Portuguese Phrase
Mantém‑nos seguros.
Meaning
Literally, 'Keep us safe.' It is a request or plea for someone to ensure the safety of the speaker and others. The tone can be urgent or reassuring depending on context.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to ask a friend, a guardian, or an authority figure to protect you and your group, such as before a trip, during a risky activity, or in a moment of concern.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Mantém‑nosseguros
Imperative (3rd person singular)
Mantém is the affirmative imperative form of the verb 'manter' for 'tu' (you) in European Portuguese, used to give a command or request.
Clitic pronoun placement
In affirmative imperatives, object pronouns are attached to the verb with a hyphen; 'nos' means 'us' and follows the verb.
Adjective agreement
The adjective 'seguros' agrees in gender and number with the implied subject 'nos' (us), so it stays masculine plural.
🗨In Conversation
Vamos atravessar a ponte, mas parece instável.
We're about to cross the bridge, but it looks unstable.
Mantém‑nos seguros, por favor.
Please keep us safe.
✕Common Mistakes
Mantém‑nos seguro.
The adjective must agree in number; 'nos' is plural, so use 'seguros'.
Mantém nos seguros.
In the affirmative imperative, the pronoun must be attached with a hyphen.
Mantenha‑nos seguros.
While grammatically correct in formal Portuguese, using 'Mantenha' (formal 'você') changes the register; choose based on your audience.
↔Alternatives
Protege‑nos.
Protect us.
Cuida de nós.
Take care of us.
Garanta a nossa segurança.
Ensure our safety.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese, using the imperative with a clitic pronoun (e.g., 'mantém‑nos') is common in informal speech, especially in Portugal. In Brazil, speakers often prefer the more neutral 'Mantenha‑nos' (formal) or 'Mantenha a gente segura' for a softer tone. Be aware of the regional preference for 'tu' vs. 'você' when choosing the verb form.