Portuguese Phrase

E se faltar luz?

/i si faˈlaɾ luʃ/

Meaning"What if the lights go out?"

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Meaning

The sentence asks the listener to consider a possible situation where the electricity stops working. It is a way of prompting a discussion about what to do if the power goes out.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are planning an event, a trip, or a daily routine and want to discuss backup plans for a potential blackout. It works well in informal conversation among friends, family, or coworkers.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Esefaltarluz?

E (conjunction)

Used here to introduce a hypothetical situation, similar to 'and' or 'what if' in English.

se (conditional particle)

Introduces a condition; it can be translated as 'if' when forming a hypothetical clause.

faltar (verb)

Verb meaning 'to be lacking' or 'to run out of'. In the present subjunctive it expresses a possible future lack.

luz (noun)

Means 'light' or 'electricity'. In this context it refers to the electric power supply.

🗨In Conversation

E se faltar luz durante a festa?

What if the power goes out during the party?

Então vamos deixar algumas velas e um carregador portátil à mão.

Then we’ll keep some candles and a portable charger handy.

✕Common Mistakes

E se faltar luzes?
Use the singular 'luz' when referring to the electricity supply; 'luzes' means multiple light bulbs.
E se falta luz?
The verb must be in the subjunctive form 'faltar' to express a hypothetical condition.
E se faltar a luz?
Adding the article 'a' changes the meaning to a specific light source; keep it without the article for the general power supply.

↔Alternatives

E se a energia acabar?
What if the electricity runs out?
E se houver um apagão?
What if there’s a blackout?
E se ficarmos sem luz?
What if we’re left without light?

Cultural Tip

In Brazil, especially in the Northeast, power outages (known as 'apagões') are common during the rainy season. When you ask "E se faltar luz?" you’re showing practical awareness. It’s polite to suggest a concrete solution right after, such as using candles, lanterns, or a generator, because Brazilians value preparedness in these situations.