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Portuguese Phrase

Divide isso em partes iguais, por favor.

/diˈvi.dʒi ˈi.su ẽj ˈpaʁ.tʃis iˈɡwajs, poʁ faˈvoʁ./
Meaning"Divide this into equal parts, please."
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Meaning

This phrase is a polite request to split something into portions of the same size or quantity. It's commonly used when sharing food, resources, or tasks, ensuring fairness among participants. The 'por favor' adds a crucial element of politeness.

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When to use

You would use this phrase when you want to ensure that a shared item or task is distributed fairly among a group. It's appropriate in informal settings with friends or family, or in more formal situations where politeness is expected, such as asking a server to split a bill evenly.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Divideissoempartesiguais,por favor

1

Divide (Dividir)

'Divide' is the informal imperative form of the verb 'dividir' (to divide), used when addressing 'você' (you, informal singular). It's a direct command or request.

2

isso

'Isso' means 'this' or 'that' (neuter gender), referring to something previously mentioned or understood in context. It's an indefinite demonstrative pronoun.

3

em partes iguais

This is an idiomatic expression meaning 'into equal parts'. 'Em' is a preposition meaning 'in' or 'into', 'partes' means 'parts', and 'iguais' means 'equal' (plural adjective).

4

por favor

This phrase translates to 'please' and is essential for making requests polite in Portuguese. It softens the imperative verb.

🗨In Conversation

A

Este bolo está delicioso! Podemos dividir?

This cake is delicious! Can we divide it?

Claro! Divide isso em partes iguais, por favor.

Of course! Divide this into equal parts, please.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Divida isso em partes iguais.

    While 'Divida' is the formal imperative, 'Divide' (informal imperative) is more common and natural in everyday requests, especially when using 'por favor'.

  • Divide isso em partes iguais.

    Sometimes learners might omit 'em' or use a different preposition, but 'em partes iguais' is the standard idiomatic expression.

↔Alternatives

  • Pode dividir isso igualmente?

    Can you divide this equally?

  • Vamos dividir isso por igual.

    Let's divide this equally.

  • Quero que seja dividido em partes iguais.

    I want it to be divided into equal parts.

pt

Cultural Tip

In Brazil, politeness is highly valued. Adding 'por favor' (please) to requests is very common and often expected, even in informal contexts. Omitting it can sometimes sound abrupt or demanding. When sharing food, it's common to ensure everyone gets an equal share, especially in family or friend gatherings.