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Good Morning, Class: Czech Classroom Phrases

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If you’re planning to study or teach in the Czech Republic, this article is just for you. You might be surprised by the subtle differences between Czech and English communication during classes––be it greetings, or how we address the teachers––I know I was.

I first started with English in 3rd grade. I was 8 years old, and learning to say all those new, funny sounds was very exciting and fun. Let me tell you, my 40-something fiancé doesn’t find it quite as exciting, and he’s constantly asking, “why do y’all say this and not that”? And I would like to address these quirky nuances in this article as well. Because no matter how funny and kind our “Mrs. Teacher” was, most of the things she taught us were just literal translations, and watching movies in English 15+ years later brought up a lot of doubt and questions that will remain unanswered. (We called the eraser “rubber.” Fun times.)

In this article, you will learn a lot of Czech words and not-so-basic Czech phrases: Czech classroom greetings and classroom vocabulary in Czech. Do you know how our school system works? No? You will find all the info here.

Škola. -

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Good morning, Mrs. Teacher: Czech Classroom Greetings
  2. Czech Classroom Phrases and Questions
  3. What?: Czech Classroom Phrases When Asking for Clarification
  4. Dog Ate My Homework: Czech Classroom Phrases for Apologizing and Absence
  5. Classroom Vocabulary in Czech: My Favorite Subject Is…
  6. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Good morning, Mrs. Teacher: Czech Classroom Greetings

First things first. Younger kids (elementary and high school) do not address their teachers using their last names. Even your favorite Mrs. Dumbledore from 5th grade would be degraded to an official “Mrs. Teacher“––paní učitelka.

University professors tend to be either super formal (pan profesor and paní profesorka, pan doktor and paní doktorka––”Mr. and Mrs. Professor”, “Mr. and Mrs. Doctor”, etc.), but there might be  “an exception that confirms the rule” (výjimka potvrzuje pravidlo).

    Having said that, you always address your teachers with the formal tone, vy (“You” 2nd person  singular), just like in Spanish or French, for example.
    You address them pan or paní [title]––Mr. Or Mrs. [title], not their last name.
    ➢ [Male] Pan učitel/profesor (“Mr./Mrs. teacher/professor”)
    ➢ [Female] Paní učitelka/profesorka (“Mrs. teacher/professor”)

Here are a few examples:

  • Paní učitelko, mám dotaz ohledně základních českých frází. – “Mrs. teacher, I have a question regarding basic Czech phrases.”
  • Pane učiteli, myslíte tuto kapitolu? – “Mr. teacher, do you mean this chapter?”
  • Paní profesorko, chci s vámi mluvit o mé práci. – “Mrs. professor, I would like to talk to you about my assignment.”
  • Pane profesore, máte čas se mnou prodiskutovat moji bakalářskou práci? – “Mr. professor, do you have time to discuss my bachelor thesis with me?”

Most Common Czech Classroom Greetings:

  • Dobré ráno /dobrý den, pane učiteli/profesore, paní učitelko/profesorko. – “Good morning, Mr. teacher/professor.” 
  • Uvidíme se zítra, [name]. – See you tomorrow, [student name]. 
  • Na shledanou zítra. – “Bye until tomorrow.”
  • Na shledanou. – “Bye (literally “until we meet each other again”, formal.)
  • Ahoj, čau, nazdar, jak se máte? Jak to jde? Jak jste se vyspali? – “Hello, hi, hi, how are you? How is it going? How did you sleep?” (informal)
  • Ahoj, máš úkol? – “Hi, do you have the homework?”
  • Čau, učila ses? – “Hey, did you study?”
  • Ahoj, píšeme dneska test? – “Hi, do we have a test today?” (literally, “are we writing a test today”)

Too Cool for School?

For more ways to say hello in Czech, read this great article full of basic Czech phrases.

2. Czech Classroom Phrases and Questions

Here’s a list of the most common Czech classroom command phrases you might hear from your teachers. All of these example sentences are in the plural form.

  • Prosím otevřete si učebnice na straně 111. – “Please open your textbook on page 111.” 
  • Dobře poslouchejte. – “Listen carefully.” 
  • Ticho, prosím. – “Silence, please.”
  • Chce se někdo na něco zeptat? – “Does anyone want to ask anything?”
  • Podívejte se na tabuli a přečtete tato česká slova. – “Look at the board and read these Czech words.” 
  • Otevřete si knihy. – “Open your books.”
  • Zavřete knihy. – Close your books.
  • Opakujte po mně, prosím. – “Repeat after me, please.”
  • Přihlaste se/Zvedněte ruku. – “Raise your hand.”
  • Budete pracovat ve dvojicích. – “You will work in pairs.”
  • Vstaňte, prosím. Posaďte se, prosím. – “Stand up please. Sit down, please.”
  • Teď prosím podtrhněte správná slova a přeškrtněte nesprávná. – “Underline the word and cross out the wrong ones.”
  • Vypněte telefony, prosím. – “Turn off your phones, please.”
  • Máte 15 minut. – “You have 15 minutes.”

  • Jak se hláskuje tohle slovo? – “How do you spell this word?”
  • Jak se tohle řekne česky? – “How do you say this in Czech?”
  • Napadá vás nějaký příklad? – “Can you think of an example?”
  • Rozumíte všemu? – “Do you understand all of this?”
  • Je to všem jasné? – “Is it clear to everyone?” (as in, “does everyone understand?”)
  • Chce se někdo na něco zeptat? – “Does anyone want to ask anything?”
  • Potřebuje někdo pomoc s tímhle cvičením? – “Does anyone need help with this exercise?”

That’s a Cool Pencil: Talking about School Supplies in Czech

Did you know it is very common to keep all your textbooks at home and bring them to school every single day? Lockers aren’t as big as in the US here, and Czech students carry heavy bags of books around.

If needed, you will ask your classmates:

  • Můžu si půjčit [supply]? – “May I borrow your/a [supply]?” 
  • Půjčíš mi [supply], prosím? – “Would you lend me [supply], please?”
  • Ztratil/a jsem [supply]. – “I lost my [supply].” 
  • Nebudeš mít vždycky v kapse kalkulačku! – “You won’t always have a calculator in your pocket.”

Učebnice. - Textbook

Czech Classroom Vocabulary––Supplies:

  • Tužka – “Pencil”
  • Pero or Propiska – “Pen”
  • Poznámkový blok or Sešit – “Notebook”
  • Pořadač – “Binder”
  • Složka – “Folder”
  • List papíru – “Sheet of paper”
  • Kniha – “Book”
  • Učebnice – “Textbook” (more common than “book”)
  • Penál – “Pencil case”
  • Pravítko – “Ruler”
  • Guma – “Eraser”
  • Nůžky – “Scissors”
  • Kalkulačka – “Calculator”
  • Ořezávátko – “Pencil sharpener”

Czech Classroom Vocabulary––Places and Things:

  • Třída or Učebna (from the word učit – “learn”) – “Class” (the word “class” is more used in high schools and elementary schools)
  • Kavárna – “Cafeteria”
  • Sborovna – “Teacher’s room”
  • Sekretariát – “Secretariat”
  • Ředitelna – “Principal’s office”
  • Kancelář – “Office”
  • Menza – “University canteen”
  • Knihovna – “Library”
  • Kopírka – “Copy machine”
  • Zkouška – “Exam”
  • Test – “Test”
  • Ústní zkouška – “Verbal exam”
  • Písemná zkouška – “Written exam”
  • Poslech – “Listening”
  • Psaní – “Writing”
  • Porozumění – “Understanding”
  • Úkol – Homework
  • Práce – “Assignment”
  • Prezentace – “Slideshow” or “Presentation” or “Pitch”

3. What?: Czech Classroom Phrases When Asking for Clarification

Wisdom is knowledge, and as we say, žádný učený z nebe nespadl––”no educated one has ever fallen from the skies,” as in “practice makes perfect.”

  • Nerozumím/nechápu. – “I don’t understand.” 
  • Můžete to zopakovat, prosím? – “Can you repeat that, please?” (formal voice, when asking the teacher)
  • Můžu se na něco zeptat? – “Can I ask you something?” (literally just “can I ask on something”)
  • Chci se na něco zeptat. – “I want to ask about something.”
  • Co řekl/řekla? – “What did he/she say?”
  • Můžete mi vysvětlit tuhle část, prosím? – “Could you explain this part to me, please?”
  • Chci se ujistit, že to chápu. – “I want to make sure I understand this.”
  • Není mi jasná jedna věc. – “One thing isn’t clear to me.”
  • Co to znamená? – “What does it mean?”
  • Takže to neznamená, že… – “So it doesn’t mean that…”

For more Czech questions (with pronunciation!), check out these lists.

Drby. - Gossip

4. Dog Ate My Homework: Czech Classroom Phrases for Apologizing and Absence

How to tell the teacher you aren’t able to attend their class or why you didn’t attend or why you were late? Read on:

  • Není mi dobře, dnes nepřijdu. – “I’m not feeling well. I won’t be able to attend school today.” (literally just “I won’t come.”) 
  • Omlouvám se za zpoždění, musel/a jsem… – “Sorry I’m late. I had to…” (literally, “I’m sorry for the delay”)
  • Můj pes mi sežral úkol. – “My dog ate my homework.” 
  • Chci se omluvit z dnešní hodiny, jdu k lékaři. – “I want to excuse myself from today’s lesson, I have a doctor’s appointment.” (literally, “I’m going to a doctor.”)
  • Omlouvám se, nemám tu práci hotovou. – “I am sorry, I didn’t finish the assignment.” (literally “I don’t have the assignment finished.”)
  • Omlouvám se, zapomněl/a jsem. – “I am sorry, I forgot.”
  • Omlouvám se, ale mám spoustu práce a nestihl/a jsem to. – “I am sorry, but I have a lot of work and I didn’t make it.”
  • Neměl/a jsem čas si to přečíst. – “I didn’t have time to read it.”

5. Classroom Vocabulary in Czech: My Favorite Subject Is…

  • V [subject] nejsem moc dobrý/á. – “I’m not good at [subject].” 
  • Můj oblíbený předmět je [subject]. – “My favorite subject is [subject].” 
  • Nejde mi [subject]. – Literally “[Subject] doesn’t go me”, as in “I am not good in [subject].
  • Jde mi [subject]. – Again, “[Subject] goes me.”
  • Nejradši mám [subject]. – “I like [subject] the most.”
  • Nenávidím [subject]. – “I hate [subject].”
  • Chci studovat český jazyk. – “I want to study Czech language.”

List of School Subjects in Czech:

What Was Your Favorite Subject?
  • Matematika – “Math”
  • Biologie – “Biology”
  • Chemie – “Chemistry”
  • Angličtina – “English”
  • Čeština – “Czech”
  • Tělocvik – “PE”
  • Literatura – “Literature”
  • Dějepis (elementary school) or Historie – “History”
  • Psychologie – “Psychology”
  • Sociologie – “Sociology”
  • Filozofie – “Philosophy”
  • Geometrie – “Geometry”
  • Ekonomie – “Economy”
  • Politologie – “Politology”
  • Zeměpis (elementary school) or Geografie – “Geography”
  • Marketing – “Marketing”
  • Management – “Management”

6. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

That’s it, guys! I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! If the Czech words and phrases listed in this article weren’t enough for you, and you want to keep learning, please check out our Basic Bootcamp––basic Czech for foreigners (grammar and vocab) in 5 compact lessons.

If you’re taking Czech language learning seriously and want to study Czech fast, free, and online, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (which is way more convenient). Seriously, mastering a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com will make online Czech classes easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Study Czech the better way – with us you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine!

What can you find in these awesome online Czech lessons?

Ready to study the Czech language? Sign up now, it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments what YOUR favorite subject was (in Czech, of course). Share some useful tips and tricks!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

The Ultimate Guide to Czech Restaurant Phrases

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Who doesn’t love eating out? Especially in foreign countries! If you love exploring exotic cuisines or simply have to eat out while in the Czech Republic, this list of Czech restaurant vocabulary and phrases will come in handy.

I have noticed how much people appreciate it when a foreigner tries to speak Czech. It’s a tough language (or so I’ve heard), and locals get genuinely excited when they realize my fiancé is a REAL American who says děkuju (“thank you”) and prosím (“you’re welcome” and “please”). In the Czech Republic, the staff tends to be much nicer. In Barcelona, we were getting free desserts and complementary wine. Austrian baristas smile if I order my coffee in German. Enough about cultural differences; if you want to know more about Czech traditions and culture, check out this article.

It goes without saying that being able to read the Czech food menu or ask your waiter about allergens in your dish of choice (or explain basic Czech foods) might save you a lot of headaches.

I once ordered “latté” in an Italian café. I spoke (poor) English, and the Italian owner seemed confused but obliged, as the customer’s wishes shall be fulfilled no matter what. Guess what. I got what I asked for: latté––milk. First of all, had I come prepared, I would have known the drink of my choice is actually called “latté macchiato,” plus I would have been able to understand what the Italian owner was saying (“You want just milk? Milk without coffee?”).

Let’s learn from my mistakes and dive into this article––a comprehensive cheat sheet––Czech vocabulary on how to order food in Czech and basic Czech phrases.

Číšník. - Waiter.

Číšník. – “Waiter.”

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Restaurant Phrases in Czech: Getting There
  2. How to Order Food in Czech
  3. Czech Restaurant Phrases: After Dining
  4. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Restaurant Phrases in Czech: Getting There

  • Chtěl/a bych rezervovat stůl pro dva na sobotu, 7. května, V pět hodin. – “I’d like to book a table for two on Saturday, May 7th, at 5pm.”
  • Stůl pro čtyři, prosím. – “A table for 4, please.”
  • Máte volný stůl na zahrádce? – “Do you have a table on the patio?”
  • Jak dlouho budeme muset počkat? – “How long do we need to wait?”
  • Nabízíte vegetariánské/veganské jídlo? – Do you offer vegetarian/vegan food?
  • Máme rezervaci na jméno [name]. “We have a reservation for the name [name].”

Stůl pro Dva, Prosím. - Table for Two, Please.

Stůl pro dva, prosím. – “Table for two, please.”

A- Conversation Example:


StaffYou
Dobrý den, restaurace Grandezza, jak vám mohu pomoci?
“Hello, “Grandezza” restaurant, how may I help you?”
Dobrý den, chci rezervovat stůl na zítra večer.
“Hello, I would like to book a table for tomorrow evening.”
Jistě. Pro kolik lidí?
“Certainly. For how many people?”
Pro čtyři.
“For four people.”
Přejete si stůl uvnitř nebo na terase?
“Would you like a table inside or on the terrace?”
Na terase, pokud je to možné.
“On the terrace, if that’s possible.”
Dobře. Na kolik hodin?
“Okay. What time would you like to book?”
Na půl devátou.
“At 8:30 PM.”
Výborně. Máte rezervaci na zítra, 20:30, pro čtyři lidi. 
“Great. You have a reservation for tomorrow at 8:30 PM, for four people.”
Mockrát děkuju. Na shledanou.
“Thank you very much! Goodbye.”
Na shledanou.
“Goodbye.”

2. How to Order Food in Czech

  • Můžeme dostat jídelní lístek? – “May we get the menu, please?”
  • Chtěli bychom si objednat. – We would like to order.
  • Co nám doporučíte? “What would you recommend?”
  • Máte nějakou místní specialitu? – “Is there a local specialty?” (Literally, “Do you have a local specialty?”)
  • Co je dnešní specialita? – “What’s today’s special?”
  • Co je v tomhle jídle? – “What is in this dish?” (asking about ingredients)
  • Mám alergii na [ingredient]. Je v tom [ingredient]? – I am allergic to [ingredient]. Is there [ingredient] in this?
  • Bez sýra, prosím. – “Without the cheese, please.” (if you want to remove a certain ingredient)
  • Víc/míň [ingredient], prosím. – “More of the [ingredient] please.” (asking for extras)
  • Dám si řízek. – “I’ll have the schnitzel.”
  • Chtěla bych maso mírně/středně/dobře propečené. – “I would like my meat rare/medium/well done.”
  • Můžu dostat příbory, prosím? – “Can I get utensils, please?”
  • Kde jsou toalety, prosím? – “Where is the restroom, please?”
  • Můžu dostat víc ubrousků? – Can I get some more napkins?
  • Ta polévka je trochu přesolená. – The soup is a little salty. (Literally, “The soup is a little oversalted.”)
  • Bylo to vynikající. Moc nám chutnalo. “It was delicious. We enjoyed it very much.” (literally “It tasted us very much.”)
  • Mohlo to být lepší. – “It could have been better. (as in “It wasn’t anything special.”)
  • Nebylo to dobré. – “It didn’t taste good.” (Literally “It wasn’t good”)
  • Nechutnalo nám. – “We didn’t like it.” (Literally “Didn’t taste us.”)
  • Moje jídlo je studené. – “My food is cold.”
  • Moje pití není vychlazené. – “My drink is not chilled.”
  • Můj drink chutná divně. – “My drink tastes strange.”
  • ​​Tohle není pořádně uvěřené. – “This isn’t properly cooked.”
  • Objednali jsme si před půl hodinou. – “We ordered half an hour ago.”
  • Tohle jsem si neobjednal. – “This isn’t what I ordered.”

