Portuguese Phrase
Tem desconto?
Meaning
Literally ‘Does it have a discount?’, this question is used to find out whether a product or service is being offered at a reduced price.
When to use
Use it while shopping in stores, markets, online shops, or when negotiating services such as tours, tickets, or repairs. It’s a polite, direct way to ask about a possible price reduction.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Temdesconto?
Ter (tem)
‘Tem’ is the third‑person singular present of the verb *ter* meaning ‘has’ or ‘there is/are’ in impersonal constructions.
Desconto
*Desconto* is a masculine noun meaning ‘discount’; it does not need an article when used in a yes/no question.
🗨In Conversation
Tem desconto?
Is there a discount?
Sim, 10 % para estudantes.
Yes, 10 % for students.
✕Common Mistakes
É desconto?
‘É’ is used for identity (e.g., ‘É barato’), not for existence. Use ‘tem’ or ‘há’ when asking if something exists.
Tem um desconto?
Adding ‘um’ changes the nuance to ‘Do you have *a* discount?’ which sounds odd unless you’re referring to a specific discount already mentioned.
↔Alternatives
Há desconto?
Is there a discount?
Existe desconto?
Does a discount exist?
Posso ter desconto?
Can I get a discount?
Tem algum desconto?
Is there any discount?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil it’s common to ask for a discount, especially in markets and small shops, but always add a ‘por favor’ to keep the tone friendly. In Portugal the same phrase works, though you’ll also hear “há desconto?” more often. Remember that discounts are often tied to specific groups (students, seniors, cash payment), so mentioning your status can help.