Portuguese Phrase
Tu tens vergonha?
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to 'Do you have shame?' In Portuguese, many internal states or emotions like hunger, fear, and shyness are expressed using the verb 'ter' (to have) rather than 'to be'. It is a common way to ask if someone is feeling embarrassed or timid in a social situation.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings with friends or family when someone is hesitant to act or speak. It can be used as a genuine inquiry into their feelings or as a lighthearted tease.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tutensvergonha?
Tu
The second-person singular pronoun used for informal situations with friends and family.
Tens
The present tense conjugation of the verb 'ter' (to have) specifically for the pronoun 'tu'.
🗨In Conversation
Por que não vais dançar com eles?
Why don't you go dance with them?
Não quero, tu tens vergonha por mim?
I don't want to, are you shy for me?
✕Common Mistakes
Tu estás vergonha?
Portuguese uses the verb 'ter' (to have) for shyness, not 'estar' (to be).
Tu tem vergonha?
When using the pronoun 'tu', the verb 'ter' must be conjugated as 'tens' in standard grammar.
↔Alternatives
Estás com vergonha?
Are you feeling shy right now?
Você tem vergonha?
Are you shy? (More common in Brazil or formal contexts)
Cultural Tip
In Portugal, 'tu' is the standard informal address for peers. In Brazil, 'tu' is used frequently in the South and North, though speakers there often conjugate it with the third-person verb (e.g., 'tu tem') in everyday speech, which differs from the 'tu tens' taught in textbooks.