How do you say "I need" in Portuguese?

"I need" in Portuguese is "Preciso". This phrase is commonly used in Portugal.

🙏

How to Say ‘I need’ in Portuguese

Q: What does "Preciso" mean in English?

"Preciso" means "I need" in English. Usage tip: [Preciso] can be followed directly by another verb in its basic form: [preciso pagar], [preciso sair], [preciso falar]. You don't need a word for [to] in between.

Preciso

pre-CI-so

[pre-CI-so]

💬 Usage Tip: [Preciso] can be followed directly by another verb in its basic form: [preciso pagar], [preciso sair], [preciso falar]. You don't need a word for [to] in between.

Phrase Breakdown

Preciso

[pre-CI-so]

I need

Expresses a personal requirement.

Example

Preciso saber se o táxi aceita cartão.

I need to know if the taxi accepts card.

Guides for Portuguese learners

The Portuguese You Actually Need in Your First Month in PortugalThe European Portuguese phrases for your first weeks in Portugal: paperwork, renting a flat, the bank, the health centre, cafés, trains and your new neighbours.

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Custom Scenarios

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Rio de Janeiro tested my Portuguese every single day. The real-world scenarios in this app meant I could actually keep up with locals at the beach bars.”

Chris B., 33, Digital Nomad

“Moved to Lisbon with zero Portuguese and honestly thought I’d be pointing at menus forever. Three weeks in and I’m having real conversations with my landlord.”

Priya N., 35, Freelance Designer

“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”

James O., 28, Remote Worker