Portuguese Phrase
Quando a gente se encontra?
Meaning
This is a common, informal way to ask when a group or two people will see each other again. It uses the expression 'a gente' which functions as a colloquial substitute for 'nós' (we).
When to use
Use this phrase when making plans with friends, family, or colleagues in an informal setting. It is the go-to expression for confirming a meeting time in Brazilian Portuguese.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quandoa gentese encontra
A gente
A very common expression meaning 'we'. It is always followed by a verb in the singular form (ele/ela).
Reflexive Verb
The verb 'encontrar-se' is reflexive here, indicating that the people are meeting each other.
🗨In Conversation
Faz muito tempo que não te vejo!
It's been a long time since I've seen you!
Verdade! Quando a gente se encontra?
True! When do we meet?
✕Common Mistakes
Quando a gente se encontram?
Even though 'a gente' means 'we', it always requires a third-person singular verb conjugation.
Quando a gente nos encontra?
When using 'a gente', the reflexive pronoun must be 'se' instead of 'nos'.
↔Alternatives
Quando nos encontramos?
When do we meet? (More formal)
Que horas a gente se vê?
What time are we seeing each other?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, 'a gente' is used in almost every informal conversation. Using 'nós' is grammatically correct but can sound overly formal or stiff in a casual bar or street setting. Brazilians value flexibility, so this question often starts a negotiation about time rather than a fixed appointment.