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

Yes

The word "simpáticas" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The vowels are generally more "open" and clearly articulated. The unstressed "a" in the syllables "sim-pá-ti-cas" is pronounced distinctly.
• Continental Portuguese: There is a significant reduction of unstressed vowels. The "a" sounds may be "swallowed" or shortened, making the word sound more clipped and less rhythmic than in Brazil.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. As vendedoras daquela loja são muito simpáticas. (The saleswomen at that store are very friendly.)
2. As meninas da sua classe são super simpáticas. (The girls in your class are super nice.)
3. Elas são pessoas muito simpáticas e prestativas. (They are very friendly and helpful people.)
4. As novas vizinhas são muito simpáticas. (The new neighbors are very friendly.)
5. As professoras são simpáticas, mas exigentes. (The teachers are nice, but demanding.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. As raparigas daquela loja são muito simpáticas. (The girls at that shop are very friendly.)
2. As colegas de trabalho são muito simpáticas. (The colleagues at work are very nice.)
3. Elas são pessoas muito simpáticas e educadas. (They are very friendly and polite people.)
4. As novas vizinhas são muito simpáticas. (The new neighbors are very friendly.)
5. As senhoras do café são muito simpáticas. (The ladies at the cafe are very nice.)