vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the fundamental meaning and the spelling of the word "beija" are largely the same, there are differences in spelling, grammar, and usage between the two dialects.

• Spelling: In Brazilian Portuguese, related words often use different accentuation, such as bebê (baby), whereas in Portugal, it is spelled bebé.
• Grammar and Usage: The grammatical application of "beija" as an imperative (a command) differs. In Brazil, "beija" is frequently used as the informal imperative for the pronoun você (third-person conjugation). In Portugal, "beija" is the standard imperative for the pronoun tu (second-person conjugation).
• Pronunciation: There is a significant phonetic difference. In Brazil, the "e" is typically more open, and the rhythm of the word is more melodic. In Portugal, the "e" is much more closed (almost reducing to a neutral "schwa" sound), and the pronunciation is more staccato.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ela beija o bebê com carinho. (She kisses the baby affectionately.)
2. O ator beija a atriz no final do filme. (The actor kisses the actress at the end of the movie.)
3. Beija a sua mãe antes de sair. (Kiss your mother before leaving.)
4. Ele beija a bochecha do filho. (He kisses his son's cheek.)
5. Ela beija o namorado toda vez que se encontram. (She kisses her boyfriend every time they meet.)

European Portuguese Examples

1. Ela beija o bebé com carinho. (She kisses the baby affectionately.)
2. O ator beija a atriz no fim do filme. (The actor kisses the actress at the end of the movie.)
3. Beija a tua mãe antes de saíres. (Kiss your mother before leaving.)
4. Ele beija a bochecha do filho. (He kisses his son's cheek.)
5. Ela beija o namorado sempre que se encontram. (She kisses her boyfriend whenever they meet.)