vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "comem" (the third-person plural present indicative of the verb comer) is identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese in terms of spelling, meaning, and grammatical function. The only difference is pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the unstressed "e" is typically pronounced as an open, clear vowel. In Continental Portuguese, unstense vowels are often reduced or "swallowed," meaning the "e" sounds much shorter, more closed, or almost silent.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Eles comem muito rápido. (They eat very fast.)
2. As crianças comem doces todo dia. (The children eat sweets every day.)
3. Vocês comem comida japonesa? (Do you all eat Japanese food?)
4. Eles comem salgadinhos na festa. (They eat snacks at the party.)
5. Eles comem bastante bolo. (They eat quite a lot of cake.)

Continental Portuguese

1. Eles comem muito depressa. (They eat very fast.)
2. As crianças comem doces todos os dias. (The children eat sweets every day.)
3. Os senhores comem comida japonesa? (Do you all eat Japanese food? — Formal)
4. Eles comem petiscos na festa. (They eat snacks at the party.)
5. Eles comem imenso bolo. (They eat a lot of cake.)