vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The spelling, meaning, and grammatical function of "instável" are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The "l" at the end of the syllable is typically vocalized, making it sound similar to a "u" (e.g., instáv-eu). The vowels are also generally more open and melodic.
• Continental Portuguese: The "l" is a "dark l" (velarized [ɫ]), where the back of the tongue moves toward the soft palate. The vowels are generally more closed or reduced.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. A conexão de internet está muito instável. (The internet connection is very unstable.)
2. O paciente apresenta um quadro clínico instável. (The patient presents an unstable clinical condition.)
3. A economia do Brasil está bastante instável. (Brazil's economy is quite unstable.)
4. O tempo no Rio de Janeiro está muito instável. (The weather in Rio de Janeiro is very unstable.)
5. Ele é um profissional muito instável. (He is a very unstable professional.)

Continental Portuguese Examples:

1. A ligação da internet está muito instável. (The internet connection is very unstable.)
2. O doente apresenta um quadro clínico instável. (The patient presents an unstable clinical condition.)
3. A economia do país está bastante instável. (The country's economy is quite unstable.)
4. O tempo em Lisboa está muito instável. (The weather in Lisbon is very unstable.)
5. Ele é um profissional muito instável. (He is a very unstable professional.)