Portuguese Phrase
Às vezes é mais rápido ir a pé.
Meaning
The sentence means “Sometimes it’s faster to go on foot.” It emphasizes that walking can be a quicker option than using a vehicle or public transport in certain situations.
When to use
Use this phrase when you’re comparing travel options and want to point out that walking might save time, such as when the destination is close, traffic is heavy, or you’re in a pedestrian‑friendly area.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Àsvezesémaisrápidoirapé.
Às vezes
A fixed adverbial phrase meaning “sometimes.” It combines the preposition "a" + definite article "as" with the noun "vezes".
É + comparativo
Use the verb "ser" (é) with a comparative adjective (mais rápido) to compare speed.
Infinitivo de movimento
"Ir a pé" is an infinitive construction meaning “to go on foot.” The preposition "a" links the verb "ir" with the mode of transport.
Acentuação
The accent on "Às" is mandatory; without it the phrase changes meaning.
🗨In Conversation
Vamos de carro para o centro?
Shall we drive to downtown?
Às vezes é mais rápido ir a pé, especialmente quando o trânsito está parado.
Sometimes it’s faster to go on foot, especially when traffic is at a standstill.
✕Common Mistakes
As vezes é mais rápido ir a pé.
Do not omit the accent on "às"; it distinguishes the preposition + article from "as" (plural article).
Às vezes é mais rápido ir pé.
Avoid using "ir a pé" with a missing preposition; the correct form is "ir a pé" (to go on foot).
Às vezes é mais rápida ir a pé.
The comparative must agree in gender and number with the implied subject; "mais rápido" is correct for a neutral statement.
↔Alternatives
Às vezes dá para chegar mais rápido a pé.
Sometimes you can get there faster on foot.
Em certas situações, ir a pé é mais rápido.
In certain situations, walking is faster.
Pode ser mais rápido ir a pé de vez em quando.
It can be faster to walk now and then.
Cultural Tip
In many Brazilian cities, especially in downtown areas and university campuses, walking is not only common but also encouraged for health and environmental reasons. However, be aware that in some regions the phrase "ir a pé" can sound a bit formal; locals often just say "andar a pé" or simply "andar" when the context is clear.