É permitido?

You can use it as a standalone question. Just point at something and ask É permitido?. You can also add an action after it. For example, É permitido entrar? means 'Is it permitted to enter?'. It is very flexible. It works for physical spaces and social behaviors alike. Use a rising intonation at the end to make it a question.

Use it when you are unsure about local customs. It is perfect for museums, private property, or parks. Use it at a restaurant if you want to bring a pet. Use it in a meeting before recording the audio. It shows you are respectful of the rules. It is a great 'safety first' phrase for any visitor.

Do not use it for very casual favors with close friends. For that, use Posso? instead. Avoid it if the answer is painfully obvious. Don't ask it while already doing the forbidden thing. That just makes the awkwardness worse! It can sound a bit robotic in a romantic setting. Stick to more natural, flowery language there.

Portuguese culture values politeness and 'asking first.' People generally appreciate when you acknowledge their authority or space. There is a common saying: 'Tudo o que não é proibido, é permitido.' This means 'Everything not forbidden is allowed.' However, it is always better to ask than to assume. Brazilians and Portuguese people are helpful and will likely say 'Pode sim!' with a smile.

You might hear Pode? which is the shorter, more casual version. In formal signs, you will see Proibido. If you want to be extra polite, try Seria permitido?. This adds a layer of 'Would it be...'. Another common one is É autorizado?. This sounds a bit more official or bureaucratic. Stick to the basic version for 90% of your daily needs.