vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "comum" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels tend to be more "open" and the rhythm is more syllable-timed, making the word sound clearer. In Continental Portuguese, vowels (especially unstressed ones) are more "closed" or reduced, which can make the word sound shorter or more muffled to a Brazilian ear.

Brazilian Portuguese examples:

1. É comum as pessoas se sentirem cansadas. (It is common for people to feel tired.)
2. Não é comum ter neve no Brasil. (It is not common to have snow in Brazil.)
3. Esse é um erro muito comum entre iniciantes. (This is a very common error among beginners.)
4. É comum ver gente correndo no parque. (It is common to see people running in the park.)
5. O preço comum é dez reais. (The common/usual price is ten reais.)

Continental Portuguese examples:

1. É comum as pessoas sentirem-se cansadas. (It is common for people to feel tired.)
2. Não é comum haver neve no Brasil. (It is not common to have snow in Brazil.)
3. Este é um erro muito comum entre principiantes. (This is a very common error among beginners.)
4. É comum ver crianças a brincar no parque. (It is common to see children playing in the park.)
5. O preço habitual é dez euros. (The usual price is ten euros.)