Portuguese Phrase
Quanto é o depósito?
Meaning
The sentence asks for the monetary amount required for a deposit. It is commonly used when renting an apartment, a car, a hotel room, or any service that requires a security payment.
When to use
Use this phrase at real‑estate offices, hotels, car‑rental counters, or when negotiating any agreement that involves a security deposit. It works both in formal and informal settings, though a slightly more formal tone is preferred in business contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quantoéodepósito?
Quanto (interrogative adjective)
Used to ask about quantity or price; it agrees in gender and number with the noun that follows.
é (ser, 3rd person singular)
The verb 'ser' is used to ask for a price or value; it does not change with the subject.
o (definite article)
Masculine singular article that matches the noun 'depósito'.
depósito (noun)
Means 'deposit' (money paid in advance); it is masculine, so it takes 'o' as its article.
🗨In Conversation
Quanto é o depósito?
How much is the deposit?
É 500 reais.
It's 500 reais.
✕Common Mistakes
Quanto são o depósito?
Use 'é' (singular) because 'depósito' is singular; 'são' is plural.
Quanto é a depósito?
The noun 'depósito' is masculine, so the article must be 'o', not 'a'.
↔Alternatives
Qual é o valor do depósito?
What is the amount of the deposit?
Quanto devo pagar de depósito?
How much do I have to pay as a deposit?
Qual o custo do depósito?
What is the cost of the deposit?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, a deposit (depósito) is often required for rentals and is usually equivalent to one month's rent. It is returned at the end of the lease if the property is left undamaged. When asking about it, keep a polite tone – you can add 'por favor' for extra courtesy. Also note that the word 'depósito' is masculine, so always use 'o' and not 'a'.