Portuguese Phrase
Tô preocupado com uma coisa.
Meaning
This phrase is a natural and informal way to express that something is bothering you or weighing on your mind. The word 'tô' is a common spoken contraction of 'estou', the verb 'to be' used for temporary states. It suggests a specific concern rather than a general state of anxiety.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to initiate a serious conversation or share a personal concern with a friend, family member, or trusted colleague. It is a perfect 'ice-breaker' for discussing problems or seeking advice in a casual setting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tôpreocupadocomumacoisa
Tô
A very common spoken contraction of 'estou' (I am). It is used in almost all informal contexts in Brazil.
Preocupado
The masculine form of 'worried'. Female speakers must use the feminine form 'preocupada'.
Com uma coisa
Literally 'with a thing'. In Portuguese, you are worried 'with' something rather than 'about' it.
🗨In Conversation
Tô preocupado com uma coisa.
I'm worried about something.
O que aconteceu? Quer conversar?
What happened? Do you want to talk?
✕Common Mistakes
Eu sou preocupado com uma coisa.
In Portuguese, feelings and temporary states require the verb 'estar', not 'ser'.
Tô preocupado de uma coisa.
The adjective 'preocupado' is followed by the preposition 'com' (with) to indicate the cause of the worry.
↔Alternatives
Estou preocupado com algo.
I am worried about something (more formal).
Tem algo me incomodando.
There is something bothering me.
Tô com uma preocupação.
I have a concern.
Cultural Tip
Brazilians are generally very expressive and value emotional openness in friendships. Using 'tô' instead of 'estou' is essential for sounding natural in daily life, as the full form can often sound overly stiff or academic in spoken conversation.