The correct spelling of the country "Brasil" may come as a surprise to some people. Many believe the correct spelling should be "Brazil" with a "z". However, the correct spelling is "Brasil" with an "s". This is because the Portuguese language, which is the official language of Brazil, uses the letter "s" to represent the sound "s", while "z" represents the sound "z". In IPA phonetic transcription, "Brasil" is spelled /bɾaˈziw/, with the stress on the second syllable.
Brasil is a noun that refers to a country located in South America, occupying approximately 50% of the continent's landmass. It is the largest country in both South America and Latin America, covering an area of about 8.5 million square kilometers. Brasil shares borders with ten other countries, including Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
The official language of Brasil is Portuguese, and it is known for its diverse culture, rich biodiversity, and vibrant cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The country's capital is Brasília.
Brasil has a population of over 210 million people and is recognized for its ethnic and cultural diversity, with significant contributions from indigenous, European, African, and Asian populations. The country has a mixed economy, which includes major sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and services.
Brasil's natural environment is characterized by the vast Amazon rainforest, which is home to numerous endangered species. It also features the Pantanal wetlands, some of the world's most extensive savanna regions, and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Brasil has a vibrant and renowned soccer culture, frequently producing world-class players. The country has won the FIFA World Cup a record five times, cementing its status as one of the strongest soccer nations globally.
Overall, Brasil is a dynamic and diverse country with a multifaceted cultural heritage, a stunning natural landscape, and a history deeply rooted in Portuguese colonization.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "brasil" has an intriguing etymology with multiple theories surrounding its origin. One theory suggests that it originated from the name of a dark red dye derived from a tree called "Pau Brasil" or "Brazilwood". This theory is supported by the fact that in the early 16th century, the land now known as Brazil was initially called the "Land of the Holy Cross" by Portuguese explorers due to the abundant presence of the brazilwood trees.
Another theory proposes that the word "brasil" derived from the medieval Latin word "brasa", meaning ember or burning coal. This theory suggests that the name referred to the glowing red color of the brazilwood dye. The word "brasa" eventually transformed into "brasil" over time.
There is also a theory that "brasil" could have originated from the Old Irish word "breas", meaning beauty or worth.