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Portuguese Phrase

A sauna a vapor tá funcionando?

/a ˈsaw.nɐ a vaˈpoɾ ˈtɐ fũ.nsi.oˈnãw̃/
Meaning"Is the steam sauna working?"
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Meaning

This informal question asks whether the steam sauna is currently working or operational. It combines a noun phrase ("a sauna a vapor") with the colloquial verb form "tá funcionando" to check the status of the equipment.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are at a gym, hotel, spa, or any place that offers a steam sauna and you want to know if it is functional. It is appropriate in casual conversation with staff or fellow users, but avoid it in very formal written requests.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Asaunaavaportáfuncionando?

1

tá (está)

"tá" is the colloquial contraction of the verb "estar" in the third person singular, used in informal spoken Portuguese.

2

a vapor

"a vapor" works as a post‑positive adjective meaning "steam"; it follows the noun it modifies.

3

Present progressive

"funcionando" is the gerund form of "funcionar" and together with "estar" forms the present progressive to indicate an ongoing action.

🗨In Conversation

A

A sauna a vapor tá funcionando?

Is the steam sauna working?

Ainda não, o técnico já está aqui para consertar.

Not yet, the technician is already here to fix it.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • A sauna a vapor tá funcionando?

    Use "está funcionando" in formal situations; "tá" is informal.

  • A sauna vapor está funcionando?

    You need the preposition "a" to indicate "steam"; "sauna vapor" sounds like a brand name.

  • A sauna a vapor está funciona?

    Do not use the simple present "funciona" here; the progressive form "está funcionando" conveys the current state.

↔Alternatives

  • A sauna a vapor está funcionando?

    Is the steam sauna working?

  • A sauna a vapor está a funcionar?

    Is the steam sauna functioning?

  • A sauna a vapor está em funcionamento?

    Is the steam sauna in operation?

pt

Cultural Tip

In Brazil, "sauna a vapor" is a common amenity in fitness centers and hotels. The word "tá" is widely used in everyday speech, but in formal contexts (e.g., writing a complaint email) you should replace it with "está". Also, remember that "sauna" can refer to both dry and steam rooms; specifying "a vapor" removes any ambiguity.