vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes.

The word "representar" is identical in spelling, meaning, and grammatical conjugation in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only differences are:

• Pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese (BP) tends to have more open vowels and a more melodic, syllable-timed rhythm. Continental Portuguese (EP) is more stress-timed and frequently features "vowel reduction," where unstressed vowels are shortened or "closed" (for example, an unstressed 'e' may sound like a short 'i').
• Syntax (Usage in context): While the word itself does not change, the way it is used with pronouns differs. Brazilians typically place object pronouns before the verb (e.g., me representar), whereas the standard in Portugal is to place them after the verb (e.g., representar-me).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ele vai representar o Brasil no congresso. (He will represent Brazil at the congress.)
2. O advogado vai me representar no processo. (The lawyer will represent me in the lawsuit.)
3. O ator precisa representar bem o personagem. (The actor needs to portray the character well.)
4. O desenho representa um ônibus. (The drawing represents a bus.)
5. O símbolo representa o trem. (The symbol represents the train.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Ele vai representar o país no congresso. (He will represent the country at the congress.)
2. O advogado vai representar-me no processo. (The lawyer will represent me in the lawsuit.)
3. O ator tem de representar bem a personagem. (The actor has to portray the character well.)
4. O desenho representa um autocarro. (The drawing represents a bus.)
5. O símbolo representa o comboio. (The symbol represents the train.)