vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the spelling and the fundamental meaning of the word construir are identical in both variants, there are differences in grammar (specifically how the verb is used to form the continuous aspect) and typical usage, as well as differences in pronunciation.

Differences:

• Grammar & Usage: In Brazilian Portuguese, the continuous aspect (actions currently in progress) is formed using the gerund (construindo). In Continental Portuguese, this is almost always expressed using the preposition a followed by the infinitive (a construir).
• Pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese is characterized by more open vowels and a more melodic, syllable-timed rhythm. Continental Portuguese features significant vowel reduction, where unstressed vowels are often shortened or "swallowed," creating a more stress-timed, consonant-heavy sound.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. Eles estão construindo uma casa nova. (They are building a new house.)
2. Nós estamos construindo uma relação de confiança. (We are building a relationship of trust.)
3. Ela está construindo sua carreira com muito esforço. (She is building her career with a lot of effort.)
4. Eu estou construindo um projeto muito importante. (I am building a very important project.)
5. Eles vão construir um novo shopping aqui. (They are going to build a new mall here.)

Portuguese (Continental) Examples:

1. Eles estão a construir uma casa nova. (They are building a new house.)
2. Nós estamos a construir uma relação de confiança. (We are building a relationship of trust.)
3. Ela está a construir a sua carreira com muito esforço. (She is building her career with a lot of effort.)
4. Eu estou a construir um projeto muito importante. (I am building a very important project.)
5. Eles vão construir um novo shopping aqui. (They are going to build a new mall here.)