vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the meaning, grammar, and spelling of the word "contas" are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese, there are differences in pronunciation and typical usage.

• Pronunciation: In Brazilian Portuguese, the "s" at the end of "contas" is typically pronounced as a sibilant [s] (like the "s" in "sun"). In Continental Portuguese, the "s" is often palatalized, sounding like [ʃ] (like the "sh" in "ship"). Additionally, Brazilian Portuguese tends to have more open vowel sounds, whereas Continental Portuguese vowels are often more closed.
• Typical Usage: In Brazil, "contas" is the standard term for utility bills (e.g., conta de luz). In Portugal, while "contas" is used, the word "faturas" (invoices) is much more common and natural when referring to the actual documents or bills received for electricity, water, or internet.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu preciso pagar as minhas contas. (I need to pay my bills.)
2. A minha conta bancária está sem saldo. (My bank account has no balance.)
   3. Ele é muito bom em fazer contas de cabeça. (He is very good at doing mental math.)
3. Você já conferiu as suas contas no Instagram? (Have you checked your accounts on Instagram?)
4. As contas de luz chegaram hoje. (The electricity bills arrived today.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eu preciso de pagar as minhas contas. (I need to pay my bills.)
2. A minha conta bancária está sem saldo. (My bank account has no balance.)
3. Ele é muito bom a fazer contas de cabeça. (He is very good at doing mental math.)
4. Já verificaste as tuas contas no Instagram? (Have you checked your accounts on Instagram?)
5. As faturas da eletricidade chegaram hoje. (The electricity bills arrived today.)