Portuguese Phrase
Quero te devolver o favor.
Meaning
This phrase expresses a sincere desire to reciprocate a kind act or assistance received from someone else. It highlights the speaker's sense of gratitude and their intention to balance the social exchange.
When to use
Use this expression after someone has helped you with a task, given you a gift, or provided support. It is appropriate for both friends and colleagues in casual or semi-formal settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Querotedevolverofavor
Quero
The first-person singular present tense of 'querer' (to want), used to express a current wish or intention.
Te
An object pronoun referring to 'you' (informal). In spoken Brazilian Portuguese, it is frequently placed before the infinitive.
Devolver
An infinitive verb meaning 'to return' or 'to give back' something that was given to you.
🗨In Conversation
Obrigado por me ajudar com o relatório ontem!
Thanks for helping me with the report yesterday!
De nada! Quero te devolver o favor quando você precisar.
You're welcome! I want to return the favor to you whenever you need.
✕Common Mistakes
Quero te retornar o favor.
While 'retornar' means return, 'devolver' is the standard idiomatic verb used for returning favors in Portuguese.
Quero devolver-te o favor.
In Brazilian Portuguese, placing the pronoun 'te' before the verb is much more common and natural in spoken conversation.
↔Alternatives
Fico te devendo uma.
I owe you one.
Como posso retribuir?
How can I repay you?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the act of reciprocating favors is a fundamental part of building and maintaining social relationships. Even if the person says 'Não foi nada' (It was nothing), expressing your intent to help them back is seen as a sign of good character and loyalty.