vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes.

The word esperam is identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese regarding its spelling, grammar (it is the third-person plural present indicative of the verb esperar), and meaning (to wait, to hope, or to expect). The only difference is in pronunciation. In Continental Portuguese, there is a much stronger tendency toward vowel reduction; the unstressed vowels (the "e" and the "a") are often shortened or nearly swallowed, making the word sound clipped or even almost "hidden" within the consonants. In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are typically more open, clearly articulated, and resonant.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

• Eles esperam o ônibus no ponto. (They are waiting for the bus at the stop.)
• Meus pais esperam boas notícias. (My parents hope for good news.)
• As crianças esperam o presente com ansiedade. (The children are waiting for the gift with anxiety.)
• Eles esperam que a chuva pare logo. (They hope that the rain stops soon.)
• Eles esperam o resultado amanhã. (They expect the result tomorrow.)

Portuguese (Continental) Examples

• Eles esperam o autocarro na paragem. (They are waiting for the bus at the stop.)
• Os meus pais esperam boas notícias. (My parents hope for good news.)
• As crianças esperam o presente com ansiedade. (The children are waiting for the gift with anxiety.)
• Eles esperam que a chuva pare depressa. (They hope that the rain stops quickly.)
• Eles esperam o resultado amanhã. (They expect the result tomorrow.)