vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the core meaning, grammar, and spelling of "apertar" are identical in both dialects, there is a difference in typical usage regarding digital and modern contexts. In Brazil, "apertar" is the standard verb used when interacting with digital interfaces, such as pressing a button on a touchscreen or clicking a link. In Portugal, while "apertar" is still used for physical pressure (like a screw or a hug), speakers much more naturally use "carregar" (to click/press) or "clicar" (to click) for digital actions.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. Aperte o botão azul para continuar. (Press the blue button to continue.)
2. O meu sapato está me apertando muito. (My shoe is pinching me a lot.)
3. Você precisa apertar o parafuso com força. (You need to tighten the screw with force.)
4. Ele me apertou num abraço bem forte. (He squeezed me in a very tight hug.)
5. Aperte o passo para não perdermos o ônibus. (Pick up the pace so we don't miss the bus.)

European Portuguese Examples:

1. Carrega no botão azul para continuar. (Press the blue button to continue.)
2. O meu sapato está-me a apertar muito. (My shoe is pinching me a lot.)
3. É preciso apertar o parafuso com força. (It is necessary to tighten the screw with force.)
4. Ele apertou-me num abraço bem forte. (He squeezed me in a very tight hug.)
5. Apressa o passo para não perdermos o autocarro. (Pick up the pace so we don't miss the bus.)