vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the spelling, grammar, and literal meaning are identical, there is a difference in typical usage. In Brazilian Portuguese, "amigável" is used more broadly; it can describe a person's demeanor or a software interface (though "legal" or "simpático" are more common for people). In Continental Portuguese, the word is much more restricted, primarily reserved for formal, legal, or diplomatic contexts—such as an "acerto amigável" (an amicable settlement). When describing a person's personality, a Portuguese person would naturally use "simpático."

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ele é um rapaz muito amigável. (He is a very friendly young man.)
2. Tivemos uma conversa amigável sobre o projeto. (We had a friendly conversation about the project.)
3. O atendimento no restaurante foi muito amigável. (The service at the restaurant was very friendly.)
4. O novo aplicativo tem uma interface muito amigável. (The new app has a very user-friendly interface.)
5. Eles chegaram a um acordo amigável para evitar o tribunal. (They reached an amicable agreement to avoid court.)

European Portuguese Examples

1. Ele é um rapaz muito simpático. (He is a very friendly young man.)
2. Tivemos uma conversa amigável sobre o projeto. (We had a friendly conversation about the project.)
3. O atendimento no restaurante foi muito agradável. (The service at the restaurant was very pleasant.)
4. O novo aplicativo tem uma interface muito intuitiva. (The new app has a very intuitive interface.)
5. Eles chegaram a um acordo amigável para evitar o tribunal. (They reached an amicable agreement to avoid court.)