vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the dictionary meaning of the word remains identical, there is a significant difference in grammatical usage regarding continuous actions. In Brazilian Portuguese, the gerund (seguindo) is the standard way to express an action currently in progress. In Continental Portuguese, the construction a + infinitive (a seguir) is the standard way to express the same continuous aspect.

Brazilian Portuguese examples:

1. Estou seguindo as instruções do manual. (I am following the manual's instructions.)
2. Ele está seguindo o caminho mais curto. (He is following the shortest path.)
3. Nós estamos seguindo a mesma ideia. (We are following the same idea.)
4. Você está seguindo o que eu te falei? (Are you following what I told you?)
5. Seguindo esse ritmo, vamos terminar logo. (Following this rhythm, we will finish soon.)

Portuguese (Continental) examples:

1. Estou a seguir as instruções do manual. (I am following the manual's instructions.)
2. Ele está a seguir o caminho mais curto. (He is following the shortest path.)
3. Nós estamos a seguir a mesma ideia. (We are following the same idea.)
4. Estás a seguir o que eu te disse? (Are you following what I told you?)
5. A seguir este ritmo, vamos terminar logo. (Following this rhythm, we will finish soon.)