BR vs PT · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

No

While the spelling, grammar, and fundamental meaning of "tomam" are identical in both varieties, there is a difference in typical usage. In Brazil, "tomar" is the standard, natural verb used for consuming almost all liquids (water, juice, soda, coffee). In Portugal, the verb "beber" is the preferred and more natural choice for drinking liquids, while "tomar" is primarily reserved for taking medication or having specific meals.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

  1. Eles tomam café todas as manhãs. (They drink coffee every morning.)
  2. As crianças tomam muito suco. (The children drink a lot of juice.)
  3. Eles tomam um remédio para a dor. (They take a medicine for the pain.)
  4. Eles tomam café da manhã cedo. (They eat breakfast early.)
  5. Eles tomam muita água depois de correr. (They drink a lot of water after running.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

  1. Eles bebem café todas as manhãs. (They drink coffee every morning.)
  2. As crianças bebem muito sumo. (The children drink a lot of juice.)
  3. Eles tomam um comprimido para a dor. (They take a pill for the pain.)
  4. Eles tomam o pequeno-almoço cedo. (They have breakfast early.)
  5. Eles bebem muita água depois de correr. (They drink a lot of water after running.)