pois não
of course; may I help you?; certainly
Advanced Phrase
🔊
Pronunciation
/pojʃ ˈnɐ̃w/
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Cultural Note
This is one of the most confusing expressions for Portuguese learners: 'pois não' literally contains 'not' but means 'yes/of course'! In Brazil, it's the standard polite phrase used by shopkeepers, waiters, and receptionists to offer assistance. In Portugal, the meaning can shift — 'pois não?' with a questioning tone can actually mean 'isn't that so?' or even 'no'.
📝 Example Sentences
— Posso entrar? — Pois não!
— May I come in? — Of course!
Pois não, em que posso ajudar?
Certainly, how may I help you?
— Pode me emprestar uma caneta? — Pois não.
— Can you lend me a pen? — Of course.