vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "retrata" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation. In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels (especially the unstressed "a") tend to be more open and clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels are often "reduced" or swallowed, making the word sound more clipped and emphasizing the consonants.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A fotografia retrata a beleza da natureza. (The photograph depicts the beauty of nature.)
2. Essa pintura retrata o cotidiano da cidade. (This painting portrays the daily life of the city.)
3. O filme retrata bem a realidade do país. (The movie portrays the reality of the country well.)
4. A letra da música retrata um amor impossível. (The song lyrics portray an impossible love.)
5. O autor retrata seus personagens com muita profundidade. (The author portrays his characters with great depth.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Esta fotografia retrata a beleza da natureza. (This photograph depicts the beauty of nature.)
2. Esta pintura retrata o quotidiano da cidade. (This painting portrays the daily life of the city.)
3. O filme retrata bem a realidade do país. (The film portrays the reality of the country well.)
4. A letra da canção retrata um amor impossível. (The song lyrics portray an impossible love.)
5. O autor retrata os seus personagens com muita profundidade. (The author portrays his characters with great depth.)