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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Good morning, Mrs. Teacher: Czech Classroom Greetings
2. Czech Classroom Phrases and Questions
3. What?: Czech Classroom Phrases When Asking for Clarification
4. Dog Ate My Homework: Czech Classroom Phrases for Apologizing and Absence
5. Classroom Vocabulary in Czech: My Favorite Subject Is…
6. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

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

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

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

➢ Having said that, you always address your teachers with the formal tone, vy (“You” 2nd person  singular), just like in Spanish or French, for example.

➢ You address them pan or paní [title]––Mr. Or Mrs. [title], not their last name.

➢ [Male] Pan učitel/profesor (“Mr./Mrs. teacher/professor”)

➢ [Female] Paní učitelka/profesorka (“Mrs. teacher/professor”)

Here are a few examples:

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

Most Common Czech Classroom Greetings:

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

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

2. Czech Classroom Phrases and Questions

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

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

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

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

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

If needed, you will ask your classmates:

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

Czech Classroom Vocabulary––Supplies:

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

Czech Classroom Vocabulary––Places and Things:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

List of School Subjects in Czech:

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

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

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

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

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

What can you find in these awesome online Czech lessons?

• English to Czech translation and pronunciation tips/tricks
• Over 630 audio and video lessons
• Vocabulary learning tools
• Spaced repetition flashcards
• Detailed PDF lesson notes
• Czech for foreigners––the better way

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

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

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

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

Why? 

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

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

Table of Contents

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

1. Pets – Mazlíčci

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

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

English	Czech
Cat	Kočka
Kitten	Kotě / Koťátko
Dog	Pes
Puppy	Štěně / Štěňátko
Hamster	Křeček
Guinea pig	Morče
Rat	Potkan
Mouse	Myš
Spider	Pavouk
Tarantula	Sklípkan
Chameleon	Chameleon
Parakeet	Andulka
Cockatiel	Korela
Parrot	Papoušek
Gerbil	Pískomil
Bunny	Králík / Králíček
Degu	Osmák degu
Fish	Rybička (literally: “tiny fish”)
Aquarium	Akvárium
Goldfish	Zlatá rybička
Tortoise	Želva
Turtle	Vodní želva
Snake	Had

Cats and dogs are the most common Czech pets.

2. On the Farm – Domácí zvířata

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

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

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

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

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

English	Czech
Cow	Kráva
Calf	Tele / Telátko
Goat	Koza
Kid	Kůzle
Pig	Prase
Piglet	Sele / Selátko
Rabbit	Králík
Duck	Kachna
Duckling	Káčátko
Goose	Husa
Gosling	House / Housátko
Horse	Kůň
Stallion	Hřebec
Mare	Kobyla
Foal	Hříbě / Hříbátko
Pony	Poník
Donkey	Osel
Sheep	Ovce
Ram	Beran
Lamb	Jehně / Jehňátko
Hen (Chicken)	Slepice
Rooster	Kohout
Chick	Kuře
Pigeon	Holub

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

Sheep are quite common farm animals in the Czech Republic.

3. Wild Animals – Divoká zvířata

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

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

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

English	Czech
Tiger	Tygr
Tigress	Tygřice
Lion	Lev
Lioness	Lvice
Lion cub	Lvíče
Elephant	Slon
Monkey	Opice
Gorilla	Gorila
Hippopotamus	Hroch
Rhinoceros	Nosorožec
Giraffe	Žirafa
Antelope	Antilopa
Penguin	Tučňák
Polar bear	Lední medvěd (literally: “ice bear”)
Fox	Liška
Wolf	Vlk
Bear	Medvěd
Wild boar	Divoké prase (literally: “wild pig”)
Deer	Jelen
Hare	Zajíc
Squirrel	Veverka
Beaver	Bobr
Weasel	Lasička
Otter	Vydra

Wolves in the Czech Republic are endangered.

4. Aquatic / Marine Animals – Sladkovodní a mořské ryby

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

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

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

English	Czech
Fish	Ryba
Freshwater fish	Sladkovodní ryba (literally: “sweetwater fish”)
Deep-sea fish	Mořská ryba
Salmon	Losos
Lobster	Humr
Shrimp	Kreveta
Seahorse	Mořský koník
Shark	Žralok
Dolphin	Delfín
Whale	Velryba
Orca	Kosatka
Pike	Štika
Catfish	Sumec
Carp	Kapr
Trout	Pstruh
Mackerel	Makrela
Starfish	Mořská hvězdice
Shellfish	Mušle
Oyster	Ústřice
Roe	Jikry

5. Bugs and Insects – Hmyz

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

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

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

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

English	Czech
Bug	Brouk
Spider	Pavouk
Bee	Včela
Bumblebee	Čmelák
Wasp	Vosa
Ladybug	Beruška
Fly	Moucha
Firefly	Světluška
Moth	Můra
Butterfly	Motýl
Mosquito	Komár
Ant	Mravenec
Flea	Blecha
Cockroach	Šváb

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

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

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

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

English	Czech
Bird	Pták
Reptile	Plaz
Lizard	Ještěr
Swan	Labuť
Hummingbird	Kolibřík
Seagull	Racek
Dove	Hrdlička
Pigeon	Holub
Crow	Vrána
Raven	Krkavec
Eagle	Orel
Hawk	Sokol
Buzzard	Káně
Stork	Čáp
Peacock	Páv
Owl	Sova
Sparrow	Vrabec
Blackbird	Kos
Frog	Žába
Toad	Ropucha
Snail	Hlemýžď (terminus technicus) / Šnek (a colloquial word that most people use when talking about these slimy creatures with “a house”—domeček, which literally means “tiny house”)
Slug	Slimák
Crocodile	Krokodýl
Alligator	Aligátor

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

7. Talking About Animals

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

Animal Body Parts

English	Czech
Beak	Zobák
Tail	Ocas
Horn	Roh
Antlers	Parohy
Fur	Srst
Feathers	Peří
Hooves	Kopyta
Mane	Hříva
Claws	Drápy

Animal-related Verbs

English	Czech
To scratch	Škrábat se
To bark	Štěkat
To meow	Mňoukat
To sing (chirp)	Zpívat
To bite	Kousat / Štípat
To peck	Zobat / Klovat
To dig	Hrabat

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

8. Animal-Related Idioms and Slang Expressions

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

Here’s a list of the most common ones.

