Portuguese Phrase
O trem está cheio?
Meaning
Literally, 'Is the train full?' This question is used to find out whether there are any free seats or standing space on a train at the moment you want to board.
When to use
Use this phrase at a train station, when you see a crowded platform, or when you ask a conductor or fellow passenger if there’s room to get on. It’s also handy when you’re planning a trip and need to know if you’ll have to wait for the next service.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Otremestácheio?
Definite Article (O)
The masculine singular article 'o' agrees with the noun 'trem' and is required before a specific train.
Verb ‘estar’ (está)
Use 'estar' for temporary states or conditions, such as a train being full at this moment.
Adjective Agreement (cheio)
The adjective 'cheio' must match the gender (masculine) and number (singular) of the noun it describes.
Question Mark Placement
In Portuguese, the question is indicated only by the final '?'—the sentence order stays the same.
🗨In Conversation
O trem está cheio?
Is the train full?
Não, ainda tem lugares disponíveis.
No, there are still seats available.
✕Common Mistakes
O trem é cheio?
Use 'está' (temporary state) instead of 'é' (permanent characteristic).
O trem está cheia?
The adjective must agree with the masculine noun 'trem'.
Trem está cheio o?
Word order stays subject‑verb‑adjective; do not place the article after the verb.
↔Alternatives
O comboio está cheio?
Is the train full? (European Portuguese)
O trem está lotado?
Is the train crowded?
Tem vagas no trem?
Are there any spots on the train?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, 'trem' is the common word for train, while in Portugal people usually say 'comboio'. When asking in a formal setting, adding 'por favor' (e.g., 'Por favor, o trem está cheio?') shows politeness. Also, note that 'cheio' can describe both seats and standing capacity; if you specifically need a seat, you might ask 'Tem assentos livres?'