Portuguese Phrase
Precisamos de mais papel higiênico?
Meaning
This question asks whether there is a need for additional toilet paper. It can be used to check supplies in a home, office, or any shared bathroom space.
When to use
Use it when the current roll is running low and you want to confirm with others before buying more. It works in informal settings and is polite because it frames the need as a question rather than a demand.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Precisamosdemaispapelhigiênico?
Precisar (present 1st pl.)
The verb 'precisar' means 'to need' and is conjugated as 'precisamos' for 'we need' in the present indicative.
Preposition de
The preposition 'de' links the verb 'precisar' to the thing that is needed.
Mais (comparative adverb)
'Mais' means 'more' and modifies the noun that follows.
Papel higiênico (noun phrase)
A compound noun; 'papel' is masculine singular, and 'higiênico' agrees in gender and number.
🗨In Conversation
Precisamos de mais papel higiênico?
Do we need more toilet paper?
Sim, o último está quase vazio. Vou comprar mais depois do trabalho.
Yes, the last one is almost empty. I'll buy more after work.
✕Common Mistakes
Preciso de mais papel higiênico?
Use 'precisamos' for 'we' instead of the singular 'preciso'.
Precisamos mais papel higiênico?
The preposition 'de' is required after 'precisar'.
Precisamos de mais papel higienico?
Missing the accent on the 'e' changes pronunciation and is considered a spelling mistake.
↔Alternatives
Precisamos comprar mais papel higiênico.
We need to buy more toilet paper.
Será que temos papel higiênico suficiente?
Do we have enough toilet paper?
Está acabando o papel higiênico, vamos comprar mais?
The toilet paper is running out, shall we buy more?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, most households use toilet paper, but many public restrooms also provide a bidet or a small water spray. When traveling, it’s polite to ask about supplies before assuming they’re available. Also, note the accent on 'higiênico' – forgetting it is a common spelling error for learners.