Mít motýlky v břiše – “To have butterflies in your stomach”

Mít mravence v noze. – When your arm/leg “falls asleep” (literally: “to have ants in your arm/leg”)

Hladový jako vlk – “Hungry like a wolf”

Volný jako pták – “Free like a bird”

Utahaný/unavený jako kotě – “Tired like a kitten”

Mokrý jako myš – “Wet as a mouse”

Jako zpráskaný pes – “Like a wounded dog” (used when someone is sad or defeated)

Rvát se jako koně – “To fight like horses”

Mazaný jako liška – “Sly as a fox”

Dva kohouti na jednom smetišti – “Two roosters at one junkyard” (two rivals fighting for power or a woman)

Dojná kráva – “Milking cow” (giving without receiving anything in return)

Pyšný jako páv – “Vain like a peacock”

Mlčet jako ryba – “Silent like a fish” (very quiet or secretive)

Tichý jako myška – “Quiet as a small mouse”

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

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

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

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

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

What can you find here?

• 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 what your favorite animal is! Do you remember its name in Czech?

Hello there, friend! How are you today? How has your day been? How long have you been studying Czech? Do you speak other languages? Do you speak English? 

You can probably tell that this article is all about the most common Czech questions and answers. I’m going to teach you some basic questions in Czech that may come up in pretty much any conversation, and how to answer them.

Why is this important? Well, learning these common phrases and questions will create a great base for your vocabulary and make any interaction in Czech a lot easier for you.

There’s more to it, of course. Asking the right question is an awesome way to start a conversation, learn new things, get where you want to be (geographically and spiritually), and learn Czech in a fun and interesting way.

So how do you say questions in Czech? What question words in Czech are the most used?

Let’s get into this.

Table of Contents

1. What is your name?
2. Do you speak Czech/English?
3. Where are you from? + Where do you live?
4. How long have you been studying Czech?
5. Have you been to the Czech Republic?
6. How are you?
7. Do you like Czech food?
8. What are you doing?
9. What’s wrong?
10. How much is it?
11. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. What is your name?

As Czech uses formal and informal speech, there are two ways to ask Czech questions, depending on the situation. Aside from that, it’s easy-peasy.

Questions:

• Jak se jmenuješ? (“How are you named?” = “What is your name?”)
  People your age; informal speech.

• Jak se jmenujete? (“How are you named?” = “What is your name?”)
  People older than you; formal speech (vykání).

Occasionally, you might hear this question as well:

• A ty jsi…? (“And you are…?”)
  Informal speech.

• A vy jste…? (“And you are…?”)
  Formal speech.

Answers:

• Já jsem Petra. (“I am Petra.”)
• Jmenuju se Petra. (“My name is Petra.”)

Both versions are interchangeable.

➢ If you want to introduce yourself like a native, check out this article on introducing yourself in the Czech Republic, and make sure you work on your vocabulary too with these 10 lines you need to introduce yourself in Czech.

Hi, my name is Petra!

2. Do you speak Czech/English?

Again, formal and informal speech differ for this question in Czech.

Questions:

• Mluvíš česky/anglicky? (“Do you speak Czech/English?”)
  Informal speech.

• Mluvíte česky/anglicky? (“Do you speak Czech/English?”)
  Formal speech.

• Umíš česky/anglicky? (“Can you [speak] Czech/English?”)
  Informal speech.

• Umíte česky/anglicky? (“Can you [speak] Czech/English?”)
  Formal speech.

Answers:

• Mluvím česky. (“I speak Czech.”)
• Mluvím anglicky. (“I speak English.”)
• Nemluvím česky. (“I don’t speak Czech.”)
• Nemluvím anglicky. (“I don’t speak English.”)

• Ano, trochu. (“Yes, a little.”)
• Ano, velmi dobře. (“Yes, very well.”)
• Ano, ale ne moc dobře. (“Yes, but not very well.”)
• Ano, docela dobře. (“Yes, quite well.”)
• Bohužel ne. (“Sorry, I don’t.”)

3. Where are you from? + Where do you live?

That’s the place I call home. Where are you from?

Questions:

• Odkud jsi? (“Where are you from?”)
  Informal speech.

• Odkud jste? (“Where are you from?”)
  Formal speech.

• Kde bydlíš? (“Where do you live?”)
  Informal speech.

• Kde bydlíte? (“Where do you live?”)
  Formal speech.

Answers:

• Jsem z České republiky. (“I am from the Czech Republic.”)
• Jsem z Prahy. (“I am from Prague.”)
• Bydlím v USA. (“I live in the U.S.”)
• Žiju v Praze. (“I live in Prague.”)

Dive deeper and read this lesson to get a grip on Czech phrases and questions related to this topic.

Of course, not everyone lives in the U.S. or the Czech Republic. Find your country and learn how to pronounce it in Czech on Wikipedia or our website! 

