Portuguese Phrase
O que te faz sentir melhor?
Meaning
This phrase is used to ask someone about the activities, things, or people that improve their mood or physical state. It is an empathetic question often asked when someone is going through a hard time or feeling unwell. The structure uses the verb 'fazer' (to make) followed by 'sentir' (to feel) in the infinitive.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to show support to a friend, partner, or family member who is stressed, sad, or sick. It is appropriate for informal and semi-formal settings where you have a level of emotional closeness with the person.
✦Grammar Breakdown
O quetefazsentirmelhor
O que
A common way to say 'what' at the beginning of a question.
Causative Verbs
The verb 'faz' (from fazer) acts as a causative here, requiring the second verb 'sentir' to stay in the infinitive.
Object Pronoun 'te'
This is the informal object pronoun for 'you'. In formal Portuguese or certain regions, 'o/a' might be used instead.
🗨In Conversation
Estou muito estressado com o trabalho ultimamente.
I've been very stressed with work lately.
Sinto muito. O que te faz sentir melhor?
I'm sorry. What makes you feel better?
✕Common Mistakes
O que te faz sente melhor?
After the verb 'fazer' used as a causative, the following verb should be in the infinitive form 'sentir'.
O que te faz sentir mais bom?
In Portuguese, 'melhor' is the comparative form of 'bom'. Using 'mais bom' is grammatically incorrect in this context.
↔Alternatives
O que te ajuda?
What helps you?
Como posso te alegrar?
How can I cheer you up?
O que você faz para relaxar?
What do you do to relax?
Cultural Tip
Brazilians and Portuguese speakers are often very expressive and value emotional connection. Asking this shows you are 'atencioso' (thoughtful). In Brazil, it's common to offer a 'cafézinho' or a walk as a follow-up to this question.