Portuguese Phrase
Desculpa, não entendo.
Meaning
“Sorry, I don’t understand.” It’s a polite way to tell the speaker that you didn’t catch what was said. The phrase is informal; swapping “Desculpa” for “Desculpe” makes it more formal.
When to use
Use this sentence when you need clarification in a conversation, whether you missed a word, a whole sentence, or a rapid explanation. It works in both spoken and written exchanges, especially in casual settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Desculpanãoentendo
Desculpa (informal apology)
Used as a casual way to say “sorry” or “excuse me”. In formal situations prefer “Desculpe”.
não (negation)
The standard word for “not” or “no”. It precedes the verb it negates.
entendo (present of entender)
First‑person singular present of the verb “entender” (to understand).
🗨In Conversation
Desculpa, não entendo.
Sorry, I don’t understand.
Claro, eu repito. Você pode dizer novamente?
Sure, I’ll repeat. Can you say it again?
✕Common Mistakes
Desculpa, não entendo.
In formal situations use “Desculpe” instead of the informal “Desculpa”.
Desculpa, não entendo.
If you’re referring to something that just happened, “não entendi” (past) may be more natural.
↔Alternatives
Desculpe, não entendo.
Sorry, I don’t understand.
Com licença, não entendi.
Excuse me, I didn’t understand.
Desculpa, não compreendi.
Sorry, I didn’t grasp it.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, “Desculpa” is perfectly acceptable among friends, peers, or in informal contexts. In a business meeting, with elders, or when speaking to strangers you don’t know well, opt for the more formal “Desculpe”. Adding a follow‑up request like “pode repetir?” (can you repeat?) shows extra politeness and keeps the conversation flowing.