vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the fundamental definition of "preparador" (someone who prepares something or someone) is the same in both varieties, there are significant differences in typical usage.

In Brazil, "preparador" is a common way to refer to a skin "primer" in cosmetics, whereas in Portugal, the English term "primer" or the word "base" is much more common. In the context of education, Brazilians often use "preparador" to describe a tutor or someone who prepares students for specific entrance exams (vestibulares); a Portuguese person would more naturally use "tutor" or "professor de apoio." Finally, while "preparador físico" (physical trainer) is used in both, in a sports context, a Brazilian might use "preparador" as a broader term for a coach/trainer, whereas a Portuguese person almost exclusively uses "treinador" for the person in charge of a team.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. O preparador da equipe chegou cedo para o treino. (The team's trainer arrived early for practice.)
2. Você deve usar um preparador de pele antes da base. (You should use a skin primer before the foundation.)
3. Ele trabalha como preparador de alunos para o vestibular. (He works as a tutor for students for the entrance exam.)
4. O preparador físico está monitorando a carga de treino. (The physical trainer is monitoring the training load.)
5. O preparador de alimentos limpou toda a bancada. (The food preparer cleaned the entire countertop.)

European Portuguese Examples

1. O treinador da equipa chegou cedo para o treino. (The team's coach arrived early for practice.)
2. Deves usar o primer antes da base. (You should use the primer before the foundation.)
3. Ele trabalha como tutor de alunos para o exame. (He works as a tutor for students for the exam.)
4. O preparador físico está a monitorizar a carga de treino. (The physical trainer is monitoring the training load.)
5. Ele trabalha na preparação de alimentos. (He works in food preparation.)