Useful Portuguese Phrases to Change the Topic

Introduction

Navigating conversations in Portuguese requires more than just vocabulary and grammar—it demands the social finesse to guide discussions naturally. Whether you find yourself in an uncomfortable conversation, need to redirect a meeting, or simply want to explore new subjects, knowing how to change the topic smoothly is an essential skill that separates functional speakers from truly fluent conversationalists.

Why Mastering Topic Transitions Matters in Portuguese

The ability to shift conversations gracefully reflects cultural competence and linguistic maturity. In Portuguese-speaking cultures, particularly in Brazil, conversations tend to be warm and flowing, with topics weaving naturally from one to another. Abrupt changes can feel jarring or even rude, while skillful transitions demonstrate respect for your conversation partner and command of social nuances.

Learning these phrases serves multiple practical purposes. They help you navigate away from sensitive subjects without causing offense, redirect business discussions that have gone off track, change the mood when conversations become too heavy, and keep social interactions engaging and dynamic. Beyond mere functionality, these expressions reveal how native speakers think about conversational flow and social dynamics.

Gentle Topic Shifts for Casual Conversations

When you want to change subjects without being too direct, Portuguese offers several soft transition phrases that acknowledge the current topic while opening space for something new.

Using Falando Nisso

Falando nisso literally means speaking of that or speaking of which. This versatile phrase works beautifully when you want to pivot to a related or even tangentially connected subject.

Example: Falando nisso, você já assistiu àquele filme novo?
Translation: Speaking of which, have you seen that new movie?

The beauty of falando nisso lies in its flexibility. You can use it even when the connection between topics is loose—native speakers understand it as a conversational device rather than requiring strict logical links. It creates the impression of natural association, making transitions feel organic rather than forced.

Changing Focus with Mudando de Assunto

Mudando de assunto translates directly as changing the subject. While more explicit than other options, it remains polite and widely accepted in casual contexts.

Example: Mudando de assunto, o que você achou da reunião de ontem?
Translation: Changing the subject, what did you think of yesterday’s meeting?

This phrase works particularly well when you want to acknowledge that you are deliberately steering the conversation elsewhere. Its directness can actually be refreshing, signaling to your conversation partner that you are ready to move forward. In friendly settings, mudando de assunto carries no negative connotation and can even add a playful element to your speech.

The Versatile Ah, Outra Coisa

Ah, outra coisa means oh, another thing or by the way. This casual expression suggests that something just occurred to you, making the transition feel spontaneous and natural.

Example: Ah, outra coisa, você sabe onde fica aquela padaria nova?
Translation: Oh, another thing, do you know where that new bakery is?

The phrase ah, outra coisa mimics the natural flow of thought, as if you just remembered something important or interesting. It works especially well in informal contexts with friends and family, carrying a conversational spontaneity that makes it nearly impossible to perceive as forced or awkward.

Polite Redirections for Sensitive Situations

Sometimes you need to change topics because the current discussion has become uncomfortable, inappropriate, or simply something you prefer not to discuss. Portuguese provides several diplomatic ways to accomplish this without causing offense.

Prefiro Não Falar Sobre Isso

Prefiro não falar sobre isso means I prefer not to talk about this. This phrase clearly establishes a boundary while remaining respectful and direct.

Example: Prefiro não falar sobre isso agora. Podemos conversar sobre seus planos para o fim de semana?
Translation: I prefer not to talk about this now. Can we talk about your weekend plans?

When you use prefiro não falar sobre isso, you are exercising your right to privacy without being aggressive. Following it with an alternative topic suggestion, as shown in the example, softens the redirection and shows that you still want to maintain the conversation—just on different terms.

Creating Distance with Esse Assunto É Muito Delicado

Esse assunto é muito delicado translates as this subject is very delicate. This phrase acknowledges the sensitivity of the topic without placing blame or creating tension.

Example: Esse assunto é muito delicado para mim. Que tal conversarmos sobre algo mais leve?
Translation: This subject is very delicate for me. How about we talk about something lighter?

By labeling the topic as delicate rather than refusing outright, you create empathy and understanding. Most native speakers will respect this gentle boundary and appreciate your tact in handling the situation. The phrase esse assunto é muito delicado works particularly well in contexts where you want to maintain relationship harmony while protecting your emotional comfort.

Cultural Note: Brazilian culture values warmth and connection in conversations. When you need to decline discussing a topic, offering an alternative subject demonstrates that you are still invested in the interaction. This prevents the other person from feeling rejected and maintains the conversational flow that Brazilians cherish.

