Portuguese Phrase
Tomo um copo d'água.
Meaning
Literally, ‘I take a glass of water.’ In everyday Portuguese it means ‘I drink a glass of water.’ The verb ‘tomar’ is the most common way to say you are drinking something, especially in Brazil.
When to use
Use this sentence when you want to order water at a restaurant, ask for a drink at a friend’s house, or simply state what you are doing. It works in both formal and informal settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tomoumcopod'água
Tomar (present)
‘Tomo’ is the first‑person singular present indicative of the verb ‘tomar’, which means ‘to take/drink’ in the context of beverages.
Indefinite article
‘um’ is the masculine singular indefinite article, matching the gender of ‘copo’ (glass).
Noun ‘copo’
‘copo’ means ‘glass’ (the container). It is a masculine noun, so it takes ‘um’.
Contraction ‘d’água’
‘d’água’ is a contraction of ‘de água’ (of water). The apostrophe replaces the vowel ‘e’ for smoother pronunciation.
🗨In Conversation
Você gostaria de algo para beber?
Would you like something to drink?
Tomo um copo d'água, por favor.
I'll have a glass of water, please.
✕Common Mistakes
Beber um copo d'água.
‘Beber’ is also correct, but beginners often mix the two verbs. ‘Tomar’ is the more natural choice for ordering drinks.
Tomo um copo de água.
The contraction ‘d'água’ is preferred in spoken Portuguese; writing ‘de água’ is acceptable but sounds more formal.
Tomo uma copo d'água.
‘Copo’ is masculine, so the article must be ‘um’, not ‘uma’.
↔Alternatives
Bebo um copo d'água.
I drink a glass of water.
Quero um copo d'água.
I want a glass of water.
Posso tomar um copo d'água?
May I have a glass of water?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, offering a glass of water (água) is a universal sign of hospitality, even in fast‑food places. When you say ‘Tomo um copo d'água’, you’ll be understood instantly, and locals often respond with a friendly ‘Com certeza!’ (Sure!). Note that in Portugal people sometimes prefer ‘água mineral’ (mineral water) and may ask if you want it still or sparkling.