vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the word "intervalo" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both dialects, there is a difference in typical usage regarding school environments. In Brazil, "intervalo" is the standard and most common term for a school break. In Portugal, while "intervalo" is understood, the word "recreio" is much more natural and widely used when referring to the break period for students.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Eu vou aproveitar o intervalo para lanchar. (I am going to use the break to have a snack.)
2. O intervalo do jogo de futebol foi muito curto. (The halftime of the football match was very short.)
3. O intervalo da escola começa às dez horas. (The school break starts at ten o'clock.)
4. Existe um intervalo de dez minutos entre as aulas. (There is a ten-minute interval between classes.)
5. Preciso de um intervalo no meu trabalho. (I need a break from my work.)

Continental Portuguese

1. Eu vou aproveitar o intervalo para lanchar. (I am going to use the break to have a snack.)
2. O intervalo do jogo de futebol foi muito curto. (The halftime of the football match was very short.)
3. O recreio da escola começa às dez horas. (The school break starts at ten o'clock.)
4. Existe um intervalo de dez minutos entre as aulas. (There is a ten-minute interval between classes.)
5. Preciso de uma pausa no meu trabalho. (I need a break in my work.)