vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "tenhamos" is grammatically, semantically, and orthographically identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. It is the first-person plural of the present subjunctive of the verb ter (to have).

Differences:

• Pronunciation: There is a noticeable difference in vowel reduction. In Brazilian Portuguese, the unstressed "e" is generally more audible and pronounced as a mid-vowel. In Continental Portuguese, unstressed vowels undergo much more significant reduction, often sounding like a very short, nearly silent schwa or being swallowed entirely.
• Register and Usage: While the word itself is the same, its "typical usage" varies by register. In Brazil, "tenhamos" is primarily used in formal writing, literature, or high-register speeches. In casual, everyday Brazilian conversation, people almost always substitute this form with "a gente tenha" or the future-oriented "vamos ter." In Portugal, "tenhamos" is used much more naturally in standard, everyday spoken language, particularly when expressing wishes or commands (e.g., "Tenhamos paciência").

Brazilian Example Sentences (used in formal or written contexts):

1. (In a formal email) "Que tenhamos uma excelente semana de trabalho." (May we have an excellent week of work.)
2. (In a business report) "É fundamental que tenhamos metas claras." (It is fundamental that we have clear goals.)
3. (In a formal toast) "Que tenhamos sempre esta alegria!" (May we always have this joy!)
4. (In a legal document) "Para que tenhamos validade, o contrato deve ser assinado." (So that we may have validity, the contract must be signed.)
5. (In a formal speech) "Espero que tenhamos paz em breve." (I hope that we have peace soon.)

Portuguese Example Sentences (used in standard/natural contexts):

1. "Que tenhamos uma excelente semana de trabalho." (May we have an excellent week of work.)
2. "É fundamental que tenhamos metas claras." (It is fundamental that we have clear goals.)
3. "Que tenhamos sempre esta alegria!" (May we always have this joy!)
4. "Para que tenhamos validade, o contrato deve ser assinado." (So that we may have validity, the contract must be signed.)
5. "Espero que tenhamos paz em breve." (I hope that we have peace soon.)