Getting ready for a convo about geography? This article is a must-read for ya!

4. How long have you been studying Czech?

This is the Czech question you should definitely expect to hear if you’ve gotten this far in the conversation! 

Questions:

• Jak dlouho se učíš česky? (“How long have you been studying Czech?”)
  Informal speech.

• Jak dlouho se učíte česky? (“How long have you been studying Czech?”)
  Formal speech.

• Učíš se česky už dlouho? (“Have you been studying Czech for a long time?”)
  Informal speech.

• Učíte se česky už dlouho? (“Have you been studying Czech for a long time?”)
  Formal speech.

Answers:

• Učím se česky rok. (“I have been studying Czech for a year.”)
• Učím se česky od minulého roku. (“I have been studying Czech since last year.”)
• Ano, učím se česky už dlouho. (“Yes, I have been studying Czech for a long time.”)
• Ne, neučím se česky dlouho. (“No, I haven’t been studying Czech for a long time.”)

5. Have you been to the Czech Republic?

This Czech question may come up during the conversation, especially if you say you’ve been learning the language for a while.

Questions:

• Byl/byla jsi někdy v České republice? (“Have you ever been to the Czech Republic?”)
  Informal speech; [masculine/feminine].

• Byl/byla jste někdy v České republice? (“Have you ever been to the Czech Republic?”)
  Formal speech; masculine/feminine.

• Jedeš do České republiky? (“Are you going to the Czech Republic?”)
  Informal speech.

• Jedete do České republiky? (“Are you going to the Czech Republic?”)
  Formal speech.

Answers:

• Zatím ne. (“Not yet.”)
• Rád/ráda bych se tam brzy podíval/podívala. (“I would like to visit soon.” – masculine/feminine)
• Ano, moc se mi tam líbilo. (“Yes, I liked it very much.”)
• Ano, ale vůbec se mi tam nelíbilo. (“Yes, but I didn’t like it at all.”)

6. How are you?

How have you been?

If you’ve made a new Czech friend, you may want to ask how they’re doing next time you see each other. Here are the most common ways to ask and answer this question in Czech.

Questions:

Informal speech:

• Jak se máš? (“How are you?”)
• Jak se ti vede? (“How are you doing?”)
• Jak se vede? (“How is it going?”)
• Jak se ti daří? (“How are you doing?”)
• Máš se dobře? (“Are you doing well?”)
• Co je nového? (“What’s new?”)

Formal speech:

• Jak se máte? (“How are you?”)
• Jak se vám vede? (“How are you doing?”)
• Jak se vám daří? (“How are you doing?”)
• Máte se dobře? (“Are you doing well?”)

Answers:

• Mám se dobře! (“I’m good!”)
• A vy/ty? (“And you?” – formal/informal)
• Daří se mi dobře, děkuji. (“I’m doing well.”)
• A tobě/vám? (“And you?” – formal/informal)
• Mám hodně práce. (“I am very busy.”)
• Nic se nezměnilo. (“Nothing has changed.”)
• Mám spoustu novinek! (“I have a lot of news!”)

➢ Keep in mind that it’s not common to use “How are you?” as a part of just any greeting, such as at the store or in a restaurant while placing an order. The waiters and sales assistants or cashiers would probably be genuinely surprised if you asked (not in a bad way, though).

7. Do you like Czech food?

Svíčková omáčka (beef with creamy sauce and dumplings) is one of the most popular Czech meals.

Questions:

• Máš rád/ráda české jídlo? (“Do you like Czech food?”)
  Masculine/Feminine; informal speech.

• Máte rád/ráda české jídlo? (“Do you like Czech food?”)
  Masculine/Feminine; formal speech.

• Chutná ti české jídlo? (“Do you like the taste of the Czech food?”)
  Informal speech.

• Chutná vám české jídlo? (“Do you like the taste of the Czech food?”)
  Formal speech.

• Jaké je tvoje nejoblíbenější české jídlo? (“What’s your favorite Czech food?”)
  Informal speech.

• Jaké je vaše nejoblíbenější české jídlo? (“What’s your favorite Czech food?”)

Answers:

• Ano, je velmi dobré. (“Yes, it’s very good.”)
• Ano, chutná skvěle. (“Yes, it tastes great.”)
• Ne, nechutná mi. (“No, I don’t like it.”)
• Ne, nemám. (“No, I don’t.”)
• Nejvíc mi chutná řízek. (“I like schnitzel the most.”)
• Česká kuchyně mi vůbec nechutná. (“I don’t like Czech cuisine at all.”)
• Miluju české jídlo! (“I love Czech food!”)

Have you been invited to lunch or dinner? Czech out this article and make sure you know how to ask for the food you want to eat!

8. What are you doing?

“What are you doing on Wednesday?”

Questions:

Informal speech:

• Co děláš ve středu? (“What are you doing on Wednesday?”)
• Co děláš? (“What are you doing?”)
• Proč to děláš? (“Why are you doing this?”)
• Co právě teď děláš? (“What are you doing right now?”)
• Děláš něco? (“Are you doing anything?”)
• Co budeš dělat? (“What are you going to do about it?”)

Formal speech:

• Co děláte ve středu? (“What are you doing on Wednesday?”)
• Co děláte? (“What are you doing?”)
• Proč to děláte? (“Why are you doing this?”)
• Co právě teď děláte? (“What are you doing right now?”)
• Děláte něco? (“Are you doing anything?”)
• Co budete dělat? (“What are you going to do about it?”)

