vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the spelling and core dictionary definition are identical, there is a difference in typical usage and grammatical construction. In Brazil, "vigia" is a common, general term for a person guarding a property or building (a watchman). In Portugal, "vigia" is more specifically used to refer to a "lookout" or "sentry" (someone observing a specific point, horizon, or distance), whereas for a professional security role, a Portuguese person would more naturally use "segurança" or "vigilante." Additionally, the grammatical construction around the verb form differs: Brazilians typically use the gerund (está vigiando), while Portuguese people use the preposition "a" followed by the infinitive (está a vigiar).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples:

1. O vigia chegou cedo hoje. (The guard arrived early today.)
2. O vigia está vigiando o portão. (The guard is watching the gate.)
3. O vigia do prédio é muito atento. (The building guard is very attentive.)
4. Precisamos de um vigia para o canteiro de obras. (We need a watchman for the construction site.)
5. Ele trabalha como vigia noturno. (He works as a night watchman.)

Continental Portuguese Examples:

1. O segurança chegou cedo hoje. (The security guard arrived early today.)
   2. O segurança está a vigiar o portão. (The security guard is watching the gate.)
   3. O vigilante do prédio é muito atento. (The building security guard is very attentive.)
   4. Precisamos de um segurança para o canteiro de obras. (We need a security guard for the construction site.)
   5. Ele trabalha como vigilante noturno. (He works as a night security guard.)