vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the fundamental meaning of "pano" (cloth or fabric) is identical in both dialects, there are differences in typical usage. In Brazilian Portuguese, "passar pano" is a widely used slang expression meaning to make excuses for someone or to "whitewash" a mistake. Additionally, while Brazilians frequently use "pano de chão" to refer to a floor cloth, a Portuguese person would more naturally use the word "trapo" (rag) for the same purpose.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Preciso de um pano para limpar a mesa. (I need a cloth to clean the table.)
2. Ele está passando pano para aquele erro. (He is making excuses for that mistake.)
3. Pegue o pano de prato, por favor. (Grab the dishcloth, please.)
4. Esse pano de chão está muito sujo. (This floor cloth is very dirty.)
5. O tecido desse pano é muito fino. (The fabric of this cloth is very thin.)

European Portuguese Examples

1. Preciso de um pano para limpar a mesa. (I need a cloth to clean the table.)
2. Ele está a justificar aquele erro. (He is justifying that mistake.)
3. Pega no pano de cozinha, por favor. (Grab the dishcloth, please.)
4. Usa um trapo para limpar o chão. (Use a rag to clean the floor.)
5. O tecido deste pano é muito fino. (The fabric of this cloth is very thin.)