amigos, amigos, negócios à parte

You usually say this when a financial transaction begins. It acts as a verbal contract. You can say it with a smile to soften the blow. It signals that you won't give a 'friend discount' that hurts you. It also means you won't take things personally if negotiations get tough.

Use it when lending money to a close buddy. Use it when starting a company with your sibling. It is perfect for splitting a large restaurant bill. If someone asks for a professional favor for free, this is your shield. It keeps everyone’s expectations realistic and clear.

Don't use it for tiny, trivial things. Don't say it if a friend asks for a single fry. That makes you look stingy and cold. Avoid it during moments of deep emotional crisis. If a friend is grieving, don't talk about 'business aside.' Use it only when actual money or professional stakes are involved.

Brazilians and Portuguese people are known for being very warm. We often mix our social and professional lives. We do business over long lunches and coffee. Because the lines get blurry, we need this phrase. It is a cultural 'reset button' to prevent messy legal fights between families. It has been a staple of the language for generations.

You might hear people just say negócios à parte. This is a shorter, punchier version. Sometimes people say amigos à parte, negócios à parte, but that is less common. The classic version is the most rhythmic. It sounds like a little rhyme, which makes it easier to say without sounding rude.