Portuguese Phrase
Respeita o espaço pessoal.
Meaning
A direct request asking someone to keep a respectful distance. It emphasizes the importance of not intruding on another person’s personal bubble.
When to use
Use this phrase in crowded settings like public transport, queues, or social gatherings when you feel someone is standing too close. It’s also handy when reminding children or strangers to respect personal boundaries.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Respeitaoespaçopessoal.
Imperative (tu)
‘Respeita’ is the informal second‑person singular imperative of the verb ‘respeitar’, used when speaking to a friend or peer.
Definite article ‘o’
The article ‘o’ agrees in gender and number with the masculine singular noun ‘espaço’.
Noun ‘espaço’
‘espaço’ means ‘space’; here it refers to the physical area around a person.
Adjective ‘pessoal’
‘pessoal’ qualifies the noun, meaning ‘personal’; adjectives follow the noun in Portuguese.
🗨In Conversation
Respeita o espaço pessoal.
Respect personal space.
Desculpa, não percebi. Vou dar mais espaço.
Sorry, I didn’t notice. I’ll give you more space.
✕Common Mistakes
Respeite o espaço pessoal.
‘Respeite’ is the formal imperative (você). Use it only when speaking politely to strangers or elders; ‘Respeita’ is informal and matches the casual tone of the sentence.
Respeita o o espaço pessoal.
Do not add an extra article (e.g., ‘o o espaço’). The correct phrase uses a single definite article.
↔Alternatives
Mantenha distância.
Keep your distance.
Não invada meu espaço.
Don’t invade my space.
Por favor, respeite meu espaço.
Please respect my space.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the notion of personal space can vary by region and context. In the south, people tend to keep a slightly larger distance, while in the northeast a closer proximity is common. Regardless, a polite request like ‘Respeita o espaço pessoal’ is always appreciated and shows respect for the other person’s comfort.