Portuguese Phrase
Já vai embora?
Meaning
This phrase is a common way to ask if someone is departing sooner than expected or simply to confirm they are leaving now. The word 'já' emphasizes the immediacy or the perceived earliness of the action, often carrying a tone of slight surprise or a friendly desire for the person to stay longer.
When to use
Use this in social settings like parties, dinners, or casual hangouts when a guest starts to pack up or head for the door. It is also appropriate in workplace settings when a colleague is leaving for the day.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jávaiembora
Já
Means 'already' and is used to indicate that the action is happening sooner than expected.
Ir embora
A fixed expression meaning 'to leave'. 'Vai' is the third-person singular present form of the verb 'ir'.
🗨In Conversation
Bom, pessoal, preciso ir.
Well, guys, I need to go.
Já vai embora? Ainda é cedo!
Are you leaving already? It's still early!
✕Common Mistakes
Você já vai fora?
Use 'embora' for the act of leaving a place; 'fora' simply means 'outside'.
Já vai sair embora?
Adding 'sair' is redundant as the expression 'ir embora' already encompasses the act of leaving.
↔Alternatives
Já está de saída?
Are you on your way out already?
Vai sair agora?
Are you going out now?
Cultural Tip
In Lusophone cultures, asking this is often a polite way to show you value the person's presence. It is a social convention that signals you enjoyed their company, rather than a literal inquiry into their schedule.