Professional Topic Transitions for Business Settings

In professional environments, changing topics requires additional finesse. You want to maintain authority and respect while redirecting conversations efficiently.

Voltando ao Assunto Principal

Voltando ao assunto principal means returning to the main subject. This phrase is invaluable in meetings when discussions drift off course.

Example: Voltando ao assunto principal, precisamos decidir sobre o orçamento do próximo trimestre.
Translation: Returning to the main subject, we need to decide on next quarter’s budget.

The phrase voltando ao assunto principal carries an implicit authority. It suggests that you recognize valuable time is being spent on tangents and that returning to core issues is necessary. Leaders and meeting facilitators frequently use this expression to maintain productivity without dismissing others’ contributions.

Strategic Shifts with Aproveitando a Oportunidade

Aproveitando a oportunidade translates as taking advantage of the opportunity or while we’re at it. This phrase allows you to introduce related topics that need attention.

Example: Aproveitando a oportunidade, gostaria de discutir também nossa estratégia de marketing.
Translation: Taking advantage of the opportunity, I would also like to discuss our marketing strategy.

When you use aproveitando a oportunidade, you frame the topic change as efficient use of collective time. It suggests that since relevant people are gathered, it makes sense to address multiple important matters. This phrase is particularly effective in professional contexts where time management is valued.

Formal Transitions with Gostaria de Abordar Outro Ponto

Gostaria de abordar outro ponto means I would like to address another point. This formal expression is perfect for presentations, reports, and structured discussions.

Example: Gostaria de abordar outro ponto importante sobre nosso cronograma de implementação.
Translation: I would like to address another important point about our implementation timeline.

The formality of gostaria de abordar outro ponto signals professionalism and preparation. It suggests that you have a clear agenda and are methodically working through important items. This phrase works exceptionally well in situations where multiple topics require discussion and you need to signal clear transitions between them.

Sudden Topic Changes for Natural Conversation Flow

Sometimes the most natural transitions are those that mimic how thoughts actually flow—with sudden realizations, associations, or remembered items that demand immediate attention.

Spontaneous Shifts with Agora Que Me Lembrei

Agora que me lembrei means now that I remember or that reminds me. This phrase perfectly captures the spontaneous nature of human thought.

Example: Agora que me lembrei, você precisa me passar aquele contato que prometeu.
Translation: Now that I remember, you need to give me that contact you promised.

The beauty of agora que me lembrei lies in its psychological realism. Conversations naturally trigger associations and memories, and this phrase acknowledges that organic process. It allows you to introduce topics that might seem completely unrelated to current discussion while still feeling conversationally appropriate.

Creating Urgency with Antes Que Eu Me Esqueça

Antes que eu me esqueça translates as before I forget. This expression adds a sense of urgency and importance to whatever you are about to say.

Example: Antes que eu me esqueça, sua mãe ligou e pediu para você ligar de volta.
Translation: Before I forget, your mother called and asked you to call back.

When you say antes que eu me esqueça, you signal that what follows is important enough to interrupt the current flow of conversation. This phrase works well for both significant matters and smaller details that you genuinely might forget if you do not mention them immediately. It creates a brief pocket of conversational priority.

Practical Scenario: Using Multiple Transition Phrases

Imagine you are having coffee with a colleague who keeps talking about office tensions. You want to redirect to weekend plans. Here is how you might layer these phrases naturally:

Esse assunto é muito delicado e prefiro manter uma atitude positiva. Mudando de assunto, você tem planos para o final de semana? Ah, outra coisa, você viu que tem um festival de música acontecendo no parque?

Translation: This subject is very delicate and I prefer to maintain a positive attitude. Changing the subject, do you have plans for the weekend? Oh, another thing, did you see there’s a music festival happening in the park?

Expressing Interest in New Topics

Changing topics becomes smoother when you can express genuine curiosity about new subjects. These phrases help you pivot by showing enthusiasm for alternative discussions.

Showing Curiosity with Tenho Curiosidade em Saber

Tenho curiosidade em saber means I’m curious to know. This phrase positions the topic change as a question driven by genuine interest.

Example: Tenho curiosidade em saber como você começou a trabalhar nessa área.
Translation: I’m curious to know how you started working in this field.

When you use tenho curiosidade em saber, you transform a topic change into an invitation for the other person to share something about themselves. This approach works particularly well in networking situations or when building new relationships, as it demonstrates interest in the other person while steering conversation toward subjects you find more engaging.

Engaging Others with O Que Você Acha De

O que você acha de translates as what do you think about. This question format naturally redirects conversation while inviting input.

