vs · BR vs PT Word Differences

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

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

No.

While the word "xícara" is understood in Portugal, there is a difference in typical usage. In Brazil, "xícara" is the standard and most common term for a small cup used for tea or coffee. In Portugal, the much more natural and frequent term for the same object is "chávena."

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Você pode me trazer uma xícara de café? (Can you bring me a cup of coffee?)
2. A xícara de porcelana quebrou no chão. (The porcelain cup broke on the floor.)
3. Eu adoro tomar chá em uma xícara bonita. (I love drinking tea in a beautiful cup.)
4. Deixa a xícara na mesa, por favor. (Leave the cup on the table, please.)
5. Você quer uma xícara de chá agora? (Do you want a cup of tea now?)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Pode trazer-me uma chávena de café? (Can you bring me a cup of coffee?)
2. A chávena de porcelana partiu-se no chão. (The porcelain cup broke on the floor.)
3. Adoro beber chá numa chávena bonita. (I love drinking tea in a beautiful cup.)
4. Deixa a chávena na mesa, por favor. (Leave the cup on the table, please.)
5. Queres uma chávena de chá agora? (Do you want a cup of tea now?)