vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "prevenir" is identical in meaning, spelling, and grammatical conjugation in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is in pronunciation. Brazilian Portuguese features more open vowels and a more melodic, phonetic rhythm. In contrast, Continental Portuguese utilizes significant vowel reduction, where unstressed vowels (like the first "e" in prevenir) are pronounced much more closed, often sounding almost like a neutral "uh" or being nearly swallowed.

Brazilian Portuguese Usage

• É importante prevenir doenças com a vacinação. (It is important to prevent diseases with vaccination.)
• A gente precisa prevenir o desperdício de comida. (We need to prevent food waste.)
• Precisamos de medidas para prevenir acidentes no trabalho. (We need measures to prevent accidents at work.)
• O médico me orientou a prevenir o cansaço. (The doctor advised me to prevent fatigue.)
• Lavar as mãos ajuda a prevenir infecções. (Washing hands helps to prevent infections.)

Continental Portuguese Usage

• É fundamental prevenir doenças através da vacinação. (It is fundamental to prevent diseases through vaccination.)
• Temos de prevenir o desperdício de comida. (We have to prevent food waste.)
• É necessário tomar medidas para prevenir acidentes no trabalho. (It is necessary to take measures to prevent accidents at work.)
• O médico aconselhou-me a prevenir o cansaço. (The doctor advised me to prevent fatigue.)
• Lavar as mãos ajuda a prevenir infeções. (Washing hands helps to prevent infections.)