Portuguese Phrase
Tenho que ir embora logo.
Meaning
The speaker is stating that they must leave in the near future. It conveys a polite but firm sense of obligation, often used when wrapping up a conversation or meeting.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to excuse yourself from a gathering, a meeting, or any situation where you must depart shortly. It works in both formal and informal settings, though 'ir embora' leans slightly more formal than the colloquial 'vou embora'.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tenhoqueiremboralogo
Ter + que + infinitive
The construction 'ter que' + infinitive expresses obligation, similar to 'have to' in English. The verb 'ter' is conjugated to match the subject.
Ir embora
'Ir' (to go) + 'embora' (away) together mean 'to leave' or 'to go away'. It is a common, slightly formal way to say you are departing.
Logo (adverb)
'Logo' means 'soon' or 'shortly'. It can also convey a sense of immediacy depending on context.
🗨In Conversation
Você vai ficar mais tempo?
Are you going to stay longer?
Não, tenho que ir embora logo.
No, I have to leave soon.
✕Common Mistakes
Tem que ir embora logo.
The verb must agree with the subject; 'eu' requires 'tenho', not 'tem'.
Tenho que ir embora logo depois.
'Logo depois' means 'right after', which changes the meaning. Use just 'logo' for 'soon'.
Vou ir embora logo.
Combine 'vou' with the infinitive directly ('vou embora') or use 'tenho que ir', but not both together.
↔Alternatives
Preciso sair logo.
I need to leave soon.
Tenho que partir já.
I have to depart now.
Vou embora em breve.
I'll be leaving shortly.
Cultural Tip
In Brazilian Portuguese, saying 'logo' softens the urgency, making it sound courteous. While 'ir embora' is perfectly correct, many Brazilians prefer the more casual 'vou embora' in everyday conversation. Also, avoid using 'logo' to mean 'therefore' in this context; it only refers to time here.