Portuguese Phrase
Fica parado um instante.
Meaning
A casual command meaning “Stay still for a moment.” It’s often said when you need someone to hold still, such as while taking a photo, measuring something, or waiting briefly.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal situations with friends, family, or children. It’s common for photographers, doctors, or anyone who needs a short pause from movement.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ficaparadouminstante
Imperative of ficar
"Fica" is the informal affirmative imperative of the verb "ficar" (to stay, remain) used with "tu" or in colloquial speech.
Past participle as adjective
"parado" is the masculine singular past participle of "parar" used as an adjective meaning "still"; it must agree with the subject’s gender.
Indefinite article
"um" is the masculine indefinite article that pairs with "instante" (a moment).
🗨In Conversation
Fica parado um instante, por favor.
Stay still for a moment, please.
Claro, sem problema.
Sure, no problem.
✕Common Mistakes
Fica parada um instante.
Use "parado" for a male or neutral subject; "parada" is needed only when addressing a female.
Fica parado um instante, senhor.
In formal situations, "fique" is preferred over the informal "fica".
Fica parado um instantes.
"Um instante" is correct, but learners sometimes mistakenly say "um instante" with a plural verb, which is ungrammatical.
↔Alternatives
Fique parado um instante.
Stay still for a moment.
Não se mexa por um momento.
Don’t move for a moment.
Espere um segundo.
Wait a second.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, "fica" is informal and typically used with people you know well or with children. In more formal contexts or when speaking to strangers, use the formal imperative "fique". Also remember to match the gender of "parado/parada" with the person you’re addressing.