Portuguese Phrase
Vamos dividir a conta?
Meaning
This phrase is a polite and common way to suggest splitting the cost of a meal or service among a group. It literally translates to "Are we going to divide the bill?" but functions as a question proposing the action.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase at the end of a meal or after a group activity where expenses need to be shared. It's suitable for friends, colleagues, or family members dining out together.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Vamosdividiraconta?
Vamos (Verb 'Ir')
'Vamos' is the first-person plural conjugation of the verb 'ir' (to go). When followed by an infinitive verb (like 'dividir'), it forms a construction similar to 'let's [do something]' or 'we are going to [do something]', indicating a suggestion or future action.
Dividir (Infinitive Verb)
'Dividir' means 'to divide' or 'to split'. In this construction, it remains in its infinitive form, as it's preceded by 'vamos' which already carries the conjugation for 'we'.
A conta (Feminine Noun)
'A conta' means 'the bill' or 'the check'. 'A' is the feminine definite article, agreeing with the feminine noun 'conta'.
🗨In Conversation
A comida estava deliciosa!
The food was delicious!
Sim, estava ótima! Vamos dividir a conta?
Yes, it was great! Shall we split the bill?
✕Common Mistakes
Nós vamos partir a conta?
While 'partir' means 'to break' or 'to split' in a physical sense, 'dividir' is the correct verb for splitting costs or sharing. 'Partir' would sound unnatural in this context.
Vamos dividir o dinheiro?
While you are splitting money, the direct object of 'dividir' in this context is 'a conta' (the bill). Saying 'dividir o dinheiro' might imply splitting a pile of cash, not the cost of a service.
↔Alternatives
Podemos dividir a conta?
Can we split the bill?
Vamos rachar a conta?
Let's split the bill (informal/slang)
Cada um paga o seu?
Everyone pays for their own?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, it's very common for groups of friends or family to split the bill evenly, especially in casual settings. Sometimes, one person might offer to pay for everyone, but it's generally expected that people will contribute. Using 'Vamos dividir a conta?' is a polite and direct way to initiate this process without awkwardness. In more formal settings or business meals, the host often pays.