vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "explicam" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only differences are phonetic:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The vowels are generally more open and clear. The final "-am" is pronounced with a strong nasalization that affects the preceding syllable (the "a" becomes nasalized).
• Continental Portuguese: The pronunciation features "vowel reduction," where unstressed vowels (like the "e" at the beginning) are often shortened or even become almost silent. The rhythm is more stress-timed, making the word sound more clipped compared to the more melodic Brazilian pronunciation.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eles explicam o conteúdo com facilidade. (They explain the content with ease.)
2. Os cientistas explicam o fenômeno. (The scientists explain the phenomenon.)
3. As regras explicam o que é permitido. (The rules explain what is permitted.)
4. Eles explicam o projeto de forma detalhada. (They explain the project in a detailed manner.)
5. Os manuais explicam o funcionamento do aparelho. (The manuals explain the functioning of the device.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eles explicam o conteúdo com facilidade. (They explain the content with ease.)
2. Os cientistas explicam o fenómeno. (The scientists explain the phenomenon.)
3. As regras explicam o que é permitido. (The rules explain what is permitted.)
4. Eles explicam o projeto de forma detalhada. (They explain the project in a detailed manner.)
5. Os manuais explicam o funcionamento do aparelho. (The manuals explain the functioning of the device.)