Posso entrar?

Using this phrase is incredibly easy. You don't need to change the words based on who you are talking to. Just walk up to an open door or knock on a closed one. Say it with a rising intonation at the end like a question. If someone says Pode entrar or just Entre, you are good to go. If they are busy, they might say Só um minutinho (Just a minute).

Use it everywhere! Use it when arriving at a friend's house for a barbecue. Use it at the doctor's office after they call your name. It is perfect for entering a colleague's cubicle. Even if the door is wide open, saying Posso entrar? is a nice way to announce your presence. It prevents you from awkwardly teleporting into someone's peripheral vision.

Don't use it for public spaces like malls or parks. That would be weird. Also, don't use it if you've already been invited in and are just moving from the couch to the kitchen. If you are entering a very formal ceremony late, a silent nod is usually better than interrupting with a question. And please, don't say it to your own house—unless you're testing if your roommates are throwing a surprise party.

Portuguese speakers generally value warmth and hospitality, but personal space is still respected. In Brazil, for example, people are very welcoming. However, walking into a home without asking is seen as quite rude. Posso entrar? acts as a polite bridge between the outside world and someone's private sanctuary. It is often followed by Com licença (Excuse me) as you actually step over the threshold.

If you want to be extra polite, try Dá licença?. This is like saying 'May I?'. In very formal settings, you might hear Posso entrar, senhor?. If you are with a group of friends, you can use the plural Podemos entrar?. Some people also use the shortened Dá pra entrar? in very casual situations, but Posso entrar? remains the undisputed king of doorway etiquette.