Portuguese Phrase
O que pode afetar a devolução do depósito?
Meaning
The sentence asks about the possible factors that could influence whether a deposit will be returned. It is often used when discussing rental agreements, service contracts, or any situation where a security deposit is involved.
When to use
Use this question when you want to clarify the conditions that might prevent or delay the refund of a deposit—e.g., during a conversation with a landlord, a car‑rental agent, or a customer‑service representative.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oquepodeafetaradevoluçãododepósito?
Interrogative phrase "O que"
"O que" is used to ask "what"; it functions as a subject or object in a question.
Modal verb "pode" (poder)
"pode" is the third‑person singular present of "poder" and expresses ability or possibility.
Infinitive verb "afetar"
After a modal verb, the main verb stays in the infinitive (e.g., pode afetar).
Definite article contraction "do"
"do" = de + o, meaning "of the"; it links the noun "depósito" to the preceding noun.
Noun "devolução"
"devolução" means "return" or "refund" and is feminine, so it takes the article "a".
🗨In Conversation
O que pode afetar a devolução do depósito?
What can affect the return of the deposit?
A condição do imóvel, danos não reparados e pagamentos em atraso são os principais fatores.
The condition of the property, unrepaired damages, and overdue payments are the main factors.
✕Common Mistakes
Qual pode afetar a devolução do depósito?
Use "O que" for open‑ended questions about things; "qual" is used when choosing among specific options.
O que pode afeta a devolução do depósito?
After the modal verb "pode", the main verb must stay in the infinitive (afetar), not conjugated.
O que pode afetar a devolução depósito?
The preposition "de" contracts with the masculine article "o" to form "do"; omitting the article changes the meaning.
↔Alternatives
Quais fatores podem influenciar a devolução do depósito?
Which factors can influence the return of the deposit?
O que pode impedir a devolução do depósito?
What could prevent the deposit from being returned?
Existe algo que possa atrasar a devolução do depósito?
Is there anything that could delay the deposit's return?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, security deposits are common in rental contracts for apartments, houses, and even car rentals. Landlords usually keep the deposit to cover possible damages, unpaid rent, or cleaning fees. It is customary to request a written receipt and a detailed inspection report at the start and end of the tenancy to avoid disputes over the deposit's return.