vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the spelling and the scientific meaning (meteorological climate) are identical, there is a difference in typical usage. In Brazil, "clima" is frequently used to describe the "vibe" or the social atmosphere of an event or situation (e.g., "clima de festa"). In Portugal, while "clima" is understood in a literal sense, the word "ambiente" is much more natural and common to express that same social "vibe."

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. O clima está muito agradável hoje. (The weather is very pleasant today.)
2. O clima da festa estava muito animado. (The vibe of the party was very lively.)
3. O clima entre os dois ficou pesado. (The atmosphere between the two became heavy.)
4. Adoro o clima relaxado deste lugar. (I love the relaxed vibe of this place.)
5. As mudanças no clima são preocupantes. (Changes in the climate are worrying.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. O tempo está muito agradável hoje. (The weather is very pleasant today.)
2. O ambiente da festa estava muito animado. (The vibe of the party was very lively.)
3. O ambiente entre os dois ficou pesado. (The atmosphere between the two became heavy.)
4. Adoro o ambiente relaxado deste lugar. (I love the relaxed vibe of this place.)
5. As alterações no clima são preocupantes. (Changes in the climate are worrying.)