Portuguese Phrase
Quanto é a caução?
Meaning
The sentence asks for the amount of money required as a security deposit, typically when renting a property, borrowing equipment, or signing a contract. It is a direct, polite way to inquire about the cost of the deposit.
When to use
Use this question when you need to know the exact value of a deposit before committing to a rental agreement, a hotel reservation, or any service that requires a financial guarantee.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quantoéacaução?
Quanto
Interrogative adverb meaning 'how much', used to ask about quantity or price.
é
Third‑person singular of the verb ser (to be) in the present indicative; used here as a copula linking the question to the noun.
a caução
Feminine noun meaning 'security deposit' or 'collateral', preceded by the definite article 'a'.
Question mark placement
In Portuguese, the opening question mark (¿) is not used; only the closing '?' is required.
🗨In Conversation
Quanto é a caução?
How much is the deposit?
A caução é 500 reais.
The deposit is 500 reais.
✕Common Mistakes
Quanto é a caução
Missing the question mark makes the sentence look like a statement.
Quanto custa a caução?
Do not use the verb 'ser' for price in informal speech; 'custa' is also acceptable but changes nuance.
Quanto é o caução?
Avoid using 'o' instead of 'a' because 'caução' is feminine.
↔Alternatives
Qual é o valor da caução?
What is the amount of the deposit?
Quanto devo pagar de caução?
How much do I have to pay as a deposit?
Qual será a caução?
What will the deposit be?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the word 'caução' is most often used in real‑estate and car‑rental contexts. The amount can vary widely depending on the city and the type of property. It is common for landlords to ask for one to three months' rent as a deposit, and the money is usually returned after the contract ends, provided there is no damage. Always ask for a written receipt when you pay the caução.