Portuguese Phrase
Tá certo assim?
Meaning
A casual way to ask if something that has just been shown, done, or written is correct the way it is. It can be translated as “Is that right like this?” or “Is it correct this way?”. The tone is informal and friendly.
When to use
Use this phrase in everyday conversation with friends, classmates, or coworkers when you want quick confirmation about a task, a piece of writing, a pronunciation, or any action you just performed. Avoid it in formal emails, presentations, or when speaking to authority figures.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tácertoassim?
Contraction "Tá"
"Tá" is the colloquial contraction of the verb "estar" in the third‑person singular present (está). It is common in spoken Brazilian Portuguese but avoided in formal writing.
Adverb "assim"
"Assim" means "like this" or "in this way" and is used to refer to a manner previously demonstrated or described.
Question intonation
In spoken Portuguese, a rising intonation at the end of the sentence signals a yes‑no question, even without a question word.
🗨In Conversation
Tá certo assim?
Is it right like this?
Sim, ficou perfeito!
Yes, it turned out perfect!
✕Common Mistakes
Tá certo assim?
Avoid using "Tá" in formal writing or when speaking to someone you need to show respect; use "Está" instead.
Tá assim certo?
Do not place the adjective before the adverb; the correct order is "certo assim" (adjective + adverb).
Tá certo assim
The question mark is essential; without it the sentence becomes a statement: "Tá certo assim" (It’s correct this way).
↔Alternatives
Está certo assim?
Is it correct this way?
Ficou certo assim?
Did it turn out right like this?
É isso mesmo?
Is that right?
Tudo certo assim?
Everything okay like this?
Cultural Tip
The contraction "Tá" is a hallmark of informal Brazilian Portuguese and is heard in everyday speech, TV shows, and music. In more formal contexts—such as business meetings, academic writing, or when speaking to elders—use the full form "Está". Also, Brazilians often accompany this question with a gesture, like a slight nod or a hand showing the object in question, to reinforce the request for confirmation.