I’m going to be honest with you, guys. Czech food is heavy. Most meals are based on pork, creamy sauces, and dumplings (no, they’re not similar to Asian dumplings). Growing up, I would always marvel at the gorgeous, colorful platters of food that I saw on American TV. Compared to that, our diet was a lot grayer, ordinary-looking, and “bready.” 

Of course, times have changed. But the traditional Czech cuisine hasn’t. 

I personally don’t know anyone who would say no to Mom’s Sunday roast with fluffy dumplings and sweet and sour cabbage, followed by home-baked pastries with sweet, lemony curd cheese filling.

One thing I need to mention: the portion sizes. I vividly remember my first morning in NYC. I ordered two scrambled eggs with bacon and a side of fruit. I was served a gigantic plate that held a mountain of eggs, countless slices of THICK-cut bacon (that tasted slightly sweet), plus a bowl of fruit that would last through me and my mom’s entire movie night. I actually overheard people complaining about our tiny portions!

That won’t happen in the Czech Republic.

The smaller portions are a good thing, guys! You get to taste a little bit of everything and still have room for dessert! 

Are you a foodie who loves trying different cuisines? Are you planning a trip to the Czech Republic and wondering what foods you should try? Or do you just want to know more about the Czech culture in general? Read on!

Table of Contents

1. Must-Try Dishes in Czech Restaurants
2. Unique Czech Food
3. Food-Related Vocab
4. Let’s Cook Something!
5. How CzechClass101.com Can Help You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Must-Try Dishes in Czech Restaurants

I’m going to disappoint all the vegans and vegetarians out there: Traditional Czech food is delicious, but also meat-heavy. Your only meatless option when eating out in a typical restaurant will be some kind of cheese (probably deep-fried or marinated).

Back in the day, the only “vegetarian option” on the menu would often be either deep-fried cheese (more on that later) or something you would probably choose for dessert: sweet dumpling with fruit, pastries with warm vanilla sauce, or even vdolky, which is the Czech take on Berliners (donuts without a hole).

However, if you do enjoy meat, you won’t be disappointed.

First things first, make sure you know how to order food in a Czech restaurant. 

A- Řízek s Bramborovým Salátem (Schnitzel with Potato Salad)

Try a juicy, breaded schnitzel (pork is the most common type, but most places offer veal too) served with potato salad. By the way, this is also a favorite classic Czech food for Christmas dinners.

When my American boyfriend first saw a regular-sized Czech schnitzel, he couldn’t believe his eyes. It was so big it intimidated his brave, American heart.

The potato salad contains a lot of vegetables, often pickled or marinated. My favorite part? The mayo. 

Are you on a diet, working on your summer body, or getting ready for an important event? No problem. Here’s a tip from my grandma:

Get a chicken schnitzel. Chicken is diet food. The potato SALAD is a salad. You’re good.

Schnitzel is a favorite weekend lunch and Christmas dinner!

B- Vepřo-Knedlo-Zelo (Pork Roast with Cabbage and Dumplings)

This is THE ultimate Czech Sunday lunch. The cabbage might be red or white, sweet, slightly on the sour side, or even pickled.

Have you been invited to a family lunch? You’ll be asked how many dumplings you want. If you say three, you’ll get five. You’ve been warned.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo is the ultimate Sunday lunch.

C- Svíčková Omáčka s Knedlíkem (Roast Beef with Creamy Vegetable Sauce and Dumplings)

This Czech dish is incredibly elaborate and it smells super-delicious thanks to the vegetables…too bad it’s nearly impossible to make it look presentable on the plate.

It’s often served for special occasions and it’s actually the traditional wedding lunch meal (along with beef broth with vegetables and liver dumplings; yup, Czech cuisine boasts many kinds of dumplings).

To make the sauce perfect, you first need to marinate a perfect sirloin with root veggies and some spices for a couple of days. Then you roast it in the oven, mix the vegetables in a blender, and add an ungodly amount of heavy cream and some flour to make the sauce thicker.

The dumplings have to be homemade, of course, so if you’re making this meal for Sunday lunch, you should get up at around 4:30 a.m. Yum.

A note from my grandma: The sauce has to be the perfect color. Not too brown, not too light. If you get served a brown svíčková in a restaurant, leave. 

Thanks, grandma.

Believe it or not, svíčková omáčka is the traditional wedding food!

D- Guláš (Goulash)

This stew, usually made from beef, pork, or venison with onions and spices, is trickier than it looks. You have to cook it for hours and hope the meat doesn’t turn into a piece of rubber. Unlike the Hungarian version, the Czech guláš contains no vegetables and makes up for the lack of fiber with loads of protein.

It’s served with dumplings or bread and a handful of thinly sliced onion.

E- Smažák (Deep Fried Breaded Cheese)

Okay, guys, I had no idea how weird this dish was, until I started dating a foreigner. 

I’m a millennial and this thing was the ultimate “fancy” meal I would always order in a restaurant (which means I had it like five times during my childhood). Now it’s more of a street food.

If you love gooey melted cheese, you’re going to love this dish too. The most typical combo is smažák with french fries and mayo. Enjoy!

F- Tatarák (Steak Tartare)

This is even weirder than breaded deep-fried cheese. It’s raw beef. First-class, perfectly fresh raw beef, finely ground or cut, and mixed with salt, egg yolks, and spices of your choice.

If you order it in a restaurant (it’s a widely popular and well-loved bar food), it will come un-mixed so that you can make it the way you like it. It’s served with fried bread and fresh garlic cloves. Rub the garlic on the hot, greasy bread to make a perfect topinka (“toast” fried in a pan), top it with tatarák, and bite in!

Have you tried any of these popular Czech dishes? If so, what’s your favorite Czech food so far?

2. Unique Czech Food

There are some traditional Czech dishes and foods that you can only find in our beautiful Central European country. They’re all carb-laden, stick to your ribs, and will help you gain ten pounds in a week.

A- Knedlíky (Dumplings)

The French have baguettes, and we have knedlíky. 

This popular side dish is made of flour, yeast, and tiny cubes of bread. Some versions contain mashed potatoes, bigger pieces of bread, and parsley—there are even sweet dumplings stuffed with fruit, and drizzled with butter and ground gingerbread! They’re either steamed or cooked. The most popular knedlíky are the standard bread dumplings, sliced on plates of guláš or omáčka.

B- Creamy Sauces

Czechs LOVE creamy sauces.

Last weekend, I was eating lunch with my mom. We were having a big salad with all sorts of “exotic” ingredients in it: avocado, tofu, chickpea pasta… I asked her what our lunch would have been in the 80s. Her response: Probably a sauce with some meat and potatoes, maybe dumplings. So, yes, people actually used to eat this way all the time.

C- Koprová Omáčka (Creamy Dill Sauce), Rajská (Creamy Tomato Sauce)…

Pretty much any ingredient can be turned into a creamy sauce. 

Slightly tangy koprovka (“dill sauce”) is often served with hard-boiled eggs and rajská (“tomato sauce”) is poured over a mountain of elbow macaroni (which is called kolínka, or “little knees,” in Czech) and served with a modest slice of boiled beef. There’s even a horseradish sauce served with uzené (“smoked pork”).

Yup, the obesity rate is pretty high in this country.

D- Hovězí Vývar s Játrovými Knedlíčky (Beef Broth with Liver Dumplings)

This hearty soup is usually served as a starter for special occasions, Sunday family lunches, and weddings. The broth is slow-cooked and must be perfectly clear. The noodles and little dumplings should be homemade.

E- Pečená Husa s Bramborovým Knedlíkem (Roast Goose with Potato Dumplings and Cabbage)

This is a typical Czech holiday food, normally prepared at the beginning of November for St. Martin’s Day and served with St. Martin’s “young” wine. But some families prepare it for Christmas or other fancy occasions.

F- Deep-Fried Breaded Mushrooms

Mushrooms are not everyone’s favorite, but we still eat them. A lot. In soups, in our creamy houbová omáčka (“mushroom sauce”)…and we deep-fry them, just like cheese.

It’s a great (although not super-healthy or low-cal) vegetarian option, too!

G- Chlebíčky

These cute open-faced sandwiches are a staple in Czech cuisine. They’re a typical party/Christmas/New Year’s Eve snack and feature a variety of toppings: eggs, ham, deli meats, pickles, and pickled vegetables. They can be really basic or very fancy.

H- Vánočka and Mazanec (Sweet Christmas Bread and Sweet Easter Bread)

These two babies somewhat resemble challah bread, but the dough is much richer, containing a lot of butter, lard (makes the pastry very moist and almost melty), and fresh yolks.

After letting the dough rise for a few hours, you braid it elaborately only to watch it collapse or develop cracks in the oven (if you’re not careful).

It’s delicious, fragrant, and tastes amazing plain or with butter (or honey, preserves, Nutella…).

Vánočka and mazanec are eaten all year-round because we love them so much!

As you can tell, Czech cuisine isn’t for everyone. Make sure you can eat it before you order.

3. Food-Related Vocab

Now that you’re good and hungry, let’s look at some Czech food vocabulary and a few phrases to use in the restaurant.

Czech	English
Maso	“Meat”
Vepřové maso	“Pork”
Hovězí maso	“Beef”
Kuře	“Chicken”
Zvěřina	“Venison”
Vegetariánské	“Vegetarian”
Veganské	“Vegan”
Polévka	“Soup”
Předkrm	“Starter”
Hlavní jídlo	“Entrée”
Dezert	“Dessert”
Těstoviny	“Pasta”
Houby	“Mushrooms”
Zelenina	“Vegetables”
Ovoce	“Fruits”
Palačinky	“Crepes”
Lívance	“Pancakes”
Omáčka	“Sauce”
Brambory	“Potatoes”
Hranolky	“French fries”
Příloha	“Side dish”
Košík pečiva	“Basket of bread”
Sýr	“Cheese”
Máte vegetariánské/veganské jídlo?	“Do you serve any vegetarian/vegan dishes?”
Dám si…	“I’ll have…”
Bez přílohy.	“No side dish.”
Co doporučujete?	“What do you recommend?”
Zaplatíme.	“We’ll have the check.”
Můžeme dostat víc ubrousků prosím?	“Can we have more napkins, please?”

4. Let’s Cook Something!

I don’t want to overwhelm you with Czech food recipes that would take hours to make. How about…some savory chleba ve vajíčku (“fried bread soaked in eggs”) that my friend Lindsey described as “quite disgusting, but surprisingly tasty.”

You’re gonna need:

• A few slices of bread, preferably sourdough
• Half a cup of milk
• One egg per each slice of bread
• Oil or lard
• A pinch of salt
• Toppings of your choice (mustard, ketchup, deli meats, cheese, finely sliced onion, pickles…)

Now:

• Beat the eggs with milk and salt.
• Soak the bread in it for a few minutes.
• Cook.
• Top with a ton of fun stuff.
• Get your napkins ready.
• Eat!

This was one of my favorite dinners when I was a kid. I promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

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

If you’re taking your Czech learning seriously, you could grab a Czech grammar book or learn online (the latter of which is way more convenient).

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

What can you find here?

• English-to-Czech translation and pronunciation tips/tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes

Sign up now—it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article made your mouth water. Oh, and what’s your favorite Czech food?

When I was a little girl, I used to spend a lot of time with my grandma. That wonderful lady, like all grandmothers around the world, was an endless source of what (back then) sounded like weird little poems that didn’t rhyme.

And, of course, they made very little sense to me.

You might feel the same way when you look at a Czech sentence that is (seemingly) just a series of random words.

That’s why you should keep on reading this article.

In this list of Czech quotes with translations in English, you’ll find words of wit and wisdom on a variety of topics. From Czech love quotes to proverbs about life, our top picks will give you a little peek into the intriguing Czech culture and mindset. And this, in turn, will enhance your language studies and help you start speaking Czech like a native in record time.

As you read, you’ll find that some of them are very similar to American proverbs, while others are completely different. These little differences and surprising similarities are fascinating—and besides, why not take a break from memorizing new vocabulary or drilling through Czech grammar?

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

1. Quotes About Success
2. Quotes About Life
3. Quotes About Time
4. Quotes About Love
5. Quotes About Family
6. Quotes About Friendship
7. Quotes About Food
8. Quotes About Health
9. A Quote About Language Learning
10. How CzechClass101.com Can Help You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Quotes About Success

First and foremost, Czechs are not go-getters. Some three decades after democracy was restored in Czechoslovakia and people finally got to take a breather and expand their lives, they are still…cautious and coy. (That’s why you might think Czechs are unfriendly. They’re not.)

