Portuguese Phrase
A que horas começa o show?
Meaning
This question asks for the exact starting time of a performance, concert, or any kind of show. It is a polite, neutral way to request the schedule.
When to use
Use it when you are buying tickets, checking a program, or simply curious about the timetable of a live event. It works in both formal settings (at a box office) and informal chats with friends.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Aquehorascomeçaoshow?
A que horas
The fixed interrogative phrase 'A que horas' means 'at what time' and is used to ask for a specific hour.
começa (verbo começar)
Third‑person singular present of 'começar' (to start). Use the accent on the first 'a' (começa) for the present tense.
o show
The noun 'show' is masculine; the definite article 'o' is required. In Brazil, 'show' is a common loanword for a concert or performance.
🗨In Conversation
A que horas começa o show?
What time does the show start?
Começa às oito e meia da noite.
It starts at eight thirty at night.
✕Common Mistakes
Quando começa o show?
‘Quando’ asks for a general time (when) and is less precise than ‘a que horas’ for clock‑time questions.
A que horas começar o show?
The infinitive ‘começar’ cannot be used here; you need the conjugated form ‘começa’.
A que horas começa show?
If you omit the article, the phrase sounds incomplete in Portuguese.
↔Alternatives
Que horas tem o início do show?
What time is the start of the show?
A que hora começa o espetáculo?
At what time does the performance begin?
Quando começa o show?
When does the show start?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil most concerts and festivals start later than in many other countries, often after 9 p.m. If you arrive early, you might have to wait for the doors to open. Also, saying 'show' is informal; in a more formal context you could use 'espetáculo' or 'apresentação'.