vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While "massa" shares the same literal meanings in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese—specifically referring to dough (as in bread or pizza), pasta (macarrão), or physical mass—there is a significant difference in informal usage. In Brazil, "massa" is a very common slang term used to describe something as "cool," "great," or "awesome." In Portugal, this slang usage does not exist; instead, the word "fixe" is used to express the same idea.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Esse show foi muito massa! (That concert was very cool!)
2. Que massa que você conseguiu o emprego! (How cool that you got the job!)
3. A massa da pizza está pronta. (The pizza dough is ready.)
4. Eu adoro comer massa no jantar. (I love eating pasta for dinner.)
5. Esse plano é muito massa. (This plan is very awesome.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Esse concerto foi muito fixe! (That concert was very cool!)
2. Que fixe que tu conseguiste o emprego! (How cool that you got the job!)
3. A massa da pizza está pronta. (The pizza dough is ready.)
4. Eu adoro comer massa ao jantar. (I love eating pasta for dinner.)
5. Esse plano é muito fixe. (This plan is very cool.)