Portuguese Phrase
Meu cartão não funciona.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "My card not works." It's a direct and common way to express that a payment card (credit, debit, or even a loyalty card) is not being accepted or is malfunctioning. It implies a problem with the card itself or the transaction process.
When to use
You would use this phrase in situations where your payment card is declined at a store, an ATM, or any point of sale. It's a polite and clear way to inform a cashier or attendant about the issue, indicating that you are unable to complete a transaction using your card.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Meucartãonãofunciona
Meu (Possessive Adjective)
'Meu' means 'my' and agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies. Here, 'cartão' (card) is masculine singular, so 'meu' is used.
Cartão (Noun)
'Cartão' means 'card'. It can refer to a credit card (cartão de crédito), debit card (cartão de débito), or any other type of card.
Não (Negation)
'Não' is the standard way to negate a verb in Portuguese. It always comes directly before the verb it negates.
Funciona (Verb 'funcionar')
'Funciona' is the third-person singular present tense conjugation of the verb 'funcionar' (to work, to function). It agrees with the subject 'Meu cartão'.
🗨In Conversation
O total é R$50,00. Pode passar o cartão.
The total is R$50.00. You can swipe your card.
Ah, que pena! Meu cartão não funciona.
Oh, what a shame! My card doesn't work.
✕Common Mistakes
Meu cartão não está funcionar.
The verb 'funcionar' (to work) is typically used directly with 'não' for a general or persistent malfunction. 'Estar' (to be) followed by an infinitive is incorrect; you would use 'estar funcionando' (is working) for a continuous action, but 'não funciona' is more natural here.
Não funciona meu cartão.
While grammatically understandable, the more natural and common word order in Portuguese places the subject ('Meu cartão') before the negation and verb when stating a problem with an item.
↔Alternatives
O meu cartão não está a funcionar.
My card is not working. (European Portuguese)
Não consigo usar meu cartão.
I can't use my card.
Meu cartão foi recusado.
My card was declined.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, it's common to try multiple payment methods if one fails, so don't be surprised if a cashier asks if you have another card or cash. While 'Meu cartão não funciona' is direct, a polite tone and a slight shrug can convey a sense of shared inconvenience. It's also good to be aware that sometimes the issue might be with the machine (a maquininha) rather than your card.