Portuguese Phrase
Vai embora?
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to ask if someone is departing from a place or a social gathering. It combines the verb 'ir' (to go) with 'embora' (away), functioning as a phrasal verb that indicates the act of leaving.
When to use
Use this in casual or semi-formal situations when you see someone packing their bags, putting on a coat, or heading toward an exit. It is often used with 'já' (already) to express surprise at a quick departure.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Vaiembora
Verb Ir
The word 'vai' is the third-person singular present tense of 'ir'. In Brazil, this form is used for the pronoun 'você' (you).
Adverb Embora
While it can mean 'although' in other contexts, when paired with 'ir', it indicates departure or moving away from a place.
🗨In Conversation
O jantar estava ótimo, mas preciso acordar cedo amanhã.
Dinner was great, but I need to wake up early tomorrow.
Já vai embora? Fica mais um pouco!
Are you leaving already? Stay a little longer!
✕Common Mistakes
Você vai para fora?
Para fora means 'to the outside' of a building; use 'embora' to describe the general act of leaving a location.
Você deixa agora?
The verb 'deixar' means 'to leave something behind'; use 'ir embora' for a person departing.
↔Alternatives
Já vai?
Leaving already?
Está de saída?
Are you on your way out?
Cultural Tip
In Brazilian culture, asking 'Já vai embora?' is often a polite way to show you enjoyed the person's company and are sad to see them go. It is common to insist they stay for 'one last coffee' before they actually head out.