Portuguese Phrase
Não, valeu, tô bem.
Meaning
Literally “No, thanks, I’m fine.” It’s a quick, informal way to decline an offer or invitation while reassuring the speaker that you’re okay.
When to use
Use this phrase in relaxed settings—among friends, classmates, or coworkers you’re close with. It’s perfect for turning down a drink, a piece of food, or a suggestion without sounding rude.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nãovaleutôbem
Não (negation)
Used at the beginning of a sentence to negate or refuse something.
valeu (informal thanks)
Colloquial past of the verb valer; in everyday speech it works like “thanks” or “cheers”.
tô (contraction)
Shortened form of “estou”, the first‑person singular of estar, used in casual conversation.
bem (adverb)
Means “well” or “fine”; often follows estar to describe one’s state.
🗨In Conversation
Quer um café?
Do you want a coffee?
Não, valeu, tô bem.
No, thanks, I’m fine.
✕Common Mistakes
Não, valeu, estou bem.
“Valeu” is informal; using it in a formal email or with a superior can seem disrespectful.
Não, valeu, tô bem.
In written Portuguese, especially in formal contexts, use “estou” instead of the contraction “tô”.
Não, valeu, tô bem
Missing the final period can make the sentence look like a fragment; always end with a period or appropriate punctuation.
↔Alternatives
Não, obrigado, estou bem.
No, thank you, I’m fine.
Não, agradeço, estou bem.
No, I appreciate it, I’m fine.
Não, tá bom, tô bem.
No, it’s okay, I’m fine.
Cultural Tip
“Valeu” is very informal and can sound friendly or even a bit slangy. In a formal environment (e.g., with a boss or a stranger) you’d prefer “obrigado/a” or “agradeço”. Also, the contraction “tô” is typical of spoken Brazilian Portuguese; in writing you’d normally use “estou”.