Example: O que você acha de irmos jantar naquele restaurante novo na semana que vem?
Translation: What do you think about us going to dinner at that new restaurant next week?

The phrase o que você acha de is particularly powerful because it accomplishes multiple goals simultaneously. It changes the topic, invites collaboration or opinion, and demonstrates that you value the other person’s perspective. In Brazilian culture, where interpersonal warmth matters greatly, this inclusive approach to topic changes feels especially natural.

Handling Awkward Conversational Moments

Not every conversation flows smoothly. Sometimes you need phrases specifically designed to recover from awkward silences, inappropriate comments, or discussions that have simply run their course.

Breaking Silences with Bem, Então

Bem, então translates as well, then or so, then. This simple phrase serves as a reset button for conversations that have stalled.

Example: Bem, então, me conta mais sobre sua viagem para o Nordeste.
Translation: Well, then, tell me more about your trip to the Northeast.

The phrase bem, então acknowledges a conversational pause without making it more awkward. It signals a fresh start and gives both speakers permission to move forward into new territory. The casual nature of this transition makes it perfect for informal settings where you want to keep energy flowing without dwelling on conversational dead ends.

Diplomatic Deflection with Isso Me Lembra

Isso me lembra means that reminds me. This phrase allows you to create connections between topics, whether those connections are strong or merely suggested.

Example: Isso me lembra que preciso marcar aquela consulta médica que estava adiando.
Translation: That reminds me that I need to schedule that medical appointment I’ve been postponing.

When you say isso me lembra, you acknowledge the current topic while segueing into something different. The phrase suggests a mental association, which native speakers accept as natural conversational logic. This makes it one of the most versatile tools for topic changes, as it works whether the connection is obvious or quite abstract.

Cultural Note: In Brazilian conversations, long silences can feel uncomfortable because the culture emphasizes connection and engagement. Having phrases ready to restart conversations shows social competence and helps maintain the warm, flowing interaction style that Brazilians prefer. Do not fear using these transitions—they demonstrate conversational skill rather than awkwardness.

Advanced Techniques for Smooth Topic Navigation

As your Portuguese improves, you can employ more sophisticated strategies that combine multiple phrases or use subtle linguistic cues to guide conversations with exceptional finesse.

Bridging Topics with Por Falar Em

Por falar em means speaking of or talking about. This phrase creates explicit bridges between topics, even when connections are loose.

Example: Por falar em viagens, você já pensou em conhecer Portugal?
Translation: Speaking of trips, have you ever thought about visiting Portugal?

The expression por falar em works similarly to falando nisso, but it specifically references a word or concept from the previous discussion. This makes it ideal when you want to create the appearance of logical flow between topics that might not naturally connect. The phrase gives you permission to pivot creatively while maintaining conversational coherence.

Polite Interruption with Com Licença

Com licença translates as excuse me or with permission. While typically used for physical interruptions, it also works for conversational redirects when you need to interject.

Example: Com licença, mas preciso mencionar algo importante sobre o projeto.
Translation: Excuse me, but I need to mention something important about the project.

Using com licença before changing topics signals respect for both the current speaker and the conversation flow. It acknowledges that you are interrupting the current trajectory while asserting that what you have to contribute merits attention. This phrase is especially useful in group conversations where multiple topics compete for attention.

Context-Specific Topic Changes

Different social situations call for different approaches to changing topics. Understanding these nuances helps you navigate various contexts with appropriate style and tone.

Family Gatherings and Close Friends

With family and close friends, you have maximum flexibility. Casual phrases like ah, outra coisa, mudando de assunto, and falando nisso work perfectly. You can even be more direct, as these relationships typically tolerate greater conversational informality. Feel free to use humor and playfulness when shifting topics—these relationships thrive on authenticity rather than rigid politeness.

Example in a family setting: Chega de falar de trabalho! Mudando de assunto, quem quer sobremesa?
Translation: Enough talk about work! Changing the subject, who wants dessert?

Professional Networking Events

At networking events, topic changes should appear intentional and strategic. Use phrases like gostaria de abordar outro ponto, aproveitando a oportunidade, or tenho curiosidade em saber to demonstrate professionalism while showing interest in others. Your goal is to explore multiple topics efficiently while building connections, so confident transitions matter.

Example at a networking event: Aproveitando a oportunidade, você poderia me falar um pouco sobre os desafios do seu setor?
Translation: Taking advantage of the opportunity, could you tell me a bit about the challenges in your sector?

