Portuguese Phrase
Tem lavanderia aqui?
Meaning
The sentence asks whether a laundry service (a laundromat or a place where you can wash clothes) is available in the immediate vicinity. It is a neutral, everyday way to inquire about a practical amenity while you are out and about.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are traveling, staying at a hotel, or exploring a new neighborhood and need to know where you can do your laundry. It works equally well in casual conversation with locals or in a more formal setting such as a reception desk.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Temlavanderiaaqui?
Tem (ter)
Third‑person singular of the verb *ter* used impersonally to indicate existence, similar to English ‘there is/are’.
lavanderia
A common noun meaning ‘laundry’ or ‘laundromat’; it does not need an article when asked about its existence.
aqui
Adverb of place meaning ‘here’; placed after the noun for natural Portuguese word order.
Question mark
In spoken Portuguese the intonation rises at the end; in writing the question mark follows the whole clause.
🗨In Conversation
Tem lavanderia aqui?
Is there a laundry here?
Sim, tem. Fica na esquina da padaria.
Yes, there is. It’s on the corner of the bakery.
✕Common Mistakes
Tem a lavanderia aqui?
The article *a* is unnecessary because *tem* already functions like ‘there is’. Adding the article makes the sentence sound unnatural.
É lavanderia aqui?
The verb *ser* (*é*) is used for identity, not existence. Use *tem* or *há* instead.
Tem lavanderia aqui, sim?
Adding *sim* at the end turns the question into a statement. If you want confirmation, ask *Tem lavanderia aqui?* and wait for the answer, or use *Tem lavanderia aqui, não?* for a tag question.
↔Alternatives
Há uma lavanderia aqui?
Is there a laundry here?
Existe lavanderia por aqui?
Is there a laundry around here?
Tem lavanderia nas proximidades?
Is there a laundry nearby?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the word *lavanderia* can refer to a self‑service laundromat, a full‑service wash‑and‑fold shop, or even a coin‑operated machine inside a supermarket. In smaller towns people often say *lavanderia* for a local business that also offers ironing. When you ask “Tem lavanderia aqui?” locals may point you to a street‑corner shop, a mall kiosk, or a service inside a hotel. Using the impersonal *tem* is informal but perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation; for a more formal request (e.g., at a hotel front desk) you could say *Há uma lavanderia disponível?*.