vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes.

The word "ocasião" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The vowels are more open and the "i" in the middle of the word is clearly articulated. The rhythm is more melodic and "syllable-timed," meaning each syllable receives a more even amount of time.
• Continental Portuguese: The unstressed vowels are much more "closed" or reduced, often sounding almost swallowed or nearly silent. The rhythm is "stress-timed," creating a more staccato, consonant-heavy sound.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Aproveite esta ocasião para falar com ele. (Take this opportunity to talk to him.)
2. Não perca essa ocasião única! (Don't miss that unique opportunity!)
3. Naquela ocasião, eu não pude ir à festa. (On that occasion, I couldn't go to the party.)
4. É uma ótima ocasião para celebrar. (It is a great occasion to celebrate.)
5. Ele sempre aproveita qualquer ocasião para contar piadas. (He always takes any opportunity to tell jokes.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Aproveita esta oportunidade para lhe falares. (Take this opportunity to speak to him.)
2. Não percas esta oportunidade única! (Don't miss this unique opportunity!)
3. Naquela vez, eu não pude ir à festa. (At that time/On that occasion, I couldn't go to the party.)
4. É uma excelente oportunidade para celebrar. (It is an excellent opportunity to celebrate.)
5. Ele está sempre à espera de uma oportunidade para contar piadas. (He is always waiting for an opportunity to tell jokes.)