Portuguese Phrase
Sai primeiro.
Meaning
Literally “Leave first.” It is used to tell someone that they should be the first to go, either as a polite instruction or as a description of the order in which people leave.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to give a quick, informal instruction to a friend, family member, or colleague about who should exit a room, a vehicle, or a gathering first. It works well in casual conversation and in contexts where the sequence of leaving matters.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Saiprimeiro
Sai (verb sair)
"Sai" is the second‑person singular (tu) present indicative of the verb *sair* (to leave/go out). In many regions it also functions as the informal imperative.
primeiro (adjective/adverb)
"Primeiro" means “first”. When placed after the verb it works as an adverb of sequence, indicating the order of actions.
🗨In Conversation
Sai primeiro.
You go first.
Tudo bem, eu vou depois.
Alright, I’ll go after.
✕Common Mistakes
Sai o primeiro.
Learners sometimes add an unnecessary article: *Sai o primeiro* (incorrect). The verb already conveys the action; the adjective stands alone.
Sai primeiro, senhor.
Using the third‑person form "Sai" for a formal command to a stranger can sound rude in some regions; prefer "Saia primeiro".
Sai o primeiro.
Do not confuse the adverbial use with the noun "primeiro" (the first one). In this phrase it modifies the verb, not a noun.
↔Alternatives
Saia primeiro.
Leave first (formal imperative).
Vá primeiro.
Go first.
Deixe-me sair primeiro.
Let me leave first.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the informal imperative for *sair* varies by region. In the South and parts of the Southeast people often say "Sai" (tu), while in most of the country the formal "Saia" (você) is preferred. Both are understood, but using the regional form can make you sound more native in the right context. Also, "primeiro" after a verb functions like an adverb, so you won’t need to add a preposition (e.g., not *primeiramente*).