vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

Yes

The word "volto" is identical in meaning, grammar, and spelling in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese; it is the first-person singular present indicative of the verb voltar (to return). The only difference is in pronunciation. Brazilian Portuguese tends to be more "syllable-timed," with vowels being more open and clearly articulated. In Continental Portuguese, the language is more "stress-timed," featuring significant vowel reduction. This means that in Portugal, the unstressed "o" at the end of "volto" is often swallowed or reduced to a very short, almost silent sound, and the rhythm of the word is much more clipped.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu volto daqui a pouco. (I'll be back in a little bit.)
2. Eu volto para casa às seis. (I'm returning home at six.)
3. Eu volto para o Brasil no mês que vem. (I'm returning to Brazil next month.)
4. Eu volto para falar com você. (I'll come back to talk to you.)
5. Eu volto para a academia amanhã. (I'm going back to the gym tomorrow.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Volto daqui a pouco. (I'll be back in a little bit.)
2. Volto para casa às seis. (I'm returning home at six.)
3. Volto ao Brasil no próximo mês. (I'm returning to Brazil next month.)
4. Volto para falar contigo. (I'll come back to talk to you.)
5. Volto ao ginásio amanhã. (I'm going back to the gym tomorrow.)