vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

The word "matéria" has significant differences in usage and nuance between the two variants:

• Academic Context: In Brazil, "matéria" is the standard, everyday word used to refer to a school subject (e.g., History, Physics). In Portugal, "disciplina" is the preferred term for the subject itself, whereas "matéria" refers specifically to the specific content, topics, or syllabus taught within that subject.
• Journalism: In Brazil, "matéria" is the common term for a news article, a piece, or a TV segment. In Portugal, while "matéria" can be used, it is much more natural to use "reportagem" (for a report) or "artigo" (for a written article).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu não entendi essa matéria de matemática. (I didn't understand this math subject.)
2. Vi uma matéria incrível no jornal ontem. (I saw an amazing news story in the newspaper yesterday.)
3. A matéria-prima é muito cara. (The raw material is very expensive.)
4. O professor passou muita matéria hoje. (The teacher covered a lot of material today.)
5. Essa matéria é muito difícil para mim. (This subject is very difficult for me.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eu não percebi esta disciplina de matemática. (I didn't understand this math subject.)
2. Vi uma reportagem incrível no jornal ontem. (I saw an amazing news report in the newspaper yesterday.)
3. A matéria-prima é muito cara. (The raw material is very expensive.)
4. O professor deu muita matéria hoje. (The teacher covered a lot of material today.)
5. Esta disciplina é muito difícil para mim. (This subject is very difficult for me.)