vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

The difference lies in spelling and typical usage. In Brazil, "mamãe" is the standard and most natural way to say "mommy." In Portugal, the standard term is "mamã." While a Portuguese person would understand "mamãe" because of the widespread influence of Brazilian media, they do not use it as their native term of endearment; using "mamãe" in Portugal would sound distinctly Brazilian or like someone intentionally mimicking a Brazilian accent.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A mamãe me deu um beijo. (Mommy gave me a kiss.)
2. Eu amo muito a minha mamãe. (I love my mommy very much.)
3. A mamãe está cozinhando o jantar. (Mommy is cooking dinner.)
4. Cadê a mamãe? (Where is mommy?)
5. A mamãe comprou um presente para mim. (Mommy bought a gift for me.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. A mamã deu-me um beijo. (Mommy gave me a kiss.)
2. Eu amo muito a minha mamã. (I love my mommy very much.)
3. A mamã está a cozinhar o jantar. (Mommy is cooking dinner.)
4. Onde está a mamã? (Where is mommy?)
5. A mamã comprou um presente para mim. (Mommy bought a gift for me.)