vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "instrução" is identical in spelling, meaning, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese (BP): The vowels are typically more "open" and clearly articulated. The unstressed syllables are pronounced more distinctly.
• Continental Portuguese (PT-PT): The pronunciation is more "closed." Portuguese speakers in Portugal tend to reduce unstressed vowels, sometimes making them sound almost like a "shwa" [ə] or nearly silent, which gives the language a more consonant-heavy sound.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Leia as instruções antes de montar o móvel. (Read the instructions before assembling the furniture.)
2. Ele tem pouca instrução, mas é muito esforçado. (He has little education, but is very hardworking.)
3. As instruções do professor foram bem claras. (The teacher's instructions were very clear.)
4. Você precisa seguir as instruções de segurança. (You need to follow the safety instructions.)
5. Dei uma instrução rápida para ele não errar o caminho. (I gave him a quick instruction so he wouldn't miss the way.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. É preciso ler as instruções antes de usar o equipamento. (It is necessary to read the instructions before using the equipment.)
2. Ele possui uma boa instrução académica. (He possesses a good academic education.)
3. Não percebi bem a instrução que me deste. (I didn't quite understand the instruction you gave me.)
4. Segue as instruções de segurança sem falta. (Follow the safety instructions without fail.)
5. A instrução do curso é muito útil para o trabalho. (The course instruction is very useful for the job.)