The reason for this is because, not so long ago, they were living a life that the regime dictated and designed for them; “freedom” was just an empty word, and their choices were severely limited in every single way. However, most citizens were also “taken care of,” meaning that they didn’t really have to think for themselves or work hard. This was the case due to a lack of challenges and numerous restrictions. 

Therefore, success is quite a “new” thing in the Czech Republic, and you might find some of the Czech quotes about success quite grim.

1. Bez práce nejsou koláče.

In English: “Without work, there are no koláče.” (Czech pastry)
Equivalent: “There’s no reward without effort.”

Oh yes. The average Czech person believes that success is a lot of work; in order to achieve it, you have to work your butt off. Succeeding without putting in extreme amounts of hard work might seem suspicious and is often referred to as “good luck” or “a fluke.”

2. Dvakrát měř, jednou řež.

In English: “Measure twice, cut once.”

In other words, make sure you’re 200% prepared before you take action.

We’re not only pessimistic, but also overly anxious and afraid of failure. So much so that some people never try anything new.

3. Co se lehce nabude, snadno se pozbude.

In English: “What is easy to gain, is easy to lose.”
Equivalent: “Easy come, easy go.”

Oh well. I hate to admit that this is still the number-one rule for some people. As you can see, it would be quite difficult to fill your Instagram with inspirational Czech thoughts.

2. Quotes About Life

What is life all about, and how should a person live? People have been asking these questions for a long time. Here are some Czech quotes about life to give you a glimpse into how the Czech might answer.

4. Mluviti stříbro, mlčeti zlato.

In English: “Speaking is silver, silence is gold.”

Sometimes it’s just better to keep your thoughts to yourself. Unless you’re about to give someone a compliment or offer to make food. In that case, speak up. Always.

Mluviti stříbro, mlčeti zlato.

5. Nehas, co tě nepálí.

In English: “Do not fight the fire that isn’t burning you.”

In other words, mind your own business.

Shrug.

6. Malé ryby taky ryby.

In English: “Even small fish are fish.”

Contrary to the common belief that life has to be hard, most Czech people appreciate the little things in life (which might be another thing learned from the Communist rule). 

Here’s a little example: 

In 1983, Miloš Forman was shooting his famous Oscar-winning movie Amadeus in his homeland, Czechoslovakia. He brought his Hollywood crew to Prague, which was bleak and gray (sort of like a very poor Russian suburb). 

The reasons he decided to set his big project there were pretty straightforward: Prague looks a lot like Vienna, the expenses were considerably lower, and thanks to the regime there were no “capitalistic” changes made to the city (no billboards, ads, or new modern buildings). 

One of the American actors happened to have friends who fled Czechoslovakia some years earlier, and before his departure, they asked him to bring some presents and fresh fruit to their relatives back in Europe. Among other stuff, there was a large, fresh pineapple. At that time, the only pineapple you could get in Prague was the canned kind, and the majority of people had never seen the fresh fruit before. The day it was brought to the set, dozens of Czech people gathered around it and admired this new, “Western” wonder.

3. Quotes About Time

Now, here are some Czech quotes and sayings about time to show you how Czechs perceive its influence on our lives.

7. Pozdě, ale přece.

In English: “Late, but still.”
Equivalent: “Better late than never.” / “It’s better to arrive late than not at all.”

Obviously, it’s okay to miss the first ten minutes of a movie and still enjoy the beautiful story—or to meet the love of your life forty years later than expected.

Just show up. 

8. Ráno moudřejší večera.

In English: “Better to sleep on it.”
Equivalent: “Morning is wiser than the evening.” / “Take your time to make a decision.”

Do you like to think before taking action? Do you take your time before making a decision?

Maybe the Czech Republic is your spirit country!

4. Quotes About Love

Are you madly in love with someone? Or maybe you’re a hopeless romantic? Either way, I think you’ll enjoy these Czech quotes about love!

9. Láska prochází žaludkem.

In English: “Love goes through your stomach.”
Equivalent: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”

If you and your partner like the same food, you will likely have a lot in common in other areas, too. I completely agree with this. Not to mention that sharing a dessert or cooking together is a great way of bonding!

Láska prochází žaludkem!

10. Snesl bych ti modré z nebe.

In English: “I would bring you the blue from the sky.”
Equivalent: “I would do anything for you.”

Sounds poetic, right?

11. Jsme dva, dva na všechno, na lásku, život, na boj i bolest, na hodiny štěstí. Dva na výhry i prohry, na život a na smrt – DVA!

In English: “There’s two of us, two for everything, for love, life, for a fight and pain, for hours of happiness. Two for wins and losses, for life and for death – TWO!”

– Karel Čapek, Czech author (1890-1938)

I have always felt like Czechs weren’t the most affectionate people. You won’t hear fiery love declarations too often…if ever. Also, we don’t use the word milovat (“to love”) nearly as often as it’s used in English.

5. Quotes About Family

Family is a major cornerstone of any society. Learn how Czechs perceive familial relationships with these Czech quotes about family. 

12. Krev není voda.

In English: “Blood is not water.”
Equivalent: “Blood is thicker than water.”

Czechs are usually very close with their families (although not to the extent that Southern Europeans are). It’s partly because it isn’t common to move for work and people usually spend their whole lives in one town—or even in one house.

Sunday family lunches are a very common thing, and during the summer break, kids often spend a lot of time with their grandparents.

13. Bližší košile nežli kabát.

In English: “Your shirt is closer to your skin than your coat is.”

This basically means that your own interests/family should be your priority.

Oh yes, we really do like to protect our privacy and hang out only with people we have known for a while!

14. Host do domu, hůl do ruky.

In English: “If a guest comes to your home, grab a stick.”

You guessed it! Czech people aren’t really used to having people over and they are very protective of their privacy. If someone invites you over to their house, it means they trust you and feel warmly about you.

6. Quotes About Friendship

Friends are one of life’s greatest joys and necessities. Here are some Czech friendship quotes for you! Can you relate?

15. Lépe mít sto přátel, než jednoho nepřítele.

In English: “It is better to have a hundred friends than one enemy.”
Equivalent: “Do not think that one enemy is insignificant, or that a thousand friends are too many.”

You can never have too many friends.

16. Nejlepší přítel je ten, co tě napomene, co ti řekne pravdu do očí. Toho si važ!

In English: “The best friend rebukes you and always tells you the truth. Appreciate friends like this!”

– Božena Němcová, nineteenth century Czech female author (1820-1862)

Yup, being honest (often too much) is a huge Czech thing. Our friendships tend to be long-term and based on “tough love.”

7. Quotes About Food

Who doesn’t enjoy sitting down to a nice meal now and then? Here are some quotes in Czech that touch on the topic of food!

17. Hlad je nejlepší kuchař.

In English: “Hunger is the best cook.” 

If you’re hungry, you’ll forget about being picky and just eat whatever you’re served. (I hated this proverb so much when I was a kid!)

18. Sytý hladovému nevěří.

In English: “No one will believe you if you’re hungry and they’re not.”
Equivalent: “He who has not experienced difficulties does not believe the accounts of those who have.”

Right. If you’re not in the same boat, it will be pretty difficult to make people understand your struggles.

19. Jez do polosyta, pij do polopita.

This is like saying, “Only eat and drink until you’re half-full.”

No second helpings. (Unless it’s pizza?)

8. Quotes About Health

You should always prioritize your health, because only in good health can you accomplish more important goals and live life to the fullest. Here’s what Czechs have to say about it.

20. Veselá mysl je půl zdraví.

In English: “Merry mind is half of your health.”

Czechs, like many people, believe that everything you do is “healthy” as long as it makes you happy. I totally agree. I mean, if you eat a giant piece of cake that you love so much that it creates sparks of joy floating around in your head…it becomes healthy food, right?

21. Prostě-li žiješ, sta let dožiješ.

In English: “If you live simply, you will live a long life.”

Living and eating simply is beneficial not just for your physical health, but also for your mental health. And our ancestors were well aware of it. Many of us struggle with the unnecessary stress we put on ourselves to just “live a great life” or to “achieve great things.” It’s good to go back to the basics and enjoy the simple things.

22. Strach je nemoc špatného svědomí.

In English: “Fear is a disease of those who feel guilty.”
Equivalent: “Guilt leads to a diseased soul.”

– Karel Čapek, Czech author

Čapek wrote this in reaction to the political changes that preceded WWII. He was one of the most influential Czech writers of the twentieth century (by the way, he also invented the word “robot”) who died less than a year after the beginning of WWII. He was close friends with the first Czechoslovakian President, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk. (By the way, the President’s middle name is actually his wife’s maiden name. Charlotte was an American suffragette, and they got married in Brooklyn.)

9. A Quote About Language Learning

To close, let’s look at a quote about language learning. What better way to motivate you in your language studies? 

23. Kolik řečí umíš, tolikrát jsi člověkem.

In English: “The more languages you can speak, the more times you are human.”
Equivalent: “A new language is a new life.”

Learning foreign languages was not common during the Communist Era. Children took Russian (of course), and no one really expected that there would be such wonders as online shopping, YouTube, or even traveling abroad.

Today’s kids are usually pretty good at English and a lot of Czechs speak or learn German.

Learning another language will make your life more exciting in many different ways.

10. How CzechClass101.com Can Help You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

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

What can you find here?

• English-to-Czech translation and pronunciation tips/tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes

Sign up now—it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments which of these quotes is your favorite, and why!

We all know life isn’t just work; relationships matter and love conquers all.

However, your career is one of the most important parts of your life (and it also takes up a big chunk of your time on Earth). 

That’s why it’s beneficial to find a career that fulfills you and makes you feel accomplished…or at least pays well and doesn’t kill you on the inside. And, of course, you might want or need to start a career in another country.

If you want to get a job or start your own business in the Czech Republic (yay!), you should work on learning some common Czech business phrases and vocabulary. Every successful entrepreneur will tell you that your language gives away a lot about your personality and approach, and by choosing the right words, you will open more prospects. Doing this in a foreign language may be a little more challenging, but also more fun. Trust me. Been there, done that.

Multilingualism benefits your business/professional skills, and makes you look more invested, motivated, and appealing to your business partners. And can you guess what one of the pillars of strong business/work relationships is? Speaking the local language! It bridges cultural gaps and supports interpersonal relationships. 

In other words: Knowing at least a little business Czech will make you look more attractive and less culturally distant to your future boss or business partners. 

Get your game face on. I’ll walk you through some Czech business phrases that will help you boost or start your career in our lovely Central European country. I’ve also included some vocab and tips for email or phone communication, as well as phrases you’ll need to arrange your Czech business travels.

Table of Contents

1. How to Nail a Job Interview
2. How to Make Friends at Work
3. How to Sound Smart in a Meeting
4. How to Handle Business Calls and Emails
5. How to Have a Successful Business Trip
6. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. How to Nail a Job Interview

First things first: First impressions are more important than we like to admit. Start with the basics and make sure you know how to introduce yourself in Czech appropriately.

Learning how to say “Hello, my name is…” in Czech will take just a few moments. But in context of the bigger picture, it will change the way your potential boss sees you: as an invested, proactive individual who is willing to work on his/her skills, truly wants to be a part of the team, and is ready to learn new things on the go.

A- The Right Start

Remember that you should be formal and polite. Don’t get too personal, and keep things “clean” and professional (unless your potential employer or business partner shows up wearing ripped jeans and offers you a beer).

What could be your opening lines?

• Dobrý den, já jsem Ironman. Mám tu pracovní pohovor s paní Gosling.
  “Good day, my name is Ironman. I have a job interview with Mrs. Gosling here.”

• Dobrý den, jdu za paní Gosling. 
  “Good day, I am here to see Mrs. Gosling.”

Check out our quick guide on Czech greetings. It’s crucial that you be prepared, so that you don’t have to think about your language skills too much, and can focus on the interview.

B- Greetings & Goodbyes

Here are the essentials you need to remember to get by:

➢ Dobrý den. (“Good day.”) – formal, can be used throughout the day
➢ Dobré ráno. (“Good morning.”)
➢ Rád/ráda vás poznávám. (“Nice to meet you.”)
➢ Nashledanou. (“Goodbye.”)
➢ Těšilo mě. (“It was a pleasure to meet you.”)
➢ Ozveme se. (“We’ll keep in touch.”)

This guide on how to say hello in Czech will come in handy, too!

➢ When in doubt, stick with Dobrý den and Nashledanou.

C- Ty or Vy? (A.K.A. Using Formal Speech)

The Czech language has two distinct pronouns for “you”: vy (formal) and ty (casual). 

When in doubt, always opt for the formal version vy, especially in business or work settings. However, if someone offers you tykání, which is the use of the informal voice, you can follow suit.

