vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "obras" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammar in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. It can refer to construction/renovations, works of art, literary works, or significant actions/deeds. The only difference is pronunciation:

• In Brazil, the "s" at the end of the word is typically pronounced as a voiceless alveolar fricative [s] (like the "s" in "sun"), and the unstressed "a" is a clear, open sound.
• In Portugal, the "s" is pronounced as a voiceless postalveolar fricative [ʃ] (like the "sh" in "shoe"), and the vowels are often more closed or reduced.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A rua está em obras. (The street is under construction.)
2. Ele estuda as obras de Machado de Assis. (He studies the works of Machado de Assis.)
3. A prefeitura anunciou novas obras no centro. (The city hall announced new construction works downtown.)
4. Aquela pintura é uma das suas melhores obras. (That painting is one of his best works.)
5. O shopping está em obras desde o mês passado. (The mall has been under construction since last month.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. A estrada está em obras. (The road is under construction.)
2. Ele gosta de ler as obras de Camões. (He likes to read the works of Camões.)
3. A câmara municipal anunciou novas obras. (The city council announced new construction works.)
4. Aquela escultura é uma obra primorosa. (That sculpture is a fine work of art.)
5. O centro comercial está em obras. (The shopping mall is under construction.)