusion
These are the two most common possibilities depending on the speaker’s preference. However, it’s interesting to note that opinions on formality differ, with some (albeit not universally agreed upon) attributing greater formality to se faz favor.
I’m one of those in the opposite camp. I feel that por favor sounds more formal and also better in writing professional letters and emails. It’s the one I see on public signs the most.
I’m also of the opinion that if you’re pleading with someone, por favor carries more urgency than se faz favor.
FAQ About Por Favor and Se Faz Favor
Related Portuguese Lessons for Further Learning
- Obrigado or Obrigada?
- How to respond to Obrigado
- Etiquette and Good Manners in Portugal
- Kissing Etiquette in Portugal
- Courtesy Expressions in Portuguese
Have a Patreon subscription? ☕
If you’re an active supporter on any of my Patreon tiers (starting with Meia-de-Leite), you get access to a printable PDF containing all the vocabulary from this post.