Sometimes tykání is referred to as a first-name basis, but this isn’t entirely correct. In Czech, you can call a person by their first name and still use the formal voice.

➢ Formal voice: Second person plural, even when you’re talking to a single person.

Rule of thumb:

• When in doubt: Vy.
• Your friends, work friends, family, or children: Ty.
• Anyone else (even if they’re your age): Vy.

It’s very likely that people in creative (more relaxed) environments will offer tykání right away. Just follow the lead!

D- During the Interview

You’ll be asked about your education, accomplishments, strengths, weaknesses, goals, and visions.

Here are some of the words you’ll likely use during your interview (masculine / feminine):

• Pilný / Pilná (“Diligent”)
• Kreativní (“Creative”)
• Ambiciózní (“Ambitious”)
• Nadšený / Nadšená (“Enthusiastic”)
• Spolehlivý / Spolehlivá (“Reliable”)
• Pohodový / Pohodová (“Easy-going”)

You might want to check out this list of adjectives to prepare for your self-introduction in Czech. Write down a few lines about who you are and what you can offer the company.

This list of workplace-related vocabulary will help you put together and recognize some (pretty obvious) questions and answers. Below, you’ll find a list of useful business Czech phrases that you’ll either use or hear from your interviewer:

You:

• Rád bych se zeptal… / Ráda bych se zeptala… (“I would like to ask…”)
• Na podobné pozici jsem pracoval/pracovala tři roky. (“I had a similar job for three years.”)
• V tomto oboru mám mnoho zkušeností. (“I have vast experience in this area.”)
• Nevadí mi práce přesčas. (“I don’t mind working overtime.”)
• Jaký je plat? (“How much is the salary?”)
• Je možný home-office? (“Can I work from home?”)
• Jaká je pracovní doba? (“What are the working hours?”)
• Děkuji za váš čas. (“Thank you for your time.”)
• Chcete se mě na něco zeptat? (“Do you want to ask me any questions?”)

Interviewer:

• Jaký máte titul? (“What degrees do you have?”)
• Jaké máte vzdělání? (“What is your educational background?”)
• Kde jste pracoval/pracovala předtím? (“Where did you work before?”)
• Na jaké pozici jste pracoval/pracovala? (“What was your role?”)

E- Skills

If you have it, flaunt it!

• Mluvím anglicky, německy a česky. (“I speak English, German, and Czech.”)
• Mluvím plynule španělsky. (“I am fluent in Spanish.”)
• Jsem začátečník. (“I am a beginner.”)
• Vystudoval/vystudovala jsem… (“I have a degree in…”)
• Inženýr (Master’s degree in engineering or economics)
• Magistr (Master’s degree in social studies or art)

(Feel free to learn more about the education structure in the Czech Republic.)

If you need more time to think of an answer:

• Můžete to zopakovat? (“Could you repeat that, please?”)
• Pardon, neslyšel/neslyšela jsem vás. (“Sorry, I didn’t hear that.”)
• Pardon, nerozumím. (“Sorry, I don’t understand.”)

2. How to Make Friends at Work

First of all, bring three batches of homemade triple chocolate cookies…just joking.

Vítej! (“Welcome!”)

Making friends at work is important. In fact, studies show that people who have a “best friend” at work are seven times as likely to be engaged in their job! They also have “higher levels of productivity, retention, and job satisfaction than those who don’t.”

Icebreakers

First of all, you need to introduce yourself, right?

We have a great article for ya!

TLDR?

Okay, here’s a snapshot.

• Smile
• Jmenuju se… (“My name is….”)
• Těší mě. (“Nice to meet you.”)

After that, you can get a little more touchy-feely:

• Jsem tu nový/nová. (“I am new here.”)
• Moc se mi tu líbí. (“I like it here a lot.”)
• Chodíte někdy na skleničku? (“Do you go out for drinks?”)
• Jak dlouho tu pracuješ? (“How long have you been working here?”)
• Líbí se ti tu? (“Do you like it here?”)
• Pomůžeš mi, prosím? (“Can you help me, please?”)
• Děkuji za pomoc! (“Thank you for your help!”)

Want more? See our list of more self-introduction lines!

3. How to Sound Smart in a Meeting

Yeah, most meetings could have just been emails, but if you do have to see your coworkers or boss or business partners face-to-face, you’re going to want to show off.

No slacking allowed, get ready. 

Schůzka s kolegy (“Meeting with coworkers”)

Whom you’re meeting with (masculine / feminine):

• Kolega / Kolegyně (“Colleague,” “Coworker”)
• Obchodní partner / partnerka (“Business partner”)
• Investor / Investorka (“Investor”)
• Šéf / Šéfka (“Boss”)
• Nadřízený / Nadřízená (“Supervisor”)

Speak up:

• Podle mého názoru… (“In my opinion…”)
• Já si myslím… (“I think…”)
• Dobrá práce. (“Good work.”)
• Skvělá práce! (“Excellent work!”)
• Pojďme to probrat. (“Let’s talk about it.”)

This is the ultimate business talk guide. Listen to the vocabulary, practice your pronunciation, and impress with your smooth Czech for business.

4. How to Handle Business Calls and Emails

I have always perceived business calls and emails as a foolproof way to “read” the people on the other end.

Work emails with typos, grammar mistakes (!!!), or sketchy vocab are off-putting and unprofessional.

You really need to pay attention to your spelling and make sure everything is perfect (thank god for online translators—use them!).

The structure should be like this:

1. Dobrý den, paní Grangerová. (“Good day, Mrs. Granger.”)
2. Píšu vám kvůli tématu, o kterém jsme spolu mluvili. (“I am writing to you in regards to the topics we talked about.”)
3. The body of the email.
4. Pokud budete potřebovat další pomoc, neváhejte se na mě obrátit. (“If you need any additional assistance, please contact me.”)
5. Děkuji předem. (“Thank you in advance.”)
6. S pozdravem, (“Regards,”)
7. Your name.

Other stuff:

• Děkuji za odpověď. (“Thank you for your reply.”)
• Mohl/mohla byste mi prosím poslat… (“Would you please send me…”)
• Můžete mi doporučit…? (“Could you recommend…?”)
• Pečlivě jsme zvážili váš návrh a… (“We carefully considered your proposal and…”)

Easy peasy.

Of course, you don’t need to be super-official like that when you’re asking your coworkers where you’re going for lunch.

As for calls, well… Do people still do that?

Okay, in case you do need to make a phone call:

When answering the phone, people usually say Prosím (“Please”) or say their name right away, which might catch you off-guard.

Dal/dala bych si salámovou, prosím. (“I’d like pepperoni pizza, please.”)

During the call, you might find these lines useful:

• Dobrý den, to je design studio Pilot? (“Hello, is it Pilot design studio?”)
• To je paní Thurman? (“Is it Mrs. Thurman?”)
• Chci mluvit s paní Thurman, prosím. (“I’d like to talk to Mrs. Thurman, please.”)
• Prosím přepojte mě do účtárny. (“Please connect me to the finance department.”)

If you’re on the other side of the phone:

• Nezavěšujte. (“Hold the line.”)
• Předám… (“I will put you through to…”)
• Chcete nechat vzkaz? (“Would you like to leave a message?”)
• Můžete zavolat později? (“Could you call back later?”)
• Děkuji, nashledanou. (“Thank you, goodbye.”)

Here’s a list of more super-useful phrases for your next phone call.

5. How to Have a Successful Business Trip

Yay or nay? Do you like to travel for work?

Anyway!

Unless you have an assistant, you’ll probably need to book a hotel and tickets, share an itinerary with your coworkers or business partners, get a cab, check in to a hotel…lots of talking to be done! 

Here are some useful phrases to help you out on your business trip to the Czech Republic

• Jede z letiště do města autobus? (“Is there a bus from the airport to the city?”)
• Mám rezervaci. (“I have a reservation.”)
• Máte nějaké volné pokoje? (“Do you have any vacancies tonight?”)
• Berete kreditní karty? (“Do you take credit card?”)
• Je Wi-Fi zdarma? (“Is the Wi-Fi free?”)
• Mohl bych dostat účet? (“Could I have the check?”)
• Přistaneme v 17:00. (“We land at five p.m.”)
• Odlétáme v 7:00. (“We take off at seven a.m.”)
• Vyzvedněte mě na letišti, prosím. (“Pick me up at the airport, please.”)

Plus:

• Děkuji za pohostinnost. (“Thank you for your hospitality.”)
• Děkuji za váš čas. (“Thank you for your time.”)
• Budu tam včas. (“I will be there on time.”)
• Můj let má zpoždění. (“My flight is delayed.”)

This list of vocabulary will help you prepare for almost any travel situation!

Šťastnou cestu! (“Safe travels!”)

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

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

What can you find here?

• English-to-Czech translation and pronunciation tips/tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes

Sign up now, it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article helped you. Are there any more phrases you need to learn? Let’s get in touch!

What’s the number-one thing that will make learning Czech entertaining, help you boost your vocabulary, keep you company, and always be there for you? YouTube! When you learn Czech, YouTube videos in or about the language will be immensely helpful to you.

Here’s a little background story to show you the power of YouTube: 

When I first discovered this marvelous world of videos (back in 2007 or so), I decided I had to speak English well enough to understand what was going on in makeup tutorials (this was WAY before influencers were a real thing, guys!).

Lo and behold, here I am. Don’t underestimate the power of social media and technology. Thanks to specialized channels, you can learn to speak Czech with YouTube.

If you’re busy, juggling work/love/whatever, or just, you know, living your life, you want to be efficient. Do you have time to sit down for an hour and repeat new vocabulary?

Probably not.

Here enters YouTube.

YouTube videos are great background noise, and I promise, even if you don’t think you’re paying much attention, you do register what you’re hearing. You’d be surprised how big of a difference a mere fifteen minutes a day will make. Besides, it’s fun. Just put on a video, cook dinner, do your nails, clean the bathroom…and learn Czech with YouTube!

I highly recommend that you put your game face on at least a couple times a week and watch a pro educational video on the CzechClass101 YouTube channel. These girls know how to explain the quirks of Czech grammar, their pronunciation is angelic, and they make learning Czech so much easier for you!

Now, let me show you the best YouTube channels for learning the Czech language.

Table of Contents

1. Kovy
2. Dewii
3. Radiožurnál
4. DVTV
5. Bonton Kids
6. TadyGavin
7. Dream Prague
8. Veselé učení nejen pro děti/Fun Learning Not Just for Kids
9. Jitka Nováčková
10. CzechClass101
11. How to Make the Most of YouTube Videos
12. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Kovy

Category: Entertainment, current affairs, traveling, vlogs, parodies

Level: Advanced

Features: Contemporary vocabulary, good pronunciation, great for younger audiences

Kovy is the latest phenomenon, and everybody and their mom loves him. This is the right content for you if you’re in the mood for something light-hearted. The vocab is pretty advanced, but we’re working on getting out of our comfort zone, right? 

How To Survive in NYC with $1/day is a great example of his work.

2. Dewii

Category: Zero waste, veganism, minimalism, yoga, routines, best of (product recommendation), vlogs

Level: Intermediate – Advanced

Features: Contemporary vocabulary, good pronunciation, great for younger audiences, contemporary topics

Compared to Kovy’s channel, Dewii’s is less “trendy” and “funny,” and more slow-paced—maybe even “grown-up.” It’s all about zero waste, climate change, vegan food, and minimalism. She’s a lovely, bubbly girl, and her Czech isn’t overly complicated (vocabulary-wise).

Also, her vegan recipes are delicious and easy to make! 

Her channel is a great combo of education and lifestyle. 

3. Radiožurnál

Category: News, interviews, current affairs

Level: Intermediate – Advanced

Features: Great for vocabulary building, slow-paced, professional pronunciation

This Czech YouTube channel features interviews and podcasts. It’s great for building (and challenging) your vocabulary, as the speech is slow-paced and precise with professional pronunciation. Yay! You’ll learn about the latest affairs, Czech culture, and sports, all while sharpening your language skills.

Short on time? If you download their app, you can listen to radio plays from various contemporary or classical authors (Maupassant, etc.) on the go!

Watch and learn.

4. DVTV

Category: News, interviews 

Level: Intermediate – Advanced

Features: Great for vocabulary building, slow-paced, professional pronunciation, educational (science, politics, culture), some interviews are in English with Czech subtitles

DVTV is my personal favorite, and you’ll love it if you want to learn more than just the Czech language. DVTV is a streaming news channel that specializes in interviews with recognized professionals in various fields. They have won numerous awards and their content is truly interesting, slightly edgy, and informative.

Are you interested in health? Gastronomy? Politics? I promise you won’t be bored, especially if you appreciate professional journalism.

