Portuguese Phrase
O que eu devo levar pra festa?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct and common way to ask what item or contribution one should bring to a party or gathering. It implies a desire to contribute or to know what is expected, showing politeness and consideration.
When to use
Use this phrase when you're invited to a party, potluck, or any social event and want to know if you should bring something, like food, drinks, or a gift. It's suitable for both casual and slightly more formal invitations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
O queeudevolevarprafesta?
O que
'O que' means 'what' and is used to ask for information about things. It's a very common interrogative pronoun in Portuguese.
Eu devo
'Eu devo' means 'I should' or 'I must'. 'Dever' is a modal verb indicating obligation, duty, or strong recommendation. It's conjugated for 'eu' (I).
Levar
'Levar' means 'to take' or 'to bring (to a destination)'. It's often contrasted with 'trazer' (to bring to the speaker's location). In this context, 'levar' is appropriate as you're taking something to the party.
Pra festa
'Pra' is a common informal contraction of 'para a' (to the). 'Festa' means 'party'. This entire phrase means 'to the party'.
🗨In Conversation
Oi! Obrigado pelo convite pra festa. O que eu devo levar pra festa?
Hi! Thanks for the party invitation. What should I bring to the party?
Ah, não precisa trazer nada! Mas se quiser, pode trazer uma bebida.
Oh, you don't need to bring anything! But if you want, you can bring a drink.
✕Common Mistakes
O que eu devo trazer para a festa?
While 'trazer' means 'to bring', 'levar' is more commonly used when taking something to a destination, especially a party. 'Trazer' is often used when bringing something to the speaker's current location.
O que eu devo levar para a festa?
In informal Brazilian Portuguese, 'pra' is a very common contraction of 'para a' (to the). While 'para a' is grammatically correct, 'pra' sounds more natural in casual conversation.
↔Alternatives
Preciso levar alguma coisa?
Do I need to bring anything?
Tem algo que eu possa levar?
Is there anything I can bring?
O que levo?
What do I bring?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, it's very common to ask this question, especially for informal gatherings. Often, hosts will say 'Não precisa trazer nada!' (You don't need to bring anything!), but bringing a bottle of wine, a dessert, or a snack is usually appreciated, even if they say no. It's a gesture of politeness and contribution.