vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the word "tomei" is identical in spelling and grammar (it is the first-person singular, Pretérito Perfeito of the verb tomar), the answer is no because there is a difference in typical usage and pronunciation. In Brazil, "tomei" is frequently used as a synonym for "drank" (e.g., tomei um suco), whereas in Portugal, the verb beber is the standard choice for consuming liquids. Additionally, pronunciation differs: Brazilian Portuguese uses more open, melodic vowels, while Continental Portuguese features significant vowel reduction, often making unstressed vowels sound much more closed or nearly silent.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Tomei um suco de laranja. (I drank an orange juice.)
2. Tomei um banho bem quente. (I took a very hot shower.)
3. Tomei o ônibus no ponto. (I took the bus at the stop.)
4. Tomei um sorvete de chocolate. (I had a chocolate ice cream.)
5. Tomei um remédio para dor. (I took a medicine for pain.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Bebi um sumo de laranja. (I drank an orange juice.)
2. Tomei um banho bem quente. (I took a very hot shower.)
3. Apanhei o autocarro na paragem. (I took the bus at the stop.)
4. Comi um gelado de chocolate. (I had a chocolate ice cream.)
5. Tomei um medicamento para a dor. (I took a medication for the pain.)