vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the meaning and spelling of "provocar" are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese, there are significant differences in grammar and pronunciation:

• Grammar (Continuous Aspect): In Brazil, when expressing an ongoing action, the verb is typically used with the gerund (e.g., provocando). In Portugal, the standard construction is the preposition a followed by the infinitive (e.g., a provocar). Additionally, the placement of object pronouns differs; Brazilians often place them before the verb (me provocando), while Portuguese speakers typically attach them to the end of the verb (provocar-me).
• Pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese is characterized by more open, clear, and resonant vowels. In contrast, Continental Portuguese features significant "vowel reduction," where unstressed vowels are shortened or almost entirely swallowed, making the speech sound more consonant-heavy to many learners.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ele está me provocando só para me irritar. (He is provoking me just to irritate me.)
2. O excesso de trabalho está provocando estresse. (Excessive work is causing stress.)
3. Ela estava provocando o irmão mais novo. (She was teasing her younger brother.)
4. Essa decisão pode provocar uma crise. (This decision can cause a crisis.)
5. Você está provocando o cachorro sem querer. (You are provoking the dog unintentionally.)

European Portuguese Examples

1. Ele está a provocar-me só para me irritar. (He is provoking me just to irritate me.)
2. O excesso de trabalho está a provocar stresse. (Excessive work is causing stress.)
3. Ela estava a provocar o irmão mais novo. (She was teasing her younger brother.)
4. Esta decisão pode provocar uma crise. (This decision can cause a crisis.)
5. Estás a provocar o cão sem querer. (You are provoking the dog unintentionally.)