Portuguese Phrase
É seguro por aqui?
Meaning
A direct question asking whether the immediate area is safe. It can refer to a street, a neighbourhood, a park, or any place the speaker is currently in or about to enter.
When to use
Use this phrase when you’re traveling, walking at night, or when a local suggests a shortcut. It’s polite and neutral, suitable for strangers, shopkeepers, or friends.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Éseguroporaqui?
É (ser)
Third‑person singular present of the verb *ser*, used for permanent or general characteristics.
seguro (adjective)
Means ‘safe’; agrees in gender and number with the noun it describes (here used in masculine singular).
por aqui (prepositional phrase)
Literally ‘through here’; idiomatically means ‘around here’ or ‘in this neighbourhood’.
🗨In Conversation
É seguro por aqui?
Is it safe around here?
Sim, costuma ser tranquilo, mas evite a rua principal depois das 22h.
Yes, it’s usually quiet, but avoid the main street after 10 p.m.
✕Common Mistakes
Está seguro por aqui?
Use *é* (ser) for general safety, not *está* (estar), which refers to temporary states.
É segura por aqui?
The adjective must match the implied noun’s gender; *seguro* is masculine because the idea of ‘lugar’ (place) is masculine.
É seguro aqui?
While not wrong, *por aqui* sounds more natural when you’re asking about the surrounding neighbourhood rather than a single spot.
↔Alternatives
É seguro aqui?
Is it safe here?
É seguro nesta área?
Is this area safe?
É seguro por perto?
Is it safe nearby?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil people often ask about safety in a friendly, non‑confrontational way. Using *por aqui* sounds a bit more informal and local than the more formal *nesta área*. If you’re in a rural region, you might hear *por essas bandas* instead. Always thank the person for the advice – a simple *obrigado* goes a long way.