vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "usam" is identical in spelling, meaning, and grammatical function in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. It is the third-person plural of the verb usar (to use or to wear) in the present indicative tense. The only difference between the two dialects is the pronunciation; Brazilian Portuguese typically features more open vowels and a more melodic rhythm, while Continental Portuguese tends to use more closed, reduced vowels and a different stress pattern.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eles usam óculos para ler. (They use glasses to read.)

2. As crianças usam uniforme na escola. (The children wear uniforms at school.)

3. Vocês usam esse aplicativo todo dia? (Do you guys use this app every day?)

4. Elas usam bastante maquiagem. (They use/wear quite a bit of makeup.)

5. Os alunos usam o computador para estudar. (The students use the computer to study.)

Portuguese (Continental) Examples

1. Eles usam óculos para ler. (They use glasses to read.)

2. As crianças usam uniforme na escola. (The children wear uniforms at school.)

3. Vocês usam esta aplicação todos os dias? (Do you use this app every day?)

4. Elas usam bastante maquilhagem. (They use/wear quite a bit of makeup.)

5. Os alunos usam o computador para estudar. (The students use the computer to study.)