Some of their interviews are in English with Czech subtitles.

Listen and learn wherever you are.

5. Bonton Kids

Category: Cartoons for kids 

Level: Intermediate – Advanced

Features: Great for vocabulary building, very simple and easy to understand

Everybody loves cartoons, and believe it or not, they can actually help you learn Czech. I don’t have much to say about this channel, except: Enjoy!

Cartoons are perfect for lazy weekend mornings or… say… days when you can’t leave the house for various reasons.

Besides, who doesn’t feel like a little kid sometimes?

There are movies and cartoons on this channel, so you’ll never get bored watching. This is a great option if you’re looking for relatively easy Czech YouTube channels to pass the time.

“Cartoon” – Kreslená pohádka.

6. TadyGavin

Category: An American who is learning Czech 

Level: Beginner – Intermediate

Features: Great for building vocabulary, beginner-friendly, great learning tips

Gavin is an American who’s been studying Czech since 2016. His videos are cute and super-informative. He knows all about the struggles and joys you’re likely experiencing yourself, and can help you navigate through the labyrinth of Czech language grammar. To start, check out his video How to Learn Czech, Hacks and Resources or watch him eat Czech candy for the first time.

7. Dream Prague

Category: An American living in the Czech Republic

Level: Beginner – Intermediate

Features: In Czech with English subtitles / English with Czech subtitles

Jen is an American girl who has been living in Prague for eight years. She has one of the best Czech YouTube channels for learning fun facts, surprising Czech stuff, and general fun. If you’re interested in how Americans see the Czech culture and traditions, or want to learn more about the country, you’re going to love her channel. Check out her 5 Fun Facts about Czech Culture (that are also illegal).

Already want more? Find out why she moved to Prague and things you didn’t know were Czech!

8. Veselé učení nejen pro děti/Fun Learning Not Just for Kids

Category: Educational channel for children

Level: Beginner

Features: Basic vocabulary, professional pronunciation, basics, well-explained, graphic

Guys, seriously. I know this sounds ridiculous, but when you’re learning another language, you want everything to be very simple, well-explained, and graphic. Guess what these videos are? Very simple, well-explained, and graphic. This alphabet video is a great example of how the videos are structured. 

Sure, you might need a shot of tequila after watching a couple of those, but I promise it’ll be worth it!

“Headphones” – Sluchátka.

9. Jitka Nováčková

Category: Lifestyle, vlogs, makeup, viral challenges

Level: Beginner – Intermediate

Features: Simple vocabulary

Jitka is a gorgeous Czech model who married a Danish soccer player. Her videos and vlogs cover life in Denmark, traveling, life in another country, and some fun beauty-related stuff. 

The content is great for broadening your vocab, it’s fun to look at, and it’s not overly complicated. Check out her backstage vlogs, challenges, and beauty tips

10. CzechClass101

Category: Education

Level: All

Features: Vocabulary, grammar, podcasts, listening exercises

Last, but not least: CzechClass101 is every Czech student’s dream and the best place to learn the Czech language on YouTube. Learn basic and not-so-basic vocabulary, discover info about Czech holidays, work on your listening skills (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and reading skills (absolute beginner, beginner, intermediate).

For those of you who are always busy, there are Czech in 3 Minutes videos that will help you learn the basics: numbers in Czech, how to introduce yourself, apologies, and much more.

Why is it awesome?

1. Our videos are made by professionals, so the structure and content is highly effective and helpful for all learners.
2. It’s available 24/7.
3. It’s free.
4. You can listen and learn from anywhere.
5. You can pause and rewind anytime without interrupting other students in your class.
6. You can focus on strengthening or polishing a specific skill (like reading or listening).

What’s not to love?

11. How to Make the Most of YouTube Videos

Okay, now we’ve introduced you to some of the best Czech YouTubers and other Czech language channels. But this new knowledge won’t do you much good unless you know how to make the most of your watching time. Here are our tips:

• Pay attention to whatever you’re watching. 
• Write down words you’ve just learned or have trouble remembering.
• Focus on vocabulary. Set a goal and stick to it. Fifteen new words a day is totally realistic and will bring you to almost 5500 words in just one year! That means going from absolute beginner to intermediate in just twelve months.
• Find a topic you like—makeup, traveling, cooking, or even try to pick up a new hobby—whatever strikes your fancy! The more interested you are, the faster and easier you’ll learn.
• Comment and interact with other followers.
• Be consistent. Remember: What you treat like a hobby, stays a hobby.
• Set milestones. How does going from absolute beginner to intermediate in one year sound? And you know what? It’s totally doable!

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

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

What can you find here?

• English-to-Czech translation and pronunciation tips/tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes

Sign up now, it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article helped you. Also feel free to let us know what your favorite Czech YouTube channels are, and how you use them to learn Czech faster. Let’s get in touch!

You know, there are certain situations in life where it’s acceptable to just grab your stuff and leave without announcing your departure to the entire room. However, most of the time, it’s nice to be polite and exchange pleasantries! 

Besides, I’m sure that you want to make a good impression. You want people to remember you. You want to have friends and an awesome career, fall in love, and live in a house with a red roof…and how would you achieve that without the persuasive influence of your social graces? 

Saying goodbye in Czech is today’s topic. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to say bye in Czech to your boss, a cashier in your favorite supermarket, someone you just met, someone you definitely want to see again, someone you never want to speak to again…the list goes on. Ready?

But.

First things first: Go check out our list of ten lines you need to know for introducing yourself and make sure you know all of these cute pleasantries. You’ll soon have all the language skills necessary to make people fall in love with you and earn a special place in their memories. (Want your Czech goodbye to be really memorable? Adding a little emotion never hurts, if that’s your thing.) Start with a bonus, and download the Must-Know Beginner Vocabulary PDF for FREE!(Logged-In Member Only)

Table of Contents

1. The Most Common Ways to Say Bye in Czech
2. Formal Czech Words for Goodbye – When Words Aren’t Enough
3. See You!
4. At the Airport or Train Station: Farewell!
5. Pleasantries (a.k.a How to be Sweet and Caring)
6. Professional Settings
7. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. The Most Common Ways to Say Bye in Czech

Unlike in English, you won’t get by using just one word for goodbye in Czech. Sorry. In this beautiful Slavic language, we use formal (second person plural) and informal (second person singular) speech.

The good news is that you don’t need to sit there and memorize dozens of new Czech words. These two will suffice:

• Formal: Na shledanou. (“Bye,” meaning “See you again.”)
• Informal (a.k.a being on first-name terms): Čau. (“Bye.” – Yes, it’s pretty much the Italian ciao.)

If you remember these two words, you’re going to be okay in any situation.

However…you don’t do basic, do you? Let’s explore a little more.

Also:

➢ Čau is a hello and a goodbye in Czech. You’re welcome.
➢ Tak čau (“So, bye”) is a very common form. Don’t be surprised if you hear this.

Čau!

2. Formal Czech Words for Goodbye – When Words Aren’t Enough

Let’s say you’ve just met your significant other’s parents for the first time. It’s a sensitive situation that could be a little awkward. Plus, not only do you need to say stuff, but you also need to do stuff. On top of that: cultural differences.

Now, I’m gonna tell you my own story, because keeping things real makes writing a whole lot easier.

My American boyfriend’s parents are in their 70s. I was about to celebrate my first Thanksgiving ever with them, but they had never really interacted with a foreigner before and his mom was worried she wouldn’t understand my English (I’m pretty sure she did wish that were true by the end of the weekend). 

I don’t really care what people think about me, but sheesh! This lady birthed my beloved boy; I want her to like me! So, being my usual organized self, I got ready. I asked my boyfriend what to do, what to say, and how to act during the first and final minutes (I managed to be naturally charming in-between), and it worked!

Here’s my advice:

➢ When visiting or living in a foreign country, don’t rely on people being understanding. Learn their customs and be respectful of their culture. Try to be one of them (When in Rome…).
➢ Do not underestimate the power of culture.
➢ A foreign accent is cute, ignorance isn’t.
➢ Don’t invade their personal space.

Remember that you need to use formal speech.

Step 1:

Are you leaving? Say:

• Děkuji za pozvání. Mějte se hezky. Na shledanou. (“Thank you for having me. Be good. Bye.”)

Are they leaving? Say:

• Děkuji za návštěvu. Mějte se hezky. Na shledanou. (“Thank you for visiting. Be good. Bye.”)

Was it your first meeting? Say:

• Masculine: Rád jsem vás poznal. (“Nice meeting you.”) 
• Feminine: Ráda jsem vás poznala. (“Nice meeting you.”)

Do you want to hang out with them again? Say:

• Masculine: Moc rád vás zase uvidím. (“I would love to see you again.”)
• Feminine: Moc ráda vás zase uvidím. (“I would love to see you again.”)

Step 2:

• Shake hands. 

Czech people aren’t huggy. No need for kisses either, unless the other person likes it French. Observe. Let them keep their distance. (Unless it was love at first sight, in which case you should tell them.)

Step 3:

• Leave.

There’s this weird custom (several customs, actually) that I just don’t get. You’re at someone’s place, you feel like it’s time to go, you say “I’m gonna go,” and then they say: “Are you in a rush? Stay a little longer.” You don’t want to make them feel bad, so you’re torn over whether to leave or stay a few more minutes.

It’s an act. They don’t mean it—it’s just a weird cultural thing. Just get up and go, unless you can tell they’re being genuine.

Want to know more about Czech culture? Read on.

Czech culture and American culture have very little in common.

3. See You!

The process of saying bye in Czech is pretty straightforward and linear—you just say čau (“bye”) and go. Still, this phrase is fairly popular as well – you can see some of the variants in the table below!

➢ Uvidíme se…
➢ Literal translation: “We will see each other.”

You might hear some of these phrases occasionally:

Czech	English
Uvidíme se zítra.	“See you tomorrow.”
Uvidíme se večer.	“See you tonight.”
Uvidíme se v práci.	“See you at work.”
Uvidíme se ve škole.	“See you at school.”
Uvidíme se příště.	“See you next time.”
Uvidíme se příště?	“Will we see each other next time?”

All of these phrases are very neutral, and you can use them in both professional and informal settings with your friends.

Uvidíme se zítra! (“See you tomorrow!”)

4. At the Airport or Train Station: Farewell!

Watching people in airports is one of my favorite things to do. There’s something super-powerful in all of the hellos and goodbyes, the hugs, the tears of joy, the drama of parting couples…

What surprises me the most is that the men cry just as much as the women do.

Anyway. 

Here’s how to say goodbye in the Czech language when the parting’s difficult.

Czech	English
Šťastnou cestu.	“Safe travels.” (Literally: “Happy journey.”)
Dávej na sebe pozor.	“Take care.” (Literally: “Take care of yourself.”)
Hodně štěstí.	“Good luck.”

Again, all of these phrases are neutral. You can use them with your eighty-year-old boss and your new friend who’s a hippie and ignores all of the niceties and social rules.

5. Pleasantries (a.k.a How to be Sweet and Caring)

You know, all the little things we say before parting.

Do you need/want to leave before everyone else? Say:

• Musím už jít. (“I gotta go.”)

Are you in a hurry? Say:

• Musím letět. (“I gotta fly.”)
• Musím běžet. (“I gotta run.”)

Wanna sound nice? Say:

• Měj hezký den. (“Have a nice day.”)

Wanna sound nice and casual?

• Měj se! 
  • This is impossible to translate (literally, “have yourself”). It’s a variation of “Have a good one!”

Do you want to see them again? Say:

• Ozvi se. (“Keep in touch.”)
  • You can probably guess that this is not something you’d say in formal settings, hence the informal speech.

Do you THINK you might want to see the person again, but you’re not sure yet? Say:

• Ozvu se. (“I’ll keep in touch.”)

Do you REALLY want to see them again? Say:

• Musíme to někdy zopakovat. (“We must do this again.”)

6. Professional Settings

The corporate world has its own rules, and unless you’re a freelancer, you’ll probably look for a job some day. If that’s the case, you might hear or say one or more of these phrases at your interview:

• Děkuji za váš čas. (“Thank you for your time.”)
• Ozveme se vám. (“We will get in touch.”)
• Budeme v kontaktu. (“We will keep in touch.”)

Ozveme se vám. (“We will get in touch.”)

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

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

What can you find here?

• English-to-Czech translation and pronunciation tips/tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes

Sign up now—it’s free!

One last thing: Let us know in the comments if this article helped you. Is there anything else you want to know about saying bye in Czech, what to do, and how to get prepared? Let’s get in touch, and we’ll do our best to help!

