vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes.

The word "incentivar" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation.

In Brazilian Portuguese, the pronunciation is more "open" and syllable-timed, meaning the vowels are clearly and distinctly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, the pronunciation is more "closed" or stress-timed; unstressed vowels (such as the "e" in the first syllable) are often reduced, shortened, or almost swallowed, giving the word a more clipped, rhythmic sound.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A empresa quer incentivar o trabalho em equipe. (The company wants to encourage teamwork.)
2. O professor tenta incentivar a leitura entre os alunos. (The teacher tries to encourage reading among the students.)
3. O governo criou um programa para incentivar o empreendedorismo. (The government created a program to incentivize entrepreneurship.)
4. Precisamos incentivar o hábito de economizar dinheiro. (We need to encourage the habit of saving money.)
5. Ele gosta de incentivar os amigos a praticarem esportes. (He likes to encourage his friends to practice sports.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. A empresa quer incentivar o trabalho em equipa. (The company wants to encourage teamwork.)
2. O professor tenta incentivar a leitura entre os alunos. (The teacher tries to encourage reading among the students.)
3. O governo criou um programa para incentivar o empreendedorismo. (The government created a program to incentivize entrepreneurship.)
4. Precisamos incentivar o hábito de poupar dinheiro. (We need to encourage the habit of saving money.)
5. Ele gosta de incentivar os amigos a praticarem desportos. (He likes to encourage his friends to practice sports.)