vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "firmes" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. It is the plural form of the adjective firme, which means steady, stable, firm, or resolute. The only differences are phonetic:

• Vowels: In Brazilian Portuguese, vowels are generally more open and clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels (such as the "e" in firmes) are often reduced or nearly silent, making the word sound more like "firmsh."
• Sibilance: In most regions of Portugal, the "s" at the end of the word is pronounced with a "sh" sound (palatalization), whereas in most of Brazil, it is pronounced as a sharper "s" sound.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. As decisões precisam ser firmes para evitar confusão. (Decisions need to be firm to avoid confusion.)
2. Você precisa manter os seus pés firmes no chão. (You need to keep your feet firm on the ground.)
3. Os preços da carne continuam firmes hoje. (Meat prices remain steady today.)
4. Eles tomaram decisões firmes contra o crime. (They took firm decisions against crime.)
5. As bases da construção parecem bem firmes. (The bases of the construction seem very firm.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. As decisões precisam de ser firmes para evitar confusão. (Decisions need to be firm to avoid confusion.)
2. Tens de manter os teus pés firmes no chão. (You must keep your feet firm on the ground.)
3. Os preços da carne continuam firmes hoje. (Meat prices remain steady today.)
4. Eles tomaram decisões firmes contra o crime. (They took firm decisions against crime.)
5. As bases da construção parecem bem firmes. (The bases of the construction seem very firm.)