BR vs PT · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "mais" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the "i" is typically more open, clear, and slightly elongated [majs]. In Continental Portuguese, vowels in unstressed syllables are often more "closed" or reduced, meaning the "i" may sound much shorter or more muffled [mɐjs].

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

  1. Eu quero mais um pouco de café. (I want a little more coffee.)
  2. Você pode falar mais devagar? (Can you speak more slowly?)
  3. Não tem mais nenhum bolo na geladeira. (There is no more cake in the fridge.)
  4. Esse filme é cada vez mais legal. (This movie is increasingly cool.)
  5. Tem mais gente chegando para a festa. (There are more people arriving for the party.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

  1. Eu quero mais um pouco de café. (I want a little more coffee.)
  2. Podes falar mais devagar? (Can you speak more slowly?)
  3. Não há mais nenhum bolo no frigorífico. (There is no more cake in the fridge.)
  4. Este filme é cada vez mais giro. (This movie is increasingly cool.)
  5. Há mais gente a chegar para a festa. (There are more people arriving for the party.)