vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "cruzar" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are generally more open and the rhythm is more melodic, whereas in Continental Portuguese, vowels are often more closed, reduced, or even "swallowed." While the word itself functions the same way, a Portuguese person may naturally prefer the synonym "atravessar" when referring to physically crossing a street or obstacle, and they use different pronoun placement (clitics) in sentences.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu vou cruzar a rua agora. (I am going to cross the street now.)
2. Nossos olhares se cruzaram no metrô. (Our eyes met in the subway.)
3. O piloto conseguiu cruzar a tempestade. (The pilot managed to cross the storm.)
4. É perigoso cruzar o rio nesse barco. (It is dangerous to cross the river in this boat.)
5. O cachorro pode cruzar com a cadela. (The dog can breed with the female dog.)

Portuguese (Continental) Examples

1. Eu vou atravessar a rua agora. (I am going to cross the street now.)
2. Os nossos olhares cruzaram-se no metro. (Our eyes met in the subway.)
3. O piloto conseguiu atravessar a tempestade. (The pilot managed to cross the storm.)
4. É perigoso atravessar o rio neste barco. (It is dangerous to cross the river in this boat.)
5. O cão pode cruzar com a cadela. (The dog can breed with the female dog.)