It doesn’t matter why you’re learning Czech: Do you want to be able to order a schnitzel in a restaurant, or are you planning to write your first novel in this beautiful Slavic language? We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explain the specifics of the Czech sentence structure, and show you how to memorize and work with its patterns. 

It might seem quite confusing at first because the Czech word order is entirely different than that in English—let’s say it’s more relaxed and the rules are VERY flexible.

Maybe you’re thinking: “Oh, whatever. Everyone knows what I’m saying as long as I’m using the correct words, right?”

No, my friend, I’m sorry. We’re not mind-readers, and you could get us seriously confused and worried if you told us your homework ate your dog. The good news is that a complete Czech sentence might contain just one single word (a verb). Or it could have a couple of words. That means less work for you. Also, the word order is very loose and flexible (no, I’m not suggesting you can get away with anything, but…).

In this guide, you’re going to learn everything you need to know about the Czech sentence structure. Let’s get into it!

Table of Contents

1. Overview of Word Order in Czech
2. Czech Word Order with Prepositional Phrases
3. Czech Word Order with Modifiers
4. How to Change a Sentence into a Yes-or-No Question
5. Czech Word Order: Translation Exercise
6. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. Overview of Word Order in Czech

1- Declarative sentences: Subject-Verb-Object

Although the Czech word order rules are very loose and flexible (thanks to declension and conjugation), the basic Czech sentence structure follows SVO, a.k.a who is doing what. 

However, you always want to avoid sentences that allow for more interpretations, of course.

• The only rule you should always follow: the subject ALWAYS precedes the verb. 

This is an example of a Subject – Verb – Object sentence:

Sebastian mluví Česky. (“Sebastian speaks Czech.”)

Subject: The Doer

• a noun or pronoun (personal pronouns are usually omitted)
• who or what performs the action
• occurs before the verb in a sentence

Verb: The Action

• describes an action or occurrence, or indicates a state of being
• placed after the noun

Object: The Meaning

• a noun or pronoun
• affected by the action of a verb
• completes the meaning of a sentence

Before you continue, you may find it useful to watch CzechClass101’s video about the most-used Czech nouns. 

Make sure you check out this list of the most useful Czech pronouns and 50 most common Czech verbs as well.

Remember:

• The most important info goes last (a.k.a. save the best for last).
• Declarative sentences end with a period.

2- What if it looks like there is NO subject in the sentence?

Miluju hranolky. (“I love french fries.”)

That awkward moment when you’re about to devour a plate of deep-fried salty goodness and your friend ruins it for you by making a grammar mistake! Maybe you’ll even scream:

Já miluju hranolky! (“I love french fries!”)

Well…

Remember:

• In Czech language word order, personal pronouns are used way less often than in English.
• Personal pronouns are mostly used for emphasis (já, or “I,” is seldom used).
• You don’t need pronouns to determine gender in the sentence.

Therefore, if the sentence starts with a verb and ends with a period, it’s absolutely correct. This list of Czech sentence patterns will help you better understand the basics. 

2. Czech Word Order with Prepositional Phrases

Prepositional phrases in Czech sentences indicate time, place, or manner. In other words, where, when, or how things happened. 

They can either be placed at the beginning or the end of a complex Czech sentence structure. Remember, the most important part of the sentence always goes last.

• If you want to emphasize where, when, or how things happened, place it at the end of a sentence.

• In a Czech sentence, you need to indicate time first, then place, and lastly, manner.

Word order in a Czech sentence:

1. Subject
2. Preposition of time
3. Preposition of place
4. Verb
5. Object
6. Preposition of manner

1- Prepositions of Time

Here’s an example of a neutral declarative sentence (you’re simply stating a fact):

[Já] Po večeři jím jablko. (“After dinner, I eat an apple.”)

Now, let’s look at an example with an emphasized prepositional phrase:

[Já] Jím jablko po večeři, ne ráno. (“I eat an apple after dinner, not in the morning.”)

2- Prepositions of Place

Here’s a simple declarative sentence:

[Já] Po večeři jím v kuchyni jablko. (“After dinner, I eat an apple in the kitchen.”)

If you want to emphasize the place—you eat the apple in the kitchen (not in the bedroom)—put the prepositional phrase at the end:

Po večeři jím jablko v kuchyni. (“After dinner, I eat an apple in the kitchen.”)

3- Prepositions of Manner

Prepositional phrases that indicate how something happened or is done usually go last, and they’re placed after the verb—just like in English!

Já plavu pomalu. (“I swim slowly.”)

(Ty) Vypadáš nádherně. (“You look gorgeous.”)

(Ona) Vešla s úsměvem. (“She came in smiling.”)

4- A combination of all three prepositions in one sentence

This is where things get a little complicated—just remember that the Czech word order is very loose, and you can get away with pretty much anything.

Here are the general rules for using more prepositions in one sentence:

• The preposition of time is always placed at the beginning of the sentence.
• Time and manner usually precede the place,

Unless:

• You want to emphasize how something happened, rather than when and where it happened.
• The preposition of manner can be placed before or after the verb.

Example of a neutral declarative sentence:

Po večeři jím pomalu v kuchyni jablko. (“After dinner, I slowly eat an apple in the kitchen.”)

Po večeři pomalu jím v kuchyni jablko. (“After dinner, I slowly eat an apple in the kitchen.”)

3. Czech Word Order with Modifiers

Modifiers are optional elements that clarify, qualify, or limit a particular word in a sentence. Pretty easy, right?

• Modifiers emphasize, limit, qualify, or explain.
• They’re always placed before the noun (subject or object) they refer to.

There are four types of modifiers in the Czech language:

1 – Descriptive words

These are adjectives and adverbs that hold the reader’s attention and add “spark” to the sentence.

• They precede the noun they refer to.

Example without modifiers:

K obědu jsem měl polévku. (“I had soup for lunch.”)

With modifiers:

K obědu jsem měl vynikající tomatovou polévku. (“I had a delicious tomato soup for lunch.”)

See the difference?

2 – Determiners 

These are placed in front of a noun to identify things.

The Czech language doesn’t use articles, and nouns are determined by pronouns.

• Remember that declension applies to determiners.
• Tohle (“this”), toto (“this”), and tamto (“that”) can be used for feminine, masculine, and neutral (it doesn’t indicate gender).
• Determiners are mostly used to add emphasis and are often used in place of the definite article.

Singular

Masculine/Feminine/Neuter Determiner	Example SVO
Ten/Ta/To (“The”)	Mám rád ten nový byt. (“I like the new apartment.”) Obléknu si tu novou blůzu. (“I’m going to wear the new blouse.”) To nové auto vypadá úžasně. (“The new car looks awesome.”)
Tento/Tato/Toto (“This”)	Tento svetr není můj. (“This isn’t my sweater.”) Tato žena mi zachránila život. (“This woman saved my life.”) Toto jídlo mi nechutná. (“I don’t like this food.”)
Tenhle/Tahle/Tohle (“This”)	Tenhle kluk se mi líbí! (“I like this boy!”) Tahle sklenice je rozbitá. (“This glass is broken.”) Tohle je moje manželka. (“This is my wife.”)
Tamten/Tamta/Tamto (“That”)	Tamten kluk je můj bratr. (“That boy is my brother.”) Tamta vysoká holka je moje sestra. (“That tall girl is my sister.”) Tamto sedadlo vzadu je volné. (“That seat in the back is free.”)
Takový/Taková/Takové (“Such”/”This kind of”)	Takový přístup zvyšuje účinnost. (“Such an approach enhances the effectiveness.”) Taková krása je vzácná. (“This kind of beauty is rare.”) Takové krásné dítě by mělo být slavné. (“Such a beautiful child should be famous.”)

Plural

Masculine/Feminine/Neuter Determiner	Example SVO
Ti/Ty/Ta (“The”)	Ti noví kluci se mi líbí. (“I like the new boys.”) Vezmu si ty nové náušnice. (“I’m going to wear the new earrings.”) Ta nová auta vypadají úžasně. (“The new cars look awesome.”)
Tito/Tyto/Tato (“Those”)	Tito kluci jsou moji spolužáci. (“Those boys are my classmates.”) Tyto ženy mi zachránily život. (“Those women saved my life.”) Tato sedadla jsou obsazená. (“Those seats are occupied.”)
Tihle/Tyhle/Tahle (“Those”)	Tihle kluci se mi líbí! (“I like these boys!”) Tyhle sklenice jsou rozbité. (“These glasses are broken.”) Tahle štěňata jsou moc roztomilá. (“These puppies are very cute.”)
Tamti/Tamty/Tamta (“Those”)	Tamti kluci jsou moji bratři. (“Those boys are my brothers.”) Tamty vysoké holky jsou moje sestry. (“Those tall girls are my sisters.”) Tamta sedadlo vzadu jsou volná. (“Those seats in the back are free.”)
Takoví/Takové/Taková (“Such”/”This kind of”)	Takoví muži se nežení. (“Such men don’t marry.”) Takové ženy nevaří. (“This kind of woman can’t cook.”) Takové krásné děti by měly být slavné. (“Such beautiful children should be famous.”)

Exceptions:

• For plural masculine objects (i.e. NOT live people or animals), always use the feminine determiners.

Example:

Ten hrad je obrovský. –> Tyto hrady jsou obrovské. (“This castle is huge. –> These castles are huge.”)

3 – Numerals 

A numeral is a figure or symbol (or a group of figures or symbols) that denote a number.

• After the number 1, use the nominative singular form.
• After the numbers 2, 3, and 4, use the nominative plural.
• After the number 5 (and after the indefinite numerals)—málo (“a little”), moc (“a lot”), několik (“some”)—use the genitive plural.

• The counted object is declined along with the numeral.
• The number is always placed before the noun it refers to.

Examples:

• Zbývala jen jedna učebnice. (“There was only one textbook left.”)
• Mají čtyři děti. (“They have four kids.”)
• Snědl dva sendviče. (“He ate two sandwiches.”)

The suffixes “-st,” “-nd,” and “-rd” are indicated by a period in the Czech language.

English	Czech
1st	1.
2nd	2.
3rd	3.
4th	4.

However, all numbers below 10 are always spelled out. Check out our lesson on counting from 1-100 in Czech! 

4 – Possessors 

There’s a number of feminine, masculine, and neuter possessors in the Czech language. 

• Possessors are always placed before the noun they’re referring to.
• Masculine and neuter possessors are the same.
• In plural masculine for objects (NOT live people or animals), always use the plural feminine.
• The singular and plural for feminine and masculine (+ neuter) are the same.

However, Czech doesn’t use possessors as much as English does.

For example, we don’t say: Bolí mě moje hlava. (“My head hurts.”)

We’d simply omit the pronoun. Therefore, the possessors are mostly used for emphasis.

Possessors – Singular Masculine (+ Neuter)/Feminine	Examples
Můj/Moje (“My”)	Můj pes je černý. (“My dog is black.”) Moje kočka je bílá. (“My cat is white.”)
Tvůj/Tvoje (“Your”)	Tvůj pes je černý. (“Your dog is black.”) Tvoje kočka je bílá. (“Your cat is white.”)
Jeho/Její (“His”/”Her”)	Jeho pes je černý. (“His dog is black.”) Její kočka je bílá. (“Her cat is white.”)
Náš/Naše (“Our”)	Náš pes je černý. (“Our dog is black.”) Naše kočka je bílá. (“Our cat is white.”)
Váš/Vaše (“Your”)	Váš pes je černý. (“Your dog is black.”) Vaše kočka je bílá. (“Your cat is white.”)
Jejich (“Their”)	Jejich pes je černý. (“Their dog is black.”) Jejich kočka je bílá. (“Their cat is white.”)

Possessors – Plural Masculine (+ Neuter)/Feminine	Examples
Moji/Moje (“My”)	Moji psi jsou černí. (“My dogs are black.”) Moje kočky jsou bílé. (“My cats are white.”)
Tvoji/Tvoje (“Your”)	Tvoji psi jsou černí. (“Your dogs are black.”) Tvoje kočky jsou bílé. (“Your cats are white.”)
Jeho/Její (“His”/”Her”)	Jeho psi jsou černí. (“His dogs are black.”) Její kočky jsou bílé. (“Her cats are white.”)
Naši/Naše (“Our”)	Naši psi jsou černí. (“Our dogs are black.”) Naše kočky jsou bílé. (“Our cats are white.”)
Vaši/Vaše (“Your”)	Vaši psi jsou černí. (“Your dogs are black.”) Vaše kočky jsou bílé. (“Your cats are white.”)
Jejich (“Their”)	Jejich psi jsou černí. (“Their dogs are black.”) Naše kočky jsou bílé. (“Their cats are white.”)

4. How to Change a Sentence into a Yes-or-No Question

Okay, this is the easy part of Czech language word order. Let’s take a simple declarative sentence that follows the Subject – Verb – Object  order.

