Portuguese Phrase
Tenho uma alergia muito forte a frutos secos.
Meaning
This phrase directly translates to "I have a very strong allergy to dried fruits/nuts." It's a clear and unambiguous way to communicate a serious dietary restriction. The term "frutos secos" in Portuguese generally refers to tree nuts, peanuts, and sometimes dried fruits, so it's a comprehensive term for nut allergies.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to inform someone about a severe nut allergy, especially in situations involving food. This could be at a restaurant, when visiting someone's home, or when purchasing food items. It's crucial for ensuring your safety and avoiding allergic reactions.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tenhoumaalergiamuitoforteafrutos secos.
Tenho (Verb 'Ter')
'Tenho' is the first-person singular conjugation of the verb 'ter' (to have). It's used to express possession or a state, like having an allergy.
Uma (Indefinite Article)
'Uma' is the feminine indefinite article, meaning 'a' or 'an'. It agrees in gender with 'alergia' (allergy), which is a feminine noun.
Muito forte (Adjective Phrase)
'Muito' means 'very' and modifies the adjective 'forte' (strong). In Portuguese, adjectives usually follow the noun they describe, so 'alergia forte' is correct, and 'muito' intensifies it.
A (Preposition)
The preposition 'a' is used here to indicate the object of the allergy, similar to 'to' in English. It's crucial for correctly expressing an allergy.
Frutos secos (Compound Noun)
'Frutos secos' literally means 'dried fruits' but is the common and comprehensive term used for 'nuts' (including tree nuts and peanuts) in Portuguese when discussing allergies.
🗨In Conversation
Olá, gostaria de fazer um pedido. Tenho uma alergia muito forte a frutos secos.
Hello, I'd like to place an order. I have a very strong allergy to nuts.
Compreendido. Vou avisar a cozinha para ter cuidado com os frutos secos.
Understood. I will inform the kitchen to be careful with nuts.
✕Common Mistakes
Eu sou alérgico para frutos secos.
The correct preposition to use with allergies is 'a' (to), not 'para' (for/to a destination).
Tenho uma alergia muito forte com frutos secos.
While 'com' means 'with', it's not used in the context of having an allergy 'to' something. 'A' is the correct preposition.
Tenho uma alergia muito forte a nozes.
While 'nozes' specifically means walnuts, 'frutos secos' is a broader term encompassing all tree nuts and peanuts, making it safer for general nut allergies.
↔Alternatives
Sou alérgico(a) a frutos secos.
I am allergic to nuts.
Não posso comer frutos secos.
I cannot eat nuts.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking countries, especially in restaurants, it's common and important to clearly state any allergies. While awareness of allergies is growing, it might not be as universally understood as in some other cultures. Always be explicit and don't hesitate to repeat yourself or ask for confirmation. Many traditional desserts and snacks in Portugal and Brazil contain nuts, so vigilance is key.