vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the spelling and fundamental meaning of "segurança" are identical in both dialects, there is a difference in typical usage and pronunciation. In Brazil, "segurança" is the standard term for both the concept (safety/security) and the professional (security guard). In Portugal, while "segurança" is used for the concept, the term "vigilante" is much more natural when referring to the person.

Additionally, pronunciation differs: Brazilian Portuguese is more syllable-timed with relatively open vowels. In contrast, Continental Portuguese is more stress-timed and tends to reduce or "swallow" unstressed vowels (especially the final "a" in "segurança").

Brazilian Portuguese

1. A segurança no shopping é excelente. (Security at the mall is excellent.)
2. Ele trabalha como segurança em uma boate. (He works as a security guard in a nightclub.)
3. Precisamos aumentar a segurança do prédio. (We need to increase the building's security.)
4. Ela falou com muita segurança. (She spoke with great confidence.)
5. A segurança do carro é muito alta. (The car's safety is very high.)

Continental Portuguese

1. A segurança no centro comercial é excelente. (Security at the shopping center is excellent.)
2. Ele trabalha como vigilante numa discoteca. (He works as a security guard in a nightclub.)
3. Precisamos de aumentar a segurança do edifício. (We need to increase the building's security.)
4. Ela falou com muita segurança. (She spoke with great confidence.)
5. A segurança do automóvel é muito elevada. (The car's safety is very high.)