How to Ask for a Day Off in Brazilian Portuguese
A clear request names the dates, gives only the explanation you choose, and leaves room to confirm the workplace process.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Use gostaria de pedir um dia de folga (I would like to request a day off) as a polite opening. Add the exact date or dates so the person can check the schedule before answering.
Make the request with a specific date
A request is not the same as an approved absence. Ask early when possible and follow the leave process used by your workplace.
Gostaria de pedir folga na sexta-feira, dia 23.
I’d like to request Friday the 23rd off.
Posso tirar a manhã de segunda-feira?
Could I take Monday morning off?
Queria consultar a possibilidade de me ausentar no dia 12.
I wanted to ask whether it would be possible to be away on the 12th.
Give a reason only if you want to
You can briefly say that you have a personal appointment, a family commitment, or another reason. In a first request, a short explanation is usually enough; you can ask privately if the process requires additional information.
Avoid adding details you do not want to share. The practical points are often the date, expected availability, and any handoff needed before you are away.
Tenho um compromisso pessoal nessa manhã.
I have a personal commitment that morning.
Preciso resolver uma questão de família na terça-feira.
I need to take care of a family matter on Tuesday.
Se for necessário, posso conversar em particular sobre o motivo.
If necessary, I can discuss the reason privately.
Ask about the process and coverage
Ask whether the dates work for the team and which approval or calendar step you should complete. If you are responsible for a task, suggest a handoff or a time to finish it before your leave.
Do not assume that a colleague has agreed to cover your work until they confirm. A short conversation about responsibilities can prevent confusion later.
Esse dia funciona para a equipe?
Does that day work for the team?
Preciso registrar o pedido em algum sistema?
Do I need to enter the request in a system?
Posso deixar as tarefas encaminhadas até quarta-feira.
I can get the tasks ready by Wednesday.
Confirm the dates after you get an answer
Once the request is approved, repeat the dates and any agreed handoff in writing. If the person cannot approve them, ask whether another date could work instead of assuming the conversation is over.
Keep the wording calm and factual. Clear confirmation helps you and the team plan around the same schedule.
Obrigado por confirmar. Vou ficar fora na sexta-feira, dia 23.
Thanks for confirming. I’ll be away on Friday the 23rd.
Entendi. Outra data seria mais fácil para a equipe?
I understand. Would another date be easier for the team?
Deixei as informações do projeto com o Rafael.
I left the project information with Rafael.
Put it into practice
Name the dates, ask about approval, and confirm the handoff only after the plan is agreed.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I’d like to request Friday the 23rd off”?
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.