Answers:

• Na středu mám plány. (“I have plans for Wednesday.”)
• Ve středu mám volno. (“I’m free on Wednesday.”)
• Nedělám nic. (“I’m not doing anything.”)
• Teď něco dělám. (“I’m busy right now.”)
• Nevím, co mám dělat. (“I don’t know what to do.”)
• Nevím, co s tím udělám. (“I don’t know what I’ll do about it.”)

9. What’s wrong?

Not all days are sunny, and you may want to express your concern for someone if they seem down. Here’s how to ask what happened in Czech.

Questions:

• Co se stalo? (“What happened?”)
• Stalo se něco? (“Has anything happened?”)
• Co se děje? (“What is going on?”)
• Jsi v pořádku? (“Are you okay?”)
  Informal speech.

• Jste v pořádku? (“Are you okay?”)
  Formal speech.

• Potřebuješ pomoc? (“Do you need help?”)
  Informal speech.

• Potřebujete pomoc? (“Do you need help?”)
  Formal speech.

Answers:

• Nic se nestalo. (“Nothing happened.”)
• Všechno je v pořádku. (“Everything is alright.”)
• Něco se stalo. (“Something happened.”)
• Potřebuju pomoc. (“I need help.”)
• Nepotřebuju pomoc. (“I don’t need help.”)
• Pomozte mi, prosím. (“Help me, please.”)

• Pomůžu ti. (“I’ll help you.”)
  Informal speech.

• Pomůžu vám. (“I’ll help you.”)
  Formal speech.

10. How much is it?

Which one is on sale?

When you go shopping and there’s no price tag, you’re going to have to ask someone about the price (unless you’re really, really rich or Buddhist).

Questions:

• Kolik to stojí? (“How much is it?”)
• Kolik tohle stojí? (“How much is this?”)
• Kolik stojí tamto? (“How much is that?”)
• Je to ve slevě? (“Is it on sale?”)
• Je to drahé? (“Is it expensive?”)
• Je to levné? (“Is it cheap?”)

Answers:

• Je to moc drahé. (“It’s too expensive.”)
• Je to levné. (“It’s cheap.”)
• Tohle je levnější. (“This is cheaper.”)
• Stojí to 500 korun. (“It’s 500 crowns.”)
• Je to ve slevě. (“It’s on sale.”)
• Není to ve slevě. (“It’s not on sale.”)

We can’t tell you how to handle money, but we can teach you to talk about it in Czech. Find related vocabulary and phrases on CzechClass101.com.

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 can 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. Oh, and what’s your secret tip that helped you learn how to ask questions in Czech? Is there anything you want to know about other common questions in Czech? We’ll do our best to help!

Taking a Czech language test or exam is a decision that might change your entire life.

Let’s get a bit touchy-feely and personal, shall we? 

My long story short: “Oh, maybe I want to be a translator or something, what do I do? Okay, apparently I need a certificate…when’s the next exam date? In a few weeks? Cool! Erm… How am I supposed to learn all this stuff in three weeks?” -> Daily panic attacks and lots of crying in the shower (figuratively speaking). -> Passed the exam. -> Works as a freelance translator and writer, currently sitting on a couch thousands of miles away from home, and writing an article on how to pass a Czech language test.

See? It’s doable, even if you don’t have the time (or money) for a specialized prep course.

A language exam is not as bad as it might seem. First of all, it’s just a Czech test. You’re not putting your pet’s life at risk, the world won’t stop spinning, your mom will love you no matter what, and there will be lots of new Marvel movies—no matter the result.

Of course, you want to pass. And maybe your ambitions are even higher. Maybe you want to ROCK! You don’t need a magic pill or superpowers. You just need to study, keep positive, and believe in yourself.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know for smooth sailing: Where to apply, how to prepare for the Czech Language Certificate Exam (CCE), and how to ace your test without losing faith in life.

Nail your CCE with CzechClass101!

Table of Contents

1. Who Should Take it and How to Apply
2. A Closer Look at the Czech Language Certificate Exam
3. Top 10 Tips for Preparing for Your Czech Language Test
4. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Prepare for Your Czech Language Certificate Exam

1. Who Should Take it and How to Apply

The Czech Language Certificate Exam (CCE) was developed by the Institute for Language and Preparatory Studies of Charles University in Prague. If you’re a non-EU citizen applying for a permanent residence, you’re going to have to go through this, friend. Thus, it’s sometimes called the “Czech citizenship test.”

To pass, your communication skills must reach the required B1 language proficiency level under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). 

You might want to consider getting the certificate even if you’re not after a permanent residence in the Czech Republic. Some employers might want to see proof of your language proficiency, too. Speaking from personal experience, Czech employers love certificates and diplomas the way that businesses in English-speaking countries adore references.

Last but not least: a CCE certificate might also help you with the university application process if you’re looking to study in the Czech Republic.

Not sure if you need to put yourself through this? Check out the Ministry of the Czech Republic website.

A- CCE Test Registration

Yay for modern technology! 

You can register online. Just fill out an application form on the ILPS CU website and submit.

It’s possible to take the CCE exam in the Czech Republic (Prague and Brno), and in more than fifteen other countries around the world. 

➢ You’ll need to enroll at least three weeks before the exam (or by the date set by the foreign examination center if you’re going to take the exam abroad).
➢ You’ll also need to pay the fee two weeks before your exam date.
➢ You can select your exam venue and date in the application form.

For a complete list of countries and fees, check out this section of the official website.

B- Exam Structure

The CCE exam tests your reading comprehension, listening comprehension, and writing skills. The oral part of the exam tests your speaking abilities.

