Portuguese Phrase
Cuidado com o vão entre o trem e a plataforma.
Meaning
A direct safety warning that tells passengers to watch out for the empty space that can appear between a train and the station platform. It emphasizes the risk of stepping into that gap.
When to use
Use this phrase in train stations, metro stops, or any public transport hub where a moving train may not line up perfectly with the platform. It is commonly heard in public announcements, signage, or spoken by staff and fellow passengers.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Cuidadocomovãoentreotremeaplataforma
Cuidado (interjection)
Used as a warning or alert, equivalent to “watch out” or “be careful”. It is not a verb here, so it does not conjugate.
com + noun
The preposition *com* introduces the object of the warning; it always takes the preposition *com* (not *de*).
o/vão (noun)
A masculine noun meaning “gap” or “space”. The article *o* agrees in gender and number.
entre (preposition)
Means “between”. It requires two nouns (or noun phrases) on each side, both preceded by their articles.
trem (noun)
Masculine noun for “train”.
plataforma (noun)
Feminine noun for “platform”. The article *a* matches its gender.
🗨In Conversation
Cuidado com o vão entre o trem e a plataforma.
Watch out for the gap between the train and the platform.
Obrigado, vou ficar atento.
Thanks, I’ll stay alert.
✕Common Mistakes
Cuidado de o vão entre o trem e a plataforma.
The correct preposition after *cuidado* in a warning is *com*, not *de*.
Cuidado com o vão entre trem e a plataforma.
Both nouns need their articles; omitting *o* before *trem* sounds unnatural.
Cuidado com o vão ir o trem e a plataforma.
Do not confuse *vão* (gap) with *vão* as a verb form of *ir*; the noun is needed here.
↔Alternatives
Preste atenção ao espaço entre o trem e a plataforma.
Pay attention to the space between the train and the platform.
Fique atento ao vão entre o trem e a plataforma.
Be careful of the gap between the train and the platform.
Não se aproxime do vão entre o trem e a plataforma.
Don’t get close to the gap between the train and the platform.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, many older stations have a noticeable gap because the tracks are slightly lower than the train doors. Safety announcements like this are standard, especially during rush hour. Use a firm but polite tone; the phrase is considered a public‑service warning rather than a personal admonition.