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

Yes

The word "preparar" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The differences lie in pronunciation and the syntactic structures used alongside the verb.

• Pronunciation: In Brazilian Portuguese, vowels are generally more open and clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels (like the "e" in preparar) tend to be much more closed, reduced, or even neutralized, giving the language a more "consonantal" sound.
• Syntax/Usage: While the word itself is the same, the way it is used in a sentence differs. Brazilians typically use the gerund (e.g., preparando) to express ongoing actions, whereas Portuguese people use the preposition "a" followed by the infinitive (e.g., a preparar). Additionally, the placement of pronouns (clitics) differs; Brazilians often place them before the verb (me preparar), while Portuguese people place them after the verb (preparar-me).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Vou preparar o jantar agora. (I am going to prepare dinner now.)
2. Eu preciso me preparar para a prova. (I need to prepare for the test.)
3. Ela está preparando a mala para a viagem. (She is preparing the suitcase for the trip.)
4. Você preparou o lanche para as crianças? (Did you prepare the snack for the children?)
5. Nós vamos preparar uma surpresa para ele. (We are going to prepare a surprise for him.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Vou preparar o jantar agora. (I am going to prepare dinner now.)
2. Preciso preparar-me para o exame. (I need to prepare for the exam.)
3. Ela está a preparar a mala para a viagem. (She is preparing the suitcase for the trip.)
4. Tu preparaste o lanche para as crianças? (Did you prepare the snack for the children?)
5. Nós vamos preparar uma surpresa para ele. (We are going to prepare a surprise for him.)