Fatura vs. conta
While both fatura and conta can translate to bill or invoice, the difference lies in formality and intent. Fatura is a specific tax document used for accounting and warranties, whereas conta is a general term for money owed, household expenses, or a restaurant check.
Fatura
B1Fatura refers to a formal commercial document or fiscal invoice. You use this word when talking about the detailed paperwork essential for tax purposes, business records, or validating a warranty.
Preciso da fatura para a garantia do telemóvel.
(I need the invoice for the mobile phone warranty.)
A fatura detalhada mostra todos os serviços consumidos.
(The detailed invoice shows all the services consumed.)
Você quer a fatura com o número de contribuinte?
(Do you want the invoice with the tax identification number?)
A empresa ainda não enviou a fatura deste mês.
(The company has not sent this month's invoice yet.)
Conta
A1Conta is the general, everyday word for a bill, a calculation, or the total sum due. It is the standard term used when asking to pay at a restaurant or when casually referring to recurring household expenses.
Por favor, pode trazer a conta?
(Can you bring the check, please?)
As contas de luz e água estão muito caras.
(The electricity and water bills are very expensive.)
Eu pago a conta do jantar hoje.
(I will pay the dinner bill today.)
Tenho muitas contas para pagar esta semana.
(I have many bills to pay this week.)
Summary
Use fatura when you require a formal document for legal, tax, or warranty reasons. Use conta in casual conversation, when discussing general household expenses, or when asking for the check at the end of a meal.