vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the meaning, spelling, and grammatical classification (verb and noun) of "parecer" are identical in both dialects, the answer is no because there are differences in pronunciation and typical usage. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels are often reduced or "swallowed," making the word sound more clipped. In terms of usage, Portuguese speakers more frequently use the reflexive construction "parecer-se" to express physical resemblance, whereas Brazilians typically use the transitive form. Additionally, the placement of object pronouns (clitics) differs significantly between the two.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. Ele parece o irmão. (He looks like his brother.)
2. Me parece que vai chover. (It seems to me that it is going to rain.)
3. Você parece cansado. (You look tired.)
4. O parecer do juiz é importante. (The judge's opinion is important.)
5. Isso parece uma boa ideia. (That seems like a good idea.)

European Portuguese Examples:

1. Ele parece-se com o irmão. (He looks like his brother.)
2. Parece-me que vai chover. (It seems to me that it is going to rain.)
3. Tu pareces cansado. (You look tired.)
4. O parecer do juiz é importante. (The judge's opinion is important.)
5. Isso parece uma boa ideia. (That seems like a good idea.)