Are there any phrases or expressions to start a phone conversation?
I am asking because I almost never catch what the person I’m calling says, so I just plow on with my very useful “eu só falo um pouco de portugués …”, and hope for the best.
Recently I phoned my hotel reception to ask a question. The person was very helpful in both English and Portuguese, but seemed very confused by my question. All became clear when we realized I had called the wrong number!
Speaking on the phone is harder than face to face, and some grammar crutches would be helpful.
Overall I have had great experience with Portuguese speakers.
@peter.shand, the person answering the phone will usually start the conversation with “Estou?” or a variation of it. The caller will then usually say a greeting and proceed to identify themselves and carry on with the conversation. When calling an office, reception or similar, they often identify the respective entity/whatever right as they answer the call, so that you know immediately if you’re calling the right place. If not, you can ask for confirmation. Here’s an example:
Estou sim, bom dia?
Bom dia. Fala o Peter. Estou a falar com a recepção do hotel?
