vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The meaning, grammar, and spelling of "preparação" are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The vowels are generally more open and the rhythm is more "syllable-timed." The nasal diphthong "-ão" is pronounced with a very clear, resonant, and elongated nasal sound.
• Continental Portuguese: The vowels are more closed and "reduced" (unstressed vowels often sound much shorter or almost swallowed). The rhythm is "stress-timed," making the word sound more clipped, and the "e" in "pre-" is much more subtle and neutralized.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A preparação para a prova foi bem difícil. (The preparation for the exam was quite difficult.)
2. Ele está fazendo a preparação para a maratona. (He is doing the preparation for the marathon.)
3. A preparação do almoço já começou. (The preparation of lunch has already started.)
4. Precisamos de uma preparação melhor para o projeto. (We need better preparation for the project.)
5. A preparação para o concurso exige muito estudo. (The preparation for the civil service exam requires a lot of study.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. A preparação para o exame foi bastante intensa. (The preparation for the exam was quite intense.)
2. Ele precisa de uma boa preparação física. (He needs good physical preparation.)
3. A preparação do jantar demora imenso tempo. (The preparation of dinner takes a very long time.)
4. A nossa preparação foi fundamental para o sucesso. (Our preparation was fundamental to the success.)
5. É necessária uma preparação prévia. (A prior preparation is necessary.)