At a Doctor’s Appointment in Brazil: Explain What You Need
These language examples help you communicate at an appointment; a qualified clinician should assess symptoms and treatment.
Real Life Portuguese · 4 min read · Updated October 14, 2026
The short answer
At reception, say that you have an appointment, give your name, and explain whether you are there for a consultation or follow-up. Consulta is an appointment or medical consultation, and retorno is a follow-up visit. Staff can tell you which forms or identification they need.
Explain the reason for your appointment simply
When speaking with a clinician, a short description can include where you feel discomfort, when it began, and what changes you have noticed. These phrases are communication practice only; they do not replace professional assessment or emergency care.
Tenho uma consulta marcada para as dez.
I have an appointment scheduled for ten.
A dor começou ontem à noite.
The pain started last night.
Estou com dificuldade para explicar em português.
I’m having difficulty explaining in Portuguese.
Ask for clarification and confirm next steps
If you do not understand a question or instruction, ask the clinician to repeat it more slowly or explain one word. You can also repeat the main point in your own words and ask whether you understood correctly. Clear clarification is more useful than pretending you understood.
For medication, tests, or follow-up plans, ask the clinician or pharmacist to explain the specific instructions. Do not rely on a phrase list to make health decisions; use it to communicate with the qualified professional responsible for your care.
Pode repetir mais devagar, por favor?
Could you repeat that more slowly, please?
Entendi que preciso voltar na próxima semana. Está certo?
I understood that I need to come back next week. Is that right?
Pode explicar essa palavra?
Could you explain that word?
Put it into practice
Use short, factual phrases to describe what you need and ask questions. Let a qualified medical professional assess symptoms and explain care.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Could you explain that word”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.