Portuguese Phrase
Quase, só preciso da minha bolsa.
Meaning
This phrase communicates that you are nearly ready or finished with a task, but there is one final step involving your bag. 'Quase' functions as a standalone adverb for 'almost,' and 'só preciso' emphasizes that the bag is the only remaining requirement.
When to use
Use this in casual or semi-formal settings when someone asks if you are ready to leave or if you have finished preparing. It is a common response when you are about to head out the door.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quasesóprecisodaminhabolsa
Verb Precisa
The verb 'precisar' (to need) is followed by the preposition 'de' when followed by a noun.
Contraction 'da'
The word 'da' is a contraction of the preposition 'de' and the feminine article 'a' (the).
🗨In Conversation
Podemos ir agora?
Can we go now?
Quase, só preciso da minha bolsa.
Almost, I just need my bag.
✕Common Mistakes
Quase, só preciso minha bolsa.
The verb 'precisar' requires the preposition 'de'. In this case, 'de' combines with 'a' to become 'da'.
Quase, somente preciso de minha bolsa.
While 'somente' means 'only', it sounds overly formal in this context; 'só' is the preferred choice for daily speech.
↔Alternatives
Tô quase lá, só falta a bolsa.
I'm almost there, just missing the bag.
Quase pronto, só vou pegar minha bolsa.
Almost ready, I'm just going to grab my bag.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, 'bolsa' typically refers to a handbag or purse. If you are carrying a backpack, you should use the word 'mochila' instead. Brazilians often use 'quase' to be polite even if they might still take a few more minutes to actually be ready.