I suggest you check out the list of basic Czech food vocabulary here.

Tohle Jsem Si Neobjednal. - This Isn't What I Ordered.

Tohle jsem si neobjednal. – “This isn’t what I ordered.”

A- Conversation Example:


StaffYou


Co si dáte?
“What will you have?”
Jako předkrm si dám salát.
“As a starter, I will have the salad.”

Jako hlavní chod si dám burger.
“As an entrée, I will have the burger.”

Jako dezert si dám čokoládový dort.
“For dessert, I will have the chocolate cake.”
Co si dáte k pití?
“What will you have to drink?”
Suché bílé víno. Máte Sauvignon?
“Dry white wine. Do you have Sauvignon?”
Ano. Jedno deci?
“Yes. One deciliter?”
Ano, děkuju.
“Yes, thank you.”
During the meal:
Je všechno v pořádku? Chutná vám?
“Is everything alright? Do you like the food?”
Je to moc dobré, díky.
“Yes, very good, thank you.”
Můžu dostat víc pečiva, prosím?
“Can I have some more bread, please?”
Dám si ještě jedno víno, prosím.
“I’d like another glass of wine, please.” (You’re asking for “another wine”, we typically don’t say “a glass of wine/beer, a cup of coffee”, just “another wine, beer, coffee”)
Můžu dostat kečup?
“Can I get ketchup?”
Samozřejmě, hned to bude.
“Of course, right away.” (Literally, “It will be right away.”)
Děkuju.
“Thank you.”
Dáte si dezert?
“Will you have some desserts?”
Dám si větrník, prosím.
“I’d have the větrník, please.”

Co Si Dáte? - What Will You Have?

Co si dáte? – “What will you have?”

3. Czech Restaurant Phrases: After Dining

Účet, prosím. Zaplatíme. – “Check, please. We’re going to pay.”
Můžeme zaplatit zvlášť? – “Can we pay separately?”
Zaplatím za všechny. – “I will pay for everyone.”
Můžeme mít dvě krabičky? – “Can we get two boxes?”
Zabalíte nám zbytek s sebou? – “Would you pack the rest to-go?”
Přijímáte/berete kreditní karty? – “Do you accept/take credit cards?”
Řekněte kuchaři, že to bylo vynikající! – “Tell the chef it was delicious.” (“Compliments to the chef.”)
Česká jídla jsou mastná. – “Czech meals are greasy.”

A- Conversation Example:


StaffYou
Můžu zaplatit, prosím?
“May I pay, please?”
Jistě, hned jsem u vás.
“Sure, I’ll be with you right away.”
Hotově, nebo kartou?
“Cash or card?”
Kartou, prosím.
“Card, please.”
Dohromady, nebo zvlášť?
“Together or separately?”
Dohromady, zaplatím za všechny.
“Together, I will pay for all.”
Tisíc dvě stě jedna korun, prosím.
“1.201 crowns, please.”
Nechte to na tisíc tři sta.
“Keep it at 1.300.” (“Round it up to 1.300.”)
Děkuji, přeji hezký den.
“Thank you, I wish you a nice day.”
Na shledanou.
“Goodbye.”

In the Czech Republic, Service Is Always Included.

In the Czech Republic, service is always included.

B- Tipping in the Czech Republic

Customer service in the Czech Republic is very different from what you probably know from other countries––overly friendly and smiles are rare, and tipping is more about the actual service/food. 

Bottom line: You do NOT have to tip. 

If you decide to tip:

    You either tip a standard 10 percent or round up the check to the next hundred crowns––this is way more common here.
    If you’re paying by card or handing the waiter a larger note, always tell them how much you want to tip in advance.
    Using cash is becoming pretty rare.
    It’s not common to leave money (even if it’s just the tip) on the table.
    If you see a “Service is not included” note on your check, please remember that service is ALWAYS included (legally speaking), and you’re NOT obliged to tip if you don’t want to.

4. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

That’s it, guys! I hope you enjoyed this article and maybe you even know how to say french fries in Czech (hranolky)! In case the location words and phrases listed in this article weren’t enough for you, and you want to keep learning, please check out our Basic Bootcamp – the very basic grammar and vocab in 5 compact lessons.

If you’re taking learning Czech seriously, and want to learn Czech fast, free and online, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (which is way more convenient). Seriously, learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way – with us you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine!

What can you find here?

Sign up now, it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments your funny restaurant stories (in Czech, of course). Which Czech phrase from this article will you use the most? We look forward to hearing your answers. 

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

Czech Conversation Skills: Speak It Like You Mean It!

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You probably know that speaking another language means that you just… Speak it. Freely. Without thinking about every word. Without pausing to remember the “correct” word, without translating in your head.

The best way to improve your Czech conversation skills: Prepare your “language profile”, learn a few tricks that will make you sound natural and like you speak Czech daily (even when you don’t). You can make your language skills and pronunciation seem way more advanced, and amaze yourself, native speakers, and fellow students alike. It doesn’t matter how old you are. Again, you can do it at any age.

What’s the game plan?

1. Learn phrases about your job, hobbies, life, family, etc.
2. Learn phrases about your potential clients/friends/colleagues jobs, hobbies, life, family, etc.
3. Learn common phrases: how to check in, order food, buy tickets, etc.
4. Improve your conversation skills in Czech by learning global topics/politics vocab.
5. Learn a few conversation starters
6. Learn a few reactions and filler words (this makes you sound like you own the language and are super comfortable speaking it).

Let’s dive right into it.

Four Friends Chatting Over Coffee Drinks

Friends.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. I am Bob and I Like Cheese: Your Own Czech Language Profile
  2. Mmmhmmm: Learn Czech Reactions
  3. Fill the Void… With Czech Filler Words
  4. Learn Common Czech Questions and Answers
  5. Learn Czech Conversation Starters
  6. How to Improve Your Czech Speaking Skills
  7. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. I am Bob and I Like Cheese: Your Own Czech Language Profile

Start with the basic stuff, and try to keep things simple. Think about what questions you get asked the most when you’re “new” and what questions “new” people ask you. You’ll find more examples and pronunciation here. I suggest you check out this list of phrases you should know before you travel to the Czech Republic.

Jmenuju se [name]. – “My name is [name].
Je mi [age] let. – “I am [age] years old.” (Literally, “I have XX years.”)
Jsem [job title]. / Pracuju jako [job title]. – “I am an [job title]. / I work as [job title].”
Studuju [subject]. – “I study [subject].”
Jsem nezadaná/nezadaný. – “I am single.”
Jsem ženatý/vdaná. – “I am married.”
Mám partnera/partnerku. – “I have a partner.”
Mám [count] děti/dětí. – “I have [count] kids.”
Jsem jedináček. – “I’m an only child.”
Mám bratra a sestru. – “I have one bratr and one sister.”
Miluju [hobby in 4th case noun]. – “I love [hobby, noun].”
Rád/a [verb in 1st person singular]. – “I like to [hobby, verb].
Zajímám se o [noun, 4th case]. – “I am interested in [noun].”
Baví mě [noun, 1st case OR verb in infinitive]. – “I like [hobby, activity].”
Česky se učím asi rok. – “I have been learning Czech for about a year.”
Nikdy jsem nežil/a nikde v zahraničí. – “I have never lived abroad.”
Žila jsem rok/let [year/years] v zahraničí – [countries]. – “I have lived abroad for [year/years]––[countries].

Relaxed example (speed-dating style):
Ahoj, já jsem Martina, je mi 36 let. Pracuju jako překladatelka, jsem jedináček a žiju ve městě. Miluju psy, ráda vařím, baví mě pečení. Zajímám se o politiku a psychologii.
“Hi, I am Martina, I am 36 years old. I am a translator, I’m an only child and I live in a city. I love dogs, I like cooking, and I enjoy baking. I am interested in politics and psychology.”

Slightly more “polite” example (job interview style):
Dobrý den, jmenuju se Pavel, je mi 30 let. Tři roky pracuju jako kodér, ale vystudoval jsem historii. Zajímám se o nové technologie, jsem extrovert a rád pracuju v týmu. Jde mi vedení lidí.
“Good day, my name is Pavel, I am 30 years old. I’ve been working as a coder for three years, I have a degree in history. I am interested in new technology, I like teamwork. I’m good at managing people.”

Very relaxed example:

2. Mmmhmmm: Learn Czech Reactions

Unless you want to nod and smile or shake your head furiously. I’m trying to think about really genuine Czech reactions right now, and I’d say we make a lot of unintelligible noises––more than English speakers––there’s no “oh” or “duh”, just lots of mmmhmmm (oh yeah) and hmhm (no).

Bezva. – “Cool.” (Sort of outdated, and young people will just say “cool”; colloquial)
Aha. – “Aha.” (As in, “now I understand” or “sure, I know you’re making excuses.”)
Výborně. – “Great.”
Dobře. – “Good.”
Tak jo. – “OK.” (Literally “So yeah”; colloquial)
Jsme domluvení. – “Settled.” (Literally “we’re set up.”)
Počítám s tím. – “I’m counting on it.”
Omlouvám se. – “I apologize.” (Sounds very official and big––save for when you do something really horrible.)
To mě mrzí. – “I am sorry.”
Pardon. – “Pardon.” (Very polite)
Nezlobte se. – “Don’t be angry.” (As in, “I’m sorry.”)
S dovolením. – “Excuse me.” (When someone is in your way or you want to interrupt their monologue.)
V pořádku. – “Alright.” (As in “it’s alright.”)
Nic se neděje. – “Nothing is happening. (As in “it’s fine”)
To je dobrý. – “That’s ok.” (Slang version, the ending should be -é.)
V pohodě. – “Cool.” (Colloquial)
Dobrý. – “Good.” (Slang version, the ending should be -é.)
Fajn. – “Fine.” (Colloquial)

OK is mostly used in written form (OK, ok, Ok). Some people do use it, in which case it would be pronounced as ó-ká or okey.

Example:

  • Mohl bys mě vyzvednout zítra ráno v sedm? (“Could you pick me up tomorrow at 7AM?”)

Aha, já myslel, že vyrazíme později. (“Oh, I thought we’d leave later.”)
Výborně, už se těším. (“Great, looking forward to it.”)
Jsme domluvení, počítám s tím. (“Settled, I’m counting on it.”)
Fajn, ale říkalas, že vyrazíme dřív. (“Fine, but you said we would leave earlier.”)

  • Nezlob se, ale tvoje reakce mi připadají nevhodné. (“Don’t be mad, but I find your reactions inappropriate.”)

V pořádku, je to tvůj názor a já ho respektuju. (“It’s alright, it’s your opinion and I respect it.”)
V pohodě, nic se neděje. Je mi jedno, co si myslíš. (“Cool, it’s fine. I don’t care what you think.”)

  • Pardon, šlápla jsem vám na nohu. (“Pardon me, I stepped on your toes.”)

To je dobrý, jste lehká jako pírko. (It’s ok, you’re light as a feather.”)
V pohodě, nic se nestalo. (“It’s ok, nothing happened.”)

Someone Making the OK Sign with Their Hand

OK

3. Fill the Void… With Czech Filler Words

I’d say that Czech filler sounds are a lot more common than Czech filler words (I guess we like to squirm and growl). There’s a lot of uhhhhh and hmmmm, and you can follow suit, of course, BUT! Using Czech filler words will make you sound very relaxed and natural. Czech out our article here.

Tak. – “So” or “Well”
Takže. – “So”
No. – “Well”
Dá se říct. “It’s possible to say.”
Můžeme říct. – “We can say.”
Prostě. – “Just” or “Simply”
Vlastně. – “Actually”
Jako. – “Like”
Jakoby. – “As if”, often used as the American “like”.

Example:
Takže ty si myslíš, že nemusíš nic dělat. (“So you think you don’t have to do anything.”)
Vlastně tě chápu, na tvém místě bych si myslel totéž. (“Actually, I understand, I’d think the same if I were in your place.”)
Pojďme se prostě shodnout na neshodě. (“Let’s just agree to disagree.”)
Jako… Ona musí být úplně hloupá. (“Like… She must be completely stupid.”)
Bylo to… Jakoby… Nevím, jak to popsat. (“It was… As if… I don’t know how to describe it.”)

4. Learn Common Czech Questions and Answers

You can find the most common Czech questions here, and it’s a good idea to check out 25 must-know intermediate phrases as well.
Czechs won’t intrude and ask a lot of questions. In fact, don’t be surprised if they don’t ask anything at all.

Odkud jsi? – “Where are you from?”
Jsem z Ameriky. ( “I’m from America.”)
Jsem z daleka. (“I’m from far away.”)

Jak se máš? – “How are you?”
Dobře, děkuju. (“Good, thanks.”)
Nic moc. (“Nothing much” as in “not very good”)

Kde jsi se naučil/a česky? – “Where did you learn Czech?”
Chodil jsem do kurzu a používal aplikaci. (“I took classes and use an app.”)
Ve škole/v práci. (“At school/work.”)

Používáš nějakou aplikaci, nebo chodíš do kurzu? – “Do you use an app or do you take classes?” (Literally (“or do you go to a course”)
Obojí. Kurz mě moc baví. (“Both. I like the class a lot.”)
Chodím do kurzu. (“I take classes.”)

Proč se učíš česky? – “Why are you studying Czech?”
Protože to potřebuju k práci. (“Because I need it for work.”)
Ze soukromých důvodů. (“For personal reasons.”)

Kolika jazyky mluvíš? – “How many languages do you speak?”
Mluvím dvěma jazyky. (“I speak two languages.”)
Zatím jen jedním, ale učím se druhý. (“Just one so far, but I am learning my second one.”)

A Birthday Cake with a Question Mark Candle on Top

How old are you?

5. Learn Czech Conversation Starters

I like to start with a compliment (clothes, food, dogs, babies, hair)––everybody likes to feel special, and you only have one shot at making a great first impression.
Get inspired: Here’s our list of Czech conversational phrases. Learn the most useful compliments here and here.

  • Moc se mi líbí tvoje tričko. Kde jsi ho koupil/a? – “I like your shirt. Where did you get it?”
Koupila jsem ho v Berlíně. (“I bought it in Berlin.”)
Máma mi ho dala k Vánocům. (“My mom gave it to me for Christmas.”)
  • Mohl/a bys mi s něčím pomoct? – “Could you help me with something?”
Jasně, za minutu jsem tam. (“Sure, I’ll be there in a minute.”)
Sorry, nemám čas. (“Sorry, I don’t have time.”)
  • Můžu si k tobě/vám přisednout? – “Can I sit here with you?”
Ne, čekám na kamaráda. (“No, I am waiting for my friend.”)
Samozřejmě, posaďte se. (“Of course, take a seat.”)
  • Chodíš sem často? “Do you come here often?”
Ne, jsem tu poprvé. (“No, this is my first time.”)
Jo, každý týden. (“Yeah, every week.”)
  • Jaký film máš nejradši? Jaká/jaké je tvoje nejoblíbenější knížka/jídlo? Kdo je tvůj nejoblíbenější autor/herec/zpěvák? – What’s your favorite [movie/book/food/author/actor/singer]?”
Nemám žádnou nejoblíbenější knížku. (“I don’t have a favorite book.”)
Miluju Lennyho Kravitze. (“I love Lenny Kravitz.”)
  • Vždycky jsi chtěl/a být [job title]? – “Have you always wanted to be [job title]?”
Jo, snil jsem o tom už jako kluk. (“Yeah, I was dreaming of it as a little boy.”)
Ne. Vlastně ani nevím, jak se to stalo. (“No. Actually, I have no idea how it happened.”)
  • Baví tě tvoje práce/škola? – “Do you like your job/school?”
Moc! Je to práce/škola mých snů. (“Very much! It’s the job/school of my dreams.”)
Vůbec. Lituju, že jsem nešel na medicínu. (“Not at all. I regret not going to med school.”)
  • Líbí se ti tahle hudba/typ umění? Máš rád/a tuhle kuchyni? – “Do you like this kind of music/art? Do you like this cuisine?”
Ani moc ne, ale neměl jsem jiné plány, tak jsem tady. (“Not really, but I had no other plans, so here I am.”)
Je moje nejoblíbenější (“It’s my favorite.”)
  • Líbí se ti tu? – “Do you like it here?”
Líbilo se mi tu víc, když jsi tu nebyla. (“I like it better when you weren’t here.”)
Ujde to. (“it’s fine.”)
A Man Flirting with a Woman

You look great today.

