Portuguese Phrase
Leva em conta as restrições alimentares.
Meaning
This phrase is an idiomatic expression meaning 'to consider' or 'to factor in' dietary restrictions. The core of the idiom is 'levar em conta,' which functions as a single unit meaning 'to take into account.' It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging specific food requirements for individuals or groups.
When to use
You would use this phrase when planning meals, organizing events, or discussing food preparation for a group of people. It's essential for ensuring that everyone's needs are met, particularly concerning allergies, intolerances, or ethical food choices, showing thoughtfulness and consideration.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Levaem contaasrestriçõesalimentares
Leva
This is the imperative form of the verb 'levar' (to take/carry). In this context, it's part of the idiomatic expression 'levar em conta,' which means 'to take into account' or 'to consider.'
em conta
This prepositional phrase is crucial for forming the idiom 'levar em conta.' It works together with 'levar' to convey the meaning of active consideration or factoring something in.
as
This is the feminine plural definite article, meaning 'the.' It agrees in gender and number with the noun 'restrições' that follows it.
restrições
This is a feminine plural noun meaning 'restrictions.' It refers to limitations or conditions, in this case, related to food.
alimentares
This is an adjective meaning 'dietary' or 'food-related.' It modifies 'restrições,' agreeing with it in gender and number (feminine plural).
🗨In Conversation
Estamos a planear o jantar. Já pensaste no menu?
We're planning dinner. Have you thought about the menu?
Sim, mas temos de levar em conta as restrições alimentares da Maria.
Yes, but we have to take into account Maria's dietary restrictions.
✕Common Mistakes
Considera as restrições alimentares.
While 'considerar' is grammatically correct and means 'to consider,' 'levar em conta' is the more common and idiomatic way to express 'to take into account' in Portuguese, implying a more active and deliberate consideration.
Leva em conta as restrições de comida.
'Restrições alimentares' is the standard and most precise term for 'dietary restrictions' in Portuguese. Using 'de comida' (of food) is less specific and not the idiomatic expression.
↔Alternatives
Considera as restrições alimentares.
Consider the dietary restrictions.
Tem em mente as restrições alimentares.
Keep the dietary restrictions in mind.
Pensa nas restrições alimentares.
Think about the dietary restrictions.
Cultural Tip
In many Portuguese-speaking cultures, hospitality is highly valued, and hosting guests often involves a strong emphasis on making everyone feel comfortable. Asking about and accommodating dietary restrictions is considered a significant sign of respect and good manners. It's common practice to inquire about such needs beforehand to ensure all guests can enjoy the meal without worry.