vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the spelling, grammar, and core dictionary definitions of "visão" are identical in both dialects, there is a difference in typical usage and pronunciation.

• Usage: In Brazil, "visão" is commonly used to describe a beautiful landscape or a "view" (e.g., "Que visão linda!"). In Portugal, while "visão" is used for the sense of sight or a mental concept, a person would much more naturally use the word "vista" to describe a landscape or scenery.
• Pronunciation: In Brazilian Portuguese, the vowels are more open and the rhythm is more melodic, with a very distinct nasalization of the "ão" diphthong. In Continental Portuguese, vowels are often more closed or even "reduced" (almost swallowed) in unstressed positions, making the word sound more clipped and the nasalization slightly different in resonance.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. A visão dele é muito boa. (His eyesight is very good.)
2. Que visão maravilhosa temos daqui do topo! (What a wonderful view we have from the top!)
3. Você tem uma visão muito clara sobre o futuro. (You have a very clear vision about the future.)
4. Eu tive uma visão estranha durante o sono. (I had a strange vision during sleep.)
5. Essa é a minha visão sobre o projeto. (This is my vision/perspective on the project.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. A visão dele é muito boa. (His eyesight is very good.)
2. Que vista maravilhosa temos daqui do topo! (What a wonderful view we have from the top!)
3. Tu tens uma visão muito clara sobre o futuro. (You have a very clear vision about the future.)
4. Eu tive uma visão estranha durante o sono. (I had a strange vision during sleep.)
5. Esta é a minha visão sobre o projeto. (This is my vision/perspective on the project.)