Is it Okay to Speak Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal?
A Brazilian Chimes In

The controversy surrounding the use of Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal has been debated for many years. My students who go to Portugal say the Portuguese switch to using English as soon as they hear their Brazilian accent. Brazilians report being discriminated against based on their accent and origin. And even Brazilian media – a sole producer, to be clear [in Portuguese] – faced backlash for teaching children to speak “Brazilian.”

Although both countries share the same language, there are significant pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar differences between Brazilian and European Portuguese. This has led to a divide between the two dialects, with some arguing that it is unacceptable to speak Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal, while others believe in embracing linguistic diversity and accepting the use of different dialects.

With all that said, “Is it okay to speak Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal?” is a good question that unfortunately cannot be answered in one article. But it still deserves some consideration.

The Historical Context of Portuguese Language in Brazil and Portugal

The colonization of Brazil by Portugal in the 16th century had a profound impact on the language spoken in the country.

Portuguese became the official language of Brazil (and other colonies), and over time, it evolved into what is now known as Brazilian Portuguese.

Meanwhile, the language continued to develop separately in Portugal, resulting in what is now known as European Portuguese.

The differences between Brazilian and European Portuguese can be traced back to this historical context.

The relative isolation of Brazil from Portugal during the colonial period [see page 5] allowed for the development of a distinct dialect influenced by indigenous languages and African languages brought by slaves.

On the other hand, European Portuguese remained more closely tied to its European roots.

The Differences between Brazilian and European Portuguese

The differences between Brazilian and European Portuguese can be observed in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.

Regarding pronunciation, Brazilian Portuguese tends to have a more open vowel sound, while European Portuguese has a more closed vowel sound. Additionally, there are differences in pronouncing certain consonants, such as the “s” sound and the -sc-, -sc- combinations. For more information, you can check out this article on the differences between Brazilian and European Portuguese.

Vocabulary also varies between the two dialects.

While many words are shared between Brazilian and European Portuguese, numerous words are unique to each dialect.

For example, in Brazil, the word for “bus” is “ônibus,” while in Portugal, it is “autocarro.” Similarly, the word for “car” is “carro” in Brazil, but “automóvel” in Portugal.

Grammar differences also exist between Brazilian and European Portuguese.

For example, in Brazil, the second-person singular pronoun “tu” is rarely used (with its proper conjugation, that is), with the third-person singular pronoun “você” being more common. In Portugal, however, “tu” is still widely used. Additionally, there are differences in verb conjugation and word order (please refer to this article for more information).

And Why Speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal Is Controversial?

The debate over whether speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal is acceptable has been contentious.

Some argue that it is important to preserve European Portuguese as a cultural heritage and that speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal undermines this.

Others believe that linguistic diversity should be embraced and that using the more widely spoken dialect is practical.

Those who favor speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal argue that linguistic diversity is important and should be celebrated and respected. They believe that language is constantly evolving and that it is natural for different dialects to emerge. Additionally, they argue that Brazilian Portuguese is more widely spoken and understood globally, making it more practical to use in international contexts.

On the other hand, those against speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal argue that preserving European Portuguese as a cultural heritage is important. They believe the language is integral to Portuguese identity and that speaking Brazilian Portuguese undermines it. Additionally, they argue that using a different dialect can lead to miscommunication and confusion, particularly for those unfamiliar with Brazilian Portuguese.

Exploring Arguments in Favor of Speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal

There are several arguments in favor of speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal.

In practical terms, Brazilian Portuguese is the most widely spoken dialect globally. Since Brazil is the largest Portuguese-speaking country in the world, it makes practical sense to use the more widely understood dialect. This can facilitate communication and make it easier for Portuguese speakers from different countries to interact with each other.

In other regards, Brazilian Portuguese has a cultural significance in Portugal.

Brazil has a rich cultural heritage and has significantly contributed to the Portuguese-speaking world in literature, music, and art. By embracing Brazilian Portuguese, Portugal can acknowledge and appreciate these contributions, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within the Portuguese-speaking community.

Exploring Arguments against Speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal

There are also arguments against speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal.

Firstly, European Portuguese should be preserved as a cultural heritage. Language is an important part of a country’s identity (a strong one at that), and by speaking a different dialect, there is a risk of diluting this identity. European Portuguese has its own unique characteristics and history, and it is important to maintain and protect these.

In practical terms, using a different dialect can lead to miscommunication and confusion.

Granted, there are similarities between Brazilian and European Portuguese. However, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar differences are significant enough to cause confusion. Speakers of one dialect to understand speakers of the other will often have to ask for clarification, particularly if they are unfamiliar with the differences.

Lastly, it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Portugal has its own linguistic norms and standards, and by speaking Brazilian Portuguese, there is a risk of disregarding them. It is important to adapt to local dialects and customs when speaking a foreign language, as this shows respect for the local culture and helps to foster positive interactions.

The Importance of Language Adaptation and Cultural Sensitivity

In the debate over speaking Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal, it is important to emphasize the need for language learners to adapt to local dialects and customs. Exposure to different dialects and variations is natural when learning a foreign language. However, it is important to be aware of these differences and to adapt one’s language use accordingly.

Cultural sensitivity is also crucial when using a foreign language. Language is a means of communication and a reflection of culture and identity. Language learners can foster positive interactions and build bridges between cultures by being sensitive to local customs and traditions.

Finding a Middle Ground in the Portuguese Language Debate

As I said in my other article – should I learn Brazilian or European Portuguese? – if you’re going to spend a significant amount of time in Portugal, learn European Portuguese. If you’re going to Brazil, learn Brazilian Portuguese.

If you prefer one over another (for personal or linguistic reasons), choose the one you like best. But you’ll need to consider the difficulties and confusion of using one dialect over the other.

One of my students lives in Portugal, but they prefer Brazilian Portuguese. They tell me they can communicate pretty well with their peers in Portugal but have had their fair share of glances and frowns whenever they use a “Brasileirismo” instead of a local word.

If you can handle the occasional hostility (and it’ll happen), you can do the same as my student.

But if you’d rather not have to deal with things like this, you know what to do.

So, have you had any experience using European Portuguese in Brazil or Brazilian Portuguese in Portugal? Share with us!