vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the fundamental meaning of the word remains the same, there are significant differences in typical usage between Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. In Brazil, "placa" is the standard term used for traffic signs and vehicle license plates. In Portugal, while "placa" can still refer to a physical slab or a commemorative plaque, people much more naturally use "sinal" for traffic signs and "matrícula" for vehicle license plates.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A placa de trânsito está escondida pela árvore. (The traffic sign is hidden by the tree.)
2. Eu não consegui ler a placa do carro. (I couldn't read the car's license plate.)
3. A placa-mãe do computador queimou. (The computer's motherboard burned out.)
4. Eles receberam uma placa de homenagem. (They received an award plaque.)
5. A placa de mármore é muito pesada. (The marble slab is very heavy.)

Portuguese Examples

1. O sinal de trânsito está escondido pela árvore. (The traffic sign is hidden by the tree.)
2. Eu não consegui ler a matrícula do carro. (I couldn't read the car's license plate.)
3. A placa de circuito queimou. (The circuit board burned out.)
4. Eles receberam uma placa de homenagem. (They received an award plaque.)
5. A placa de mármore é muito pesada. (The marble slab is very heavy.)