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

No.

While the meaning and spelling of "embaixo" are the same in both dialects, the answer is "No" because there is a difference in typical usage and grammar. In Brazilian Portuguese, "embaixo" is the standard and most frequent word used to denote being underneath something. In Continental Portuguese, while "embaixo" is understood, speakers much more naturally use "debaixo" or "por baixo" to express the same idea. Additionally, the use of the imperative (commands) differs, which changes the accompanying verbs.

Brazilian Portuguese (Typical Usage)

  1. O cachorro está embaixo da mesa. (The dog is under the table.)
  2. Deixe a chave embaixo do vaso. (Leave the key under the vase.)
  3. Ele mora no apartamento debaixo. (He lives in the apartment below.)
  4. Tem um brinquedo embaixo do sofá. (There is a toy under the sofa.)
  5. A caneta caiu embaixo da cadeira. (The pen fell under the chair.)

Continental Portuguese (Typical Usage)

  1. O cão está debaixo da mesa. (The dog is under the table.)
  2. Deixa a chave debaixo do vaso. (Leave the key under the vase.)
  3. Ele mora no andar de baixo. (He lives on the lower floor.)
  4. Há um brinquedo debaixo do sofá. (There is a toy under the sofa.)
  5. A caneta caiu por baixo da cadeira. (The pen fell under the chair.)