vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No

While the spelling and the fundamental meaning of the word voz (voice) are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese, the typical usage and the grammatical environment surrounding the word differ significantly.

The primary difference lies in how "voz" interacts with possessive pronouns and syntax:

• Usage/Grammar: In Brazil, "voz" is most commonly paired with the possessive pronoun sua (associated with the treatment of você). In Portugal, it is much more frequent to pair "voz" with tua (associated with the treatment of tu). Additionally, Portuguese speakers almost always use the definite article (e.g., "a tua voz") where Brazilians often omit it.
• Syntax: The placement of pronouns in sentences containing "voz" also changes; Brazilians tend to place pronouns before the verb (proclisis), while Portuguese speakers often place them after the verb (enclisis).
• Pronunciation: There is a slight difference in the vowel quality; the "o" in "voz" is often more open in certain Brazilian regions, while it tends to be more closed in Portugal.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Sua voz é muito bonita. (Your voice is very beautiful.)
2. Eu não ouvi sua voz. (I didn't hear your voice.)
3. A voz dele sumiu de repente. (His voice suddenly disappeared.)
4. Você tem uma voz muito forte. (You have a very strong voice.)
5. A sua voz me deixa calmo. (Your voice makes me calm.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. A tua voz é muito bonita. (Your voice is very beautiful.)
2. Eu não ouvi a tua voz. (I didn't hear your voice.)
3. A voz dele desapareceu de repente. (His voice suddenly disappeared.)
4. Tu tens uma voz muito forte. (You have a very strong voice.)
5. A tua voz deixa-me calmo. (Your voice makes me calm.)