vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "cobram" is identical in spelling, meaning, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only differences lie in pronunciation:

• Vowel Reduction: In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels (like the "a" in cobram) are often heavily reduced or almost swallowed, making the word sound much shorter and more "clipped." In Brazilian Portuguese, these vowels are more open and clearly articulated.
• The "R" Sound: In Brazilian Portuguese, the "r" in the "br" cluster is typically a soft alveolar tap (similar to the "tt" in the American English pronunciation of "better"). In Portugal, the "r" is often more guttural or uvular.

Brazilian Portuguese Example Sentences:

1. Eles cobram muito caro por esse serviço. (They charge a lot for this service.)
2. As lojas cobram taxas extras no cartão de crédito. (The stores charge extra fees on the credit card.)
3. Os professores cobram muita dedicação dos alunos. (The teachers demand a lot of dedication from the students.)
4. Eles cobram os boletos vencidos todo mês. (They collect the overdue bills every month.)
5. Eles não cobram nada para fazer o orçamento. (They don't charge anything to make the estimate.)

Continental Portuguese Example Sentences:

1. Eles cobram uma fortuna por este serviço. (They charge a fortune for this service.)
2. As lojas cobram taxas adicionais no pagamento. (The stores charge additional fees on the payment.)
3. Os professores cobram um grande esforço aos alunos. (The teachers demand a great effort from the students.)
4. Eles cobram as faturas em atraso. (They collect the overdue invoices.)
5. Não cobram qualquer valor pela consulta. (They don't charge any amount for the consultation.)