Brazil is certainly one of the most interesting countries in the world. Our culture, our people and our History are elements that make our country a unique place, full of riches to be unveiled and studied. Among our riches is the Portuguese language, which is so different from that spoken in Portugal it became known as Brazilian portuguese. But the differences do not stop there, as within our territory there are linguistic variations, the so-called dialects and registers.
Do you know what the dialects and registers of Brazilian Portuguese are? Well, dialects and registers are related to the varieties found in the language, mainly in the oral modality. Every place in our country communicates in different ways, with different accents and peculiar vocabularies, although, in most cases, using the same code: the Portuguese language. In addition, each communication situation requires an appropriate linguistic behavior, and, according to the context, we use the cultured norm or popular norm. Note the main differences between dialects and records of the Portuguese language:
Each region of our country presents considerable differences in the way of speaking: accents, expressions and vocabularies represent the variations
♦ Dialects: are the varieties found in the language within a region or territory. When analyzing these differences, factors such as the age of the speakers, gender, social classes or groups and the historical evolution of the language must be considered. There are some groups that identify themselves more, that's why they use their own vocabulary, expressions and slang, and that's why establishing a dialogue with someone who is from a very different language community can be quite a challenge for communication! Among the main differences is the one that concerns vocabulary. Take a look at some examples found through linguistic mappings made by experts:
Cassava, cassava or cassava? Three words to designate the same food. Each region of the country uses a different name, for example, in the South and Southeast of the country, the root is better known as cassava; in the Northeast, its name is cassava; in the Midwest and some Northern states, it is cassava.
Bergamot, mandarin or tangerine?The three terms refer to the same fruit. In the southern region of the country, mainly in Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, it is known as bergamot. In the Southeast and Northeast, it is known as tangerine or tangerine. In Curitiba, it is already found under another name: mimosa.
♦ Records: are related to speech levels, that is, standard and non-standard varieties. In certain situations, the most appropriate register to use is the cultured norm, one that complies with all grammatical rules of the Portuguese language. When you need to present a paper at school, the ideal is for you to make more formal vocabulary and syntactic choices, isn't it? But there are times when the popular norm, the one we use among our friends and family, is the record that will establish a greater harmony between the interlocutors, so we are free to use slang and expressions more colloquial.
It is very important to understand that all linguistic variations they are important as they are elements of our cultural identity. There is no one dialect that is better than another, or a register that is more correct and more adequate than another. Unfortunately, we still believe in the idea that the cultured norm is the ideal way of speaking and, for that reason, we often ridicule those who "speak wrong", as if the language could be divided between good and bad Portuguese. In fact, we must consider that each situation requires us to adapt linguistically, that is, it is necessary to analyze what is the right moment to use each of the registers. The language belongs to the people and for the people and its main function is to be a democratic communication tool. Therefore, communicate without fear, be aware of variations and... live the differences!
By Luana Castro
Graduated in Letters
