vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "merecer" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The differences are strictly phonetic:

• Brazilian Portuguese: Vowels are generally more open and clearly articulated. The unstressed "e" in the middle of the word is easily audible.
• Continental Portuguese: There is a significant reduction of unstressed vowels. The "e" in the middle of the word is "swallowed" or closed, making it sound much shorter or nearly silent.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Você merece ser muito feliz. (You deserve to be very happy.)
2. Ele não merece esse tratamento. (He doesn't deserve this treatment.)
3. A gente merece uma folga. (We deserve a day off/break.)
4. Ela merece ganhar esse prêmio. (She deserves to win this prize.)
5. Isso é o mínimo que você merece. (This is the minimum you deserve.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Tu mereces ser muito feliz. (You deserve to be very happy.)
2. Ele não merece este tratamento. (He doesn't deserve this treatment.)
3. Nós merecemos um descanso. (We deserve a rest.)
4. Ela merece receber este prémio. (She deserves to receive this prize.)
5. Isto é o mínimo que mereces. (This is the minimum you deserve.)