Portuguese Phrase
Deixa os contatos de emergência à mão.
Meaning
This phrase means to have emergency contact information readily accessible and available for immediate use. It emphasizes preparedness and the importance of quick access to help in unforeseen situations. It's a common and practical safety recommendation.
When to use
You would use this phrase when advising someone to be prepared for potential emergencies, such as when traveling, leaving children with a babysitter, or discussing general safety measures. It's a practical piece of advice given to ensure safety and quick response.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Deixaos contatosde emergênciaà mão
Deixa (from Deixar)
'Deixa' is the informal imperative form of the verb 'deixar' (to leave, to let, to allow). In this context, it means 'to keep' or 'to have' something readily available.
os contatos
'Os' is the masculine plural definite article, meaning 'the'. 'Contatos' means 'contacts'. Together, they refer to specific emergency contacts.
de emergência
'De' is a preposition meaning 'of' or 'from'. Here, it indicates purpose or type, specifying that the contacts are 'of emergency' or 'for emergency'.
à mão
'À mão' is a common idiomatic expression in Portuguese meaning 'at hand' or 'readily available'. The 'à' is a crase, indicating the fusion of the preposition 'a' and the feminine definite article 'a'.
🗨In Conversation
Vou viajar sozinho para a Amazônia na próxima semana.
I'm traveling alone to the Amazon next week.
Que legal! Mas, por favor, deixa os contatos de emergência à mão.
How cool! But, please, keep the emergency contacts at hand.
✕Common Mistakes
Tem os contatos de emergência na mão.
Using 'ter' (to have) instead of 'deixar' (to leave/keep) doesn't convey the same sense of 'keeping handy'. Also, 'na mão' (in the hand) is less idiomatic than 'à mão' (at hand).
Deixa os contatos de emergência na mão.
While 'na mão' means 'in the hand', the idiomatic expression for 'at hand' or 'readily available' is 'à mão', which uses the crase.
↔Alternatives
Tenha os contatos de emergência por perto.
Have the emergency contacts nearby.
Mantenha os números de emergência acessíveis.
Keep the emergency numbers accessible.
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, particularly in Brazil, there's a strong emphasis on family and community support. While this phrase is practical advice, it also subtly reflects a culture where looking out for one another's safety is important. It's common to share such advice, especially with elderly relatives, children, or those traveling alone, highlighting a collective sense of responsibility for well-being.