Portuguese Phrase
Qual é a tua política de devolução?
Meaning
This phrase is used to inquire about a store's or company's rules regarding returning purchased items. It directly asks for the conditions, timeframe, and process for customers to return products they no longer want or that are faulty. Understanding this policy is crucial for consumers.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase when shopping, especially for clothing, electronics, or gifts, to understand your options if an item doesn't fit, is defective, or isn't wanted. It's common to ask before making a purchase, or if you're considering returning something you've already bought.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Qualéa tuapolíticadedevolução?
Qual
'Qual' means 'which' or 'what' and is used when asking about a specific item or choice from a group, or when asking for a definition or characteristic. It agrees in number (qual/quais).
é (ser)
'É' is the third-person singular form of the verb 'ser' (to be). 'Ser' is used for permanent characteristics, identities, and definitions, like defining a policy.
a tua
'A tua' means 'your' (feminine singular, informal). 'Tua' is the possessive adjective for 'tu' (informal 'you'). For a formal context, you would use 'a sua'.
política
'Política' means 'policy'. It is a feminine noun in Portuguese. It refers to a set of rules or principles adopted by an organization or individual.
de devolução
'De devolução' means 'of return' or 'return' (as an adjective). 'Devolução' is a feminine noun meaning 'return' (of goods). The preposition 'de' connects 'política' to the type of policy it is.
🗨In Conversation
Olá! Estou interessado neste casaco, mas não tenho a certeza do tamanho.
Hello! I'm interested in this jacket, but I'm not sure about the size.
Claro. Qual é a tua política de devolução, caso não sirva?
Of course. What is your return policy, in case it doesn't fit?
✕Common Mistakes
Que é a tua política de devolução?
While 'que' means 'what', 'qual' is used when asking about a choice or specific item from a group, like 'which policy'. 'Que' is more for definitions or general questions.
Qual é a tua política de retornar?
While 'retornar' means 'to return', 'devolução' (noun) is the correct term for the act of returning goods in a commercial context. 'Retornar' is more for returning to a place.
Qual é a sua política de devolução?
This is not strictly 'wrong' but uses the formal 'você' form ('sua') instead of the informal 'tu' form ('tua') as in the original phrase. The choice depends on the context and your relationship with the person you're speaking to.
↔Alternatives
Qual é a sua política de devolução?
What is your return policy? (formal)
Posso devolver este artigo?
Can I return this item?
Aceitam devoluções?
Do you accept returns?
Até quando posso devolver?
Until when can I return (it)?
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking countries, consumer protection laws vary, but generally, stores are expected to have a clear return policy. In Portugal, for online purchases, there's a 14-day cooling-off period where you can return items without justification. For in-store purchases, policies can differ, so it's always good practice to ask. Using 'a sua' (formal 'you') is generally safer and more polite when addressing staff in stores, especially if you don't know them.