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

Yes

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

• Brazilian Portuguese: The final "-es" is typically pronounced with a more audible, clear vowel (sounding similar to "seen-pess").
• Continental Portuguese: Unstressed final vowels are heavily reduced (often sounding almost like they are swallowed), and the final "-s" is typically pronounced as a "sh" sound (sounding more like "seem-plish").

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. Este exercício é muito simples. (This exercise is very simple.)
2. Ela gosta de roupas simples. (She likes simple clothes.)
3. A solução é bem simples. (The solution is quite simple.)
4. Ele é um homem muito simples. (He is a very simple/humble man.)
5. O plano é simples de seguir. (The plan is simple to follow.)

Continental Portuguese Examples:

1. Este exercício é muito simples. (This exercise is very simple.)
2. Ela gosta de roupas simples. (She likes simple clothes.)
3. A solução é bastante simples. (The solution is quite simple.)
4. Ele é um homem muito simples. (He is a very simple/humble man.)
5. O plano é simples de seguir. (The plan is simple to follow.)