vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No. While the spelling and grammar of the word are identical, there are differences in typical usage and pronunciation. In Brazil, the term for automated bank payments is débito automático, whereas in Portugal, the standard term is débito direto. Additionally, while "débito" can be used in both dialects to refer to an obligation, a Portuguese person is much more likely to use the word dívida to express the concept of money owed to someone. Finally, there is a difference in pronunciation, as Continental Portuguese features significant vowel reduction in unstressed syllables compared to Brazilian Portuguese.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. "Vou pagar no débito." (I'll pay with debit.)
2. "O débito automático já caiu na conta." (The automatic debit has already hit the account.)
3. "Preciso do meu cartão de débito." (I need my debit card.)
4. "Houve um erro no débito da fatura." (There was an error in the invoice debit.)
5. "O débito automático é muito prático." (Automatic debit is very practical.)

Portuguese Examples

1. "Vou pagar no débito." (I'll pay with debit.)
2. "Configurei o débito direto para a luz." (I set up the direct debit for the electricity.)
3. "O meu cartão de débito não funciona." (My debit card is not working.)
4. "Tenho uma dívida contigo." (I have a debt with you.)
5. "O valor foi retirado via débito direto." (The amount was taken via direct debit.)