vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "cavar" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical category in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation. In Brazil, the final "r" is often realized as a soft, aspirated sound (similar to an "h" in some regions) or a light tap, while in Portugal, the "r" is typically more distinct, often produced with a stronger tap or even a slight trill. Additionally, the vowels in Brazilian Portuguese tend to be more "open," whereas in Continental Portuguese, they are often more "closed."

While the word itself does not change, the grammatical construction surrounding it differs: Brazilians typically use the gerund (cavando) to express ongoing actions, whereas Portuguese people use the prepositional infinitive (a cavar).

Brazilian Portuguese Usage

1. Eu vou cavar um buraco no jardim. (I am going to dig a hole in the garden.)
2. O cachorro adora cavar no quintal. (The dog loves to dig in the backyard.)
3. Eles estão cavando uma vala para o cano. (They are digging a trench for the pipe.)
4. Ela começou a cavar em busca de tesouros. (She started digging in search of treasures.)
5. Cuidado para não cavar muito fundo. (Be careful not to dig too deep.)

Continental Portuguese Usage

1. Eu vou cavar um buraco no jardim. (I am going to dig a hole in the garden.)
2. O cão adora cavar no quintal. (The dog loves to dig in the backyard.)
3. Eles estão a cavar uma vala para o cano. (They are digging a trench for the pipe.)
4. Ela começou a cavar à procura de tesouros. (She started digging in search of treasures.)
5. Tem cuidado para não cavares muito fundo. (Be careful not to dig too deep.)