vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes.

The word "espiou" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical conjugation in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are generally more open and clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels are often reduced or "swallowed," making the word sound more closed and the rhythm more consonant-heavy.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Ele espiou pela fresta da porta. (He peeked through the crack in the door.)
2. A criança espiou o presente de aniversário. (The child peeked at the birthday present.)
3. O gato espiou o passarinho no quintal. (The cat peeked at the little bird in the backyard.)
4. Ela espiou a conversa dos vizinhos. (She peeked at/eavesdropped on the neighbors' conversation.)
5. Ele espiou o que estava acontecendo lá fora. (He peeked at what was happening outside.)

Continental Portuguese

1. Ele espreitou pela fresta da porta. (He peeked through the crack in the door.)
2. A criança espreitou o presente de aniversário. (The child peeked at the birthday present.)
3. O gato espreitou o pássaro no quintal. (The cat peeked at the bird in the backyard.)
4. Ela espreitou a conversa dos vizinhos. (She peeked at/eavesdropped on the neighbors' conversation.)
5. Ele espreitou o que estava a acontecer lá fora. (He peeked at what was happening outside.)