First Dates and New Relationships

When getting to know someone romantically, topic changes should feel organic and curious rather than abrupt. Phrases like isso me lembra, tenho curiosidade em saber, and o que você acha de work well because they invite sharing and demonstrate interest. Avoid overly formal transitions that might create distance, but also steer clear of anything that sounds rehearsed.

Example on a first date: Isso me lembra que você mencionou que gosta de arte. Qual foi a última exposição que você visitou?
Translation: That reminds me that you mentioned you like art. What was the last exhibition you visited?

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Topics

Even with the right phrases, poor execution can make topic changes feel awkward. Being aware of these common pitfalls helps you navigate conversations more smoothly.

Overusing the Same Transition

Repeatedly using one phrase like mudando de assunto makes you sound robotic and draws attention to your conversational mechanics. Native speakers vary their transitions naturally, and you should too. Develop comfort with multiple phrases and rotate them based on context and conversational flow.

Changing Topics Too Abruptly

Even with transition phrases, jumping to completely unrelated topics can disorient your conversation partner. Try to find even loose connections between subjects, or acknowledge that you are making a deliberate shift. The phrase itself should not do all the work—your topic selection also matters.

Ignoring Conversational Cues

If your conversation partner is deeply invested in the current topic, changing subjects might seem dismissive. Pay attention to engagement levels, emotional intensity, and whether the other person has finished expressing their thoughts. Sometimes the best move is letting a topic run its natural course before introducing something new.

Using Overly Formal Phrases in Casual Settings

Phrases like gostaria de abordar outro ponto sound stiff and awkward at a casual party or family dinner. Match your language register to the social context. When in doubt, err on the side of slightly more casual transitions, as Brazilian culture generally favors warmth over formality in most social interactions.

Cultural Note: Brazilian Portuguese speakers are generally forgiving of conversational imperfections from learners. If you stumble over a topic change or choose a phrase that does not quite fit, most native speakers will understand your intent and continue the conversation smoothly. Focus on communicating your meaning rather than achieving perfect execution, and your skills will develop naturally through practice.

Practicing Topic Transitions in Real Life

Understanding these phrases theoretically differs from using them confidently in real conversations. Here are practical strategies for building fluency with topic transitions.

Start with Low-Stakes Situations

Practice topic changes first in comfortable settings like language exchange partners, patient friends, or casual acquaintances. These environments offer forgiveness for mistakes and allow you to experiment with different phrases without significant social consequences. As your comfort grows, gradually apply these skills in more important conversations.

Listen to Native Speakers

Pay attention to how Portuguese speakers naturally change topics in podcasts, YouTube videos, television shows, and real-life conversations. Notice which phrases they use in which contexts, how they create connections between topics, and how they read conversational cues. This passive learning reinforces patterns your brain will later access actively.

Prepare Transitions for Predictable Situations

Before meetings, social events, or potentially difficult conversations, consider which topic transitions might prove useful. Having a few phrases ready reduces cognitive load during the actual conversation, allowing you to focus on reading the situation and responding authentically. This preparation is not about scripting entire conversations but rather ensuring you have tools readily available.

Combine Transitions with Active Listening

The best topic changes build on something the other person said, even if you are pivoting away from the main subject. Reference earlier comments, circle back to briefly mentioned interests, or expand on tangential remarks. This demonstrates that you are engaged in the conversation rather than simply waiting to introduce your own agenda.

Building Conversational Confidence

Mastering topic transitions ultimately contributes to broader conversational confidence in Portuguese. As these phrases become automatic, you will find yourself more comfortable navigating any social situation, from casual encounters to professional presentations.

Remember that conversational skill develops through practice and reflection. Each conversation provides opportunities to experiment with different transitions, observe what works, and refine your approach. Native speakers develop these skills unconsciously over decades, but as an intentional learner, you can accelerate your progress through focused attention and deliberate practice.

The phrases covered in this article represent core tools in the conversational toolkit of any fluent Portuguese speaker. By internalizing these expressions and understanding the principles behind effective topic transitions, you equip yourself to handle the full complexity of real-world Portuguese conversations with grace and confidence.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of changing topics in Portuguese transforms you from someone who merely speaks the language into someone who truly navigates its social landscape. These phrases represent more than vocabulary—they reflect cultural values around conversation, connection, and respect. By incorporating expressions like falando nisso, mudando de assunto, and antes que eu me esqueça into your active Portuguese, you gain the power to guide discussions naturally, handle awkward moments gracefully, and build deeper connections with native speakers. Start practicing these transitions today, and watch your conversational confidence flourish.