vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the word "fofocas" is understood in both regions, there is a difference in typical usage. In Brazilian Portuguese, "fofocas" is the primary, most natural, and ubiquitous term for gossip. In Continental Portuguese, while "fofocas" is used, speakers more naturally and frequently reach for synonyms such as "mexericos" or "boatos" to express the same idea.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu adoro uma fofoca de fim de semana! (I love some weekend gossip!)
2. Ela está contando fofocas sobre o vizinho. (She is telling gossip about the neighbor.)
3. Não acredito nessas fofocas maldosas. (I don't believe in these malicious rumors.)
4. A gente começou a falar de fofocas. (We started talking about gossip.)
5. Essas fofocas são muito chatas. (This gossip is very annoying.)

Portuguese (Portugal) Examples

1. Eu adoro um mexerico de fim de semana! (I love some weekend gossip!)
2. Ela está a contar mexericos sobre o vizinho. (She is telling gossip about the neighbor.)
3. Não acredito nesses boatos maldosos. (I don't believe in these malicious rumors.)
4. Nós começámos a falar de mexericos. (We started talking about gossip.)
5. Esses mexericos são muito chatos. (This gossip is very annoying.)