The CCE exam has five parts:

1. Reading Comprehension 
2. Listening Comprehension
3. Grammar/Lexical Text
4. Writing
5. Speaking

You can find more info on the official website.

For the speaking part, you work in pairs. During the tests—you’re on your own, buddy.

C- Levels of Proficiency

The CCE has five levels of Czech proficiency, corresponding with those of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):

CCE–A1: Beginner. This exam tests your ability to understand and use basic expressions and phrases (you’re able to introduce yourself and interact in the Czech language at a slow pace).

CCE–A2: Lower-intermediate. At this level, you can understand more-complex sentences and frequently used expressions and phrases. You’re also able to communicate and describe things using simple terms.

CCE–B1: Intermediate level. You’re able to communicate, as well as describe events and experiences in Czech.

CCE–B2: Upper-intermediate. You’re a “confident Czech speaker.” You’re able to understand more-complex content related to your field and speak Czech without any huge effort or preparation.

CCE–C1: Advanced. Longer and complex interactions are a piece of cake for you. You’re able to use Czech for social, academic, or professional situations.

➢ The Czech CCE–B2 and CCE–C1 exams are recognized for demonstrating the language skills of individuals applying for employment in the Czech Republic.

➢ At each of the five proficiency levels, the Czech Language Certificate Exam tests candidates’ communicative proficiency with the criteria stated in the CEFR.

D- Results: Did I Pass?

The results for your CCE exam will be posted online within thirty days. The certificate will be mailed to you within seven weeks following your exam.

➢ In order to pass, you need to get a score of at least 60% overall AND at least 60% in each of the five parts.

2. A Closer Look at the Czech Language Certificate Exam

In the following sections, I’ll outline what you can expect to see in each part of this Czech language proficiency test. 

A- Introduction to the Listening Section

Proficiency	Time	Tasks
A1	20-25 minutes	4 tasks in totalMultiple-choiceMatching
A2	20-25 minutes	4 tasks in totalTrue/FalseMultiple-choiceMatching
B1	35-40 minutes	4 tasks in totalMatchingMultiple-choiceTrue/False
B2	40-45 minutes	4 tasks in totalMatchingMultiple-choiceTrue/False
C1	50-55 minutes	4 tasks in totalMatchingMultiple matchingMultiple-choiceTrue/False

➢ The audio is played twice.

Listening is often the most dreaded part of the Czech language test, and listening comprehension is considered the hardest skill to develop.

How can you be sure to pass this part of the test, then?

Practice active listening daily!

Nail It!

Before the Exam:

1. Prepare. People often recommend listening to or watching movies in your target language (with or without subtitles). However, passive listening isn’t enough, and it won’t get you anywhere. You need to LISTEN. Put a movie/podcast/YouTube video on, grab a piece of paper, and focus. Twenty minutes a day will make a huge difference.

2. Start with a topic that you’re interested in. This can be anything you like—watch make-up tutorials on YouTube if that’s your thing; watch fishing videos, cooking shows…you need to be engaged.

3. Start with audio/video that’s quite easy for you to understand. After a few days, move on to another level that’s a little bit above yours—this is very important. In order to make progress, you NEED to challenge yourself, regardless of whether you’re going to take the A1 or C1 Czech test level.

4. Another great option is talking to native speakers (I can’t recommend this enough).

5. Practice listening at slow, moderate, and fast speeds. Try this video for beginners (great for A1 and A2).

6. Write down words, phrases, and idioms you don’t understand and memorize them.

During the Exam:

1. Focus on the big picture and save details for later. Try to get a good grasp of the context and message the first time the audio is played. The second time, figure out the rest.

2. Be alert. Don’t forget that you can’t rewind.

3. Jot down notes. Write down the topic and core points (you can use your exam sheets for this).

B- Introduction to the Reading Section

Proficiency	Time	Tasks
A1	(+ Writing) 60 minutes	6 tasks in total (10-80 words)2 writing tasks (20 and 20-30 words)
A2	45 minutes	4 tasks in total (80-170 words)True/False and multiple-choice
B1	50 minutes	4 tasks in totalTrue/False
B2	50 minutes	4 tasks in totalTrue/FalseMatching
C1	60 minutes	4 tasks in totalTrue/FalseMatchingMultiple matching

Nail It!

Before the Exam:

1. Remember that this isn’t just about reading—it’s about comprehension. Don’t focus on individual words and literal meanings; try to find the core message and emotions.

2. Practice the timing. Your attention likely dwindles (or even disappears) after a certain amount of time. Try to push yourself by adding a couple of minutes every time you read.

3. Work on your vocabulary (I’m gonna say this a lot, for a good reason!). Write down words you don’t know, and memorize them. You can use our Vocab Builder.

4. Read articles, magazines, books, and subtitles. Try our Reading Lesson for Intermediate or Beginner Czech learners. We also have a great Reading Guide for ya.

During the Exam:

1. Read the text first. Focus.

2. After that, read the questions. 

3. If you get lost or confused, summarize what you’ve read so far. Skim through the text and look for the context.

4. For the A1 Czech language test, you should spend no more than 35 minutes on the reading. Then, move on to the writing part (25 minutes).

C- Introduction to the Writing Section

Proficiency	Time	Tasks
A1	Included in the Reading Comprehension part	–
A2	40 minutes	2 tasks
B1	60 minutes	2 tasks
B2	80 minutes	2 tasks
C1	90 minutes	2 tasks

Writing might be tricky for you. Trust me, at the time of my exam, I was a seasoned writer (with a degree in journalism), my English was okay, but the writing task was a pain for me. This is because I wasn’t used to writing by hand, and I didn’t spend enough time practicing.

