From PT-PT to PT-BR? The language’s evolution and its impact on portuguese society

Abstract

This study analyzes the evolution of the portuguese language in its European and Brazilian variants, reflecting on the impact of globalization, culture, and new technologies on its diffusion. The historical expansion of portuguese, which began during the Age of Discoveries, led to its adaptation in Brazil, giving rise to Brazilian Portuguese. The growing cultural and economic influence of Brazil, combined with its strong presence on digital platforms and in the entertainment industry, has promoted the Brazilian variant globally, shifting traditional linguistic dynamics. This phenomenon has sparked tensions in Portugal, where a conservative view regarding the "purity" of European Portuguese still prevails. The study proposes a critical reflection on the implications of this evolution for Luso-Brazilian relations, as well as on the role of digital media in redefining the language. It concludes that linguistic diversity should be seen as an opportunity to strengthen portuguese as a global language, particularly in today’s context and market.