6. How to Improve Your Czech Speaking Skills

1. Make it personal, and go with the flow. Talking about yourself and things you care about is always easy and fun.

2. You will likely use certain reactions a lot more than others––these don’t have to be your “favorite” first language words. I never say OK in Czech, but I say it all the time in English.
Just find what feels more natural, do not try to translate everything accurately, to a tee.

3. Whenever you catch a word/topic that you often use, write it down, translate it, and learn how to say it in Czech.

4. Get exposure – movies, podcasts, videos. You need to listen in order to repeat and mimic.

5. Get feedback. Start with small, simple conversations: order your food in Czech, talk to your taxi driver in Czech, etc. This sounds like a banal, trite “tip” (I’m bored of it too!), but trust me: This is how you get used to speaking another language. Learn the most common Czech restaurant phrases, talk to the waiter in Czech, thank them in Czech, and then do it again when you have the chance. 

6. Practice speaking out loud (preferably in front of a mirror) – get used to your own voice speaking another language, embrace your accent and make sure you work hard on making your pronunciation sound as close to the “original” as possible.

Two Girls Chatting

Shadow a native speaker to practice your pronunciation.

7. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

That’s it, guys! I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! In case the nationality words and phrases listed in this article weren’t enough for you, and you want to keep learning, please check out our Basic Bootcamp – the very basic grammar and vocab in 5 compact lessons.

If you’re taking learning Czech seriously and want to learn Czech fast, free and online, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (which is way more convenient). Seriously, learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way – with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine!

What can you find here?

Sign up now, it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article helped you, and if you feel inspired to start (or continue) learning Czech now! Do you feel more prepared to start your first several convos in Czech now? 

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

Advanced Czech Phrases

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No matter how good you are, there’s always room for improvement, especially when it comes to learning another language. If you’ve decided to step up the game and embellish your Czech vocabulary, this article will make it easier for you. In this article, I’ve listed 40+ useful advanced Czech phrases that you can use in various conversations, while polishing your resumé in Czech, while writing a paper, or while chatting with your Czech friends and colleagues.

Czech is a fun, colorful language: We love using idioms and slang, and you know by now that the loose word order allows for some strange Czech sentence structures (i.e., a full sentence can consist of just one word).

Remember that building vocabulary is much faster, more efficient, and lots more fun when you’re working with full sentences or phrases. Frankly, memorizing words one by one is quite ineffective and exhausting—especially when you’re past the beginner mark, and you want to actually talk and think in Czech.

Learning should be fun (otherwise, you won’t stick with it), and if you enjoy what you do, you’re more likely to keep doing it—and practice makes perfect. Trust me. I know what I’m talking about. I started learning Norwegian several months ago at the ripe old age of 35, and I find the process much easier and more enjoyable than back in the 90s when it was (supposedly) easier for me to learn new things (it wasn’t).

Here’s my recommendation: When you’re done reading this article, write down all the sentences you know you’ll need in the future and rewrite them so that they become “yours.” Use words and situations that speak to you, fit into your life, mesh with your personality, make you laugh, make you cringe, make you FEEL something. When words become feelings, it’s pretty much impossible to forget them.

I kept these examples pretty neat and simple. Feel free to work with my suggestions and make them your own.

A Kid Wearing Glasses and a Graduation Cap

Don’t you want to sound smart?

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Advanced Czech Phrases for Academic Writing
  2. Czech Power Phrases for a Resumé: Get Hired Right Away
  3. Smart Czech Phrases for Business and Meetings
  4. Advanced Czech Idioms, Sayings, and Proverbs for Everyday Usage
  5. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Advanced Czech Phrases for Academic Writing

Writing essays can be easier than we like to think. Use these advanced phrases in Czech and English as a cheat sheet. Remember: If you want to sound extra knowledgeable, write long (LONG) sentences with a lot of “smart stuffing”—words and phrases with very little meaning that sound smart and, if possible, take up a lot of space.

CzechEnglish
S ohledem na podmínky výzkumu jsou výsledky nesmírně působivé.In view of the research conditions, the results are immensely compelling.”
Ve světle událostí jsme změnili názor.In light of the situation, we changed our opinion.”
Jak autor opakovaně zdůraznil, experimenty mohou prokázat teorie.As the author often reiterated, experiments can prove theories.”
Jeho kniha byla vybrána pro ilustraci potenciálního dopadu studie.“His book was selected to give an illustration of the potential impact.” (literally: “for illustration”)
Jeho metoda odkazuje na názory starověkých filozofů.“His method refers to the views of ancient philosophers.”
Klíčovým faktem, který je třeba zvážit, je, že zdroj nezahrnuje ženy.A key fact to consider is that the source doesn’t include women.” (literally: “A key fact that needs to be considered”)
Přesvědčivé shrnutí demonstruje všechny jeho názory.“The persuasive summary exemplifies all of his views.”
Tyto dva argumenty jsou stejně významné.“These two arguments are of equal significance.” (literally: “are equally significant”)
Experti předpovídali, že ekonomika zkolabuje, ale ona naopak začala růst.“Experts predicted the economy would collapse, but, to the contrary, it started to grow.”
Nový přístup by na druhou stranu mohl přinést větší zlepšení než tradiční metody.Alternatively, the new approach might bring bigger improvements than traditional methods.” (literally: “on the other side”)

A Man Sitting in a Library and Studying

Writing essays is impossible without the right vocab.

2. Czech Power Phrases for a Resumé: Get Hired Right Away

Do you want to land the job of your dreams? Remember that you want to be noticed before your future boss even reads your name on your resumé.

Here’s a little trick that has nothing to do with language or smooth-talking people into hiring you: Use a different background color. In the ocean of black letters on a white background, be “the one with the gray/yellow/ugly brown” resumé.

And don’t forget to get ready for your interview.

These advanced phrases in Czech sound rather professional and uptight (suitable for corporate jobs). If you want to work at a hip digital agency (from home), feel free to make things less official.

Two Female Colleagues Shaking Hands with Each Other

Be the one with the most compelling resumé.

CzechEnglish
Jsem kompetentní v mnoha oblastech.I demonstrate competence in many areas.”
Efektivně zvládám i výjimečné úkoly.I effectively handle special assignments.”
Flexibilně se adaptuji na nové podmínky.I am flexible in adapting to new conditions.” (literally: “I flexibly adapt to…”)
Umím se účinně vyrovnat s rychlými změnami.I can effectively cope with fast changes.”
Mám pestré pracovní zkušenosti.“I have diverse professional experience.” (literally: “colorful”)
Jsem výjimečně mnohostranný/mnohostranná. (masculine/feminine)“I am exceptionally versatile.”
Dbám na efektivní využívání času.I ensure time effectiveness.”
Zachovám klid i ve vypjatých situacích.I keep calm in tense situations.”
Umím přijmout zodpovědnost za svá vlastní rozhodnutí.I am able to accept responsibility for my own decisions.”
Jsem schopen/schopna přijmout větší míru odpovědnosti.
(masculine/feminine)
“I am capable of assuming greater responsibility.”
Jsem proaktivní.“I am proactive.”
Rychle a snadno se učím novým věcem.I learn new things quickly and easily.”
Navrhuji konstruktivní řešení.“I offer constructive solutions.”

3. Smart Czech Phrases for Business and Meetings

You should know that Czech uses a lot of English words, such as byznys (“business”), challenge, meeting, etc.

Close-up of a Handshake between Colleagues

Thank you for coming.

CzechEnglish
Odstartovali jsme ten projekt před pár měsíci. (professional)“We got the project off the ground a few months ago.”
Mezi těmito dvěma projekty existuje jistá jednotnost. (professional)“There is a certain amount of synergy between these two projects.”
Hlavním tématem dnešního meetingu je digitální transformace. (professional)“The main topic of today’s meeting is digital transformation.”
Naše firma vyvíjí FinTech aplikace a software. (professional)“Our company develops FinTech applications and software.”
Jsme tu všichni, takže zahájíme dnešní program. (professional)“Now that everyone’s here, let’s get started with today’s agenda.” (literally: “we will start today’s agenda”)
Pustíme se do toho. (slang)“We will get into it.” (literally: “We will let us into it.”)
Probereme to na Zoomu. (slang)“We will talk about it/discuss it on Zoom.”
Musíme to probrat. (slang)“We need to talk about it.”
První položkou na programu, kterou dnes potřebujeme probrat, je zvýšení prodeje, a jak ho dosáhneme na globální úrovni. (professional)“The first item on the agenda that we need to discuss today is increasing our sales and how we achieve that on a global level.”
Děkuji všem za účast. (professional)“Thank you all for attending.”

4. Advanced Czech Idioms, Sayings, and Proverbs for Everyday Usage

Czechs love idioms, and as an advanced learner, you need to navigate through their lovely dirt roads.

A Silhouette of Someone Raising Their Hands in Victory Toward the Sunset

Hand on heart, I am in the seventh heaven.

CzechEnglish
Měl bys kápnout božskou.“You should spill the beans.” (literally: “You should drip the godly.”)
Jde mi z toho hlava kolem.“It makes my head go around.” (It’s confusing/too much.)
Nemaluj čerta na zeď.“Don’t draw a devil on the wall.” (Don’t expect/talk about the worst outcome in advance.)
Má to své mouchy.“It’s got its flies.” (It has some flaws.)
Vychytávat mouchy“To catch the flies” (To make improvements; to polish the last details)
Nelámej to přes koleno.“Do not break it over your knee.” (Do not force it.)
To je trochu přitažené za vlasy.“It’s a bit pulled by the hair.” (It’s silly; it doesn’t make any sense.)
Je to velké sousto.“It’s a big mouthful.” (It’s an overwhelming task.)
Je padlý na hlavu.“He’s fallen on the head.” (Someone is silly or unreasonable.)
Být v sedmém nebi“To be in the seventh heaven” (To be on cloud nine)
Být trnem v oku“To be a thorn in the eye” (To be a nuisance; to be something bothersome)
Nevěřím svým očím.“I can’t believe my eyes.”
Ruku na srdce. (Ruku na srdce, udělal/udělala bych totéž.)“Hand on heart.” – “Honestly.” (as in: “Hand on heart, I would have done the same thing.”)
Kašlu na to (není to moje věc).“I cough on it (it’s none of my business).” – (as in: “I don’t care.”)
Je mi to ukradené.“It’s stolen from me.” (as in: “I don’t care about it.”)

5. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

That’s it, guys! I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! 

If you’re taking your Czech studies seriously, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (the latter of which is way more convenient). Learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way—with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine. 

What can you find here?

Sign up now. It’s free!

One last thing: Are there any advanced Czech phrases or certain situations we didn’t cover here? Let us know in the comments, and we’ll be glad to help. We love hearing from you!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

Intermediate Czech Phrases

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The leap between the beginner and intermediate levels is exciting. “Suddenly,” you’re able to not only order food without sweating but also casually compliment the waiter on the menu selection; you’re at ease when a native speaker approaches you unexpectedly; maybe you’ve even started dreaming in Czech. (This is a big deal and a sign that you’re actually THINKING in Czech––the language has become deeply embedded in your brain, and you’re on your way to fluency!)

Starting something from scratch is always hard, and you’ve made it! Now, you just need to expand your vocabulary, learn some useful intermediate Czech phrases, speak and listen a lot, and try to think in Czech.

From now on, the road is going to be way less bumpy. I promise. However, a lot of people get stuck at this intermediate level of proficiency because they don’t know how to deal with the challenges this cozy middle brings. In addition to lacking confidence (please, don’t do this), they don’t deal with their lingering grammar issues and often struggle with insufficient vocabulary. This leads to difficulty expressing more complex (and interesting) thoughts.

This is why you need to power through the “transition phase” and tackle these matters before they overwhelm you.

In this article, you’ll learn 30+ Czech phrases for intermediate-level proficiency. I did my best to include phrases that might come in handy if you’re visiting/living in the Czech Republic. Use them as a baseline and keep adding to them; feel free to switch out words and make them interesting TO YOU. 

Fun fact: You’re more likely to remember things that you find fun, interesting, outrageous, or ridiculous. I stand by this—I’m learning Norwegian, and even though I still struggle with “simple stuff,” I did learn the sentence “In just seven days, I can make you a man,” within seconds.

Let’s begin!

Letters Coming Out of a Man’s Mouth while He Speaks

At the intermediate level, you’re able to get creative with the language.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Once Upon a Time: Talking About Past Events
  2. You Change Your Mind Like a Girl Changes Clothes: Making and Changing Plans
  3. Because I Said So: Explaining and Listing Reasons
  4. The Best Schnitzel I’ve Ever Had: Recommendations and Complaints
  5. When “Huh” Won’t Do: Reaction Phrases for Everyday Conversations
  6. Yes, Ma’am: Etiquette Phrases for Social and Business Settings
  7. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Once Upon a Time: Talking About Past Events

These are phrases that you would use to tell your friends and coworkers about an interesting event or memorable experience (verbs in the past tense). For all of the examples throughout the article, the verbs are conjugated as masculine/feminine.

  • Včera na párty jsme se skvěle bavili. 
    “We had fun at the party last night.”
  • Tuhle práci jsem začal/a dělat před třemi lety. 
    “I started this job three years ago.”
  • To byl nejhorší den mého života.
    “That was the worst day of my life.”
  • Míval/a jsem štěně jménem Alík.
    “I used to have a puppy named Alík.”
  • Pivo mi nikdy nechutnalo.
    “I’ve never liked beer.”
  • Po vysoké jsem rok cestoval/a.
    “I traveled for a year after college.”
  • Byla to skvělá zkušenost.
    “It was a great experience.”
  • Hodně mi to dalo.
    “It gave me a lot.” (As in: “I learned a lot.”)

Signs with the Words Now, Tomorrow, and Yesterday on Them

Learning a new language will encourage you to live in the moment—because you won’t be able to conjugate any other verb tense for a while.

2. You Change Your Mind Like a Girl Changes Clothes: Making and Changing Plans

A.k.a. explanations, excuses, and polite requests. (Verbs in the future tense.)

You will use these intermediate conversational Czech phrases when making and changing plans in everyday convos and in business settings, in person and through text messages/emails.

  • Máš tenhle víkend čas?
    “Do you have time this weekend?”
  • A co české jídlo?
    “How about Czech food?”
  • Můžu přivést přítele/přítelkyni?
    “Can I bring my boyfriend/girlfriend?”
  • Chci se zeptat, jestli to můžeme nechat na jindy. 
    “I was wondering if we could reschedule.”
  • Pojďme se příští úterý sejít na Zoomu a probrat detaily.
    “Let’s have a Zoom meeting next Tuesday to discuss the details.”
  • Zjistil/a jsem, že se mi to vůbec nehodí, musíme to odložit.
    “I found out it’s not a good time for me at all; we need to push it back.”
  • Pošli mi ty termíny a domluvíme se po emailu.
    “Send me the dates, and we’ll figure it out over email.”
  • Bude to muset změnit na poslední chvíli.
    “He/she is going to have to make some last-minute changes.”

