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Portuguese Phrase

Vai vir uma tempestade?

/vaj ˈviʁ ˈuma tẽ.peˈstadʒi/
Meaning"Is a storm coming?"
💡

Meaning

Literally, 'Is a storm going to come?' It asks whether a storm is expected soon, usually within the next few hours. The phrase is neutral and can be used in casual conversation or when checking a weather forecast.

🎯

When to use

Use this question when you notice dark clouds, hear thunder, or want to confirm a forecast before planning an outdoor activity, a trip, or simply to start a small talk about the weather.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Vaivirumatempestade?

1

Vai + infinitive (periphrastic future)

The verb *ir* in the present (vai) + infinitive expresses a near future action, similar to 'is going to'.

2

vir (to come)

The infinitive *vir* means 'to come' and is used here to talk about something that will arrive, i.e., a storm.

3

uma (indefinite article)

The feminine indefinite article *uma* matches the gender of *tempestade*.

4

tempestade (storm)

*Tempestade* refers to a strong rainstorm, often with thunder and lightning.

5

Question intonation

In spoken Portuguese the rising intonation at the end signals a yes‑no question; the written '?' reinforces it.

🗨In Conversation

A

Vai vir uma tempestade?

Is a storm coming?

Ainda não sei, mas o céu está ficando bem escuro.

I don’t know yet, but the sky is getting very dark.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Vai ser uma tempestade?

    The verb *ser* describes identity or permanent traits, not an upcoming event.

  • Está vir uma tempestade?

    Using *está* with *vir* creates a present continuous that sounds unnatural in this context.

  • Vai vir uma tempestade.

    Missing the question mark or intonation makes it a statement rather than a question.

↔Alternatives

  • Vai acontecer uma tempestade?

    Is a storm going to happen?

  • Vai ter uma tempestade?

    Will there be a storm?

  • Está vindo uma tempestade?

    Is a storm coming?

  • Vai chover forte, tem tempestade?

    Will it rain heavily, is there a storm?

pt

Cultural Tip

In Brazil, people often refer to heavy rain with thunder as a *tempestade* rather than just *chuva*. In the South, you might also hear *trovoada* (thunderstorm). When asking about the weather, it’s common to add a friendly comment like *‘Parece que vai dar uma tempestade!’* to show empathy. In formal contexts, such as a news broadcast, the verb *prever* (to forecast) is used: *‘Prevê‑se uma tempestade para esta tarde.’*