Portuguese Phrase
O caixa eletrônico tá funcionando agora?
Meaning
The speaker is asking whether the ATM is currently operational. The use of 'tá' makes the question informal and conversational.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to check the status of an ATM in a casual setting—e.g., with a friend, a store clerk, or on a phone call to a bank’s support line.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ocaixaeletrônicotáfuncionandoagora?
Definite article (O)
The masculine singular article 'o' agrees with the noun 'caixa eletrônico'.
Compound noun (caixa eletrônico)
A fixed expression for 'ATM' (automated teller machine).
Colloquial contraction (tá)
Short for 'está', used in informal spoken Portuguese.
Gerund (funcionando)
The gerund of 'funcionar' expresses an ongoing action, equivalent to 'working'.
Adverb of time (agora)
Means 'now', placed after the verb in most Brazilian Portuguese sentences.
🗨In Conversation
O caixa eletrônico tá funcionando agora?
Is the ATM working now?
Sim, já está. Você pode sacar agora.
Yes, it is. You can withdraw now.
✕Common Mistakes
O caixa eletrônico tá funciona agora?
Using the simple present 'funciona' sounds unnatural for a temporary status; the gerund 'funcionando' is preferred.
O caixa eletrônico tá funcionando agora?
In formal contexts, replace 'tá' with 'está'.
↔Alternatives
O caixa eletrônico está funcionando agora?
Is the ATM working now?
O caixa está funcionando agora?
Is the ATM working now?
O caixa eletrônico já está funcionando?
Is the ATM already working?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, ATMs are called 'caixa eletrônico' and are usually found inside banks, supermarkets, and gas stations. The contraction 'tá' is common in everyday speech but should be avoided in formal writing or when speaking to strangers you want to show respect to.