vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "num" is a contraction of the preposition em (in, on, or at) and the masculine indefinite article um (a or an). There are no differences in spelling, grammar, or fundamental meaning between Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is in pronunciation: in Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are typically pronounced more openly and clearly, whereas in Continental Portuguese, the unstressed vowels are often reduced or "swallowed," making the word sound much shorter and more clipped.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Vi um gato num telhado. (I saw a cat on a roof.)
2. Ele está num momento difícil. (He is in a difficult moment.)
3. Coloquei o livro num lugar seguro. (I put the book in a safe place.)
4. Achei o dinheiro num bolso. (I found the money in a pocket.)
5. Ele mora num apartamento pequeno. (He lives in a small apartment.)

Continental Portuguese

1. Vi um gato num telhado. (I saw a cat on a roof.)
2. Ele atravessa um período difícil. (He is going through a difficult period.)
3. Pus o livro num sítio seguro. (I put the book in a safe place.)
4. Encontrei o dinheiro num bolso. (I found the money in a pocket.)
5. Ele vive num apartamento pequeno. (He lives in a small apartment.)