vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "autoridade" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only significant difference is in pronunciation.

In Brazilian Portuguese (specifically in most regions like Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo), the "d" before the "e" is palatalized, meaning it is pronounced like the "j" in the English word "juice" ([dʒ]). In Continental Portuguese, the "d" remains dental (the tongue touches the teeth), and the final vowels are much more closed and reduced, often sounding almost like a swallowed "e" or "i" ([dɐðɨ]).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. O professor é uma autoridade no assunto. (The professor is an authority on the subject.)
2. As autoridades chegaram ao local do acidente. (The authorities arrived at the scene of the accident.)
3. Você não tem autoridade para me dar ordens. (You do not have the authority to give me orders.)
4. Ele é uma autoridade reconhecida na área da medicina. (He is a recognized authority in the field of medicine.)
5. As autoridades pediram para todo mundo ficar em casa. (The authorities asked everyone to stay at home.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. O professor é uma autoridade na matéria. (The professor is an authority on the subject.)
2. As autoridades encontram-se no local do acidente. (The authorities are at the scene of the accident.)
3. Não tens autoridade para me dares ordens. (You do not have the authority to give me orders.)
4. Ele é uma autoridade reconhecida na área da medicina. (He is a recognized authority in the field of medicine.)
5. As autoridades solicitaram que todos ficassem em casa. (The authorities requested that everyone stay at home.)