Handle a Client Scope Change in Portuguese: Clarify the Request
Use a calm clarification sequence when a client asks for additional work after a project has started.
Real Life Portuguese · 6 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
When a client asks for a change, repeat what you heard and ask a specific follow-up. Mudança is a change, ajuste is an adjustment, and novo pedido is a new request.
Understand the new request before answering
Clarify which existing deliverable the new request affects and what result the client expects. Do not agree to work you have not yet assessed.
Só para confirmar: você quer mudar o formato ou também o conteúdo?
Just to confirm: do you want to change the format or the content too?
Qual resultado você espera com esse ajuste?
What result do you expect from this adjustment?
Explain the effect on time and cost
Use impacto no prazo for effect on the timeline and custo adicional for additional cost. Explain that you will check the request before confirming how it changes the plan.
If the change replaces an earlier task, say which one will move or be removed. A specific tradeoff helps both sides understand what is changing.
Vou avaliar o impacto no prazo e retorno até amanhã.
I'll assess the impact on the timeline and get back to you by tomorrow.
Esse pedido pode exigir um custo adicional.
This request may require an additional cost.
Confirm the revised agreement in writing
After you agree on the change, summarize the revised scope, amount, and deadline in one message or document. Ask the client to confirm before you start the extra work.
Use a respectful, direct tone. A written update prevents a verbal change from being interpreted differently later.
Combinamos incluir a nova página e estender o prazo até dia 18?
Have we agreed to include the new page and extend the deadline to the 18th?
Se estiver correto, pode confirmar por favor?
If this is correct, could you please confirm?
Put it into practice
Clarify the request, assess the tradeoff, and get the revised scope and deadline confirmed before continuing.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Have we agreed to include the new page and extend the deadline to the 18th”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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