vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the core meaning of the word remains the same, there are differences in pronunciation and typical usage:

• Pronunciation: In Brazil, the "t" is typically palatalized, sounding like "ch" ([tʃ]). In Portugal, the "t" is a dental sound ([t]).
• Typical Usage (Vocabulary): In Brazil, "lata de lixo" is a common way to refer to a trash can. In Portugal, the word "caixote" (as in caixote do lixo) is the standard term for a household bin.
• Typical Usage (Idioms): In Brazil, the expression "ter cara de pau" is the most natural way to call someone audacious or cheeky. In Portugal, using "ter lata" is a very common and natural way to express the same idea.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu comprei uma lata de refrigerante. (I bought a can of soda.)
2. Por favor, jogue o papel na lata de lixo. (Please, throw the paper in the trash can.)
3. Aquele carro é uma lata velha! (That car is a piece of junk!)
4. Ele tem muita cara de pau de pedir dinheiro emprestado. (He has a lot of nerve asking for money borrowed.)
5. A lata de atum está aberta. (The can of tuna is open.)

Portuguese (Portugal) Examples

1. Eu comprei uma lata de refrigerante. (I bought a can of soda.)
2. Por favor, jogue o papel no caixote do lixo. (Please, throw the paper in the trash bin.)
3. Aquele carro é uma lata velha! (That car is an old junker!)
4. Ele tem muita lata de pedir dinheiro emprestado. (He has a lot of nerve asking for money borrowed.)
5. A lata de atum está aberta. (The can of tuna is open.)