Learn from my mistakes!

Nail It!

Before the Exam:

1. Practice the timing. This is very important, and I wish I hadn’t slacked on this. Find a topic, hit the Start button or your stopwatch, and get to work.

2. Read! This will help you get accustomed to various sentence structures, and improve your vocabulary and spelling.

3. Learn proper punctuation. The punctuation in Czech and English is very different. You don’t want to lose points on periods and commas, do you?

Start with simple, short pieces. When you feel comfortable enough, move up to more complex texts. We have a great guide on How to Write 1000 Czech Words in 5 Minutes a Day that will help you get started. Check it out:

During the Exam:

1. Read the instructions twice. I know way too many people who failed an exam just because they didn’t read (and follow) the guidelines.

2. Start with an outline.

3. Use as much vocabulary and grammar elements as you can. You want to show off—if you have it, flaunt it. But…

4. …if you get super-nervous, keep your pieces short and coherent.

5. Make sure you have enough time to review your work—five minutes should be enough. This is especially important if you’re taking the Czech B1 exam or higher.

D- Introduction to the Speaking Section

Proficiency	Time	Tasks
A1	5-8 minutes (per person)	2 tasksYour family, hobbies, where you’re fromAsking and giving information about institutions or events
A2	10-13 minutes (per pair)	2 tasksYour family, hobbies, where you’re fromAsking and giving information about institutions or events
B1	15-18 minutes (per pair)	3 tasksIntroduce yourself (2 minutes)The examiner asks questions (general topics, 3-4 minutes) + you’ll describe an imageThe candidates have to communicate and plan an event or trip
B2	18-21 minutes (per pair)	3 tasksIntroduce yourself (3 minutes)The examiner asks questions (general topics, 3-4 minutes) + you’ll describe an imageThe candidates have to communicate and plan an event or trip (3 minutes per candidate)
C1	23-27 minutes (per pair)	3 tasksDialogue on given sayings or quotes (the examiner asks questions, approx. 5 minutes per candidate)5-minute monologue (culture, sports, etc.)The candidates have to communicate and look for a solution to a situation (5-6 minutes per candidate)

This part will be easy and fun if you’re a talker! If you like to keep your mouth shut, practice even harder.

➢ You’ll be working in pairs, asking each other questions.

The topics usually include: 

• Work or school
• Where you learned Czech 
• How long you’ve been studying Czech
• Your hobbies
• Why you decided to study Czech
• How many languages you speak

Possible situations:

• Information about museums/galleries
• You’re at the hospital/restaurant/university/party/trip/etc.

Nail It!

Before the Exam:

1. Practice, practice, talk, talk, talk. Super-important. 

2. Practice the timing. Get an image and describe it. Prepare a short introduction including where you’re from, what you like to do, etc.

3. Practice asking questions.

4. Work on your pronunciation.

5. Check out our neat videos for conversation practice here and here.

During the Exam:

1. Talk. A lot. Do not stop talking—let the examiners stop you.

2. Use as much vocabulary and grammar elements as possible, especially if you’re taking the Czech B1 exam or higher.

3. Top 10 Tips for Preparing for Your Czech Language Test

1. Know your strengths and weaknesses. It doesn’t matter if you’ve spent years in the Czech Republic or just completed your first exercise at CzechClass101.com. Assess your skills and get clear on where you’re at.

2. Bring your strongest skills to the highest possible level. Do not slack off. Make sure you feel super-confident.

3. Work on your weaker points daily. Practice. Get out of your comfort zone, whatever that means for you. Strike up a conversation with a native speaker, learn ten new words a day, try reading magazine articles in Czech… Make progress.

4. Know the structure of the exam like the palm of your hand: the types of questions, topics, timing…gather as much info as you can.

5. Check past exam papers and materials. You need to get used to the format and patterns.

6. Buy textbooks prepared specifically for the exam candidates and use them.

7. Practice the tasks. Set a timer and try talking about specific topics mentioned in the textbooks and study materials. Read. Answer questions. Take a CCE mock test. Do this every single day.

8. Practice the timing and plan ahead. Figure out how much time you have to answer one question. You might need to save some time for a double-check—keep that in mind.

9. Learn from your mistakes. Seeing your most-frequent errors will help you see which skills you need to practice and develop the most.

10. For the sake of your Czech test results, try to get at least a tiny bit above your level of proficiency. Show off. Try to use as much vocabulary (including idioms) as possible. Practice daily! You need to get used to using new words and sentence structures.

Last but not least:

➢ Stay calm. If you get overly anxious, focus on your breathing for a few seconds. Think positive thoughts and don’t let any doubt creep in.

Good luck!

4. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Prepare for Your Czech Language Certificate Exam

In this guide, I did my best to help you understand the structure and requirements of the CCE.

CzechClass101.com is a modern, multi-device platform for Czech language-learners that makes learning Czech easy, exciting, and fun. Make sure you check out our video and audio lessons, and don’t forget to use our vocabulary learning tools!

What else can you find on our website?

• 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!

Before you go and create your account, let us know in the comments if you feel more prepared for your test now! Is there anything I haven’t covered that you still want to know?

Have you ever wondered how some people speak like seven languages? Maybe you even have a friend who starts ordering food in the local language within three days of your vacation. 

Yep, people like that exist—and you could be one of them. In this guide, we’ll introduce and explain the most common Czech sentence patterns. Learning Czech has never been this easy!

You probably know that Czech might be a little tricky to learn (All the conjugation and declension! Lawd!) and that sentence patterns in English and Czech have pretty much nothing in common. Let’s make things easy and forget about lengthy grammar explanations. By simply memorizing the most common Czech sentence structures and patterns, you’ll be able to create dozens of sentence combos and make conversation in Czech a million times easier.

