vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "trabalhador" has the same meaning, spelling, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. It serves as both a noun (a worker) and an adjective (hardworking).

The only difference is in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The pronunciation is more "open." The vowels are clearly articulated, and the rhythm is more syllable-timed, meaning each vowel in "tra-ba-lha-dor" is pronounced distinctly.
• Continental Portuguese: The pronunciation is more "closed" and stress-timed. Unstressed vowels often undergo reduction or are nearly swallowed (elision). To a Brazilian, a Portuguese person saying "trabalhador" might sound as if they are shortening the middle syllables (e.g., "trabulhadôr").

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Ele é um trabalhador muito dedicado. (He is a very dedicated worker.)
2. Precisamos contratar mais trabalhadores para a obra. (We need to hire more workers for the construction site.)
3. Ela é uma mulher muito trabalhadora. (She is a very hardworking woman.)
4. Os direitos do trabalhador devem ser respeitados. (Workers' rights must be respected.)
5. Todo trabalhador merece um bom salário. (Every worker deserves a good salary.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Ele é um trabalhador muito dedicado. (He is a very dedicated worker.)
2. Precisamos de contratar mais trabalhadores para a obra. (We need to hire more workers for the construction site.)
3. Ela é uma mulher muito trabalhadora. (She is a very hardworking woman.)
4. Os direitos do trabalhador devem ser respeitados. (Workers' rights must be respected.)
5. Todo o trabalhador merece um bom salário. (Every worker deserves a good salary.)