vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "cuidados" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation.

In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are generally more open and the rhythm is more "syllable-timed," meaning each syllable receives a more distinct weight. In Continental Portuguese, the rhythm is "stress-timed," which results in the reduction or "swallowing" of unstressed vowels. In the word "cuidados," a Portuguese person will likely pronounce the unstressed "o" much more subtly, almost as if it were a neutral, very short sound, whereas a Brazilian will pronounce it more clearly.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Tome cuidado ao atravessar a rua. (Take care when crossing the street.)
2. Ela sempre tem muitos cuidados com a pele. (She always takes a lot of care with her skin.)
3. Precisamos de mais cuidados na organização do evento. (We need more care in the organization of the event.)
4. Os cuidados médicos foram essenciais para a recuperação. (The medical care was essential for the recovery.)
5. Tenha cuidados ao brincar com esse cachorro. (Be careful when playing with this dog.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Tem cuidado ao atravessar a estrada. (Take care when crossing the road.)
2. Ela tem sempre muitos cuidados com a aparência. (She always has much care with her appearance.)
3. É necessário ter cuidados na produção. (It is necessary to have precautions in production.)
4. Os cuidados hospitalares foram fundamentais. (The hospital care was fundamental.)
5. Tem cuidado com esse cão. (Be careful with this dog.)