vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the meaning, grammar, and spelling of "deslizar" are essentially the same in both dialects, there are differences in typical usage and pronunciation.

• Usage: In Brazil, "deslizar" is the standard and most common term used when referring to "swiping" on a touchscreen (e.g., deslizar o dedo). In Portugal, while "deslizar" is understood, people more naturally use the verb arrastar (to drag) to describe this digital motion. Additionally, for accidental physical slips (like losing footing), both dialects prefer escorregar, but "deslizar" is specifically reserved in both for a more continuous, smooth, or intentional motion.
• Pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese features more open vowels and "palatalized" consonants; for example, the "d" in deslizar is pronounced with a "dji" sound when followed by an "i" sound. Continental Portuguese features much more "reduced" or closed vowels (the "e" is often almost silent) and uses "dental" consonants, where the "d" is pronounced with the tongue against the teeth.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Deslize o dedo para cima para abrir o aplicativo. (Swipe your finger up to open the app.)
2. O sabonete deslizou da minha mão e caiu. (The soap slid from my hand and fell.)
3. Ele não pode cometer nenhum deslize na reunião. (He cannot make any slip-ups during the meeting.)
4. A faca deslizou suavemente pelo queijo. (The knife slid smoothly through the cheese.)
5. A seda é um tecido que desliza na pele. (Silk is a fabric that slides on the skin.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Arraste o dedo no ecrã para abrir a aplicação. (Drag your finger on the screen to open the app.)
2. O sabonete escorregou-me da mão. (The soap slipped from my hand.)
3. Ele não pode cometer nenhum lapso na reunião. (He cannot make any slip-up/error during the meeting.)
4. A faca deslizou suavemente pelo queijo. (The knife slid smoothly through the cheese.)
5. A seda é um tecido que desliza na pele. (Silk is a fabric that slides on the skin.)