Portuguese Phrase
Me explica isso com mais detalhes?
Meaning
This phrase is a polite and direct way to ask for further clarification or more in-depth information about something. It literally translates to 'Explain this to me with more details?' and is commonly used when you need a deeper understanding of a topic or situation.
When to use
Use this phrase when you've received an explanation but feel it's insufficient, or when you want to delve deeper into a subject. It's suitable in both formal and informal settings, as the 'me' (indirect object pronoun) and the question intonation soften the request.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Meexplicaissocommaisdetalhes?
Me (Pronoun Placement)
'Me' is an indirect object pronoun meaning 'to me'. In Brazilian Portuguese, it typically precedes the verb in affirmative sentences, questions, and negative sentences, especially in informal speech. This is known as 'próclise'.
Explica (Verb 'Explicar')
'Explica' is the third-person singular (você/ele/ela) present tense conjugation of the verb 'explicar' (to explain). In this context, it's used as an imperative, implicitly addressing 'você' (you).
Isso (Demonstrative Pronoun)
'Isso' means 'this' or 'that' (referring to something abstract or previously mentioned). It's a neutral demonstrative pronoun, used when the gender of the object is unknown or irrelevant, or when referring to an idea or situation.
Com mais detalhes (Prepositional Phrase)
'Com' means 'with'. 'Mais' means 'more'. 'Detalhes' means 'details'. Together, 'com mais detalhes' forms a common phrase meaning 'with more details', indicating a request for additional information.
🗨In Conversation
A reunião foi adiada para a próxima semana.
The meeting was postponed to next week.
Me explica isso com mais detalhes? Qual dia e horário?
Can you explain this to me with more details? Which day and time?
✕Common Mistakes
Explica-me isso com mais detalhes?
While grammatically correct in European Portuguese, in Brazilian Portuguese, placing the pronoun 'me' before the verb is much more common and natural, especially in informal speech and questions.
Você pode me explicar isso com mais detalhes?
This is not strictly 'wrong' but is a more formal or slightly longer way to ask. The original phrase is more concise and equally polite in many contexts.
↔Alternatives
Pode me dar mais detalhes?
Can you give me more details?
Você poderia elaborar um pouco mais?
Could you elaborate a bit more?
Poderia me explicar melhor?
Could you explain it better to me?
Cultural Tip
In Brazilian Portuguese, directness in asking for clarification is generally well-received, especially when phrased politely as this sentence is. It shows engagement and a desire to understand. Unlike some cultures where asking for more details might imply the initial explanation was poor, in Brazil, it's often seen as a sign of active listening and interest. However, always maintain a polite tone and intonation.