vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "representante" is identical in spelling, grammar, and fundamental meaning in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, vowels are typically more open and clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels are often "reduced" or "swallowed" (a process called vowel reduction). Specifically, the "e" sounds in the middle and at the end of "representante" are much more muted or even nearly silent in Portugal, which can make the word sound much shorter to a Brazilian ear.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. O representante comercial vai passar aqui amanhã. (The sales representative will stop by here tomorrow.)
2. Procure o representante legal para assinar o contrato. (Look for the legal representative to sign the contract.)
3. Ele atua como representante da nossa marca no Brasil. (He acts as a representative of our brand in Brazil.)
4. O representante do sindicato convocou uma reunião urgente. (The union representative called an urgent meeting.)
5. Você é o representante de qual região? (Which region are you the representative of?)

Portuguese (Portugal) Examples:

1. O comercial está a chegar. (The sales rep is arriving.)
2. É preciso falar com o representante legal da empresa. (It is necessary to speak with the company's legal representative.)
3. Ele é o representante da nossa marca em Portugal. (He is the representative of our brand in Portugal.)
4. O representante do sindicato convocou uma reunião. (The union representative called a meeting.)
5. Quem é que tu representas? (Who do you represent?)