vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The only difference between the word "civil" in Brazilian Portuguese and Continental Portuguese is the pronunciation of the final "l."

• In Brazilian Portuguese, the final "l" is typically vocalized, meaning it is pronounced like a "u" [si'viw].
• In Continental Portuguese, the "l" is a clear lateral consonant, where the tongue touches the roof of the mouth [si'vil].

The meaning, spelling, and grammatical function of the word remain identical in both varieties.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. "O casamento civil será realizado na segunda-feira." (The civil marriage will take place on Monday.)
2. "Ela decidiu cursar engenharia civil." (She decided to major in civil engineering.)
3. "Precisamos proteger os direitos civis de todos." (We need to protect the civil rights of everyone.)
4. "A responsabilidade civil da empresa é enorme." (The company's civil liability is enormous.)
5. "Ele tentou ser civil apesar da provocação." (He tried to be civil despite the provocation.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. "Eles casaram no civil na semana passada." (They married in the civil ceremony last week.)
2. "Ele está a estudar engenharia civil." (He is studying civil engineering.)
3. "É essencial garantir os direitos civis." (It is essential to guarantee civil rights.)
4. "A lei define a responsabilidade civil neste contexto." (The law defines civil liability in this context.)
5. "Mantenha uma postura civil durante o debate." (Maintain a civil posture during the debate.)