Portuguese Phrase
Dá pra mover isso?
Meaning
Literally, "It’s possible to move this?" In everyday conversation it’s used to ask if someone can or is allowed to move an object, similar to "Can you move this?" The tone is casual and friendly.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need a quick, informal request – e.g., in a coworking space, at a friend's house, or while shopping. It’s perfect for spoken Portuguese but should be avoided in very formal written contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Dápramoverisso?
Impersonal "dar" (dá pra + infinitive)
In Brazilian Portuguese, "dar" is used impersonally as "dá pra" followed by an infinitive to mean "it is possible to" or "can".
Pra = para (colloquial)
"Pra" is the spoken contraction of "para" and is common in informal speech.
Demonstrative pronoun "isso"
"Isso" points to something near the listener or just mentioned; it functions like "this" in English.
Verb infinitive after "pra"
The verb stays in its infinitive form (mover) after "pra"; no conjugation is needed.
🗨In Conversation
Dá pra mover isso?
Can you move this?
Claro, já levo pra outra mesa.
Sure, I’ll take it to another table.
✕Common Mistakes
Da pra mover isso?
The verb "dar" must be written with an accent (dá) to indicate the present tense; without it the word changes meaning.
Dá para mover isso?
While "para" is grammatically correct, the colloquial "pra" is preferred in spoken Brazilian Portuguese; using "para" can sound overly formal in casual conversation.
Dá pra mover isso
Missing the question mark can change the tone; the phrase is a request, so the intonation and punctuation should signal a question.
↔Alternatives
Você pode mover isso?
You can move this?
É possível mover isso?
Is it possible to move this?
Consegue mover isso?
Can you manage to move this?
Pode me ajudar a mover isso?
Can you help me move this?
Cultural Tip
The construction "dá pra" is very common in Brazil and conveys a relaxed, friendly tone. In formal settings (e.g., business emails) replace it with "seria possível" or "poderia" to sound more polite. Also, remember that "isso" refers to something the listener can see or has just been mentioned, so pointing or gesturing helps avoid ambiguity.