vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the word "preto" refers to the color black in both dialects, there is a significant difference in typical usage regarding racial identity. In Brazil, "preto" is a widely used and socially significant term used by people to identify themselves and others within a racial and political context (often alongside or even in preference to "negro"). In Portugal, "preto" is used almost exclusively to describe the color of objects or animals; when referring to a person's race, a Portuguese person is much more likely to use the word "negro."

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu gosto de usar roupas pretas. (I like to wear black clothes.)
2. Ele se identifica como um homem preto. (He identifies as a Black man.)
3. O carro preto é muito rápido. (The black car is very fast.)
4. A caneta preta não escreve mais. (The black pen doesn't write anymore.)
5. O gato preto sumiu. (The black cat disappeared.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eu gosto de usar roupa preta. (I like to wear black clothes.)
2. Ele é um homem negro. (He is a Black man.)
3. O carro preto é muito rápido. (The black car is very fast.)
4. A caneta preta já não escreve. (The black pen doesn't write anymore.)
5. O gato preto desapareceu. (The black cat disappeared.)