Portuguese Phrase
Tô com sono.
Meaning
'Tô com sono' is the most common way to express that you are feeling sleepy or ready for bed in Brazilian Portuguese. It literally translates to 'I am with sleep,' reflecting the Portuguese structure of using the verb 'estar' plus the preposition 'com' to describe physical states.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal situations with friends, family, or coworkers when you are feeling tired or drowsy. It is a relaxed, everyday expression perfect for casual conversation.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tôcomsono
Tô (Estou)
The contracted form of 'estou' from the verb 'estar', used for temporary conditions like feelings or physical states.
Com + Noun
Portuguese uses 'estar com' (to be with) followed by a noun to express many physical sensations like hunger, cold, or sleepiness.
🗨In Conversation
Você quer ver mais um episódio?
Do you want to watch one more episode?
Não, agora não. Tô com sono.
No, not now. I'm sleepy.
✕Common Mistakes
Eu sou com sono.
Never use 'ser' for temporary physical states; use 'estar' or its contracted form 'tô'.
Eu estou sono.
You cannot 'be' the noun sleep; you must be 'with' (com) sleep.
↔Alternatives
Estou com sono.
I am sleepy. (Full, formal version)
Tô cansado.
I'm tired. (General fatigue)
Tô morrendo de sono.
I'm dying of sleepiness. (Exaggerated for emphasis)
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the verb 'estou' is almost always shortened to 'tô' in spoken language. Using the full 'estou' in a casual setting can sound overly formal or robotic. Embracing these contractions is a key step to sounding like a native speaker with Speeek.