3. Because I Said So: Explaining and Listing Reasons

Learning these intermediate Czech phrases will help you master the usage of conjunctions, particularly for making explanations. 

  • Udělal/a jsem to, protože jsem neměl/a jinou možnost.
    “I did that because I had no choice.”
  • Podle mě je to tak správně. Proto to dělám.
    “In my opinion (literally ‘according to me’), it’s the right thing. That’s why I am doing it.”
  • Zvolil/a jsem to ze tří důvodů. Zaprvé je to finančně dostupné, za druhé je to jednoduché a v neposlední řadě to skvěle vypadá.
    “I chose it for three reasons. First of all, it’s affordable; secondly, it’s simple; and last but not least, it looks amazing.”
  • Z toho důvodu už se nespoléhám jen na ni a vždycky mám někoho v záloze.
    “For that reason, I don’t rely just on her anymore and always have someone as a backup.”
  • Připadalo mi to jako brilantní plán, jenomže zbytek týmu to rezolutně zamítl.
    “It seemed like a brilliant plan to me; however, the rest of the team rejected it resolutely.”

A Guy Talking on the Phone while Watching TV with a Remote in His Hand

I would love to go shopping with you, but I’m busy.

4. The Best Schnitzel I’ve Ever Had: Recommendations and Complaints

Here are some intermediate phrases for Czech conversations that you can use to recommend (or not recommend) something to your friends. These are also useful for writing a review for a product or service.

  • Měl/a bys to ochutnat, lepší ___ jsem nikdy neměl/a.
    “You should try this. It’s the best ___ I’ve ever had.”
  • Pobyt v tomto hotelu jsme si velice užili. Určitě bychom tam bydleli znovu.
    “We loved staying at this hotel. I would definitely go back again.”
  • Příšerný zákaznický servis. Nedoporučuji.
    “Terrible customer service. Would not recommend.”
  • Zboží dorazilo pozdě a vypadalo jinak než na fotkách. 
    “The item arrived late and didn’t look as advertised (as in the pictures).”
  • Tristní kvalita, nedostatečná komunikace, neuctivé chování.
    “Regrettable quality, insufficient communication, disrespectful behavior.”
  • Požádali jsme o vrácení peněz.
    “We’ve asked for a refund.”
  • Vynikající služby, vstřícný a přátelský personál. 
    “Superior service, accommodating and professional staff.”
  • Rozhodně doporučuji.
    “Highly recommend.”

Two Women Having an Interesting Conversation

Highly recommend it!

5. When “Huh” Won’t Do: Reaction Phrases for Everyday Conversations

Now let’s add some handy reaction and response phrases to your intermediate Czech vocabulary. 

Here’s a little fictional dialogue:

A: Včera jsme se na večírku dobře bavili. 
“We had fun at the party last night.”

B: Super! Jsem rád, že jste to stihli.
“Great! I’m glad you made it.”

A: Ale taky to byla nejhorší noc mého života.
“But it was also the worst night of my life.”

B: Děláš si srandu? Proč?
“Are you kidding? Why?”

A: Nedělám. Řekněme, že mi pivo nikdy nechutnalo.
“I’m not. Let’s just say I’ve never liked beer.”

B: Páni! Jsi v pohodě?
“Oh my goodness! Are you okay?”

A: Vlastně je mi skvěle. Byl to fantastický zážitek, hodně mi to dalo. Teď jsem expert na české pivo.
“I feel fantastic, actually. It was a great experience; I learned a lot. Now I’m a Czech beer expert.”

B: To je super, mohlo to dopadnout hůř.
“That’s cool, could have ended up way worse.”

A: Jo. Co tě nezabije, to tě posílí.
“Yeah, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”

6. Yes, Ma’am: Etiquette Phrases for Social and Business Settings

  • Dobrou chuť.
    “Bon appetit.”
  • Vítáme vás/Vítejte v našem obchodě.
    “Welcome to our store.”
  • Udělejte si pohodlí, prosím.
    “Please make yourself at home.”
  • V případě dotazů se na mě prosím obraťte.
    “Please let me know if you have any questions.”
  • Těším se na vaši/tvoji odpověď.
    “I look forward to hearing from you.” (plural/singular)
  • Šťastnou cestu.
    “Have a safe trip!”
  • Děkujeme za pozvání.
    “Thank you for having us.”
  • Přeji vám příjemný pobyt.
    “Have a pleasant stay.” / “I wish you a pleasant stay.”

A Waiter in a Nice Restaurant Seating a Couple

Posaďte se, prosím. – “Have a seat, please.”

7. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

That’s it, guys! I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! 

If you’re taking your Czech studies seriously, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (the latter of which is way more convenient). Learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com makes learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way—with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine! What can you find here?

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One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article helped you and if you feel inspired to continue learning Czech now! We love hearing from you.

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Advanced Czech Words

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Congratulations! You’ve worked your way up to an advanced level of the beautiful Czech language. 

You’ve mastered the past, present, and future tenses. You can have a pretty comprehensive conversation about almost anything and write long paragraphs. You can probably watch some movies and TV shows in Czech, and talk about various topics without getting sweaty. Your level is somewhere around B1, and your vocabulary comes up to a whopping 2500 words or so. 

In this article, you’ll expand your vocab even more with advanced Czech words. Beware though. It is very easy (and common) to get complacent, think you’ve “seen it all,” and stop working on your skills. I am a living example of how fast laziness can throw you back to “square intermediate,” a.k.a. using 1000 words over and over again. Please, don’t be like me. Maintenance is hard, but it pays off––this is just as true for gaining knowledge as it is for losing weight or any other difficult task. Five to fifteen minutes a day is enough, and you’ll be amazed by the results. (Have you seen our awesome Vocab Builder?)

Now, buckle up and get ready to learn over 200 advanced Czech words.

A Man Holding a Finger to His Chin while Thinking Deeply

“What’s the best synonym for…?”

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Let’s Get Scholastic: Advanced Czech Academic Vocabulary
  2. You Better Mean Business: Advanced Czech Business Vocabulary
  3. When “Are You OK?” Isn’t Enough: Advanced Czech Medical Vocabulary
  4. When Your Lawyer isn’t Picking Up: Advanced Czech Legal Vocabulary
  5. When You Want to Sound Creative: Advanced Czech Synonyms
  6. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Let’s Get Scholastic: Advanced Czech Academic Vocabulary

The first set of advanced Czech vocabulary we’ll cover comprises words you would hear or use in academic settings. These words will help you out if you plan to study in the Czech Republic, and they’ll give your conversations a sophisticated edge. 

CzechEnglishPart of SpeechExample
hodnoceníevaluationnounTo nebude předmětem finančního hodnocení.“
That won’t be a subject of financial evaluation.”
kontroverznícontroversialadjectiveJe to kontroverzní téma. 
“That’s a controversial topic.”
ambivalentníambivalentadjectiveJejich názory jsou dost ambivalentní. 
“Their opinions are quite ambivalent.”
obskurníobscureadjectiveTen horor byl obskurní a děsivý. 
“The horror movie was obscure and creepy.”
poučnýinstructive/informativeadjectiveJeho přednáška byla velmi poučná. 
“His talk was very informative.”
zkoumatto study/to examineverbVědci zkoumají vedlejší účinky vakcíny. 
“Scientists are examining side effects of the vaccine.”
dodržetto adhere/to comply withverbNedodržel své závazky. 
“He didn’t comply with his obligations.” 
objevitto discoververbObjevil temnou stránku svého daru. 
“He discovered the dark side of his gift.”
dospět ke stanoviskuto conclude/to come to an opinionverbParlament má dostatek času dospět k nějakému stanovisku. 
“Parliament has enough time to come to an opinion.”
posouditto considerverbTo je něco, co musíme v budoucnu posoudit.  
“That is something that we need to consider in the future.”
vyhodnotitto deduceverbSnažím se vyhodnotit funkčnost. 
“I’m trying to deduce the functionality.”
optimálníoptimaladjectiveUmožňuje optimální podmínky bezpečnosti. 
“It allows optimal safety conditions.”
ohledněregardingadverbKontaktuji vás ohledně vaší dcery. 
“I am getting in touch regarding your daughter.”
provéstto carry outverbProvedli operaci. 
“They carried out a surgery.”
odhadestimatenounJeho odhad ceny byl správný. 
“His price estimate was correct.”
názoropinionnounMá divné názory. 
“She has strange views.”
výsledekresultnounVýsledek testu najdete online. 
“The test result can be found online.”
následekconsequencenounNásledky si ponese sám
“He will have to deal with the consequences himself.”
důsledekconsequencenounVětšina lidí takové důsledky neunese. 
“Most people can’t bear such consequences.”
studiestudynounPodle nejnovější studie jablka nejsou zdravá. 
“According to the latest study, apples aren’t healthy.”
výzkumresearchnounKdy konečně dokončí výzkum? 
“When will he finally wrap up his research?”
závěrconclusionnounJak jsi k tomu závěru dospěl? 
“How did you come to that conclusion?”
abstraktabstractnounMěl moc dobře napsaný abstrakt. 
“His abstract was very well written.”
anotaceannotationnounPotřeboval popis systému anotace stran. 
“He needed a description of the system for the annotation of pages.”
vyplývat to ariseverbPro naši skupinu z toho nemůže vyplývat dodatečné zvýhodnění. 
“It’s not permissible for a supplementary advantage to arise for our group.”
obecně řečenogenerally speakingadverbObecně řečeno, ženy mají menší nohy. 
“Generally speaking, women have smaller feet.”
hierarchiehierarchynounHierarchie zjišťování reálné hodnoty
“Fair value hierarchy of assets”
pobytresidencynounMá tu trvalý pobyt. 
“He has residency here.” / “He’s a resident here.”

Two Women Gossipping about a Third Woman

Jsem kontroverzní osobnost, všichni o mně šíří drby. – “I am a controversial person; everyone is gossiping about me.”

2. You Better Mean Business: Advanced Czech Business Vocabulary

If you’re planning to work in the Czech Republic or if you have business matters to attend to here, it’s crucial to learn advanced Czech terms related to business. You’ll find the basics here, but you can head over to our business phrases article or this vocab list to pick up even more essential vocabulary. 

CzechEnglishPart of SpeechExample
organizovatorganizeverbOrganizovala mu život, jako by byl její dítě. 
“She organized his life as if he were her child.”
fiskálnífiscaladjectiveMají podivné fiskální zásady. 
“Their fiscal principles are strange.”
strategiestrategynounMá skvělou strategii prodeje.
“He has an awesome sales strategy.”
rozšířitto expandverbRozšířili si povědomí. 
“They expanded their consciousness.”
klauzuleclause/articlenounJe to popsané v první klauzuli. 
“It’s described in the first article.”
neplatnýnull and voidadjectiveTa smlouva je od začátku neplatná, protože obžalovaný neměl povolení ji podepsat jejím jménem. 
“The agreement is null and void because the defendant wasn’t authorized to sign it on her behalf.”
uzávěrkadeadlinenounTenhle týden mám dvě uzávěrky. 
“I have two deadlines this week.”
konkurentcompetitornounJe to pěkně tvrdý konkurent. 
“He is a tough competitor.”
fakturainvoicenounJdu jim poslat novou fakturu. “I’m going to send them a new invoice.”
zálohaadvance/depositnounPožádali nás o zálohu. 
“They asked us for a deposit.”
výplatapayoutnounVýplata jeho dědictví proběhla včera. 
“The payout of his inheritance was carried out yesterday.”
odepsatto write offverbKoupím si telefon a odepíšu ho z daní. 
“I’ll buy a phone and write it off.”
ochranná známkatrademarknounNa fotce je ochranná známka společnosti. 
“There’s the company’s trademark in the picture.”
shodacompliancenounShoda s těmito požadavky je nezbytná. 
“Compliance with these requirements is necessary.”
vztahy s veřejností/PRPublic RelationsnounVztahy s veřejností řídí jeho žena. 
“His wife manages his PR.”
program/plánschedulenounMáme nabitý program. 
“Our schedule is jammed.”
vizuályvisualsnounPodle vizuálů jsme vybrali nový projekt. 
“We picked a new project based on visuals.”
pobočkabranchnounOtevíráme další pobočku. 
“We’re opening another branch.”
franšízafranchisenounTa franšíza je pro podnik důležitá. 
“The franchise is very important for the company.”
povoleníauthorizationnounRaději byste měl mít oficiální povolení pro zatčení. 
“You better have official authorization to make an arrest.”
dress codedress codenounMáte v práci dress code? 
“Do you have a dress code at work?”
zárukawarrantynounNa počítač se vztahuje záruka. 
“There is a warranty on the computer.”
pověřený/autorizovanýauthorizedadjectiveKdo je pověřenou osobou? 
“Who is the authorized personnel?”
pokutafinenounDostal pokutu. 
“He got a fine.”
penálepenaltynounZaplatí vysoké penále. 
“They are going to pay a huge penalty.”
propagacepromotionnounPropagace toho produktu selhala. 
“The promotion of the product failed.”
dohoda/smlouvaagreementnounPodepíšeme smlouvu. 
“We’ll sign an agreement.”
smlouva o mlčenlivostiNDAnounPodepsal smlouvu o mlčenlivosti, aby tam mohl pracovat
“He signed an NDA in order to work there.”
nabídkaoffernounTo je lákavá pracovní nabídka. 
“It is a great job offer.”
poptávkademandnounPoptávku určuje vkus zákazníka. 
“Demand is determined by the customer’s taste.”
protinabídkacounteroffernounJejich protinabídka byla nízká. 
“Their counteroffer was too low.” 

A Handshake

Podepíšeme smlouvu. – “We will sign an agreement.”

3. When “Are You OK?” Isn’t Enough: Advanced Czech Medical Vocabulary

Getting ready to study medicine or land a job in the medical field? Maybe you’re not so lucky, and you’re sitting in the ER waiting for a doctor. Whatever the case, these advanced Czech words will help you out in a pinch. 

CzechEnglishPart of SpeechExample
biopsiebiopsynounVýsledky biopsie byly abnormální. 
“The biopsy results were abnormal.”
demencedementianounJeho babička trpí demencí. 
“His grandma has dementia.”
abnormálníabnormaladjectiveJeho symptomy byly abnormální. 
“His symptoms were abnormal.”
akutníacuteadjectiveMá akutní zánět. 
“He has an acute infection.”
chronickýchronicadjectiveJeho onemocnění je chronické. 
“His condition is chronic.”
vzorek močiurine samplenounPožádali pacienta o vzorek moči. 
“They asked the patient for a urine sample.”
vyšetřenítestnounLékař provedl pár vyšetření. 
“The doctor ran a few tests.”
zdravotní prohlídkamedical examinationcompound nounObjednal se na prohlídku
“He made a medical examination appointment.”
být v bezvědomíto be unconsciousverbPo pádu byla v bezvědomí
“She was unconscious after the fall.”
stabilnístableadjectiveJeho stav je stabilní. 
“He is stable.”
ztráta paměti/amnézieamnesianounPo nehodě trpí amnézií
“She suffers from amnesia after the accident.”
amputaceamputationnounAmputace jeho nohy byla nevyhnutelná
“It was necessary to amputate his leg.”
anémie/chudokrevnostanemianounChudé děti trpěly anémií. 
“Poor children suffer from anemia.”
artritida/revmaarthritisnounRakovina tě může zabít, ale když se podíváte na čísla, artritida ničí více životů. 
“Cancer may kill you, but when you look at the numbers, arthritis ruins more lives.”
ultrazvukultrasoundnounMůžeš naplánovat další ultrazvuk na příští týden? 
“Can you schedule another ultrasound for next week?”
astmaasthmanounNekouří, má astma
“He doesn’t smoke; he has asthma.”
pupeční šňůraumbilical cordcompound nounTatínek přestřihl pupeční šňůru
“The daddy cut the umbilical cord.”
bakteriebacterianounAkné způsobují bakterie. 
“Acne is caused by bacteria.”
malignímalignantadjectiveJeho nádor byl maligní. 
“His tumor was malignant.”
benigníbenignadjectiveJejí nádor byl benigní
“Her tumor was benign.”
proleženinabedsorenounPodložky předchází tvorbě proleženin
“Pads prevent the formation of bedsores.”
rentgenx-raynounProvedli rentgen plic. 
“They did a chest x-ray.”
invalidní vozíkwheelchairnounNemůže chodit, je na vozíku
“He can’t walk; he’s in a wheelchair.”
odděleníwardnounNa kterém leží oddělení? 
“Which ward is he in?”
návštěvní dobavisiting hourscompound nounKdy jsou v nemocnici návštěvní hodiny? 
“What are the visiting hours at the hospital?”
specialista/odborný lékařspecialistnounJe specialista na ORL. 
“He is an ENT specialist.”
záchvatseizurenounMá epilepsii, často mívá záchvaty
“He has epilepsy; he often has seizures.”
JIP, Jednotka intenzivní péčeICUcompound nounJejí stav se zhoršil, je na JIP. 
“Her condition worsened; she’s in an ICU.”
ránawoundnounUhodila ho lahví, rána hodně krvácela. 
“She hit him with a bottle; the wound bled badly.”
řezincisionnounPo řezu použijeme rozpínač tkáně
“After the incision, we use a tissue expander.”
vedlejší účinekside effectcompound nounVakcína má minimální vedlejší účinky. 
“The vaccine has minimal side effects.”

