vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the word "examinar" shares the same meaning, spelling, and conjugation in both dialects, there are differences in grammar (specifically syntax) and pronunciation.

Differences:

• Grammar (Syntax): In Brazilian Portuguese, it is common and natural to place object pronouns before the verb (e.g., "me examinar"). In Continental Portuguese, the standard is to use enclisis, placing the pronoun after the verb (e.g., "examinar-me").
• Pronunciation: In Brazil, the vowels are generally more open, and the final "r" is often pronounced as a retroflex (like the American English "r") or a soft aspiration, depending on the region. In Portugal, the vowels are more closed (reduced), and the final "r" is typically a more distinct alveolar tap or trill.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. O médico vai examinar você amanhã. (The doctor will examine you tomorrow.)
2. Eu preciso examinar esse contrato antes de assinar. (I need to examine this contract before signing.)
3. Ela examinou o relatório com muita atenção. (She examined the report very carefully.)
4. Vamos examinar todas as possibilidades. (We are going to examine all the possibilities.)
5. O professor examinou as respostas dos alunos. (The professor examined the students' answers.)

Continental Portuguese Examples:

1. O médico vai examiná-lo amanhã. (The doctor will examine him tomorrow.)
2. Deves examinar o documento com atenção. (You should examine the document with attention.)
3. Ele examinou-me detalhadamente. (He examined me in detail.)
4. É necessário examinar as evidências. (It is necessary to examine the evidence.)
5. O perito examinou a peça de arte. (The expert examined the piece of art.)