 Sebastian mluví Česky. (“Sebastian speaks Czech.”) [SVO]

• To make this sentence a question, put the verb first. 

Mluví Sebastian Česky? (Does Sebastian speak Czech?) [VSO]

• In Czech questions, the verb is always the first word of the sentence.

Again, the sentence structure in Czech is flexible and you’ll often see SVO questions.

When in doubt:

• As long as there’s a question mark at the end, it’s a question.

5. Czech Word Order: Translation Exercise

Let’s practice forming Czech sentences!

1. “We speak Czech.” – _________________

2. “We speak Czech slowly.” – _________________

3. “We speak Czech slowly with her.” – _________________

4. “We speak with her in the kitchen.” – _________________

5. “After dinner, we speak with her in the kitchen.” – _________________

6. “We never speak with her in the kitchen.” – _________________

7. “Do you speak with her in the kitchen?” – _________________

Answers:

1. “We speak Czech.” (Mluvíme česky.)
2. “We speak Czech slowly.” (Mluvíme pomalu česky./Pomalu mluvíme česky.)
3. “We speak Czech slowly with her.” (Mluvíme s ní česky pomalu. / Pomalu s ní mluvíme česky.)
4. “We speak with her in the kitchen.” (Mluvíme s ní v kuchyni.)
5. “After dinner, we speak with her in the kitchen.” (Po večeři s ní mluvíme v kuchyni.)
6. “We never speak with her in the kitchen.” (Nikdy s ní nemluvíme v kuchyni./V kuchyni s ní nikdy nemluvíme.)
7. “Do you speak with her in the kitchen?” (Mluvíš/mluvíte s ní v kuchyni?)

You might want to take a look at this Painless Czech Grammar video. It’ll help you understand the basic rules and nuances of word order in Czech and other major grammar points.

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

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun.

What can you find there?

• English-to-Czech translation and pronunciation tips & tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes

Sign up now. It’s free!

But before you go and create your account, let us know in the comments if this article helped you! Is there anything you still don’t quite understand about Czech word order? We’ll do our best to help you out!

Dobré slovo i železná vrata otvírá. (“A nice word can open even an iron gate.”)

However, there are a few things you might want to avoid when complimenting a native Czech…in Czech.

First and foremost: We are very reserved and generally not good with compliments. We don’t know how to accept them, and we don’t compliment often (this is especially true of older people who would rather bite their tongue).

And guess what: that actually makes Czech compliments even more powerful. Just don’t be surprised when you get a blank look or an “Oh, this? This dress is actually really old, I found it in the dumpster and I don’t like it at all.”

My dear friend V. gained 70+ pounds during her pregnancy, and it took her a long time to start shedding the extra weight. At that time, I was away for over a month, and when I got back to the Czech Republic, she looked like a different person.

I started jumping around, screaming: “Oh my God, look at you, you look so freaking awesome!”

She looked at me and said: “Guess how many people have mentioned that. Just you.”

Czech people (again, this is true mostly of older people—communism wasn’t particularly healthy for one’s self-esteem) often take other people’s success as their own failure. Don’t be surprised if nobody blinks when you present them with your hand-made tiara made of gold you mined yourself in Alaska.

Let’s look at how to give iron-gate-opening compliments in Czech.

Table of Contents

1. You’re Beautiful!
2. Great Job!
3. You’re the Master of Czech Compliments: Social Skills
4. How to Make Your Compliments Sound More Sincere
5. How to Respond When Someone Pays You a Compliment
6. Are You Flirting with Me?
7. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. You’re Beautiful!

Complimenting someone’s looks seems to be reserved for women and flirting, and if you’re a guy, you probably won’t hear “Your hair looks good today, are you using a new shampoo?”

Czech men aren’t the most considerate gentlemen, and complimenting someone’s looks isn’t all that common (unless you’re flirting). However, if someone does tell you that you have the most beautiful eyes they’ve ever seen, they mean it.

The most common compliments in Czech include:

Jsi krásná. [feminine]	“You’re beautiful.”
Jsi krásný. [masculine]	“You’re handsome.”
Dneska máš super vlasy.	“Your hair looks great today.”
Moc ti to sluší.	“You look great.”
Máš krásný úsměv. [feminine + masculine]	“Your smile is beautiful.”
Jsi moc zajímavá. [feminine]	“You’re really interesting.”
Jsi moc zajímavý. [masculine]	“You’re really interesting.”

1- Examples of the most commonly used adjectives (feminine / masculine / neuter):

• Krásná / Krásný / Krásné (“Beautiful”)
• Nádherná / Nádherný / Nádherné (“Gorgeous”)
• Skvělá / Skvělý / Skvělé (“Great”)
• Výborná / Výborný / Výborné (“Excellent”)
• Milá / Milý / Milé (“Nice” or “Sweet”)
• Roztomilá / Roztomilý / Roztomilé (“Cute”)
• Fantastická / Fantastický / Fantastické (“Fantastic”)

You’re welcome to get more creative, of course.

You’ll find a guide on how to use Czech adjectives and a list of personality-describing adjectives on CzechClass101.com.

Want more? Watch the video below to learn the 100 adjectives every Czech beginner must know.

→ You can simply say “I love” or “I like” when complimenting someone’s looks or clothes.

Líbí se mi tvoje boty!	“I like your shoes!”
Miluju tvoje vlasy!	“I love your hair!”
Moc se mi líbí tvůj styl!	“I really like your style!”

2. Great Job!

Offering Czech compliments on professional success is a little more common, and people will appreciate your recognition—whether they just landed a huge deal or baked the world’s most perfect bread. However, your Czech colleagues or friends might respond with something like: “That was nothing.” Don’t take it personally, please.

That’s just how we roll.

Here are the most common work-related compliments in Czech:

Dobrá práce!	“Good job!”
Skvělá práce!	“Great job!”
To se ti vážně povedlo!	“You did really good!”
Gratuluju!	“Congratulations!”

3. You’re the Master of Czech Compliments: Social Skills

Social skills (and complimenting them in others) are the secret weapon of every successful person. You might be a genius scientist or an heir to the world’s biggest empire, but if you don’t know how to talk to people, it’ll be much harder for you to live up to your full potential.

If you’re looking for inspiration, I suggest you czech out How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. I promise this book will change your outlook on human interaction, and it’ll help you deal with seemingly hard situations.

But you don’t always want to be complimenting someone’s glossy hair or major business deals, right?

These are the most common Czech compliments you might want to use at parties, family gatherings…or when you just want to win friends:

Mluvíš jako rodilý mluvčí!	“You speak like a native!”
Moc si vážím tvé pomoci.	“I really appreciate your help.”
Jsi vážně moc milá/milý. [feminine / masculine]	“You’re really kind.”
Moc jsi mi pomohl/a.	“You helped me a lot.”

1- Complimenting on Food

This, my friend, is the most useful list of compliments in Czech.

Czech people love talking about food and movies (and other people).

When complimenting on food:

• Vynikající. (“Delicious.”)
• Chutné. (“Tasty.”)
• Výborné. (“Great.”)
• Velmi dobré. (“Very good.”)

Tohle jídlo je opravdu vynikající.	“This is a very delicious meal.”
Tohle je opravdu moc dobrý koláč.	“This is a very good pie.”
Tohle kuře je vynikající.	“This chicken is delicious!”
To je výborná polévka!	“This is a great soup.”
Vypadá to skvěle!	“It looks fantastic!”
Nádherně to voní.	“It smells great.”

You might also want to check out this guide on Speaking Perfect Czech at a Restaurant.

2- Sentence Structure

→ When complimenting on a skill, the simplest sentence structure is:

1. Adjective
2. Conjugated verb

Example:

• Skvěle vaříš. (“You cook great.”)
• Nádherně kreslíš. (“You draw beautifully.”)
• Krásně zpíváš. (“You sing beautifully.”)

→ When complimenting on a trait, you’ll follow the SVO sentence structure:

1. Personal pronoun
2. Conjugated verb
3. Adjective

Example (feminine/masculine):

• Ty jsi vtipná/vtipný. (“You are funny.”)
• Ty jsi klidná/klidný. (“You are calm.”)
• Ty jsi statečná/statečný. (“You are brave.”)

This list of the 50 most-used Czech verbs might be helpful when getting ready to be the start of the party!

5. How to Make Your Compliments Sound More Sincere

Let’s just go over how to avoid giving empty and fake compliments: Be honest, shower your companion with sincere appraisal, but don’t overdo it.

Here’s how to compliment someone in Czech:

• Be honest. If there’s nothing to compliment, keep your mouth shut.
• Look them in the eyes.
• Be ready for a rather cold response.

Oh yes, Czechs love to demean themselves, and you’ll often hear something like this:

• To nic nebylo. (“That was nothing.”)
• Nemyslím si, ale díky. (“I don’t think so, but thanks.”)
• Ty jsi lepší. (“You are better.”)
• Tohle? To je hodně staré. (“This? This is very old.”)

6. How to Respond When Someone Pays You a Compliment

1- Thank them.

Please don’t deny the appraisal; Czech people don’t compliment often, and when they do, they mean it!

• Děkuju! (“Thank you!”)
• Díky! (“Thanks!”)
• Moc děkuju! (“Thank you very much!”)
• Vážím si toho. (“I appreciate it.”)
• Prosím. (“You’re welcome.”) [to be used after receiving a “Thank you.”]
• Moc to pro mě znamená. (“It means a lot to me.”)

2- Return the favor.

Responding with another compliment in Czech is a great way to make people feel good about themselves (which will make them like you).

• Ty také! (“You too!”)
• Já taky děkuju! (“Thank you too!”)

Example:

Compliment	Response
Máš moc hezké šaty. “You have a very nice dress.”	Děkuju, ty také! “Thank you, you too!”
Moc jsi mi pomohl, díky. “You helped me a lot, thank you.”	Ty mně také! “You helped me too!”

7. Are You Flirting with Me?

There’s a very thin (and blurry) line between being nice and hitting on someone.

→ Being the “cold” and “distant” people that we are, some folks might take your compliments the wrong way.

Complimenting someone’s looks (eyes, smile, or even a perfume) is very personal, and many people might find it inappropriate.

Just to illustrate this:

My mom told me she’s flirting with her English teacher. I was genuinely impressed and asked what’s been going on. She said: “I texted him and wished him a happy birthday.”

That’s it.

I don’t mean to scare you, of course. Saying “You are beautiful,” in Czech sounds lovely to most people (an accent is always cute, isn’t it?); however, it would be best for you to stick with less-personal compliments and focus on their achievements:

• “This is a wonderful pie!” (To je vynikající koláč!)

Or skills:

• “Your handwriting is gorgeous.” (Tvoje písmo je nádherné.)

→ Don’t get too personal too soon.
→ Complimenting someone’s looks might be intimidating and feel just “too much.”

1- How to Compliment a Czech Girl

Czech chicks are used to hearing cheesy compliments, or no compliments at all.

So, pretty much any nice thing you say will be met with great enthusiasm and appreciation.

Save the personal compliments for later and try to enchant her with your amazing observation skills. Be unique: mention her voice, her achievements, her green shoelaces…anything but her eyes or figure.

Feel free to use our list of 15 compliments everyone wants to hear! Happy complimenting!

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

CzechClass101.com will make learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun.

What can you find there?

• English-to-Czech translation and pronunciation tips & tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes

Sign up now; it’s free!

But before you go and create your account, let us know in the comments if this article helped you! Are there any compliments in Czech you still want to learn? We’ll do our best to help you out!

Anger is a natural response to pain of some sort; when you’re angry, you’re angry with a cause and want someone to pay! It’s so much harder when you’re traveling, because your routines are off-kilter, there’s culture shock to deal with and the smallest problems can seem overwhelming. How do you handle someone who’s just pushed your last button?

At home, we often have a go-to person who is good at calming us down, but emotions are tricky to deal with in a foreign country. Sometimes people may treat you unfairly, but you’re completely baffled as to why. You have to remember that people in Czech Republic think differently to how you do and it’s not impossible to inadvertently cause offense. Don’t stress about it too much, because you’ll adapt! Once you feel at home in Czech Republic and people get to know you, it will be easy to flow with the local rhythm and handle tensions well.

This brings us to two obvious reasons why you should learn some angry phrases in Czech: first, so you can understand when you’ve upset a Czech person, and second, to have the vocabulary to tell a person off when they absolutely have it coming. Not only will you be far more likely to solve the problem if you know some appropriate angry Czech phrases, but you’ll probably earn some respect, too! At CzechClass101 we’re ready to help you articulate those feelings.

