vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

The adjective rápido is identical in both dialects in terms of spelling and meaning. However, there is a difference in typical usage when using the word as an adverb. In Brazilian Portuguese, rápido is frequently used as an adverb to describe an action (e.g., "correr rápido"). In Continental Portuguese, while rápido is used as an adjective, the word depressa is the much more natural and common choice to express the concept of "fast" in an adverbial sense.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Esse carro é muito rápido. (That car is very fast.)
2. Ele corre muito rápido. (He runs very fast.)
3. Eu preciso de uma resposta rápida. (I need a fast response.)
4. Você fala rápido demais. (You speak too fast.)
5. Seja rápido, por favor! (Be fast, please!)

Continental Portuguese

1. Este carro é muito rápido. (This car is very fast.)
2. Ele corre sempre depressa. (He always runs fast.)
3. Precisas de uma resposta rápida. (You need a fast response.)
4. Tu falas depressa demais. (You speak too fast.)
5. Vem depressa! (Come fast!)