vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No. While the meaning and spelling are identical, there are differences in typical usage and pronative pronunciation. In Brazil, it is very common to use the singular "saudade" paired with the verb estar (e.g., "Estou com saudade"). In Portugal, the plural "saudades" is much more frequent and is typically paired with the verb ter (e.g., "Tenho saudades"). Additionally, the pronunciation of the "d" differs: Brazilians use a palatalized "dj" sound, whereas the Portuguese use a dental "d" sound.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. "Estou com muita saudade de você." (I miss you so much.)
2. "Que saudade da minha infância!" (I miss my childhood so much!)
3. "Matou a saudade quando te vi." (The longing was satisfied when I saw you.)
4. "Sinto saudade do meu cachorro." (I miss my dog.)
5. "A saudade bateu forte hoje." (The longing hit hard today.)

Portuguese (Continental) Examples

1. "Tenho muitas saudades de ti." (I miss you so much.)
2. "Que saudades da minha infância!" (I miss my childhood so much!)
3. "Matou as saudades quando te vi." (The longing was satisfied when I saw you.)
4. "Tenho saudades do meu cão." (I miss my dog.)
5. "As saudades bateram forte hoje." (The longing hit hard today.)