Portuguese Phrase
Posso botar os pés nos assentos?
Meaning
The speaker is politely asking whether it is allowed to place their feet on the seats. In most public‑transport contexts this is considered rude, so the question often serves to check the etiquette of the specific place.
When to use
Use this sentence on buses, trains, airplanes, or any shared seating area where you are unsure if putting your feet on the seat is acceptable. It can also appear in informal conversations about classroom or cinema etiquette.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Possobotarospésnosassentos?
Posso (poder)
‘Posso’ is the first‑person singular present of the modal verb ‘poder’, used to ask for permission.
botar (colocar)
‘Botar’ is a colloquial verb meaning ‘to put/ place’. In formal contexts ‘colocar’ is preferred.
os pés
Plural noun ‘pés’ (feet) with the definite article ‘os’.
nos assentos
Preposition ‘nos’ = ‘em’ + ‘os’, meaning ‘on the seats’. ‘Assento’ is a seat; ‘assentos’ is plural.
🗨In Conversation
Posso botar os pés nos assentos?
Can I put my feet on the seats?
Não, por favor, mantenha os pés no chão. É falta de respeito com os outros passageiros.
No, please keep your feet on the floor. It’s disrespectful to other passengers.
✕Common Mistakes
Posso pôr os pés nos assentos?
‘Pôr’ is the formal verb for ‘to put’, but using it with ‘botar’ in the same sentence sounds redundant. Choose one: ‘Posso pôr os pés…’ or ‘Posso botar os pés…’
Posso botar os pés no assento?
The preposition ‘nos’ already includes the plural article ‘os’. Use the plural ‘assentos’ when you mean any seat, or singular ‘no assento’ if you refer to a specific seat.
Posso botar o pé nos assentos?
‘Pé’ must agree in number with the article: ‘os pés’. Forgetting the plural makes the sentence ungrammatical.
↔Alternatives
Posso colocar os pés nos assentos?
May I place my feet on the seats?
É permitido colocar os pés nos assentos?
Is it allowed to put feet on the seats?
Posso apoiar os pés nos assentos?
May I rest my feet on the seats?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, putting your feet on a seat is generally seen as disrespectful, especially in public transport, cinemas, and classrooms. Even if you’re tired, it’s better to keep your feet on the floor or on a footrest if one is provided. Some informal settings (e.g., a friend’s living room) may be more relaxed, but always observe the reaction of those around you first.