Portuguese Phrase
Você gosta de ler?
Meaning
This is a direct question asking about someone's hobby or preference regarding reading. It uses the verb 'gostar' followed by the preposition 'de' and an infinitive verb. It is a fundamental way to start a conversation about interests in Portuguese.
When to use
Use this phrase when getting to know someone or discussing leisure activities. It is appropriate for both casual and semi-formal social settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Vocêgostadeler
Você
The second-person singular pronoun used widely in Brazil for 'you'.
Gostar de
The verb 'gostar' must be followed by 'de' to indicate what is liked.
Ler
The infinitive form of the verb 'to read'.
🗨In Conversation
Você gosta de ler?
Do you like to read?
Sim, eu adoro romances e biografias.
Yes, I love novels and biographies.
✕Common Mistakes
Você gosta ler?
The verb 'gostar' always requires the preposition 'de' before the object or infinitive.
Você gosta de lendo?
In Portuguese, use the infinitive form (ler) after 'gostar de', not the gerund.
↔Alternatives
O que você gosta de ler?
What do you like to read?
Você curte leitura?
Are you into reading?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, reading habits vary, but asking about hobbies is a common icebreaker. Using the pronoun 'você' is standard in most regions, though in parts of the South and Northeast, 'tu' might be used with different conjugations.