vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The spelling, meaning, and grammatical gender of Rússia are identical in both Brazilian and European Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation.

• Pronunciation: In Brazilian Portuguese, the initial "R" is typically pronounced as an aspirated sound, similar to the English "h" in "house." In European Portuguese, the "R" is usually more trilled or tapped. Additionally, Brazilian Portuguese tends to have more "open" and distinct vowels, while European Portuguese often features "closed" or more reduced vowel sounds.
• Syntax: While the word itself does not change, the way a speaker incorporates the word into a sentence may differ slightly due to different grammatical preferences (such as the use of the gerund in Brazil versus the preposition "a" + infinitive in Portugal).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu sempre quis conhecer a Rússia. (I have always wanted to visit Russia.)
2. A Rússia tem um inverno muito rigoroso. (Russia has a very harsh winter.)
3. Ele está lendo um livro sobre a Rússia. (He is reading a book about Russia.)
4. A cultura da Rússia é fascinante. (Russian culture is fascinating.)
5. A Rússia é um país que atravessa vários continentes. (Russia is a country that spans several continents.)

European Portuguese Examples

1. Eu sempre quis conhecer a Rússia. (I have always wanted to visit Russia.)
2. A Rússia tem um inverno muito rigoroso. (Russia has a very harsh winter.)
3. Ele está a ler um livro sobre a Rússia. (He is reading a book about Russia.)
4. A cultura da Rússia é fascinante. (Russian culture is fascinating.)
5. A Rússia é um país que atravessa vários continentes. (Russia is a country that spans several continents.)