vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the fundamental meaning of "atende" remains the same, there are differences in usage and pronunciation.

• Usage (Regência Verbal): In Brazilian Portuguese, "atender" is frequently used as a direct transitive verb, meaning the object follows the verb without a preposition (e.g., atende o cliente). In Portugal, there is a much stronger grammatical preference for the indirect transitive form, using the preposition "a" (e.g., atende ao cliente).
• Pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese features more open vowels and a more melodic, syllable-timed rhythm. In Continental Portuguese, vowels are often reduced or "swallowed" (vowel reduction), making the word sound shorter, sharper, and more clipped.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ele não atende o telefone nunca. (He never answers the phone.)
2. A atendente atende o cliente com muita educação. (The attendant assists the customer very politely.)
3. O médico atende os pacientes de manhã. (The doctor sees patients in the morning.)
4. Essa empresa atende todos os pedidos. (This company fulfills all requests.)
5. O garçom atende a mesa com rapidez. (The waiter serves the table quickly.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Ele não atende ao telefone nunca. (He never answers the phone.)
2. A empregada atende ao cliente com muita educação. (The clerk assists the customer very politely.)
3. O médico atende os pacientes de manhã. (The doctor sees patients in the morning.)
4. Esta empresa atende a todos os pedidos. (This company fulfills all requests.)
5. O empregado de mesa atende à mesa com rapidez. (The waiter serves the table quickly.)