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

Yes

The word "descansam" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. It is the third-person plural present indicative of the verb descansar (to rest). The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The vowels tend to be more open and the nasal sounds (like the "an" in descansam) are often more pronounced and clear. The "s" is typically pronounced as a soft [s].
• Continental Portuguese: The pronunciation is much more "closed." Unstressed vowels are often reduced or almost suppressed, making the word sound shorter or more clipped. Additionally, in many regions of Portugal (such as Lisbon), the "s" before a consonant may take a "sh" sound ([ʃ]).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eles descansam logo após o trabalho. (They rest right after work.)

2. As crianças descansam no sofá. (The children rest on the sofa.)

3. Os cachorros descansam no quintal. (The dogs rest in the backyard.)

4. Vocês descansam muito durante as férias? (Do you all rest a lot during the holidays?)

5. Meus pais descansam na varanda. (My parents rest on the veranda.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eles descansam logo após o trabalho. (They rest right after work.)

2. Os miúdos descansam no sofá. (The kids rest on the sofa.)

3. Os cães descansam no jardim. (The dogs rest in the garden.)

4. Vocês descansam muito durante as férias? (You all rest a lot during the holidays?)

5. Os meus pais descansam na varanda. (My parents rest on the veranda.)