vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the meaning, spelling, and the fundamental grammar of the verb are identical, there are differences in pronunciation and in the typical usage (syntax) surrounding the word.

• Pronunciation: In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are more open and the unstressed vowels are clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, the vowels are much more closed, and unstressed vowels are often reduced or almost silent.
• Usage (Syntax): A major difference in usage lies in how the verb is used in continuous actions. Brazilians heavily use the gerund (fotografando), whereas Portuguese people typically use the preposition "a" followed by the infinitive (a fotografar). Additionally, while "fotografar" is used in both, Brazilians more frequently use the phrase "tirar uma foto," while Portuguese people more naturally say "tirar uma fotografia."

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu adoro fotografar a natureza. (I love photographing nature.)
2. Você pode me fotografar aqui? (Can you take a photo of me here?)
3. Ele está fotografando o casamento. (He is photographing the wedding.)
4. Nós vamos fotografar o evento amanhã. (We are going to photograph the event tomorrow.)
5. Ela gosta de fotografar monumentos históricos. (She likes photographing historical monuments.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eu adoro fotografar a natureza. (I love photographing nature.)
2. Podes tirar-me uma fotografia aqui? (Can you take a photo of me here?)
3. Ele está a fotografar o casamento. (He is photographing the wedding.)
4. Nós vamos fotografar o evento amanhã. (We are going to photograph the event tomorrow.)
5. Ela gosta de fotografar monumentos históricos. (She likes photographing historical monuments.)