Portuguese Phrase
Quando é teu aniversário?
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to ask someone about the date of their birth in Portuguese. It uses the interrogative 'Quando' (When) followed by the verb 'ser' (to be) in the third person singular. The possessive pronoun 'teu' corresponds to 'your' in an informal context.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual settings with friends, family, or people your own age. It is the perfect icebreaker when getting to know someone better or planning a celebration.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Quandoéteuaniversário
Interrogative 'Quando'
Used to ask about time or dates, similar to 'when' in English.
Verb 'Ser'
The form 'é' is used here because a birthday is an intrinsic, permanent characteristic of a person.
Possessive 'Teu'
An informal possessive adjective meaning 'your', typically used with 'tu'.
🗨In Conversation
Quando é teu aniversário?
When is your birthday?
É no dia vinte de maio.
It is on May 20th.
✕Common Mistakes
Quando está teu aniversário?
Use 'ser' for permanent dates like birthdays, not 'estar'.
Quando é você aniversário?
Use the possessive 'teu' or 'seu' instead of the personal pronoun 'você'.
↔Alternatives
Qual é a data do teu aniversário?
What is the date of your birthday?
Quando você faz anos?
When do you turn years? (When is your birthday?)
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, 'seu' is often used instead of 'teu' even in informal speech, whereas in Portugal, 'teu' is strictly informal. It is common to celebrate with a cake and sing 'Parabéns a Você' (Happy Birthday to You) at the stroke of midnight or during a party.