Table of Contents

1. Czech phrases to use when you’re angry
2. Feeling negative in Czech
3. Conclusion

1. Czech phrases to use when you’re angry

Okay, so you’ve had a very frustrating day at your new teaching job in Czech Republic and all you want to do is chill on your bed with ice-cream and a Nook Book, but you come home to find your landlord in your apartment, apparently doing an inspection of your personal possessions. How do you handle it? Do you have an angry Czech translation for “What the heck are you doing?”

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about confronting someone in their own country, it’s to press the pause button on my reactions and think first! Is my first thought worth expressing? Sometimes, you need to think like a chess player: if I make this move, what will happen next?

It’s always better to think ‘win-win’ in Czech Republic. A good tactic is to keep a mental note of your personal speed limit before engaging. After all, you want a positive outcome!

So, do you know how to say “I am angry” in Czech? You will – CzechClass101 is about to teach you how to get mad! Here are fifteen great angry phrases in Czech.

1- It’s none of your business. – To není tvoje věc.

As a foreigner in Czech Republic, you’ll be a topic of interest. While most folks understand boundaries, there’s always that one individual who doesn’t!

Sometimes you feel that a person is getting way too involved in your affairs, and this expression is a commonly-used one for letting them know that. If said calmly and firmly, while looking them in the eye, it should do the trick and even earn you some respect.

2- I’m upset. – Jsem naštvaná.

I find this phrase useful for times when I need to express annoyance to someone I can’t afford to lose my temper with. A boss, for instance. As long as you say it without yelling, this can be a polite way of letting someone know that you are feeling bad and that you want those feelings validated. No matter what has happened, the result is that you are troubled and need some time to get over it. Depending on how you say it, “I’m upset” can also be a subtle invitation for the other party to address the problem.

3- You’re not listening to me. – Ty mě neposloucháš.

Isn’t this the most frustrating thing? You’re in a situation where you’re telling someone why you’re mad at them, but they just won’t look at the story from your point of view. Rather than resort to bad language, try to convince them to take a breather and hear you out. This expression is a great way to ask someone to stop talking and to listen to you properly.

4- Watch your mouth. – Pozor na pusu.

Where have you heard this before? Let your mind go back to all the times you were cheeky and disrespectful in your youth… that’s right – it was your parents! If you’re on the receiving end, this angry phrase means that you said something you shouldn’t have. It has an authoritative, challenging tone and it implies that there could be consequences if you don’t stop.

So, when can you use it? Well, be careful with this one; it may very well get you in trouble if not used with caution. It can also be seen as very rude if used on anyone you don’t actually have authority over!

5- That’s enough. – To stačí.

Depending on your tone of voice when you say this, you could be calmly telling someone to stop doing what they’re doing, or you could be sternly ordering them to stop. In Czech, as in English, tone is key when it comes to making yourself understood. Just don’t be saying this to anyone, as it carries an authoritative tone and would be seen as rude if said to an older person.

6- Stop it. – Přestaň.

One of the more common imperatives in any language, this is a basic way to warn somebody that you don’t like what they’re doing and want them to stop. You can use it in most situations where a person is getting under your skin. Often, “Stop it” precedes some of the weightier phrases one resorts to if the offender doesn’t stop and anger escalates. For this reason, I always add a “Please” and hope for the best!

7- Cut it out. – Zkrať to.

I think parents and teachers everywhere, throughout time, have heard variations of this expression of annoyance for as long as we’ve had tweens and teens on Earth! It’s a go-to command, thrown about frequently between siblings and peers, to stop being irritating. You’d generally use this on people you consider your relative equals – even though in the moment, you probably consider them low enough to stomp on!

8- What the heck are you doing? – Co to sakra děláš?

Here’s an interjection for those instances when you can scarcely believe what you’re seeing. It denotes incredulity ranging from mild disbelief to total disgust or dismay. You would typically use this when you want an action to stop immediately, because it’s wrong – at least, in your perception of things.

It may be worth remembering that the English word “heck” doesn’t have a direct translation in Czech – or in other languages, for that matter; most translations are more accurately saying “What the hell.” We say “heck” in English as a euphemism, but that word is thought to come from “hex” – an ancient word for “spell” – so I don’t know which is better!

9- Who do you think you are? – Kdo si myslíš že jsi?

I avoid this expression as it makes me nervous! It’s quite confrontational. I’m reminded of the time a clerk in a busy cellular network service store was being rude to me and a rich-looking man came to my rescue, aiming this phrase at the clerk loudly and repeatedly. At first, I was relieved to have someone on my side, but I quickly grew embarrassed at the scene he was causing.

Using this phrase has a tendency to make you sound like you feel superior, so take it easy. The irony, of course, is that someone who provokes this response is taking a position of authority or privilege that they aren’t entitled to! Now you look like two bears having a stand-off.

They call this an ‘ad hominem’ argument, meaning the focus has shifted from attacking the problem, to attacking the person. So, is it a good phrase to use? That’s up to you. If you’re in the moment and someone’s attitude needs adjusting – go for it!

10- What?! – Co?!

An expression of disbelief, this is frequently said mid-argument, in a heated tone, and it means you cannot believe what you’re hearing. In other words, it conveys the message that the other person is talking nonsense or lying.

11- I don’t want to talk to you. – Nechci s tebou mluvit.

This is a great bit of vocab for a traveler – especially for a woman traveling solo. Whether you’re being harassed while trying to read your Kindle on the train, or hit on by a drunk man in a bar, chances are that sooner or later, you will encounter a character you don’t wish to speak to.

The most straightforward way to make the message clear is to simply tell them, “I don’t want to talk to you”. If you feel threatened, be calm and use your body language: stand straight, look them in the eye and say the words firmly. Then move away deliberately. Hopefully, they will leave you alone. I’d go so far as to say learn this phrase off-by-heart and practice your pronunciation until you can say it like a strong modern Czech woman!

12- Are you kidding me? – Děláš si ze mě srandu?

To be ‘kidding’ means to joke with someone in a childlike way and it’s used both in fun and in anger. Like some other expressions, it needs context for the mood to be clear, but it pretty much conveys annoyed disbelief. You can use it when a person says or does something unpleasantly surprising, or that seems unlikely to be serious or true. It’s a rhetorical question, of course; try to familiarize yourself with how it sounds in Czech, so next time it’s aimed at you, you don’t hunt your inner Czech lexicon for an answer!

13- This is so frustrating. – Je to tak frustrující.

Another way of showing someone you have an intense battle going on inside, is to just tell them you’re terribly frustrated and feeling desperate to find a solution. Use this expression! It can be a useful tool to bring the other person into your headspace and maybe even evoke some degree of empathy from them. More polite than many others, it’s a sentence that seems to say, “I beg you to work with me so we can resolve this!”

14- Shut up. – Drž hubu.

The use of the phrase “shut up” to signify “hold one’s tongue” dates back to the sixteenth century and was even used by Shakespeare as an insult – with various creative twists! It’s been evolving ever since and there are variations in just about every language – proving that no matter where you come from, angry emotions are universal!

One example of old usage is a poem Rudyard Kipling wrote in 1892, where a seasoned military veteran says to the troops: “Now all you recruities what’s drafted to-day, You shut up your rag-box an’ ‘ark to my lay.”

Well, when I was twelve and full of spirit, I was taught that nice girls don’t say this. “Shut up” is an imperative that’s considered impolite; it’s one of those expressions people resort to when they either can’t think of better words to use, or simply can’t bear to listen to any more nonsense. Either way, it’s at the lower end of the smart argument scale. Like all angry phrases, though, it does have its uses!

15- So what? – No a co?

When you don’t believe the other person’s defense argument legitimizes or justifies their actions, you might say these words. Basically, you’re telling them they need to come up with better logic!

Another time you could use this one, is when you simply don’t care for someone’s criticism of you. Perhaps you don’t agree with them, or they’re being unfair and you need to defend your position. “So what?” tells them you feel somewhat indignant and don’t believe you’re in the wrong.

2. Feeling negative in Czech

What was the most recent negative emotion you felt? Were you nervous about an exam? Exhausted and homesick from lack of sleep? Maybe you felt frightened and confused about the impact COVID-19 would have on your travel plans. If you’re human, you have days when you just want the whole world to leave you alone – and that’s okay!

When you’re feeling blue, there’s only so much body language can do. Rather than keeping people guessing why you’re in a bad mood, just tell them! Your Czech friends and colleagues will be much more likely to give you your space (or a hug) if they know what’s wrong. Not only that, but it’s nice to give new friends the opportunity to be supportive. Bring on the bonding!

The fastest way to learn to describe negative feelings in Czech Republic, is to get into the habit of identifying your own mood daily in Czech. Here’s an easy way: in your travel journal, simply write down the Czech word for how you feel each morning. You can get all the words directly from us at CzechClass101. Remember, also, that we have a huge online community if you need a friend to talk to. We’ve got you!

3. Conclusion

Now that you know how to express your bad feelings in Czech, why not check out some other cool things on our site? You can sign up for the amazing free lifetime account – it’s a great place to start learning!

And really – make the most of your alone time. After all, it’s been proven that learning a new language not only benefits cognitive abilities like intelligence and memory, but it also slows down the brain’s aging. So, on those days when you just need to be away from people, we have some brain-boosting suggestions that will lift your spirits:

• Have you heard of Roku? A Roku player is a device that lets you easily enjoy streaming, which means accessing entertainment via the internet on your TV. We have over 30 languages you can learn with Innovative Language TV. Lie back and enjoy!
• If you like your Apple devices, we have over 690 iPhone and iPad apps in over 40 languages – did you know that? The Visual Dictionary Pro, for example, is super fun and makes learning vocab easy. For Android lovers, we have over 100 apps on the Android market, too.
• You can also just kick back on the couch and close your eyes, letting your headphones do the work with our audiobooks – great for learning the culture while you master the language. Similarly, if you’re more of a reader, we have some fantastic iBooks that are super interesting and fun for practicing your daily conversation skills.

Whatever your learning style (or your mood), you’ll find something that appeals to you at CzechClass101. Come join us!

What is the most defining moment you will face this year? From memories that you immortalize in a million photographs, to days you never wish to remember, one thing’s for certain: big life events change you. The great poet, Bukowski, said, “We are here to laugh at the odds and live our lives so well, that death will tremble to take us.” The older I get, the more I agree with him!

Talking about significant events in our lives is part of every person’s journey, regardless of creed or culture. If you’re planning to stay in Czech Republic for more than a quick visit, you’re sure to need at least a few ‘life events’ phrases that you can use. After all, many of these are shared experiences, and it’s generally expected that we will show up with good manners and warm wishes.

Table of Contents

1. Life Events
2. Marriage Proposal Lines
3. Talking About Age
4. Conclusion

1. Life Events

Do you know how to say “Happy New Year” in Czech? Well, the New Year is a pretty big deal that the whole world is in on! We celebrate until midnight, make mindful resolutions, and fill the night sky with the same happy words in hundreds of languages. No doubt, then, that you’ll want to know how to say it like a local!

Big life events are not all about fun times, though. Real life happens even when you’re traveling, and certain terminology will be very helpful to know. From talking about your new job to wishing your neighbors “Merry Christmas” in Czech, here at CzechClass101, we’ve put together just the right vocabulary and phrases for you.

1- Birthday – narozeniny

If you’re like me, any excuse to bring out a pen and scribble a note is a good one. When there’s a birthday, even better: hello, handwriting!

Your Czech friend will love hearing you wish them a “Happy birthday” in Czech, but how much more will they appreciate a thoughtful written message? Whether you write it on their Facebook wall or buy a cute card, your effort in Czech is sure to get them smiling! Write it like this:

Všechno nejlepší

Now that you know the words, I challenge you to put them to music and sing your own “Happy birthday” song in Czech! It’s not impossible to figure out even more lyrics, once you start discovering the language from scratch.

2- Buy – nakupovat

If there’s a special occasion, you might want to buy somebody a gift. As long as you’ve checked out Czech etiquette on gift-giving (do a Google search for this!), it will be a lovely gesture. If you’re not sure what to buy, how about the awesome and universally-appealing gift of language? That’s a gift that won’t stop giving!

3- Retire – odejít do důchodu

If you’re planning to expand your mind and retire in Czech Republic, you can use this word to tell people why you seem to be on a perpetual vacation!

Retirement is also a great time to learn a new language, don’t you think? And you don’t have to do it alone! These days it’s possible to connect to a vibrant learning community at the click of a button. The added benefit of a Daily Dose of Language is that it keeps your brain cells alive and curious about the world. After all, it’s never too late to realize those long-ignored dreams of traveling the globe…

4- Graduation – promoce

When attending a graduation ceremony in Czech Republic, be prepared for a lot of formal language! It will be a great opportunity to listen carefully and see if you can pick up differences from the everyday Czech you hear.

