vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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Is the word com licenca the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The phrase "com licença" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The differences are purely phonetic:

• Pronunciation of the "s": In most regions of Brazil, the "s" in "licença" is pronounced as a sibilant /s/ (like the "s" in "sun"). In Portugal, this "s" is pronounced as a postalveolar fricative /ʃ/ (like the "sh" in "shoe").
• Vowel Reduction: Continental Portuguese is known for much heavier vowel reduction. In Portugal, the unstressed vowels in the phrase will sound much more "closed" or almost disappear, whereas in Brazil, the vowels are generally more open and clearly articulated.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Com licença, posso passar? (Excuse me, may I pass through?)
2. Com licença, posso entrar? (Excuse me, may I come in?)
3. Com licença, uma pergunta rápida. (Excuse me, a quick question.)
4. Com licença, vou buscar um copo d'água. (Excuse me, I'm going to get a glass of water.)
5. Com licença, você deixou cair isso. (Excuse me, you dropped this.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Com licença, posso passar? (Excuse me, may I pass through?)
2. Com licença, posso entrar? (Excuse me, may I come in?)
3. Com licença, tenho uma questão. (Excuse me, I have a question.)
4. Com licença, estou a ir buscar um copo de água. (Excuse me, I am going to get a glass of water.)
5. Com licença, pode dar-me passagem? (Excuse me, can you give me way/let me pass?)