Don’t forget to memorize a few essential phrases in case you ever need medical assistance in the Czech Republic. Knowing what some of the most common conditions are called in Czech won’t hurt either.

A Woman Describing Her Symptoms to a Doctor

Jaké máte příznaky? – “What are your symptoms?”

4. When Your Lawyer isn’t Picking Up: Advanced Czech Legal Vocabulary

CzechEnglishPart of SpeechExample
odvoláníappealnounStanoví se vhodné postupy odvolání proti rozhodnutím. 
“Appropriate appeals procedures against decisions shall be provided for.”
zatčeníarrestnounPo přiznání následovalo zatčení. 
“The confession was followed by arrest.”
právníklawyernounPrávník – advokát, státní zástupce nebo obhájce – je profesionál, který radí a zastupuje druhé v právních záležitostech. 
“A lawyer—attorney, prosecutor, or counselor—is a licensed professional who advises and represents others in legal matters.”
advokátattorneynoun
státní zástupceprosecutornoun
odpovědnýliableadjectiveČlověk odpovědný za škodu vstal a vyslechl verdikt. 
“The person liable for the damage stood up and heard the verdict.”
verdiktverdictnoun
zatykačwarrantnounVydáme zatykač na oba zloděje
“We will issue a warrant for both of the thieves.”
svědekwitnessnounStala se korunním svědkem v případu vraždy a nejspíš něco ví i o tom únosu. 
“She became a material witness in the murder case, and she probably knows something about the kidnapping too.”
únoskidnappingnoun
paděláníforgerynounByl obviněn z finančního podvodu a taky mu hrozí dva roky za padělání peněz. 
“He was convicted of fraud, plus he’s facing a two-year sentence for money forgery.”
podvodfraudnoun
nedbalostnegligencenounJeho nedbalost ho přivedla k bankrotu
“His negligence led to bankruptcy.”
křivá přísahaperjurycompound nounKřivá přísaha je trestný čin
“Perjury is a criminal offense.”
krádež v obchoděshopliftingnounMajitel obchodu ji obvinil z krádeže. 
“The owner of the store accused her of shoplifting.”
vandalismusvandalismnounByl zatčen za vloupání, rabování a vandalismus. 
“He was arrested for breaking and entering, burglary, and vandalism.” 
vstup bez povolenítrespassingnounVstup bez povolení znamená vstup na cizí pozemek bez svolení majitele. 
“To trespass means to enter someone’s property without the owner’s permission.”
advokátadvocatenounTvůj advokát za tebe bude mluvit a reprezentovat tvé stanovisko, když to nezvládneš sám.
“Your advocate can speak for you and represent your views when you are unable to do so by yourself.”
pokutafinenounStrážník vypsal pokutu za překročení rychlosti. 
“The officer issued a fine for breaking the speed limit.”
obvinitto accuseverbManželka toho nevěrníka ho obvinila ze lži. 
“The cheater’s wife accused him of lying.”
nelegálníillegaladjectiveKaždý zločin je nelegální. 
“Every crime is illegal.”
vinnýguiltyadjectivePřiznal, že je vinný a omluvil se. 
“He pleaded guilty and apologized.” 
doznání vinyconfession/plead guiltycompound nounPachatel doznal vinu.
“The perpetrator confessed.”
nevinnýinnocentadjectivePrávník prokázal, že byl obžalovaný nevinný. 
“The lawyer proved that the defendant was innocent.”
obžalovanýdefendantnoun
přestupekmisdemeanornounPřestupek je zločin, který je obvykle trestán drobnou pokutou. 
“Misdemeanor is a crime usually punishable upon conviction by a small fine.”
podmínkaparolenounTen zločinec je v podmínce. 
“The criminal is on parole.”
přísahapleanounJeho právník vznáší námitku nepřípustnosti. 
“His attorney raises a plea of inadmissibility.”
žalobce/prokurátorprosecutornounPředvolání je úřední žádost vydaná obvykle na žádost federálního prokurátora. 
“A subpoena is an official request usually issued at the request of a prosecutor.”
předvolání/obsílkasubpoenanoun
soudní síňcourtroomnounSoudní síň je místo, kde soudce předsedá slyšením a přelíčením. 
“A courtroom is where a judge presides over hearings and trials.”
soudcejudgenoun
žalovatto sueverbŽalovala ho za porušení jejich smlouvy. 
“She sued him for breaching their agreement.”
svědčitto testifyverbMěla proti němu vypovídat, ale změnila své svědectví. 
“She was supposed to testify against him, but she changed her testimony.”
výpověď/svědectvítestimonynoun
trestní právocriminal lawcompound nounTrest smrti je v souladu s trestním právem této země zrušen. 
“The capital punishment is abolished according to the criminal law in this country.”
trest smrticapital punishmentcompound noun
obviněníchargenounUkradl jim auto a obvinili ho. 
“He stole their car, and they pressed charges.”
Civilní ztrátycollateral damagecompound nounZbývající oběti jsou v této kauze civilními ztrátami. 
“In this case, the remaining victims are collateral damage.”
kauzacasenoun
oběťvictimnoun
občanské právocivil lawcompound nounObčanské právo není trestní právo. 
“Civil law is a non-criminal law.”
usvědčeníconvictionnounPočet trestních stíhání a usvědčení je nízký. 
“The level of prosecutions and convictions is low.”
kaucebailnounZadržené osoby budou vyslyšeny bez práva na kauci nebo bez potřeby důkazů. 
“Persons apprehended shall be given a hearing without right of bail, without the necessity of evidence.”
důkazyevidencenoun
obhájcebarristernounObhájce jedná za obhajobu nebo na trestní stíhání. 
“A barrister is acting for the defense or the prosecution.”
nájemrentnounNechci platit hypotéku a půjčku, nájem je levnější. 
“I don’t want to pay a mortgage and loans; rent is cheaper.”
hypotékamortgagenoun
půjčkaloannoun
pronajímatellandlordnounPronajímatel a nájemník podepsali nájemní smlouvu. 
“The landlord and tenant signed a lease.”
nájemníktenant/proprietornoun
nájemní smlouvarental agreement/leasecompound noun

Close-up of a Gavel on a Desk, with a Judge Sitting in the Background

Proces byl zahájen. – “The trial has begun.”

You’ll find the essential legal terms here.

5. When You Want to Sound Creative: Advanced Czech Synonyms

Here are some advanced Czech words you can use as alternatives to their weaker counterparts. You’re welcome! 

CzechEnglishPart of SpeechExample
enormníenormousadjectiveMěl o ni enormní zájem. 
“His interest in her was enormous.”
tedythereforeadverbManželství je tedy rozvedeno. 
“Therefore, the marriage is terminated.”
v podstatěin essenceadverbV podstatě je to samotář. 
“He is in essence a very solitary person.”
lzemay be/can beadverbLze říci… 
“It can be concluded that…”
poněkudsomewhatadverbMožná to působí poněkud vágně. 
“It may appear to be somewhat vague.”
vágněvagueadverb
skrovněscantilyadverbByla skrovně oděná a její styl byl ordinérní. 
“She was scantily clad and her style was vulgar.”
nevalnýpooradjectiveOna má nevalný vkus na muže, všichni její chlapci byli zlodějíčci, kteří chodili domů jen zřídka. 
“She has a poor taste in men; all her boyfriends were infamous little thieves who rarely ever showed up at home.”
nechvalnýinfamousadjective
zřídkararelyadverb
nepatrněslightlyadverbJeho zdraví se nepatrně zlepšilo. 
“His health slightly improved.”
částečněpartiallyadverbČástečně s tím plánem souhlasím, ale příliš vysoké náklady mě znepokojují. 
“I partially agree with the schedule, but I find the too high expenses considerably alarming.”
značněconsiderablyadverb
přílištooadverb
náhlesuddenlyadverbNáhle prodal bezmála všechen majetek a pozvolna snížil svůj příjem. 
“Suddenly, he sold nearly all of his belongings, and he gradually decreased his income.”
bezmálanearlyadverb
pozvolnagraduallyadverb
téměřalmostadverbNavzdory obavám zvýšil prodej a zanedlouho vydělával téměř třikrát tolik co loni. 
“Despite his fear, he increased his sales, and before long, he was making almost triple as much as last year.”
zanedlouhobefore longadverb
navzdorydespiteadverb
záhysoon/shortlyadverb
neprodleněwithout delayadverbNeprodleně zaplatil všechny dluhy. 
“He paid off all of his debt without delay.”
nicméněnonethelessadverbZbohatl, nicméně štěstí mu to nepřineslo. 
“He got rich; nonetheless, it didn’t make him any happier.”
z toho důvodufor this reasonadverbNechápala ho a z toho důvodu se rozhodla odejít. 
“She didn’t understand him, and she left for this reason.”
neboťfor/becauseadverbTvoje sklenice nebude nikdy prázdná, neboť já budu tvým vínem. 
“Your cup will never be empty, for I will be your wine.”
opětonce againadverbOpět ji překvapil květinami. 
“He surprised her with flowers once again.”
přestoneverthelessadverbJeho četné avantýry ji mrzely, přesto ho milovala. 
“His frequent affairs were upsetting her; she loved him nevertheless.”
četnýfrequentadjective
početnýnumerous/largeadjectiveMěli početnou rodinu. 
“They had a large family.”
mohutnýmassive/mightyadjectivePřekvapila je mohutná vlna odporu. 
“They were surprised by a massive wave of resistance.”
rozsáhlývastadjectiveVlastní rozlehlý pozemek a ohromný dům. 
“He owns a vast property and an immense mansion.”
rozlehlýwide/vastadjective
ohromnýimmenseadjective
velkorysýmunificentadjectiveJe zámožný a výjimečně velkorysý. 
“He is wealthy and exceptionally munificent.”
zámožnýwealthy/prosperousadjective
závažnýsevere/majoradjectiveDůsledkem jejich opulentních večírků byly závažné finanční potíže. 
“The consequence of their opulent parties were major financial problems.”
opulentníopulentadjective
značnýsubstantialadjectiveJako politik má značný vliv na správu financí. 
“As a politician, he has a substantial influence on the finance management.”
signifikantnísignificantadjectivePočet nakažených byl signifikantní. 
“The number of infected people was significant.”
intenzivníintenseadjectiveLáska je intenzivní pocit. 
“Love is an intense feeling.”
charakteristickýcharacteristic/distinctive/signatureadjectiveCo je tvoje charakteristická vlastnost? 
“What’s your distinctive trait?”
vedlejšíminor/subsidiaryadjectiveJejí starosti jsou pro nás vedlejší. 
“Her worries are of a minor nature for us.”
extenzivníextensiveadjectiveProvedl extenzivní výzkum. 
“He conducted extensive research.”
usilovnýstrenuous/earnestadjectiveJeho usilovná snaha ji obtěžovala. 
“His earnest effort annoyed her.”
pronikavýpenetrating/piercing/pungentadjectiveOna má velmi pronikavé oči. 
“She has very piercing eyes.”
zanedbatelnýnegligibleadjectiveRiziko nákazy je zanedbatelné. 
“The risk of infection is negligible.”
triviálnítrivialadjectiveJe nudný, mluví jen o triviálních hloupostech. 
“He’s boring; he talks about trivial nonsense.”
banálníbanal/triteadjectiveJe to banální, ale taky mě to dojímá. 
“It’s trite but I find it touching, too.”
ordinérníobvious/vulgaradjectiveMá laciný a ordinérní vkus. 
“He has an ordinary and cheap style.”
fádníinsipidadjectiveTa barva je tak fádní, nenávidím zelené šaty. 
“That color is so insipid; I hate green dresses.”
vydatnýhearty/squareadjectiveMěla jsem vydatnou snídani. 
“I had a hearty breakfast.”
nepatrnýminusculeadjectiveJe to nepatrná chyba.  
“It is a minuscule error.”
irelevantníirrelevantadjectiveJeho stupidní poznámka je irelevantní. 
“His stupid comment is irrelevant.”
okrajovýmarginaladjectiveEfekt tohoto výběru je pouze okrajový. 
“The effect of this selection is only marginal.”
převratnýgroundbreakingadjectiveDostal převratný nápad. 
“He had a groundbreaking idea.”

6. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

Stop trying to learn Czech. Learn Czech. Get smarter tools, study smarter, and believe in yourself. The sky’s the limit!

I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! In case this wasn’t enough for you, please check out our Basic Bootcamp—the very basic grammar and vocab in five compact lessons. 

If you’re taking your Czech studies seriously, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (the latter of which is way more convenient). Learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way—with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine! 

What can you find here?

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Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

Intermediate Czech Words: One Step Away From Fluency

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Congratulations! You’ve reached the intermediate level in Czech and are now ready to learn some intermediate Czech vocabulary. I bet you feel great about this accomplishment. 

Let me tell you, this is way bigger than it looks. Not a lot of people actually stick with it and keep their motivation high. That means you should give yourself a pat on the back—you’re above average, super committed, and on your way up to fluency.

We have an expression in Czech (it’s actually a compound noun): Věčný začátečník / “The perpetual beginner.” Since you’re reading this article, it’s plain as day that you’re far beyond those murky waters and sticky mud.

According to the Foreign Service Institute, Czech is a Level III language, which means it takes 44 weeks or 1100 hours to get past the basics and reach the intermediate (conversational) level. You made it!

I hope you popped a bottle of champagne (or at least bragged to your friends on Messenger). Now, let’s get back to work, my friend.

It’s well known among avid language students that once you reach the coveted intermediate level, things slow down. Your progress isn’t nearly as linear and fast as it was at the beginning. Please don’t get discouraged. The path from intermediate to fluency is pretty steep and slippery, but once you get there, your legs (and your language skills) will be much stronger.

How do I know? Been there, done that. Twice. Speaking from my personal experience here, I recommend you take it easy; throw away your expectations and sky-high standards. Focus on progress, not speed or perfection

The intermediate level is where the magic happens: 

  • Your vocabulary unfolds like a beautiful flower.
  • You build complex sentences effortlessly and naturally.
  • You might even start to think and dream in Czech, too!
  • You notice that you often understand new words just based on the context.
  • You inadvertently overhear many Czech conversations. (Let’s hope you won’t wish you could unhear them.)

In this article, you’ll find 300 intermediate Czech words that will help you get to the next level. Let us know in the comments if you knew any of these words already, or if they’re all new to you!

Practice makes perfect.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Larger Numbers
  2. One Intermediate Noun is Worth More Than 1000 Filler Words: Nouns
  3. Limitless Action: Intermediate Czech Verbs
  4. Adjectives: Make Your Czech Lively and Juicy
  5. Dangerously Necessary: Intermediate Czech Adverbs
  6. Tiny but Important: Intermediate Czech Prepositions
  7. No Sentence is Complete without Them: Conjunctions
  8. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Wa

1. Larger Numbers

First up on our intermediate Czech wordlist: numbers! 

Counting in Czech is an amazing skill that will come in handy time and again. (Třicet korun, prosím. – “Thirty crowns, please.”) It’ll allow you to count sheep in Czech on one of those sleepless nights, too.