Ready, steady, go!

Table of Contents

1. A is B
2. It Is
3. I Want
4. I Need to
5. I Like / I Love
6. Do You Really Love Me?
7. Asking Someone to Do Something
8. May I?
9. Asking for Information
10. Asking About Time
11. Asking About Location or Position
12. How CzechClass101.com Helps You Learn Czech in a Fun Way

1. A is B

Let’s start with the most used, and probably the most useful, Czech sentence structure. With this pattern, you can either say that a noun is also another noun, or describe a noun using an adjective. 

1- Using a Noun

► Noun/Pronoun (Nominative) – Verb (Conjugated) – Noun (Nominative).

Czech Sentence Pattern A is B	English Translation
Ema je moje přítelkyně.	“Ema is my girlfriend.”
Jonathan je můj kolega.	“Jonathan is my colleague.”
Tyhle hodinky byly dárek k narozeninám.	“This watch was a birthday present.”
Tahle dáma je moje babička.	“This lady is my grandma.”
Tohle je moje první novela.	“This is my first novel.”

2- Using an Adjective

► Noun/Pronoun – Verb – Adjective.

Czech Sentence Pattern A is B	English Translation
Jsi nádherná.	“You are gorgeous.” (feminine)
Tvoje máma je moc milá.	“Your mom is really sweet.” (feminine)
Jeho nový byt je obrovský.	“His new apartment is huge.” (masculine)
Náš pes je bílý.	“Our dog is white.” (masculine)
Tenhle úkol je obtížný.	“This task is difficult.” (masculine)

As you can see, it’s quite easy.

Remember: to speak Czech, you also need to work on your vocabulary. Czech out this video with 600 Words Every Czech Beginner Must Know, and then you might also need to review Czech grammar basics.

2. It Is

Sometimes, you don’t need a lot of words to express yourself (thank God!).

Here’s an easy Czech sentence pattern to describe actions or situations:

► Pronoun – Verb (Conjugated) – Adjective.

Czech Sentence Pattern It is / That is	English Translation
To je úžasné!	“That‘s awesome!”
Tohle je nádherné.	“This is wonderful.”
Je to vynikající.	“It’s delicious.”
Je moc brzo.	“It’s too soon.”
Je to vážně zvláštní.	“It’s really peculiar.”

You might also want to step up your Czech adjective game to make sure you’re not repeating the same phrases over and over again. (Although, no judgement, we all have our favorite words…it’s kind of like wearing just thirty percent of your wardrobe, isn’t it?)

Anyway! You might find this list of the fifty most common Czech adjectives very useful.

To je úžasné! (“This is awesome!”)

3. I Want

I want ice cream. I want to be the best version of myself. I want to speak Czech like a native. Let’s try, shall we?

Talking about what we want is fun AND important. Don’t slack off; keep reading, we’re almost there. Here’s how to make Czech sentences for expressing your wants:

► I want – Noun (Accusative)
► I want to – Verb (Infinitive)

There are two ways to describe that you want something.

1. Chci (“I want”) is more straightforward and reflexive.

2. Chtěl/a bych (“I would like to”) is more polite. It’s a modal verb in the past tense, followed by the word bych.

Here is the conjugation table for your convenience (you’re welcome).

Czech Sentence Pattern I want / I would like to	English Translation
Chci lepší práci.	“I want a better job.”
Chci dezert.	“I want a dessert.”
Chci být s tebou.	“I want to be with you.”
Chtěla bych se vdát.	“I would like to get married.”
Chtěl by se naučit česky.	“He would like to learn Czech.”

► Note: The nouns in this pattern are always in the accusative case. 

  4. I Need to

Okay, we really need to cover this one too. You need to be able to tell people what you need. You need to know how to do it. No worries; it’s easy.

In Czech, we usually use the verb potřebovat or muset (“to need” or “must”).

These two modal verbs can be followed by another verb in the infinitive (just in case you need help, here’s a great summary of Czech conjugation), or by a noun in the accusative.

► “I need to/I must” – Verb (Infinitive)
► “I need/I must” – Noun (Accusative)
► “I need” – Personal Pronoun (Accusative)

Czech Sentence Pattern I need / I need to / I must	English Translation
Musím odejít.	“I need to leave.”
Potřebuje se víc učit.	“He needs to study more.”
Musím čůrat.	“I need to pee.”
Potřebuju kafe.	“I need coffee.”
Potřebuju tě.	“I need you!”

Chci zmrzlinu! (“I want ice cream!”) 

5. I Like / I Love

The difference here is pretty obvious, right?

In Czech, we don’t usually use the word “love” too often. The verb milovat (“to love”) seems to be reserved for personal liaisons (or food), and Czechs like to like things. We use the verb mít rád (“like”) when we talk about things, and rád when we talk about activities or situations. Another alternative is to say líbí se mi (“I like”) when you talk about things you like, such as movies or clothes.

Any questions? Okay, let’s get this done. Here are a few ways to form sentences in Czech to express your likes:

► Rád / ráda (“I like to” / “I love to”) – Verb (Infinitive)
► Mám rád / ráda (“I like” / “I love”) – Noun (Accusative)
► Líbí se mi (“I like” / “I love”) – Noun/Pronoun (Accusative)
► Miluju (“I love”) + Noun/Personal Pronoun (Accusative)

Czech Sentence Pattern I like / I love	English Translation
Miluju jídlo.	“I love food.”
Mám ráda moji práci.	“I like my job.”
Miluju tě.	“I love you.”
Ráda běhám.	“I like to run.”
Líbí se mi tyto modré šaty.	“I like this blue dress.”

