vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The meaning, spelling, and grammar of "motivo" are identical in both Brazilian and European Portuguese. The difference is purely phonetic. Brazilian Portuguese features more open vowels and a more syllable-timed rhythm, making the word sound more melodic. European Portuguese involves significant vowel reduction, where unstressed vowels—like the final "o" in "motivo"—are much more compressed or neutralized, making the word sound more clipped and shorter to the ear.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Qual o motivo de você não ter vindo à festa? (What is the reason you didn't come to the party?)
2. Não tem motivo para a gente brigar. (There is no reason for us to fight.)
3. Ele perdeu o emprego por um motivo desconhecido. (He lost his job for an unknown reason.)
4. O principal motivo da viagem é descanso. (The main reason for the trip is rest.)
5. Não me diga o motivo agora, por favor. (Don't tell me the reason now, please.)

European Portuguese

1. Qual o motivo de estares tão calado? (What is the reason you are so quiet?)
2. Não há motivo para te zangares. (There is no reason for you to get angry.)
3. Qual foi a razão da tua ausência? (What was the reason for your absence?)
4. O motivo do ruído foi o vento. (The reason for the noise was the wind.)
5. Não encontrei motivo para a queixa. (I didn't find a reason for the complaint.)