5- Promotion – povýšení

Next to vacation time, receiving a promotion is the one career highlight almost everyone looks forward to. And why wouldn’t you? Sure, it means more responsibility, but it also means more money and benefits and – the part I love most – a change of scenery! Even something as simple as looking out a new office window would boost my mood.

6- Anniversary – výročí

Some anniversaries we anticipate with excitement, others with apprehension. They are days marking significant events in our lives that can be shared with just one person, or with a whole nation. Whether it’s a special day for you and a loved one, or for someone else you know, this word is crucial to know if you want to wish them a happy anniversary in Czech.

7- Funeral – pohřeb

We tend to be uncomfortable talking about funerals in the west, but it’s an important conversation for families to have. Around the world, there are many different customs and rituals for saying goodbye to deceased loved ones – some vastly different to our own. When traveling in Czech Republic, if you happen to find yourself the unwitting observer of a funeral, take a quiet moment to appreciate the cultural ethos; even this can be an enriching experience for you.

8- Travel – cestovat

Travel – my favorite thing to do! Everything about the experience is thrilling and the best cure for boredom, depression, and uncertainty about your future. You will surely be forever changed, fellow traveler! But you already know this, don’t you? Well, now that you’re on the road to total Czech immersion, I hope you’ve downloaded our IOS apps and have your Nook Book handy to keep yourself entertained on those long bus rides.

9- Graduate – promovat

If you have yet to graduate from university, will you be job-hunting in Czech Republic afterward? Forward-looking companies sometimes recruit talented students who are still in their final year. Of course, you could also do your final year abroad as an international student – an amazing experience if you’d love to be intellectually challenged and make a rainbow of foreign friends!

10- Wedding – svatba

One of the most-loved traditions that humans have thought up, which you’ll encounter anywhere in the world, is a wedding. With all that romance in the air and months spent on preparations, a wedding is typically a feel-good affair. Two people pledge their eternal love to each other, ladies cry, single men look around for potential partners, and everybody has a happy day of merrymaking.

Ah, but how diverse we are in our expression of love! You will find more wedding traditions around the world than you can possibly imagine. From reciting love quotes to marrying a tree, the options leave no excuse to be boring!

11- Move – stěhovat se

I love Czech Republic, but I’m a nomad and tend to move around a lot, even within one country. What are the biggest emotions you typically feel when moving house? The experts say moving is a highly stressful event, but I think that depends on the circumstances. Transitional periods in our lives are physically and mentally demanding, but changing your environment is also an exciting adventure that promises new tomorrows!

12- Be born – narodit se

I was not born in 1993, nor was I born in Asia. I was born in the same year as Aishwarya Rai, Akon, and Monica Lewinsky, and on the same continent as Freddy Mercury. When and where were you born? More importantly – can you say it in Czech?

13- Get a job – najít práci

The thought of looking for a job in a new country can be daunting, but English speakers are in great demand in Czech Republic – you just have to do some research, make a few friends and get out there! Also, arming yourself with a few Czech introductions that you can both say and write will give you a confidence boost. For example, can you write your name in Czech?

14- Die – zemřít

Death is a universal experience and the final curtain on all other life events. How important is it, then, to fully live before we die? If all you have is a passport, a bucket list, and a willingness to learn some lingo, you can manifest those dreams!

15- Home – domov

If home is where the heart is, then my home is on a jungle island completely surrounded by the turquoise ocean. Right now, though, home is an isolation room with a view of half a dry palm tree and a tangle of telephone wires.

If you’re traveling to Czech Republic for an extended stay, you’ll soon be moving into a new home quite unlike anything you’ve experienced before!

16- Job – zaměstnání

What job do you do? Does it allow you much time for travel, or for working on this fascinating language that has (so rightfully) grabbed your attention? Whatever your job, you are no doubt contributing to society in a unique way. If you’re doing what you love, you’re already on the road to your dream. If not, just remember that every single task is one more skill to add to your arsenal. With that attitude, your dream job is coming!

17- Birth – narození

Random question: do you know the birth rate of Czech Republic?

If you’re lucky enough to be invited to see a friend’s baby just after they are born, you’ll have all my respect and all my envy. There is nothing cuter! Depending on which part of the country you’re in, you may find yourself bearing witness to some pretty unexpected birth customs. Enjoy this privilege!

18- Engaged – zasnoubit se

EE Cummings said, “Lovers alone wear sunlight,” and I think that’s most true at the moment she says “yes.” Getting engaged is something young girls dream of with stars in their eyes, and it truly is a magical experience – from the proposal, to wearing an engagement ring, to the big reveal!

In the world of Instagram, there’s no end to the antics as imaginative couples try more and more outrageous ways to share their engagement with the world. I love an airport flashmob, myself, but I’d rather be proposed to on a secluded beach – salt, sand, and all!

Engagement customs around the world vary greatly, and Czech Republic is no exception when it comes to interesting traditions. Learning their unique romantic ways will inspire you for when your turn comes.

Speaking of romance, do you know how to say “Happy Valentine’s Day” in Czech?

19- Marry – brát se

The one you marry will be the gem on a shore full of pebbles. They will be the one who truly mirrors your affection, shares your visions for the future, and wants all of you – the good, the bad and the inexplicable.

From thinking up a one-of-a-kind wedding, to having children, to growing old together, finding a twin flame to share life with is quite an accomplishment! Speaking of which…

2. Marriage Proposal Lines

Ah, that heart-stopping moment when your true love gets down on one knee to ask for your hand in marriage, breathlessly hoping that you’ll say “Yes!” If you haven’t experienced that – well, it feels pretty darn good, is all I can say! If you’re the one doing the asking, though, you’ve probably had weeks of insomnia agonizing over the perfect time, location and words to use.

How much more care should be taken if your love is from a different culture to yours? Well, by now you know her so well, that most of it should be easy to figure out. As long as you’ve considered her personal commitment to tradition, all you really need is a few words from the heart. Are you brave enough to say them in Czech?

3. Talking About Age

Part of the wonder of learning a new language is having the ability to strike up simple conversations with strangers. Asking about age in this context feels natural, as your intention is to practice friendly phrases – just be mindful of their point of view!

When I was 22, I loved being asked my age. Nowadays, if someone asks, I say, “Well, I’ve just started my fifth cat life.” Let them ponder that for a while.

In Czech Republic, it’s generally not desirable to ask an older woman her age for no good reason, but chatting about age with your peers is perfectly normal. Besides, you have to mention your birthday if you want to be thrown a birthday party!

4. Conclusion

Well, there you have it! With so many great new Czech phrases to wish people with, can you think of someone who has a big event coming up? If you want to get even more creative, CzechClass101 has much to inspire you with – come and check it out! Here’s just some of what we have on offer at CzechClass101:

• Free Resources: Sharing is caring, and for this reason, we share many free resources with our students. For instance, start learning Czech with our basic online course by creating a lifetime account – for free! Also get free daily and iTunes lessons, free eBooks, free mobile apps, and free access to our blog and online community. Or how about free Vocabulary Lists? The Czech dictionary is for exclusive use by our students, also for free. There’s so much to love about CzechClass101…!
• Innovative Learning Tools and Apps: We make it our priority to offer you the best learning tools! These include apps for iPhone, iPad, Android and Mac OSX; eBooks for Kindle, Nook, and iPad; audiobooks; Roku TV and so many more. This means that we took diverse lifestyles into account when we developed our courses, so you can learn anywhere, anytime on a device of your choice. How innovative!
• Live Hosts and One-on-One Learning: Knowledgeable, energetic hosts present recorded video lessons, and are available for live teaching experiences if you upgrade. This means that in the videos, you get to watch them pronounce those tongue-twisters, as if you’re learning live! Add octane to your learning by upgrading to Premium Plus, and learn two times faster. You can have your very own Czech teacher always with you, ensuring that you learn what you need, when you need to – what a wonderful opportunity to master a new language in record time!
• Start Where You Are: You don’t know a single Czech word? Not to worry, we’ve absolutely got this. Simply enroll in our Absolute Beginner Pathway and start speaking from Lesson 1! As your learning progresses, you can enroll in other pathways to match your Czech level, at your own pace, in your own time, in your own place!

Learning a new language can only enrich your life, and could even open doors towards great opportunities! So don’t wonder if you’ll regret enrolling in CzechClass101. It’s the most fun, easy way to learn Czech.

In the Czech Republic, Epiphany (sometimes referred to as Three Kings Day), is a major Christian holiday with many fun traditions. From swimming in the Vltava River in Prague to watching men travel by camel for charity, Epiphany traditions in the Czech Republic are really something else!

In this article, you’ll learn more about how Czechs celebrate Epiphany as well as the stories behind the holiday.

At CzechClass101.com, we hope to make every aspect of your language-learning journey both fun and informative—starting with this article!

Are you ready? Let’s get started.

1. What is Epiphany?

Epiphany is a very old holiday. According to the Orthodox Church, this is the day Jesus Christ was baptized in the River Jordan. Thus the holiday is also called “Baptism of the Lord.”

According to Christianity, at the baptism of Jesus Christ, the secret of the Holy Trinity appeared—the Son Jesus Christ in human form, the Holy Spirit as a dove alighting upon Jesus, and the Divine Voice of the Heavenly Father.

Some Christians also celebrate Epiphany as the day the Tři Králové, or “Magi,” visited the Baby Jesus with their gifts. Thus, in the Czech Republic, Epiphany has become largely associated with charity and giving to those less fortunate.

2. Epiphany Date

Each year, the Czech Republic celebrates Epiphany on January 6.

3. How Do Czechs Celebrate Epiphany?

A popular Epiphany celebration in the Czech Republic is the traditional Three Kings swimming. Several men who feel up to the challenge go for a freezing-cold swim in the Vltava River, carried deep into the waters by boat.

Later on in the day, Prague marks Epiphany with three men dressed as the Magi proceeding on camels through Malostranské Square to the Old Town Square. This is meant to be a reenactment of the wise men’s journey to the Baby Jesus; once this is complete, the Půlnoční mše, or “midnight mass,” begins.

Children greatly enjoy celebrating Epiphany. Dressed as the Magi, they go from door-to-door and sing each person a koleda, or “carol,” in hopes of getting candies and Christmas cookies. Some children choose to ask for money to give to charity. After the house has been visited, the letters K, M, and B are written on it. It’s disputed whether these letters represent the first initials of each of the wise men, or if they’re taken from the Latin phrase “Christus mansionem benedicat.”

Like on most festive occasions, Czechs love to eat on Epiphany. A few favorite foods include carp (kapr), potato salad (bramborový salát), and of course, children are always glad when they receive a Christmas cookie (Cukroví) or two!

4. Bad Luck?

There are some people who believe that leaving the Christmas tree decorations up after Epiphany is a bad idea. Superstition says that doing so is just asking for bad luck!

So, on Epiphany, people who haven’t yet put away every single ozdoba, or “Christmas tree decoration,” may take some time to do that before the real festivities begin.

If you want to read a little bit more about this superstition around the world, check out this article by The Telegraph!

5. Must-Know Czech Vocabulary for Epiphany

Ready to review some of the vocabulary we covered in this article? Here’s the essential Czech vocabulary you should know for Epiphany!

• Svíčka — “Candle”
• Kapr — “Carp”
• Půlnoční mše — “Midnight mas”
• Koleda — “Carol”
• Zlaté prasátko — “Golden pig”
• Bramborový salát — “Potato salad”
• Ježíšek — “Jesus”
• Zjevení Páně — “Epiphany”
• Ozdoba — “Christmas tree decoration“
• Prskavka — “Sparkler”
• Cukroví — “Christmas cookie”
• Stromeček — “Christmas tree”
• Tři Králové — “Magi”
• Betlém — “Christmas Crib”

To hear each of these vocabulary words pronounced, and to read them alongside relevant images, be sure to check out our Czech Epiphany vocabulary list!

Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning about Epiphany in the Czech Republic with us!

Do you celebrate Epiphany in your country? If so, how? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re interested in learning more about Czech culture, or just want some more wintery words to get you through the next couple of months, you may find the following pages useful:

• Top 5 Things You Need to Know About Czech Pop Culture
• Top 5 Things You Need to Know About Czech Society
• What’s Your Favorite Czech Food?
• Words for Winter Snow Days
• How Will You Spend Your Winter Holiday?

Learning Czech doesn’t have to be boring or overwhelming—with CzechClass101.com, it can even be fun! If you’re serious about mastering the language, create your free lifetime account today.

Happy Czech learning! 🙂