At a Shoe Store in Brazil: Ask for the Right Size and Fit — Practice

Ask for a shoe size and another pair

Tamanho is size and número is often used for a shoe size in Brazil. Say calço número 38 (I wear size 38) and ask whether the shop has the same model in another number or color. Store stock and sizing can vary by brand.

If you know a size from another country, treat it as a starting point. Trying the pair on is more reliable than assuming the numbers convert exactly.

Describe how the shoes feel

Apertado means tight, largo means loose or wide, and confortável means comfortable. Use no pé (on the foot) to say where the fit feels wrong. These details help the clerk look for another shape or size.

For a pair that is comfortable in one area but not another, name both points rather than saying only that it does not work.

Try the pair and compare models

Use Posso experimentar? (May I try it on?) before putting on a pair. Walk a few steps if the shop allows it, then explain what you notice. The clerk can tell you the store's exchange policy if you need to check it.

If you want a different style, say Estou procurando um tênis mais leve (I'm looking for a lighter sneaker) or name the activity you have in mind.

Remember: Give the shoe number, describe the fit in one specific area, and try the pair before choosing.

Check your understanding

Choose the English meaning of each Portuguese example. Answer before looking back at the tables. These questions check the written examples in this guide; they are not a listening or proficiency test.

Recall the Portuguese, then say it

Read the English prompt and say a Portuguese version before opening the answer. The answer shows the example from the lesson; other natural translations may also work. Compare the meaning and the situation rather than counting a different word as automatically wrong.

1. Do you have this model in size 38?

   Show a Portuguese answer

   Você tem este modelo no número 38?

2. I wear size 38. Do you have a larger size for me to try?

   Show a Portuguese answer

   Eu calço 38. Tem um número maior para eu experimentar?

3. It's tight around the toes, but the heel feels secure.

   Show a Portuguese answer

   Ficou apertado nos dedos, mas o calcanhar está firme.

4. This model feels too wide on my foot.

   Show a Portuguese answer

   Este modelo ficou largo no meu pé.

5. May I try on this pair?

   Show a Portuguese answer

   Posso experimentar este par?

6. Do you have a similar model with a more flexible sole?

   Show a Portuguese answer

   Tem um modelo parecido com o solado mais flexível?

Make the phrase useful to you

Choose one example you could actually use. Say it once from memory, then change one detail that fits your life, such as the person, place, time, or object. Check whether your change also needs a different verb form, article, or adjective ending. If it does, compare it with the pattern in the explanation.

Give the shoe number, describe the fit in one specific area, and try the pair before choosing.

Return to two prompts tomorrow without opening the answers first. If a phrase still feels difficult, shorten it to a useful chunk and build the complete sentence again.

Sources and your next lesson

This I Speak Portuguese practice guide builds on our At a Shoe Store in Brazil: Ask for the Right Size and Fit lesson on Real Life Portuguese, with written recall tasks and additional speaking practice. The explanations and examples are teaching material; the practice questions are exercises, not a transcript of a recording.

To add Brazilian audio to your routine, choose a lesson in the Real Life Portuguese app. The app offers its own lessons and practice; this page does not imply that every example here has an app recording.