For those of you who find it hard to do even the simplest math equations or memorize numbers in a foreign language (this is actually very common), try to practice numbers daily:

    Whenever you see/hear a number in your first language, try to translate it into Czech. It’s a fun little game that makes learning figures (and actually remembering them) much easier.

    “Using” words in your natural habitat and in real-life situations makes the learning process wonderfully naturalthis is how little kids learn to speak. It works for them, so it’ll work for you too.

Teens

CardinalOrdinal (11th, 12th, etc.)
11JedenáctJedenáctý/Jedenáctá/Jedenácté
12DvanáctDvanáctý/-tá/-té
13TřináctTřináctý/-tá/-té
14ČtrnáctČtrnáctý/-tá/-té
15PatnáctPatnáctý/-tá/-té
16ŠestnáctŠestnáctý/-tá/-té
17SedmnáctSedmnáctý/-tá/-té
18OsmnáctOsmnáctý/-tá/-té
19DevatenáctDevatenáctý/-tá/-té

Tens

CardinalOrdinal (20th, 30th, etc.)
20DvacetDvacátý/-átá/-áté
30TřicetTřicátý/-átá/-áté
40ČtyřicetČtyřicátý/-átá/-áté
50PadesátPadesátý/-átá/-áté
60ŠedesátŠedesátý/-átá/-áté
70SedmdesátSedmdesátý/-átá/-áté
80OsmdesátOsmdesátý/-átá/-áté
90DevadesátDevadesátý/-átá/-áté

  • 100 – Sto
  • 1 000 – Tisíc
  • 1 000 000 – Milion
  • 1 000 000 000 – Miliarda

Now, how do we make bigger words? It’s very simple:

    ➢ Line the number up just like you would in English.
    ➢ Notice there are no periods or commas between the figures; in Czech, you use a space instead.
    ➢ There are no conjunctions.

Examples:

  • 50,789 excuses
    Padesát tisíc sedm set osmdesát devět výmluv
  • 23 eggs
    Dvacet tři vajec
  • $12,234.567
    Dvanáct milionů dvě stě třicet čtyři tisíc pět set šedesát sedm dolarů

Easy, right? You can find the pronunciation here.

Months

EnglishCzech
JanuaryLeden
FebruaryÚnor
MarchBřezen
AprilDuben
MayKvěten
JuneČerven
JulyČervenec
AugustSrpen
SeptemberZáří
OctoberŘíjen
NovemberListopad
DecemberProsinec

You can learn more about the months in Czech here.

Days

EnglishCzech
MondayPondělí
TuesdayÚterý
WednesdayStředa
ThursdayČtvrtek
FridayPátek
SaturdaySobota
SundayNeděle

You can find the pronunciation here.

A Child Counting on Their Fingers

Počítání. – “Counting”

2. One Intermediate Noun is Worth More Than 1000 Filler Words: Nouns

Don’t forget to look up the grammatical gender and declension when learning new nouns.

Time

EnglishCzech
“century”století
“period”období
“semester”semestr (only used for colleges in Czechia)
“semester” / “term”pololetí (elementary schools and high schools)

Free Time

EnglishCzech
vacationdovolená
“school break”prázdniny
“relax” / “rest”odpočinek
“relaxation”relaxace
“fun”zábava
“party”večírek
“movie theater”kino
“theater”divadlo
“hobbies”záliby
“experience”zážitek
“free time”volný čas
“adventure”dobrodružství
“sunrise”východ slunce
“sunset”západ slunce

Emotions

EnglishCzech
“love”láska
“friendship”přátelství
“creativity”tvořivost
“need”potřeba
“desire”touha
“joy”radost
“grief”zármutek
“beauty”krása
“emotion”emoce
“feelings”pocity
“decision”rozhodnutí
“choice”volba
“possibility”možnost
“opportunity”příležitost
“feeling” / “emotion”cit

Emotions are an important topic, wouldn’t you agree? Learn how to describe your positive and negative emotions and how to express your feelings in Czech.

Four People Making a Heart Shape with Their Hands Toward the Sky

Láska a přátelství.

Finance

EnglishCzech
“loan”půjčka
“mortgage”hypotéka
“interest”úrok
“debt”dluh
“wealth”bohatství
“poverty”chudoba
“lease”leasing
“funds”finance

Travel

EnglishCzech
“airport”letiště
“bus station” / “train station”nádraží
“stop”zastávka
“turn”zatáčka
“crossroads”křižovatka (road or highway) / rozcestí (sidewalk)

Learn how to ask for directions in Czech.

A Crossroads on the Sidewalk

Rozcestí.

Computer

EnglishCzech
“website”webová stránka
“file”složka
“folder”soubor
“confirmation”potvrzení
“charger”nabíječka
“account”účet
“user”uživatel
“password”heslo
“keyboard”klávesnice

House

EnglishCzech
“room”pokoj / místnost
“kitchen”kuchyně
“master bedroom”ložnice
“living room”obývací pokoj / obývák
“nursery” / “kid’s room” (the word “bedroom” is only used for what’s called “master bedroom” in English)dětský pokoj
“hallway”chodba
“terrace”terasa
“balcony”balkon
“staircase”schodiště
“cellar”sklep
“basement”suterén

Still searching for a solid intermediate Czech course? Then devour our lessons for intermediate students

3. Limitless Action: Intermediate Czech Verbs

EnglishCzech
“to say”říct
“to handle”zvládnout
“to close”zavřít
“to touch”dotknout se
“to raise”zvednout se
“to win”vyhrát
“to lose (a game)”prohrát
“to demonstrate” / “to accomplish”dokázat
“to raise”zvednout
“to wish”přát si
“to refuse” / “to reject”odmítnout
“to accept”přijmout
“to ask”zeptat se
“to ship” / “to mail”odeslat
“to receive”dostat
“to give”dát
“to bring”přinést
“to get”získat
“to take”vzít
“to put down”položit
“to take away”odnést
“to order”objednat
“to perform”provést
“to remind”připomenout
“to imagine”představit si
“to behave”jednat
“to act” (as an actor)hrát 
“to pick out”vybrat si
“to choose”zvolit
“to hand in” / “to submit”odevzdat
“to listen”poslouchat
“to hear”slyšet
“to see”vidět
“to leave” (walk away)odejít
“to leave” (drive away)odjet
“to decide”rozhodnout se
“to ponder”zamýšlet se
“to encounter” / “to come across”setkat se / narazit
“to create”tvořit
“to destroy”zničit
“to ruin”pokazit
“to offer”nabídnout
“to use”používat
“to add”přidat
“to pay”platit
“to make something on time”stihnout 
“to run late”mít zpoždění
“to be on time”přijít včas
“to pass an exam” / “to fail an exam”udělat zkoušku / neudělat zkoušku
“to get a job”dostat práci
“to succeed”uspět
“to fail”neuspět
“to experience”zažít
“to have experience”mít zkušenosti
“to travel”cestovat
“to purchase”kupovat
“to lend”půjčit
“to borrow”půjčit si
“to suggest”navrhnout
“to dare”odvážit se
“to comment”poznamenat
“to have fun”bavit se
“to entertain”bavit
“to earn” / “to make money”vydělávat
“to miss”chybět
“to be missing someone” (literally “after someone”)stýskat se

4. Adjectives: Make Your Czech Lively and Juicy

EnglishCzech
“gorgeous”překrásný / nádherný
“beautiful”krásný
“pretty” / “handsome”hezký
“sweet” / “nice”milý
“funny”zábavný
“friendly”přátelský
“chatty”upovídaný
“quiet”tichý
“calm”klidný
“sad”smutný
“joyous”veselý 
“happy”šťastný
“smiley”usměvavý
“popular”oblíbený
“brooding”zamyšlený
“anxious”úzkostný
“huge”obrovský
“unusual”neobvyklý
“complicated”komplikovaný
“simple”jednoduchý
“easy”snadný
“usual”obvyklý
“under average”podprůměrný
“frequent”častý
“distinct”výrazný
“dull” / “insipid”fádní
“fabulous”báječný
“narrow”úzký 
“wide”široký
“deep”hluboký
“shallow”mělký
“skinny”hubený
“chubby”podsaditý
“soft”hebký
“coarse”drsný
“gaudy”křiklavý
“exaggerated”přehnaný
“hard”tvrdý
“soft”měkký
“rich”bohatý
“boring”nudný
“creepy”děsivý
“spooky”strašidelný
“straight”rovný
“wavy”vlnitý
“curly”kudrnatý
“round”kulatý
“angular”hranatý
“triumphant”vítězoslavný
“defeated”poražený

I’m sure you’ve heard that reading is the best way to expand your vocabulary. Explore our reading lessons!

5. Dangerously Necessary: Intermediate Czech Adverbs

EnglishCzech
“next week / month / year”příští týden / měsíc / rok
“yet” / “already”již / už
“recently”nedávno
“soon”brzy
“immediately”ihned
“still” / “yet”ještě / už
“so far”zatím
“in front of”před
“here”zde
“there”tam
“over there”támhle
“everywhere”všude
“anywhere”kdekoliv
“nowhere”nikde
“away”pryč
“very”velmi
“pretty”/ “quite”docela
“to an extent”do jisté míry
“really”opravdu
“quickly”rychle
“well”dobře
“sternly”tvrdě
“slowly”pomalu
“carefully”opatrně
“sometimes”někdy
“barely”stěží
“barely”sotva
“mostly”většinou
“almost”téměř
“absolutely”absolutně
“together”společně
“alone”sám
“always”vždy
“often”často
“usually”obvykle
“occasionally”příležitostně
“rarely”zřídka
“never”nikdy

6. Tiny but Important: Intermediate Czech Prepositions

There’s one tricky thing about Czech prepositions: You need to work with the cases. 

Make sure you know this:

    Nominative + Vocative – always without a preposition
    Genitive – with or without a preposition 
        bez, blízko, do, od, okolo/kolem, u, vedle, z
        (“without, near, to, from, around, by, next to, from”)
    Dative – with or without a preposition
        k, kvůli, navzdory, proti, vůči
        (“to, because of, despite of, against, against”)
    Accusative – with or without a preposition
        na, o, pro, přes, za
        (“on, about, over, behind”)
    Locative – with or without a preposition
        na, o, po, v
        (“onto, about, after, in”)
    Instrumental – with or without a preposition
        mezi, nad, pod, před, s, za
        (“between, above, under, in front of, with, behind”)

7. No Sentence is Complete without Them: Conjunctions

  • ačkoli(v): “although” / “even though” 
  • aniž (by): “without” / “without even”
  • (+ future tense): “when”
  • buď…nebo…: “either…or…”
  • či: “or”
  • dokud: “while” / “as long as”
  • dokud ne-: “until” / “unless”
  • i když: “even though” / “even if”
  • jak: “as” / “how”
  • jakmile: “as soon as” / “once”
  • jako by: “as if” / “like”
  • jenomže: “yet” / “except” / “only”
  • jestli(že): “if” / “whether”
  • kdežto: “whereas” / “but”
  • kdykoli(v): “whenever”
  • mezitímco: “while”
  • neboť: “because” / “for”
  • pokud: “as far as” / “as long as” / “insofar as” (if) / “provided that” / “to the extent that”
  • přitom: “at the same time” / “in so doing” / “and”
  • teprve když: “only if” / “only when”
  • zatímco: “while”

Start to Finish

Good luck!

How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

Stop trying to learn Czech. Learn Czech. Get smarter tools, study smarter, and believe in yourself. The sky’s the limit!

If you’re taking your Czech studies seriously, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (the latter of which is way more convenient). Learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com makes learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way—with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine!

What can you find here?

Sign up now—it’s free!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

Czech Animal Words

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Raise your hand if you like animals! Zvířata (“animals”) are awesome and necessary for so many reasons. 

You’ll soon find out that if you want to speak Czech, you’re going to need to learn Czech animal names—even if you’re not a fur/feather/fish lover, you don’t intend to marry a Czech farmer, or you don’t want to talk about your mom’s private minizoo. 

Why? 

Let’s see: There is a mouse in my room! I am allergic to dogs. I hate fish; I only eat chicken. No, I can’t have that; there’s cow’s milk in it.

One of the first things Czech babies learn is animal sounds. Jak dělá kráva? Bů! (“What does a cow say? Moo!”). And since you should approach learning a new language just like that—as if you didn’t know any other language—let’s explore the Czech fauna together!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Pets – Mazlíčci
  2. On the Farm – Domácí zvířata
  3. Wild Animals – Divoká zvířata
  4. Aquatic / Marine Animals – Sladkovodní a mořské ryby
  5. Bugs and Insects – Hmyz
  6. Birds, Reptiles, and Amphibians – Ptáci, plazi, a obojživelníci
  7. Talking About Animals
  8. Animal-Related Idioms and Slang Expressions
  9. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Pets – Mazlíčci

More than 58% of us share our home with a pet, and this number is still growing. Have you been to the Czech Republic? If your answer is yes, I’m sure you’ve seen many sleepy figures out in the streets clad in PJs early in the morning or around nine p.m…walking their dogs. Roughly 40% of Czechs have a dog (or dogs), while 23% own a cat. We might seem tough, but we sure love our furry friends!

Let’s look at the most common pets in the Czech Republic:

EnglishCzech
CatKočka 
KittenKotě / Koťátko
DogPes 
PuppyŠtěně / Štěňátko
HamsterKřeček 
Guinea pigMorče 
RatPotkan 
MouseMyš 
SpiderPavouk 
TarantulaSklípkan 
ChameleonChameleon
ParakeetAndulka
CockatielKorela
ParrotPapoušek
GerbilPískomil
BunnyKrálík / Králíček
DeguOsmák degu
FishRybička (literally: “tiny fish”)
AquariumAkvárium
GoldfishZlatá rybička
TortoiseŽelva
TurtleVodní želva
SnakeHad

A Little Kitten Mewling

Cats and dogs are the most common Czech pets.

2. On the Farm – Domácí zvířata

I grew up in a small village. Everybody had chickens, geese, ducks, and other animals. I used to love collecting fresh, warm eggs, and I got bit by an angry goose (geese are very aggressive, beware!) several times. We had fresh cow milk from our neighbors, and I was always wondering why my grandpa’s bunnies kept disappearing (bless my ten-year-old heart).

Things are much different now. The typical Czech would rather go to the supermarket once a week and watch TV the rest of the time. Some people still have chickens, rabbits, or even a pig, but it’s rare.

One thing I’d like to point out: Many Czechs who speak basic English often confuse a “hen” and a “chicken.” Keep that in mind. Don’t be surprised if you get weird looks when you say, “My chickens lay four eggs a day.” Folks around here think that a “chicken” is either the cute little ball of yellow feathers or a neat package from the supermarket. 

Also, there might be “hen soup” on the menu (delicious)—this is correct. Slepičí polévka or slepičí vývar (“hen soup/broth”) and kuřecí polévka or kuřecí vývar (“chicken soup/broth”) are two different things.

If you want to explore more, feel free to check out our lesson on farm animals.

EnglishCzech
CowKráva
CalfTele / Telátko
GoatKoza
KidKůzle
PigPrase
PigletSele / Selátko
RabbitKrálík
DuckKachna
DucklingKáčátko
GooseHusa
GoslingHouse / Housátko
HorseKůň
StallionHřebec
MareKobyla
FoalHříbě / Hříbátko
PonyPoník
DonkeyOsel
SheepOvce
RamBeran
LambJehně / Jehňátko
Hen (Chicken)Slepice
RoosterKohout
ChickKuře
PigeonHolub

You can find the correct pronunciations, more vocab, and sample sentences on CzechClass101.com.

Three Sheep

Sheep are quite common farm animals in the Czech Republic.

3. Wild Animals – Divoká zvířata

Although there are many gorgeous creatures roaming the Czech woods (I’m still talking about animals, not fairies), you’ll find some wilderness in the city as well. Sort of. You’ll definitely have a fair share of encounters with squirrels and pigeons.

I remember my first visit to London. It was a gorgeous sunny day, and my friend and I were walking through a park. I was 25 years old when I discovered that not all squirrels are red. In fact, none of the British ones were red. Czech squirrels, on the contrary, are mostly red.

