vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

Look up any Duolingo word — find out how it differs between Brazilian and European Portuguese

Is the word alonga the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The word "alonga" (a conjugation of the verb alongar) is identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese regarding its meaning, spelling, and grammatical function. The only difference lies in pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese typically features more open and clearly articulated vowels, whereas Continental Portuguese involves more frequent vowel reduction, often making unstressed vowels sound more closed or nearly silent.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. O atleta alonga os músculos antes da largada. (The athlete stretches his muscles before the start.)
2. A professora alonga o braço para pegar o livro. (The teacher extends her arm to grab the book.)
3. Essa corda alonga muito se você puxar. (This rope stretches a lot if you pull it.)
4. O tempo de espera alonga a viagem de ônibus. (The waiting time extends the bus trip.)
5. O instrutor alonga o movimento para mostrar o jeito certo. (The instructor extends the movement to show the right way.)

Portuguese (Continental) Examples:

1. O atleta alonga os músculos antes da partida. (The athlete stretches his muscles before the start.)
2. A professora alonga o braço para apanhar o livro. (The teacher extends her arm to pick up the book.)
3. Esta corda alonga muito se a puxares. (This rope stretches a lot if you pull it.)
4. O tempo de espera alonga a viagem de autocarro. (The waiting time extends the bus trip.)
5. O instrutor alonga o movimento para mostrar a forma correta de o fazer. (The instructor extends the movement to show the correct way to do it.)