Carnaval vs. Carnival — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on August 25, 2023
Carnaval is the Portuguese and Spanish term for a festive season; carnival is its English equivalent.
Difference Between Carnaval and Carnival
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Carnaval and carnival both refer to festive periods celebrated in various cultures, primarily before Lent. However, "carnaval" is prevalent in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries, while "carnival" is the term commonly used in English-speaking regions.
Traditions, celebrations, and customs associated with carnaval and carnival are similar, given their religious origins. Yet, specifics might differ based on local cultural nuances. For example, Brazil's Carnaval has samba parades, while Trinidad's Carnival showcases calypso music.
Both carnaval and carnival have religious undertones, especially in relation to Christianity. They often precede Lent, a period of fasting, and offer a chance for revelry and feasting before the austere period begins.
Carnaval, notably in Brazil and parts of Europe, is renowned for its colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and lively street parties. Similarly, the carnival, such as those in Venice or New Orleans, is known for masquerade balls, parades, and other festivities.
While carnaval and carnival primarily denote the festive period, they also encapsulate the spirit of celebration, unity, and cultural pride in their respective regions.
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Comparison Chart
Language
Portuguese and Spanish
English
Notable Regions
Brazil, Spain, Portugal
Trinidad, New Orleans, Venice
Main Elements
Samba parades, street dances
Masquerade balls, calypso music
Cultural Significance
Deep-rooted in Latin cultures
Widely recognized in various English-speaking countries
Associated Imagery
Elaborate costumes, drummers, and samba dancers
Masks, beads, and feathered costumes
Compare with Definitions
Carnaval
Carnaval typically precedes the Lenten season.
Many people indulge during Carnaval, knowing Lent's fasting is approaching.
Carnival
Carnival is a festive period before Lent in many cultures.
The Carnival in Venice is known for its masked balls.
Carnaval
Carnaval is a festive season in Latin countries.
Rio's Carnaval is known worldwide for its vibrant parades.
Carnival
Carnival is a Western Christian festive season that occurs before the liturgical season of Lent. The main events typically occur during February or early March, during the period historically known as Shrovetide (or Pre-Lent).
Carnaval
Carnaval is characterized by parades and street parties.
The energy during Carnaval in Salvador is electric.
Carnival
Carnival allows for self-expression through costumes and masks.
At the New Orleans Carnival, intricate costumes are a common sight.
Carnaval
Carnaval brings communities together in celebration.
Families and friends gather to enjoy Carnaval's festivities.
Carnival
Often Carnival The period of merrymaking and feasting celebrated just before Lent.
Carnaval
One of various large carnivals held before the beginning of Lent, especially in Latin America.
Carnival
A travelling funfair or circus
He worked at a carnival, climbing Ferris wheels and working 18-hour days
Carnaval
Carnaval is a cultural and religious event in many regions.
In some areas, Carnaval has been celebrated for centuries.
Carnival
A traveling amusement show usually including rides, games, and sideshows.
Carnival
A festive occasion marked by parades and sometimes special foods and other entertainment.
Carnival
Carnival is a time for music, dance, and revelry.
Calypso music is a highlight of Trinidad's Carnival.
Carnival
An annual festival, typically during the week before Lent in Roman Catholic countries, involving processions, music, dancing, and the use of masquerade
A carnival parade
Mardi Gras is the last day of carnival
The culmination of the week-long carnival
Carnival
A festival or revel
Winter carnival.
Carnival
Any of a number of festivals held just before the beginning of Lent.
Carnival of Brazil
Venice Carnival
Carnival
(US) A traveling amusement park, called a funfair in British English.
We all got to ride the merry-go-round when they brought their carnival to town.
When the carnival came to town, every one wanted some cotton candy.
Carnival
A festival celebrated with merriment and revelry in Roman Gatholic countries during the week before Lent, esp. at Rome and Naples, during a few days (three to ten) before Lent, ending with Shrove Tuesday.
The carnival at Venice is everywhere talked of.
Carnival
Any merrymaking, feasting, or masquerading, especially when overstepping the bounds of decorum; a time of riotous excess.
He saw the lean dogs beneath the wallHold o'er the dead their carnival
Carnival
A festival marked by merrymaking and processions
Carnival
A frenetic disorganized (and often comic) disturbance suggestive of a circus or carnival;
It was so funny it was a circus
The whole occasion had a carnival atmosphere
Carnival
A traveling show; having sideshows and rides and games of skill etc.
Carnival
Carnival includes various public celebrations like parades.
People look forward to the Carnival parade every year.
Carnival
Carnival, in some regions, has historical and cultural significance.
Many stories and traditions are intertwined with the annual Carnival celebrations.
Common Curiosities
How long do carnaval and carnival festivities typically last?
They usually last for several days, often culminating on Shrove Tuesday.
Are carnaval and carnival the same event?
Essentially, yes, but "carnaval" is used in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking regions, while "carnival" is the English term.
How is carnaval in Brazil different from carnival in Trinidad?
Brazil's carnaval is renowned for samba parades, while Trinidad's carnival highlights calypso music.
What's the best way to experience carnaval or carnival?
Participating in local events, enjoying the music, dance, and immersing oneself in the cultural activities offers a genuine experience.
Which countries are known for their carnaval celebrations?
Brazil, Spain, and Portugal have notable carnaval celebrations.
What is the significance of masks in a carnival?
Masks in a carnival allow for anonymity, self-expression, and are deeply rooted in historical and cultural traditions.
Is the celebration of carnaval and carnival purely religious?
While they have religious origins, many modern celebrations focus on cultural and community festivities.
Why is carnaval celebrated?
Carnaval is traditionally celebrated before Lent, allowing for revelry before the fasting period.
Can I find carnival celebrations in non-Christian countries?
Yes, while its roots are Christian, carnival's festive spirit has been adopted and adapted in various non-Christian regions.
Do carnaval and carnival celebrations change over time?
Yes, while core traditions remain, modern influences, music, and themes often get integrated into the celebrations.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
