vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No. While the spelling, grammar, and core meaning of "causa" are identical in both varieties, there are differences in typical usage and pronunciation. In Brazil, "causa" is more commonly used to refer to a legal case or lawsuit, whereas in Portugal, "processo" is the standard term for this concept. Furthermore, the pronunciation differs: Brazilian Portuguese typically features more open vowels and a melodic cadence, while European Portuguese features more closed or reduced vowels.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

• A causa do atraso foi o trânsito. (The cause of the delay was the traffic.)
• Não sei qual é a causa dessa dor. (I don't know what the cause of that pain is.)
• Ele está lutando por uma boa causa. (He is fighting for a good cause.)
• A causa do processo foi arquivada. (The cause/case of the lawsuit was archived.)
• A falta de sono é a causa do meu cansaço. (Lack of sleep is the cause of my tiredness.)

European Portuguese Examples

• O motivo do atraso foi o trânsito. (The reason for the delay was the traffic.)
• Não sei qual é a causa desta dor. (I don't know what the cause of this pain is.)
• Ele luta por uma boa causa. (He fights for a good cause.)
• O processo foi arquivado. (The lawsuit was archived.)
• A falta de sono é a causa do meu cansaço. (Lack of sleep is the cause of my tiredness.)