vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "estrangeiras" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and European Portuguese. It is the feminine plural form of estrangeiro, serving as both an adjective (foreign) and a noun (foreign women). The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The vowels are typically more open and clearly articulated. The initial "e" is usually pronounced distinctly.
• Continental Portuguese: The pronunciation is more "closed." Unstressed vowels, such as the initial "e," are often reduced or nearly silent, making the word sound more like stran-GAY-ras.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. As empresas estrangeiras estão crescendo no Brasil. (Foreign companies are growing in Brazil.)
2. Ela gosta de estudar línguas estrangeiras. (She likes to study foreign languages.)
3. As turistas estrangeiras chegaram ao hotel. (The foreign female tourists arrived at the hotel.)
4. As leis estrangeiras são complexas. (Foreign laws are complex.)
5. Ela conhece muitas mulheres estrangeiras. (She knows many foreign women.)

Portuguese (Portugal) Examples:

1. As empresas estrangeiras estão a crescer no Brasil. (Foreign companies are growing in Brazil.)
2. Ela gosta de estudar línguas estrangeiras. (She likes to study foreign languages.)
3. As turistas estrangeiras chegaram ao hotel. (The foreign female tourists arrived at the hotel.)
4. As leis estrangeiras são complexas. (Foreign laws are complex.)
5. Ela conhece muitas mulheres estrangeiras. (She knows many foreign women.)