vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word fechar is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The primary difference is pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, vowels tend to be more open and the final "r" is often aspirated (sounding like an "h") or nearly silent depending on the region. In Continental Portuguese, vowels are more closed and often reduced, and the "r" is typically more distinct and alveolar.

There is also a slight difference in typical usage regarding specific contexts: while Brazilians frequently use "fechar" to mean "to lock" (e.g., fechar a porta), a Portuguese person is more likely to use the specific verb trancar to avoid ambiguity between closing and locking.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Não esqueça de fechar a janela. (Don't forget to close the window.)
2. A loja vai fechar logo. (The store is going to close soon.)
3. Você pode fechar a porta? (Can you close the door?)
4. Eu fechei o negócio hoje. (I closed the deal today.)
5. Eles fecharam a rua para a festa. (They closed the street for the party.)

Continental Portuguese

1. Não te esqueças de fechar a janela. (Don't forget to close the window.)
2. A loja fecha em breve. (The store closes soon.)
3. Podes trancar a porta? (Can you lock the door?)
4. Fechei o negócio hoje. (I closed the deal today.)
5. Fecharam a rua para a festa. (They closed the street for the party.)