Portuguese Phrase
Jantamos às 19h.
Meaning
This phrase indicates a habitual or planned time for the evening meal. In Portuguese, the verb 'jantar' encompasses the entire action of having dinner, eliminating the need for an auxiliary verb like 'have'.
When to use
This sentence is used to describe daily routines or to coordinate meeting times with others. It is appropriate for both casual conversations and formal scheduling.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jantamosàs19h
Jantamos
The 'nós' form of the verb 'jantar'. The subject 'nós' is often dropped because the verb ending is unique.
Às
The contraction of 'a' (at) and 'as' (the), used before feminine plural nouns like 'horas'.
19h
Short for 'dezenove horas'. Portuguese speakers frequently use the 24-hour clock for clarity.
🗨In Conversation
A que horas vocês jantam?
What time do you have dinner?
Jantamos às 19h.
We have dinner at 7 PM.
✕Common Mistakes
Nós jantamos em 19h.
In Portuguese, use the contraction 'às' to indicate specific times, not the preposition 'em'.
Nós temos jantar às 19h.
Avoid using 'ter' (to have) for meals; use the specific verb 'jantar' instead.
↔Alternatives
A gente janta às 19h.
We have dinner at 7 PM (informal).
Costumamos jantar às sete da noite.
We usually have dinner at seven in the evening.
Cultural Tip
While 7 PM is a standard dinner time, it is common in countries like Portugal and Brazil to eat as late as 9 PM or 10 PM. The 24-hour clock is the standard format for written time and formal announcements.