Here’s a quick list of popular wild animals in the Czech language:

EnglishCzech
TigerTygr
TigressTygřice
LionLev
LionessLvice
Lion cubLvíče
ElephantSlon
MonkeyOpice
GorillaGorila
HippopotamusHroch
RhinocerosNosorožec
GiraffeŽirafa
AntelopeAntilopa
PenguinTučňák
Polar bearLední medvěd (literally: “ice bear”)
FoxLiška
WolfVlk
BearMedvěd
Wild boarDivoké prase (literally: “wild pig”)
DeerJelen
HareZajíc
SquirrelVeverka
BeaverBobr
WeaselLasička
OtterVydra

A Wolf Howling

Wolves in the Czech Republic are endangered.

4. Aquatic / Marine Animals – Sladkovodní a mořské ryby

Since the Czech Republic isn’t a tropical paradise or a Scandinavian kingdom, the aquatic population of this lovely little patch in the heart of Europe isn’t very exciting. 

The most common Czech fish is the carp, which also happens to be the traditional Czech Christmas food.

In case you’re struggling with pronunciation, you’ll find help here.

EnglishCzech
FishRyba
Freshwater fishSladkovodní ryba (literally: “sweetwater fish”)
Deep-sea fishMořská ryba
SalmonLosos
LobsterHumr
ShrimpKreveta
SeahorseMořský koník
SharkŽralok
DolphinDelfín
WhaleVelryba
OrcaKosatka
PikeŠtika
CatfishSumec
CarpKapr
TroutPstruh
MackerelMakrela
StarfishMořská hvězdice
ShellfishMušle
OysterÚstřice
RoeJikry

5. Bugs and Insects – Hmyz

Here’s the good news: This country isn’t humid, plus it’s not Australia. If you’re not interested in meeting a giant spider or a bug that’s the size of your uncle Bob’s palm, you’ll love it here.

However, this country is not bug-free. Make sure you check out the list of six- (or more-) legged creatures below.

By the way, writing all these animal names in Czech made me realize something quite adorable:

“Nightmares” are called “night moths” in Czech (“nightmare” – noční můra).

EnglishCzech
BugBrouk
SpiderPavouk
BeeVčela
BumblebeeČmelák
WaspVosa
LadybugBeruška
FlyMoucha
FireflySvětluška
MothMůra
ButterflyMotýl
MosquitoKomár
AntMravenec
FleaBlecha
CockroachŠváb

6. Birds, Reptiles, and Amphibians – Ptáci, plazi, a obojživelníci

I feel like the title suggests this is a list of prehistoric animals. No. It contains words that represent beautiful creatures that chirp, look cute, and defy gravity on a daily basis, and some other creatures that…well…are our friends, too.

Did you know that there’s only one venomous snake in the Czech Republic? An adder. The bite wouldn’t, like, kill you (unless you’re a baby, which, I suppose, you’re not), and adders are endangered and extremely timid. The only thing that could possibly scare you on your hike in the Czech Republic is the lack of trash cans.

Now, here are the most common birds, reptiles, amphibians, and similar members of the animal kingdom.  

EnglishCzech
BirdPták
ReptilePlaz
LizardJeštěr
SwanLabuť
HummingbirdKolibřík
SeagullRacek
DoveHrdlička
PigeonHolub
CrowVrána
RavenKrkavec
EagleOrel
HawkSokol
BuzzardKáně
StorkČáp
PeacockPáv
OwlSova
SparrowVrabec
BlackbirdKos
FrogŽába
ToadRopucha
SnailHlemýžď (terminus technicus) / Šnek (a colloquial word that most people use when talking about these slimy creatures with “a house”domeček, which literally means “tiny house”)
SlugSlimák
CrocodileKrokodýl
AlligatorAligátor

A Peacock

Peacocks can be seen in most parks surrounding chateaus all over the country.

7. Talking About Animals

Now that you know the names of animals in Czech, let’s learn a few more useful animal words…

Animal Body Parts

EnglishCzech
BeakZobák
TailOcas
HornRoh
AntlersParohy
FurSrst
FeathersPeří
HoovesKopyta
ManeHříva
ClawsDrápy

Animal-related Verbs

EnglishCzech
To scratchŠkrábat se
To barkŠtěkat
To meowMňoukat
To sing (chirp)Zpívat
To biteKousat / Štípat
To peckZobat / Klovat
To digHrabat

A Dog at the Vet

Pes u veterináře. – “A dog at the vet.”

8. Animal-Related Idioms and Slang Expressions

The Czech language is very playful, and animal idioms are particularly popular. They’re fun, but let’s be honest: Any idiom might cause a lot of confusion, and possibly even an embarrassing situation.

Here’s a list of the most common ones.

  • Mít motýlky v břiše – “To have butterflies in your stomach”
  • Mít mravence v noze. – When your arm/leg “falls asleep” (literally: “to have ants in your arm/leg”)
  • Hladový jako vlk – “Hungry like a wolf”
  • Volný jako pták – “Free like a bird”
  • Utahaný/unavený jako kotě – “Tired like a kitten”
  • Mokrý jako myš – “Wet as a mouse”
  • Jako zpráskaný pes – “Like a wounded dog” (used when someone is sad or defeated)
  • Rvát se jako koně – “To fight like horses”
  • Mazaný jako liška – “Sly as a fox”
  • Dva kohouti na jednom smetišti – “Two roosters at one junkyard” (two rivals fighting for power or a woman)
  • Dojná kráva – “Milking cow” (giving without receiving anything in return)
  • Pyšný jako páv – “Vain like a peacock”
  • Mlčet jako ryba – “Silent like a fish” (very quiet or secretive)
  • Tichý jako myška – “Quiet as a small mouse”

9. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

Stop trying to learn Czech. Learn Czech. Get smarter tools, study smarter, and believe in yourself. The sky’s the limit!

I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! In case this wasn’t enough for you, please check out our Basic Bootcamp—the very basic grammar and vocab you’ll need in five compact lessons. 

If you’re taking your Czech studies seriously, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (the latter of which is way more convenient). Learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com makes learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way—with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine!

What can you find here?

Sign up now; it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments what your favorite animal is! Do you remember its name in Czech?

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

Learn Czech Phone Call Phrases

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Since we live in this awesome era of technological miracles, we get to enjoy all sorts of smart, advanced, and helpful marvels on a daily basis. Which device do you use the most? I’m guessing it would be your phone.

While most people prefer texting or video calls, knowing how to make a proper phone call is a crucial skill. You probably won’t text your doc to make an appointment, the police probably won’t be up for a Zoom session, and sometimes you don’t have time to wait for your buddy’s reply—you need to speak to them pronto.

Learning Czech phone call phrases, then, is a logical next step in your language learning journey. 

But…taking or making a phone call in a foreign language might be a little stressful

At the beginning of my career (when I thought it would be a good idea to be someone’s assistant instead of working on my own thing), I had to make phone calls in English on a daily basis. Back then, people actually used their phones to call a cab, book a hotel, or even discuss work stuff. (Can you believe that? Could have been an email.) 

I was nervous and it often didn’t go well because not seeing the other person makes it a little more difficult to understand what they’re saying. Plus, I had to deal with (often very heavy) accents, and one time I even asked a French guy if we could speak English. There was a long pause on the other end of the line, followed by: “I AM speaking English.”

You don’t need to worry about this, though. I’m guessing you’ll be speaking mostly with native speakers and your embarrassment hazard will be much lower. Thanks to this article, your telephone conversations in Czech will be a breeze.

There are a few rules you should follow and a few phrases to remember. Nothing complicated. You’ll be done in 20 minutes. Let’s learn these Czech phone call phrases together.

Someone Checking Their Phone Screen Notifications

Phones are one of the most important devices in our modern lives.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Basic Phone Call Vocabulary
  2. Answering the Phone: Greetings in Czech
  3. How to Introduce Yourself Over the Phone in Czech
  4. Czech Phone Call Phrases: I Just Called to Say…
  5. May I Speak to…
  6. Please Hold
  7. Not Available? Leave a Message!
  8. Didn’t Catch That? (Asking for Clarification)
  9. Ending a Phone Call in Czech
  10. How it Goes in Real Life: A Telephone Conversation in Czech
  11. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Basic Phone Call Vocabulary

I figured we should start at the beginning. Here are the most common words that you might find useful.

EnglishCzech
Phone callTelefonovat
To make a call / To callZavolat
To answer a phonePřijmout hovor (“To accept a phone call”)
To dialVytočit
Phone numberTelefonní číslo / Telefon
Would you give me your phone number?Dáš mi na sebe telefon?
To call backZavolat zpátky
To hang upZavěsit
RingtoneVyzváněcí tón
A textEsemeska / SMS / Zpráva (“Message”)

Someone Hanging Up a Call on Their Cellphone

Zavěsit – “To hang up”

2. Answering the Phone: Greetings in Czech 

Alright, I know that a lot of us don’t like talking on the phone. And (honestly) how many times have you waited for your phone to STOP ringing so that you could go back to scrolling/gaming/shopping?

I’m guilty of this too.

Answering your phone in a foreign language might seem scary…but it’s not.

Simply say:

  • Haló? or Prosím? (“Hello?” or “Please?”)
  • Prosím is definitely more common, and yes, it’s a very versatile word. Haló is a lot more old-timey.
  • Ano? (“Yes?”) is also an option.

Remember that Czech greetings are more specific than those in English—you’ll need to use a different one when speaking to your friend versus speaking to your boss. You can find more greetings in Czech here. In case you struggle with saying hello in real life, check out this article.

3. How to Introduce Yourself Over the Phone in Czech


EnglishCzech
This is [name] from [company].Tady [name] z [company] / volám z [company].
This is [name].Tady [name].
Good day, this is [name].Dobrý den, tady [name].

An Old Woman Looking Down at Her Phone and Smiling

Vytočit číslo – “To dial a number”

4. Czech Phone Call Phrases: I Just Called to Say…

I assume most of your calls will be related to appointments and reservations. 

If you need to make a doctor’s appointment, make sure you know the appropriate vocab. You’ll find more useful Czech phrases here

In case you’re in perfect health but hungry, Czech out this lesson about making dinner reservations in Czech.

EnglishCzech
I’m calling to ask about…Volám, abych se zeptal/a na…
I’d like to speak with someone about…Chci s někým mluvit o…
I want to ask about…Chci se zeptat na…
I want to confirm…Chci potvrdit…
I want to make a reservation.Chci udělat rezervaci…
I want to make an appointment.Chci se objednat.
I’d like to make a check-up appointment.Chtěla bych se objednat na prohlídku.
I had a missed call from this number.Mám od vás zmeškaný hovor.
Who is this?Kdo je to?
Who is calling?Kdo volá?

5. May I Speak to…

Now that you’re actually speaking to a real native Czech speaker, you need to let them help you.

Who are you calling?

EnglishCzech
May I speak to [name]?Můžu mluvit s [name]?
I want to speak to [name].Chci mluvit s [name].
I’d like to speak to [name].Rád/a bych mluvil/a s [name].
I’m calling for [name].Volám [name].
Is [name] there?Je tam [name]?
I am calling because of…Volám kvůli…

6. Please Hold

You might find yourself in a situation where a short wait will be necessary, which will likely happen in a professional setting or if you need to check your schedule while making an appointment. 

EnglishCzech
I’ll put you on hold for a second. Počkejte okamžik, prosím.
Just a moment, let me check.Moment, zjistím to.
Let me put you through to his/her office.Přepojím vás do jeho/její kanceláře.
Stay on the line, please.Nezavěšujte, prosím.
Wait a moment, please.Prosím počkejte.
I’ll check my schedule.Podívám se do diáře.

A Man Sitting on the Couch and Talking on the Phone with a Remote in His Hand

Kdo volá? – “Who is this?”

7. Not Available? Leave a Message!

In case the person you’re calling is not available at the moment, you might consider leaving a message.

These are the most common formal Czech telephone phrases for doing so:

EnglishCzech
Please let him know that…Vyřiďte mu/jí prosím, že…
Can I leave a message? Můžu nechat vzkaz?
Can he/she call me back at [phone number]? Mohl/a by mi zavolat zpátky na číslo [phone number]?
Could you tell him/her that…Mohl/a byste mu/jí vyřídit, že…

8. Didn’t Catch That? (Asking for Clarification)

This can (and likely will) happen during a phone call in Czech. Whether it be due to a poor connection or the other person’s accent, you’ll be able to muddle through with these phrases:

EnglishCzech
Sorry, could you say that again?Můžete to zopakovat, prosím?
I’m sorry, but I’m having a hard time hearing you. I think there’s a bad connection.Pardon, neslyším vás. Asi je špatný signál.
Could you spell your name for me, please?Můžete mi vyhláskovat vaše jméno, prosím?
So…Takže…
Just to double check…Pro ověření…

9. Ending a Phone Call in Czech

Congratulations, you’ve made a phone call and finally booked a table, made a dentist’s appointment, or reached out to an old friend… Now it’s time to end the call.

EnglishCzech
Can I do anything else for you?Můžu pro vás ještě něco udělat?
You’ve been very helpful. Thank you.Moc jste mi pomohl/a. Děkuju. 
See you at ___ on ___. Uvidíme se v… 
Have a great day.Hezký den. 
Will that be all?Bude to všechno?
Until later! (as in, “See you later” / “Talk to you later”) [informal]Zatím!
Until we meet again [informal]Nashledanou / Nashle 
ByeAhoj / Čau / Měj se (literally: “have a good one”)

10. How it Goes in Real Life: A Telephone Conversation in Czech

That’s just about it, but before you go, here are two sample phone calls in Czech. 

An Informal Phone Conversation in Czech

Let’s say you want to meet up with your friend for brunch. You (person A) call them (person B) to figure out the details.

  • Notice the greetings and the use of informal speech.

A: Ahoj, chci se zeptat, jestli nechceš v sobotu zajít na brunch. 
(“Hi, I wanted to ask if you’d like to do brunch this weekend.”)

B: To by bylo super. V kolik?
(“Sounds awesome. What time?”)

A: V 10?
(“10 a.m.?”)

B: Dobře, budu se těšit.
(“Okay, looking forward to it.”)

A: Dobře, uvidíme se v sobotu v 10. Měj se.
(“Okay, see you on Saturday. Have a good one.”)

B: Ty taky, čau.
(“You too. Bye.”)

A Formal Phone Conversation in Czech

Great, your friend agreed and now you need to make a reservation at your favorite restaurant.

  • You’re going to use formal speech and formal greetings.

A: Dobrý den, tady XY. Chci udělat rezervaci na 10 hodin, tuto sobotu.
(“Hello, I’d like to book a table for this Saturday, 10 a.m.”)

B: Dobrý den, kolik vás bude, prosím?
(“Good day, how many guests, please?”)

A: Dva.
(“Two.”)

B: Vaše jméno prosím?
(“Your name, please?”)

A: Angelina Jolie.

B: Děkuji. Máte rezervaci na sobotu 10:00 pro dva lidi. Bude to všechno?
(“Thank you, your table for two will be ready on Saturday, 10 a.m.”)

A: Ano, děkuju.
(“Yes, thank you.”)

B: Budeme se těšit. Nashledanou.
(“We’re looking forward to your visit.”)

A: Nashledanou.
(“Bye.”)

A Guy on the Bus Talking to Someone on His Phone

Budu se těšit. – “Looking forward to seeing you.”

11. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

That’s it, guys! I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! In case this wasn’t enough for you, check out our basic phone conversation phrases vocab list.

If you’re taking your Czech studies seriously, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (the latter of which is way more convenient). Seriously, learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way—with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine!

What can you find here?

Sign up now, it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article helped you. Do you feel ready to tackle your first Czech phone call?

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech

200+ Czech Words for Beginners

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You know, people often underestimate the power of choosing the right words. 

In Czech, there’s a cute little word—slovíčkaření—which is the combination of slovíčka (“little words”) and -ření (indicating an action or activity). This word could be loosely translated as “unnecessary playing with words.”

However, playing with words is actually quite necessary, especially when learning a new language. Once you’ve engaged in such a rewarding and exciting process, you’ll want to make sure you’re as efficient as possible, right? Hence, you’ll want to learn the right Czech beginner words (a.k.a words that are actually helpful and can be used in real-life conversations).

