vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the definition of "portátil" as an adjective (meaning "portable") is the same in both varieties, there is a difference in typical usage regarding its use as a noun. In Brazil, when referring to a laptop computer, the word notebook is almost universally used, whereas in Portugal, portátil is the standard noun for the same device. Additionally, there are differences in vocabulary for other related objects, such as celular in Brazil versus telemóvel in Portugal.

Brazilian Portuguese usage:

1. O notebook é um dispositivo portátil. (The notebook is a portable device.)
2. Eu uso um rádio portátil para acampar. (I use a portable radio for camping.)
3. Comprei um carregador portátil para o meu celular. (I bought a portable charger for my cell phone.)
4. O som portátil é muito pequeno. (The portable speaker is very small.)
5. Este ventilador portátil é muito útil. (This portable fan is very useful.)

Continental Portuguese usage:

1. O portátil é um dispositivo portátil. (The laptop is a portable device.)
2. Eu uso um rádio portátil para acampar. (I use a portable radio for camping.)
3. Comprei um carregador portátil para o meu telemóvel. (I bought a portable charger for my mobile phone.)
4. O som portátil é muito pequeno. (The portable speaker is very small.)
5. Este ventilador portátil é muito útil. (This portable fan is very useful.)