vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the fundamental meaning of "cheirar" (to smell) is identical in both varieties, there are significant differences in grammar and typical usage. The primary difference lies in the construction of the continuous aspect (the equivalent of the English "-ing"). Brazilian Portuguese uses the gerund (e.g., cheirando), whereas Continental Portuguese uses the preposition "a" followed by the infinitive (e.g., a cheirar). Additionally, the way personal pronouns are used (the widespread use of você in Brazil versus the common use of tu in Portugal) alters the conjugation of the auxiliary verbs used alongside "cheirar."

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu adoro cheirar flores no jardim. (I love smelling flowers in the garden.)
2. Por que você está cheirando esse perfume? (Why are you smelling this perfume?)
3. A cozinha está cheirando a alho. (The kitchen is smelling of garlic.)
4. Ele está cheirando o leite para ver se está estragado. (He is smelling the milk to see if it is spoiled.)
5. A sala está cheirando muito mal. (The room is smelling very bad.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eu adoro cheirar flores no jardim. (I love smelling flowers in the garden.)
2. Porque é que estás a cheirar esse perfume? (Why are you smelling this perfume?)
3. A cozinha está a cheirar a alho. (The kitchen is smelling of garlic.)
4. Ele está a cheirar o leite para ver se está estragado. (He is smelling the milk to see if it is spoiled.)
5. A sala está a cheirar muito mal. (The room is smelling very bad.)