vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the fundamental meaning of "progressiva" (advancing, increasing, or continuous) is identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese, there is a significant difference in typical usage. In Brazil, "progressiva" is widely used as a shorthand noun to refer to a specific chemical hair straightening treatment (escova progressiva). In Portugal, this specific noun usage is not common; a Portuguese person would instead use the term "alisamento" to refer to the procedure.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ela fez uma progressiva ontem. (She got a hair straightening treatment yesterday.)
2. A recuperação do paciente foi progressiva. (The patient's recovery was progressive.)
3. A inflação tem sido progressiva nos últimos meses. (Inflation has been progressive in recent months.)
4. A alíquota do imposto é progressiva. (The tax rate is progressive.)
5. A dor que ele sente é progressiva. (The pain he feels is progressive.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Ela fez um alisamento ontem. (She got a hair straightening treatment yesterday.)
2. A recuperação do doente foi progressiva. (The patient's recovery was progressive.)
3. A inflação tem sido progressiva nos últimos meses. (Inflation has been progressive in recent months.)
4. A taxa do imposto é progressiva. (The tax rate is progressive.)
5. A dor que ele sente é progressiva. (The pain he feels is progressive.)