vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The meaning, spelling, and grammatical function of "pior" (the comparative and superlative form of mau) are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is in pronunciation:

• Vowels: In Brazilian Portuguese, the "o" is generally more open ([pjoɾ]), whereas in Continental Portuguese, the vowel is more closed or reduced ([pjuɾ]).
• The "r" sound: Depending on the region of Brazil, the final "r" may be a retroflex "r" (common in the interior) or a soft alveolar tap. In Portugal, the "r" is often produced further back in the throat (uvular) or as a distinct tap.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. O pior de tudo é que eu esqueci a chave. (The worst part of all is that I forgot the key.)
2. O trânsito está cada vez pior. (The traffic is getting worse and worse.)
3. Não quero ficar numa situação pior que essa. (I don't want to be in a situation worse than that one.)
4. Ele é o pior aluno da sala. (He is the worst student in the class.)
5. O remédio não fez efeito, ficou tudo pior. (The medicine didn't work; everything got worse.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. O pior é que me esqueci da chave. (The worst part is that I forgot the key.)
2. O trânsito está a ficar cada vez pior. (The traffic is getting worse and worse.)
3. Não quero ficar numa situação pior do que essa. (I don't want to be in a situation worse than that one.)
4. Ele é o pior aluno da turma. (He is the worst student in the class.)
5. O medicamento não fez efeito, ficou tudo pior. (The medication didn't work; everything got worse.)