Portuguese Phrase
Só trocamos notas físicas.
Meaning
The sentence states that the only form of exchange accepted is physical paper money. It is often used to clarify that cash, not electronic or digital payments, will be handled.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to tell a customer, friend, or colleague that you only accept cash notes, for example in a small shop, a market stall, or when arranging a private transaction.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Sótrocamosnotasfísicas.
Só (adverb)
‘Só’ means ‘only’ or ‘just’ and is placed before the verb to limit the action.
trocamos (verb)
‘trocamos’ is the first‑person plural present indicative of ‘trocar’ (to exchange, to swap).
notas (noun)
‘notas’ is a feminine plural noun meaning ‘notes’; in this context it refers to paper money.
físicas (adjective)
‘físicas’ agrees in gender and number with ‘notas’ and means ‘physical’ or ‘in‑person’.
🗨In Conversation
Podemos pagar com cartão ou transferência?
Can we pay with a card or a transfer?
Só trocamos notas físicas.
We only exchange physical notes.
✕Common Mistakes
Só trocamos notas fisicas.
Missing the acute accent on ‘físicas’; Portuguese requires the accent to mark the stressed syllable.
Só trocamos nota física.
Singular ‘nota’ changes the meaning to ‘only one note’; use the plural ‘notas’ when referring to cash.
Só trocamos notas física.
Adjective must agree in gender and number with the noun; ‘física’ is singular, while ‘notas’ is plural.
↔Alternatives
Aceitamos apenas dinheiro em espécie.
We accept only cash in hand.
Só aceitamos notas em papel.
We only accept paper notes.
Só recebemos dinheiro vivo.
We only receive live (physical) money.
Cultural Tip
In many Brazilian neighborhoods, especially in small businesses and street markets, cash is still king. The term ‘dinheiro em espécie’ is a polite way to say ‘cash’, while ‘notas físicas’ emphasizes the paper form. Be aware that ‘trocar notas’ can also mean swapping school notes, so context is key.