vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the spelling and the grammatical function as a verb (the subjunctive of salvar) are identical, the typical usage of "salve" as an interjection differs significantly. In Brazilian Portuguese, "salve" is a common, informal slang used as a greeting (similar to "Yo" or "Greetings") or to give a "shout out" to someone. It is also used in the idiom "dar um salve," meaning to send a notification, a "ping," or a quick message. In Continental Portuguese, "salve" is not used for casual greetings; it is considered archaic, literary, or strictly religious (e.g., "Salve Maria"). A Portuguese person would instead use "Olá," "Boas," or "Viva" for greetings.

Brazilian Portuguese

1. Salve, mano! (Yo, bro!)
2. Salve a galera! (Shout out to the crew!)
3. Dá um salve no grupo quando chegar. (Send a message to the group when you arrive.)
4. Salve, pessoal! (Hey, everyone!)
5. Salve, meu parceiro! (Hey, my partner/friend!)

Portuguese (Portugal)

1. Olá, pá! (Hi, man!)
2. Um abraço à malta! (A hug to the crew!)
3. Dá um toque ao grupo quando chegares. (Give the group a ping/touch when you arrive.)
4. Boas, pessoal! (Hi, everyone!)
5. Olá, meu amigo! (Hello, my friend!)