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

No

While the core meaning of "capaz" (capable, able, or possible) is identical in both dialects, there is a difference in typical usage. In certain regions of Brazil, particularly in the South (Rio Grande do Sul), "Capaz!" is used as an interjection to express disbelief or to say "No way!" or "You don't say!" In Continental Portuguese, this interjection is not used; the word is almost exclusively reserved for denoting competence, ability, or probability. Additionally, there are subtle differences in pronunciation, as Brazilian Portuguese tends to have more open vowels, whereas Continental Portuguese often features more closed or "swallowed" vowel sounds.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

  1. Ele é um médico muito capaz. (He is a very capable doctor.)
  2. Você é capaz de terminar o trabalho hoje? (Are you able to finish the work today?)
  3. Capaz! Eu não faria isso de jeito nenhum. (No way! I wouldn't do that at all.)
  4. Eu não me sinto capaz de falar em público. (I don't feel capable of speaking in public.)
  5. É capaz de ele chegar atrasado. (It is possible that he might arrive late.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

  1. Ele é um médico bastante capaz. (He is a quite capable doctor.)
  2. É capaz que ele venha à festa. (It is possible that he comes to the party.)
  3. Não és capaz de o fazer sozinho. (You are not able to do it alone.)
  4. Ele mostrou-se capaz de superar o desafio. (He proved himself capable of overcoming the challenge.)
  5. É capaz de chover logo à tarde. (It is possible that it will rain later this afternoon.)