Portuguese Phrase
Posso ter o molho à parte?
Meaning
This phrase is a polite request used to ask for a condiment, dressing, or sauce to be served in a separate container rather than poured over the food. It is a common expression for diners who prefer to control the amount of seasoning or have specific dietary preferences.
When to use
Use this phrase when ordering meals at a restaurant, café, or snack bar, particularly when ordering salads, grilled meats, or appetizers. It is suitable for both casual and formal dining environments.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Possotero molhoà parte
Poder (Posso)
The verb 'poder' expresses ability or permission. 'Posso' is the first-person singular present tense used to make polite requests.
À parte
This is an adverbial phrase where the grave accent on the 'à' indicates the contraction of the preposition 'a' and the feminine article 'a'.
🗨In Conversation
Deseja a salada com o molho da casa?
Would you like the salad with the house dressing?
Sim, mas posso ter o molho à parte?
Yes, but can I have the sauce on the side?
✕Common Mistakes
Posso ter o molho no lado?
While 'no lado' literally means 'on the side', 'à parte' is the standard idiomatic expression used in culinary contexts in Portuguese.
Posso ter o molho em parte?
The preposition 'em' is incorrect here; the fixed expression always uses 'à' with a grave accent.
↔Alternatives
O molho à parte, por favor.
The sauce on the side, please.
Pode trazer o molho separado?
Can you bring the sauce separately?
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking regions, especially in Portugal, sauces are often served generously. If you are watching your intake or prefer a crispier texture, don't hesitate to ask for it 'à parte'; it is a very common and accepted request.