Also, did you know that you only need to learn 1000 of a language’s most frequently used words to understand 75% of any conversation? (Unless, of course, you find yourself in the middle of a quantum physics seminar, and the only thing you know about physics is that in 5th grade, you got a C on a test, which made you cry in front of the whole class.) I highly recommend that you check out this awesome book if you’re interested in efficient study methods and fun stuff like that.

In this article, you’ll learn basic Czech words for beginners that will make a great base for your Czech vocab. Without further ado, let’s begin!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Czech Table of Contents
  1. Czech Pronouns for Beginners
  2. Czech Numbers
  3. Czech Nouns
  4. Czech Verbs
  5. Czech Adjectives
  6. Czech Conjunctions
  7. What Else You Should Know
  8. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Czech Pronouns for Beginners

Czech doesn’t use personal pronouns nearly as much as English does, thanks to declension, verb conjugation, and grammatical gender. It kind of reminds me of a quote from a Czech movie about teenagers: “It might be the longer route, but…it’s also the more difficult one.”

Bottom line: Even though you won’t be using personal pronouns too often, you still need to know them.

A- Personal Pronouns 

    Personal pronouns are mostly used for emphasis or when further clarification is needed.

This means that if someone says…

Nemám to ráda. – “I don’t like it.”

…it’s not the same as:

to nemám ráda. – “I don’t like it.” (I don’t, but everyone else in my family loves it; thank you for your kind offer, but I shall graciously decline.)

1st Person

Nominative GenitiveDativeAccusativeVocativeLocativeInstrumental
Singularmne/měmně/mimne/měmněmnou
Pluralmynásnámnásnásnámi

2nd Person

NominativeGenitiveDativeAccusativeVocativeLocativeInstrumental
Singulartytebetobě/titebetobětebou
Pluralvyvásvámvásvásvámi

3rd Person Singular

Nominative GenitiveDativeAccusativeVocativeLocativeInstrumental
Feminineonaji
Masculineonněj/něhojemujeho/jej/něho/nějněmním
Neuterononěj/něhojemujeho/jej/něho/nějněmním

3rd Person Plural

NominativeGenitiveDativeAccusativeVocativeLocativeInstrumental
Feminineonyjich/nichjich/nichje/něnichjimi/nimi
Masculineonijich/nichjich/nichje/něnichjimi/nimi
Neuteronajich/nichjich/nichje/něnichjimi/nimi

B- Possessive Pronouns

1st Person

Gender s/p
Case
Feminine singularMasculinesingularNeutersingularFemininepluralMasculinepluralNeuterplural
Nominativemá/mojemljmé/mojemé/mojemí/mojimé/moje
Genitivemé/mojíméhoméhomýchmýchmých
Dativemé/mojímémumémumýmmýmmým
Accusativemé/mojímého/můjmé/mojemé/mojemé/mojemá/moje
Vocativemá/mojemůjmé/mojemé/mojemoji/mojemá/moje
Locativemé/mojímémmémmýchmýchmých
Instrumentalmou/mojímýmmýmmýmimýmimými

2nd Person

Gender s/p
Case
Feminine singularMasculinesingularNeutersingularFemininepluralMasculinepluralNeuterplural
Nominativetvá/tvojetvůjtvé/tvojetvé/tvojetví/tvoji/tvétvá/tvoje
Genitivetvé/tvojítvéhotvéhotvých/tvojíchtvýchtvých/tvojích
Dativetvé/tvojítvémutvémutvýmtvýmtvým
Accusativetvoutvémutvé/tvojetvé/tvojetvé/tvojetvá/tvoje
Vocativetvá/tvojetvůjtvé/tvojetvé/tvojetví/tvoji/tvojetvá/tvoje
Locativetvé/tvojítvémtvémtvýchtvýchtvých
Instrumentaltvou/tvojítvýmtvýmtvýmitvýmitvými

Okay, guys, I know it’s a lot. But once you memorize this, things will get easier.

Besides, the 3rd person possessive pronouns are easy-peasy!

3rd Person

Gender s/p
Case
Feminine singularMasculinesingularNeutersingularFemininepluralMasculinepluralNeuterplural
Nominativejehojejíjehojejichjejichjejich
Genitivejehojejíjehojejichjejichjejich
Dativejehojejíjehojejichjejichjejich
Accusativejehojejíjehojejichjejichjejich
Vocativejehojejíjehojejichjejichjejich
Locativejehojejíjehojejichjejichjejich
Instrumentaljehojejíjehojejichjejichjejich

C- Demonstrative Pronouns

Feminine singularMasculine singularNeuter singular
“This”TatoTentoToto
“That” or “The”TaTenTo
Feminine pluralMasculine pluralNeuter plural
“These”TytoTitoTato
“Those” or “The”TyTi/TyTa

D- Interrogative Pronouns and Question Words

  • co – “what”
  • kdo – “who”
  • kdý – “when”
  • kolik – “how many” / “how much”
  • kde – “where”
  • který/jenž – “which”
  • čí – “whose”
  • jaký – “what kind”
  • jak – “how”
  • proč – “why”
  • kdy – “when”

I strongly recommend you check out this list of the most useful Czech pronouns and this lesson on how to use various pronouns.

2. Czech Numbers

Okay, now you know how to say “my” and “yours.” Now we can move on to another topic—numbers and counting. 

    You WILL have to apply gender and declension to SOME cardinal numbers (there’s a difference between “one chicken,” “one man,” and “one woman”) and ALL ordinal numbers (first, second, etc.). This only applies to cardinal 2 and ordinal 2nd.
    To make ordinals, add -tý (for M), -tá (for F), and -té (for N). The example below shows the masculine version.
    Cardinal numbers are identified by a period: 3rd = 3. / 5th = 5. / etc.
    Teens are made of a version of the cardinal number plus -náct (no exceptions).
    Tens are made of the cardinal number plus -cet (up until 40) and -sát (50 to 90).
    You must always apply declension. (Again, there’s a difference between “He’s coming on the 3rd of August” and “He’s her third son”).

CardinalOrdinal
1Jeden/Jedna/Jedno (M/F/N)První
2Dvě/Dva/DvěDruhý/Druhá/Druhé (M/F/N)
3TřiTřetí
4ČtyřiČtvrtý/Čtvrtá/Čtvrté
5PětPátý/Pátá/Páté
6ŠestŠestý/Šestá/Šesté
7SedmSedmý/Sedmá/Sedmé
8OsmOsmý/Osmá/Osmé
9DevětDevátý/Devátá/Deváté
10DesetDesátý/Desátá/Desáté
11JedenáctJedenáctý/Jedenáctá/Jedenácté
12DvanáctDvanáctý/-tá/-té
13TřináctDvanáctý/-tá/-té
14ČtrnáctČtrnáctý/-tá/-té
15PatnáctPatnáctý/-tá/-té
16ŠestnáctŠestnáctý/-tá/-té
17SedmnáctSedmnáctý/-tá/-té
18OsmnáctOsmnáctý/-tá/-té
19DevatenáctDevatenáctý/-tá/-té

Tens

    To make ordinals, add -átý/-átá/-áté for M/F/N singular. For plural, it’s -átí/-áté/-átá.

CardinalOrdinal
20DvacetDvacátý/-átá/-áté
30TřicetTřicátý/-átá/-áté
40ČtyřicetČtyřicátý/-átá/-áté
50PadesátPadesátý/-átá/-áté
60ŠedesátŠedesátý/-átá/-áté
70SedmdesátSedmdesátý/-átá/-áté
80OsmdesátOsmdesátý/-átá/-áté
90DevadesátDevadesátý/-átá/-áté

Here’s how you write higher numbers (yup, no periods or commas):

  • 100 – Sto
  • 1 000 – Tisíc
  • 1 000 000 – Milion
  • 1 000 000 000 – Miliarda

This list of Czech numbers includes pronunciation and will make your studying way faster. If you want to go into more detail, we’ve got you covered.

3. Czech Nouns

Nouns should make up a large chunk of your Czech beginner vocabulary. And do you know how most language textbooks start? There’s usually a drawing of people gathered around a table (or a Christmas tree) and the headline reads: My Family.

A- Family – Rodina

WomanŽena
ManMuž
BoyChlapec / Kluk
GirlDěvče / Dívka
ChildDítě
BabyMiminko
Mother / MomMatka / Máma
Father / DadOtec / Táta
BrotherBratr
SisterSestra
Sibling / SiblingsSourozenec / Sourozenci
GrandfatherDěda
GrandmotherBabička
AuntTeta
UncleStrýc
CousinBratranec (M) / Sestřenice (F)
Big family / Small familyVelká rodina / Malá rodina
RelativesPříbuzní
HomeDomov
HouseDům
ApartmentByt
PetMazlíček
DogPes
CatKočka
AnimalZvíře
LoveLáska

A Family in a Supermarket

Rodina v supermarketu. – “A family in a supermarket.”

B- Work and School – Práce a škola

OfficeKancelář
CollegeVysolá škola
High schoolStřední škola
CareerKariéra
CoworkerKolega
Computer / LaptopPočítač
PenPero
PencilTužka
MeetingSchůzka / Meeting
NotebookDiář
InterviewPohovor
ExamZkouška
SalaryPlat
SuperiorNadřízený
SubordinatePodřízený
ManagerManager
StudentStudent
BossŠéf
WorkPráce

A Woman Making a Phone Call while Working Late

Ta žena telefonuje. – “The woman is making a phone call.”

You might also want to see our lists titled 20 Common Czech Words for Occupations and Talking About the Workplace in Czech

C- Time – Čas

SecondVteřina
MinuteMinuta
HourHodina
DayDen
WeekTýden
MonthMěsíc
YearRok
A half hourPůlhodina
A quarter hourČtvrthodina

    Please remember: The date format used in the Czech Republic is DD.MM.YYYY. This could cause A LOT of confusion.

D- Body Parts – Části lidského těla

BodyTělo
MuscleSval
BoneKost
HeadHlava
NeckKrk
ShouldersRamena
HandsRuce
ArmsPaže
ChestHrudník
WaistPas
StomachBřicho
ThighsStehna
KneesKolena
CalvesLýtka
LegsNohy
FeetChodidla
Fingers / ToesPrsty
HairVlasy
FaceObličej
ForeheadČelo
NoseNos
ChinBrada
EyesOči
Mouth / LipsÚsta / Rty
EarsUši
Cheek bonesLícní kosti
CheeksTváře
EyelashesŘasy
EyebrowsObočí

Here’s a great list with examples for you.

E- Food and Drinks – Jídlo a pití

BreakfastSnídaně
LunchOběd
DinnerVečeře
SnackSvačina
DessertDezert
CakeDort
EntréeHlavní chod
EggVejce
MilkMléko
CoffeeKáva
WineVíno
MeatMaso
CheeseSýr
ChocolateČokoláda
FruitOvoce
VegetablesZelenina
FishRyba
ChickenKuře
BreadChleba
PastaTěstoviny
SoupPolévka
WaterVoda
SaladSalát
HungerHlad
ThirstŽízeň
FoodJídlo
GroceriesPotraviny
DrinkPití

A Couple Shopping Together at the Supermarket

Muž a žena nakupují potraviny. – “A man and a woman are shopping for groceries.”

F- Places Around Town – Místa ve městě

RestaurantRestaurace
Movie theaterKino
TheaterDivadlo
GalleryGalerie
MuseumMuzeum
CaféKavárna
SchoolŠkola
HospitalNemocnice
DowntownCentrum
ParkPark
StreetUlice
Train stationVlakové nádraží
StopZastávka
StoreObchod
SupermarketSupermarket

G- Weather Words

SunSlunce
WindVítr
RainDéšť
SnowSníh

4. Czech Verbs

Basic verbs are an essential set of Czech beginner words that you should learn early on, whether you want to describe your morning routine, make plans for the day, or engage in small talk about your hobbies. Feel free to look for your favorite activities on this list, as well.

A Woman Cooking in the Kitchen

Ta žena vaří. – “The woman is cooking.”

A- Daily Routine Verbs – Denní rituály

To doDělat
To beBýt
To goJít
To get upVstávat
To workPracovat
To studyStudovat
To cookVařit
To take a showerSprchovat se
To commuteDojíždět
To driveJet autem
To take a train / bus / tramJet vlakem / autobusem / tramvají
To readČíst
To studyUčit se
To go shoppingJít nakupovat
To make a phone call / To callTelefonovat / Zavolat
To type / To writePsát
To waitČekat
To schedule / To planNaplánovat
To cancelZrušit
To exerciseCvičit
To eatJíst
To drinkPít
To comePřijít
To arriveDorazit
To leaveOdejít
To go to bedJít spát
To sleepSpát
To feelCítit se
To askPtát se
To thankPoděkovat
To think / To think aboutMyslet / Přemýšlet o
To answerOdpovědět
To checkKontrolovat
CanMoci / Umět
To openOtevřít
To closeZavřít

B- Other Common Verbs – Další obvyklá slovesa

To drawKreslit
To paintMalovat
To runBěhat
To do yogaCvičit jógu
To go to the gymJít do posilovny
To swimPlavat
To go for a walkJít na procházku
To rest / To relaxOdpočívat / Relaxovat
To singZpívat
To learn a foreign languageUčit se cizí jazyk
To listen to a podcast / music / audio bookPoslouchat podcast / hudbu / audioknihu
To watch a movieDívat se na film
To watch a TV showSledovat seriál
To drive a carŘídit auto
To ride a bikeJet na kole
To bake dessertsPéct dezerty
To spend time with friendsTrávit čas s přáteli
To clean (e.g. your house)Uklízet
To explainVysvětlovat
To teachUčit
To get / To receiveDostat
To play an instrumentHrát na hudební nástroj
To danceTančit
To collectSbírat
To enjoyMít rád / Rád dělat / Užívat si

A Man Driving with a Woman in the Passenger Seat

Ten muž řídí. – “The man is driving.”

5. Czech Adjectives

A key set of words in Czech for beginners are adjectives. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to express yourself fully and your speech/writing would fall flat. 

Please note that the examples below are all in masculine singular form. For feminine, the ending would be ; for neuter, it would be .

A- Describing Objects

Small / LittleMalý
Big / LargeVelký
Strong / PowerfulSilný
WeakSlabý
InterestingZajímavý
BoringNudný
OrdinaryObyčejný
DifferentJiný
RegularObvyklý / Normální
Special / ExceptionalVýjimečný

B- Describing People

TallVysoký
ShortMalý
AttractivePohledný / Atraktivní
SweetMilý
SmartChytrý
FunnyVtipný
OldStarý
YoungMladý
Middle-agedVe středním věku
UglyOšklivý

C- Describing Emotions

HappyVeselý / Šťastný
SadSmutný
AngryVzteklý
AnnoyedOtrávený
Excited / EnthusiasticNadšený
TiredUnavený
EnergizedPlný energie
InquisitiveZvědavý
ApatheticApatický
IrritatedPodrážděný

D- Describing Weather

SunnySlunečno
RainyDeštivo 
WindyVětrno
Cold / ChillyChladno
HotHorko
Nice weatherPěkné počasí
Bad weatherŠpatné počasí

You can find more weather-related vocabulary and useful phrases here.

6. Czech Conjunctions

AndA / I
To / In order to / So thatAby
ButAle
ThatŽe
BecauseProtože
WhenKdyž
As late as / Not before
If / In caseJestli / Kdyby
OrNebo
Either, orBuď, nebo
AlthoughPřestože / I když
Who / Which / ThatKterý
Not only, but alsoNejen
ThanNež

7. What Else You Should Know

Finally, here’s a brief beginner Czech wordlist of other essential words you need to know. 

MaybeMožná
NeverNikdy
SometimesNěkdy
AlwaysVždycky
UsuallyObvykle
OccasionallyObčas
YesAno
YeahJo
NoNe
ThanksDěkuji
Please / You’re welcomeProsím

8. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

That’s it, guys! I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new! In case this wasn’t enough for you, please check out our Basic Bootcamp—all the basic grammar and vocab you need in five compact lessons. 

If you’re taking your Czech studies seriously, you might grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (which is way more convenient). Seriously, learning a new skill has never been easier. Just grab your phone and get to work!

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. With us, it’s not about endless memorizing or thick textbooks. Learn Czech the better way—with us, you’ll make progress faster than you could imagine!

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One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article helped you. Were most of these words new to you? Let’s get in touch!

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