BR vs PT · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

← Back to searchWord Index →

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

Yes

The word "aqui" is identical in spelling, meaning, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is in pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, vowels are generally more "open" and clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, vowels are often "closed" or even reduced (almost disappearing) in unstressed positions, which changes the phonetic rhythm of the word when spoken within a sentence.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

  1. "Eu estou aqui." (I am here.)
  2. "Tem muita gente aqui hoje." (There are many people here today.)
  3. "Vem aqui agora, por favor." (Come here now, please.)
  4. "Deixa o livro aqui na mesa." (Leave the book here on the table.)
  5. "O que você está fazendo aqui?" (What are you doing here?)

Continental Portuguese Examples

  1. "Eu estou aqui." (I am here.)
  2. "Há muita gente cá hoje." (There are many people here today.)
  3. "Vem cá agora, por favor." (Come here now, please.)
  4. "Deixa o livro aqui na mesa." (Leave the book here on the table.)
  5. "O que é que estás a fazer aqui?" (What are you doing here?)