vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

Yes

The word "simular" is identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese regarding its meaning, spelling, and grammar. It means to pretend, to feign, or to simulate. The only differences are:

• Pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese tends to have more open vowels and a more melodic, syllable-timed rhythm. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels are often reduced or "swallowed," making the speech sound more consonant-heavy.
• Syntax (Usage): When expressing a continuous action (the present progressive), Brazilians almost exclusively use the gerund (e.g., simulando). Portuguese people typically use the preposition "a" followed by the infinitive (e.g., a simular).
• Vocabulary Context: While the word "simular" remains the same, the surrounding vocabulary in a sentence often shifts (e.g., using treinamento in Brazil versus treino in Portugal).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ele estava simulando que não ouviu nada. (He was pretending he didn't hear anything.)
2. Não adianta simular uma doença para não ir trabalhar. (There is no point in pretending to be sick to avoid going to work.)
3. O computador consegue simular o impacto da batida. (The computer can simulate the impact of the crash.)
4. Ela é muito boa em simular desinteresse. (She is very good at pretending to be uninterested.)
5. Eles estão simulando um treinamento de emergência. (They are simulating an emergency drill.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Ele estava a simular que não ouviu nada. (He was pretending he didn't hear anything.)
2. Não vale a pena simular uma doença para não ir trabalhar. (It is not worth pretending to be sick to avoid going to work.)
3. O computador consegue simular o impacto da colisão. (The computer can simulate the impact of the collision.)
4. Ela é muito boa em simular desinteresse. (She is very good at pretending to be uninterested.)
5. Eles estão a simular um treino de emergência. (They are simulating an emergency drill.)