vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "combina" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The pronunciation is generally more "syllable-timed," with more open vowels and a more melodic, rhythmic flow.
• Continental Portuguese: The pronunciation is "stress-timed," where unstressed syllables are significantly reduced or shortened, making the word sound more clipped or "closed" to a Brazilian ear.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. Essa cor combina muito com a sua pele. (This color matches your skin very well.)
2. O azul combina com o branco. (Blue matches white.)
3. Ela combinou de me ligar mais tarde. (She agreed to call me later.)
4. Esse sapato não combina com esse vestido. (This shoe doesn't match this dress.)
5. Vamos combinar de nos encontrarmos no shopping. (Let's arrange to meet at the mall.)

Continental Portuguese Examples:

1. Essa cor combina muito com a tua pele. (This color matches your skin very well.)
2. O azul combina com o branco. (Blue matches white.)
3. Ela ficou de me ligar mais tarde. (She agreed to call me later.)
4. Este sapato não combina com este vestido. (This shoe doesn't match this dress.)
5. Vamos marcar de nos encontrarmos no shopping. (Let's arrange to meet at the mall.)