vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The meaning, spelling, and grammatical function of "costureiras" are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The difference lies solely in pronunciation:

• Vowel reduction: In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels (such as the "e" in costureiras) are often "reduced" or nearly swallowed, making the word sound more clipped. In Brazilian Portuguese, vowels are generally more open and clearly articulated.
• Sibilants: In Portugal, the "s" at the end of words is almost always pronounced as a "sh" sound ([ʃ]). In many Brazilian accents, the "s" can be a sharper "s" sound or, in some regions like Rio de Janeiro, also a "sh" sound, but the rhythmic pattern of the word differs significantly.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. As costureiras estão fazendo o vestido de noiva. (The seamstresses are making the wedding dress.)
2. Eu preciso levar essas roupas para as costureiras. (I need to take these clothes to the seamstresses.)
3. As costureiras do bairro são muito talentosas. (The seamstresses in the neighborhood are very talented.)
4. Elas trabalham como costureiras há muitos anos. (They have worked as seamstresses for many years.)
5. As costureiras entregaram o pedido hoje de manhã. (The seamstresses delivered the order this morning.)

Portuguese (Continental) Examples:

1. As costureiras estão a fazer o vestido de noiva. (The seamstresses are making the wedding dress.)
2. Eu preciso levar estas roupas para as costureiras. (I need to take these clothes to the seamstresses.)
3. As costureiras do bairro são muito talentosas. (The seamstresses in the neighborhood are very talented.)
4. Elas trabalham como costureiras há muitos anos. (They have worked as seamstresses for many years.)
5. As costureiras entregaram o pedido hoje de manhã. (The seamstresses delivered the order this morning.)