6. Do You Really Love Me?

When you’re talking about people, you should be careful with your choice of words—you want to avoid awkward situations, right?

► We don’t tell friends we love them. We always stick with mám tě rád/a (“I’m fond of you”).

There might be some exceptions, of course. For example—it’s two a.m. and you’ve had one too many drinks.

To like (appearance/approach)	To love (pretty self-explanatory)	To like (to be fond of)
Líbit se	Milovat	Mít rád
Petr se mi líbí, je moc sexy. “I like Petr, he’s very sexy.”	Miluju ho a chci si ho vzít. “I love him, and I want to marry him.”	Mám ráda Julii, je to moje nejlepší kamarádka. “I like Julie; she’s my best friend.”
Líbí se mi, je hezká. “I like her, she’s cute.”	On miluje svoje rodiče. “He loves his parents.”	Mám ho ráda a vážím si ho. “I am fond of him and I respect him.”

► If you’re curious about the word order in these sentences, we have an entire article about Czech Word Order. Czech it out! 

Miluju tě. (“I love you.”)

7. Asking Someone to Do Something

Please, read these lines carefully. This is important. If you want to ask someone to do something, it’s best to be polite and nice. Did I get your attention?

The key word here is prosím (“please”)—it goes at the very beginning or at the end of the sentence.

► Verb (Imperative) – Prosím.
► Prosím – Verb (Imperative).

Asking someone to do something in Czech	English Translation
Posaďte se, prosím.	“Take a seat, please.”
Prosím, počkejte zde.	“Please, wait here.”
Prosím, vyslechněte mě.	“Please, listen to me.”
Pomozte mi, prosím.	“Help me, please.”
Pojďte za mnou, prosím.	“Follow me, please.”

You might also want to take a look at this list of Czech key phrases.

8. May I?

Asking for permission in Czech is just as simple as it is in English:

► Můžu (“May I”) – Verb – (Noun) + Please?

When asking for permission, we use the verb “can.” We literally ask: “Can I?”

Again, don’t forget to add prosím (“please”) at the beginning or end of the sentence. In this case, it’s not mandatory, but if you want to be really sweet…

Czech Sentence Pattern May I?	English Translation
Můžu si sednout, prosím?	“May I take a seat, please?”
Můžu se vás zeptat?	“Can I ask you a question?”
Můžu dostat sklenici vody, prosím?	“May I have a glass of water, please?”
Můžu ti pomoci?	“Can I help you?”
Můžu se k nim přidat?	“May I join them?”

9. Asking for Information

There’s a good chance you’ll need to ask for information. This list of the Top Fifteen Czech Questions will make your conversations in Czech much easier.

Here’s how to form basic Czech sentences for asking information of someone:

► Co je (“What is”)

Czech Sentence Pattern What is…?	English Translation
Co je tohle?	“What is this?”
Co je to?	“What is it?”
Co je tamto?	“What is that?”

10. Asking About Time

You don’t want to be late, and most of the time, we have our phones on us to keep track of time.

Sometimes, our technology fails us (dead phone battery in the middle of a busy day), and we need to rely on good ol’ human interaction.

Here’s how to ask what time it is in Czech:

► Kdy? (“When?”)
► V kolik hodin? (“At what time?” / “What time?”)

Kolik je hodin? (“What time is it?”)

Czech Sentence Pattern When? / At what time?	English Translation
Kolik je hodin?	“What time is it?”
Jaký je dnes den?	“What day is it?”
Kdy máš narozeniny?	“When is your birthday?”
Kdy máme schůzku?	“What time is the meeting?”
V kolik hodin přijdeš?	“What time will you get back?”

This list of the top twenty-five Czech questions might come in handy as well.

11. Asking About Location or Position

Although we all know how to use Google Maps, you might end up getting lost in a tiny Czech village with no service. What would you do?

Ask for directions in perfect Czech, of course! Here’s how you would start a Czech phrase for this:

► Kde? (“Where?”)

Czech Sentence Pattern Where…?	English Translation
Kde jsou toalety?	“Where is the restroom?”
Kde ses narodil?	“Where were you born?”
Kde je výtah?	“Where is the elevator?”
Kde najdu víc informací?	“Where can I find more information?”

Well, that was easy, right? If you need more information, check out this list of the top ten Czech sentence patterns.

12. 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 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!

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 sentence structure and patterns? We’ll do our best to help you out!

You asked, so we provided—easy-to-follow instructions on how to set up your electronic devices to write in Czech! We’ll also give you a few excellent tips on how to use this keyboard, as well as some online and app alternatives if you prefer not to set up a Czech keyboard.

Table of Contents

1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Czech
2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Czech
3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer
4. How to Change the Language Settings to Czech on Your Computer
5. Activating the Czech Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet
6. How to Practice Typing Czech

1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Czech

Learning a new language is made so much easier when you’re able to read and write/type it. This way, you will:

• Get the most out of any dictionary and Czech language apps on your devices
• Expand your ability to find Czech websites and use the various search engines
• Be able to communicate much better online with your Czech teachers and friends, and look super cool in the process! 

2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Czech

It takes only a few steps to set up any of your devices to read and type in Czech. It’s super-easy on your mobile phone and tablet, and a simple process on your computer.

On your computer, you’ll first activate the onscreen keyboard to work with. You’ll only be using your mouse or touchpad/pointer for this keyboard. Then, you’ll need to change the language setting to Czech, so all text will appear in Czech. You could also opt to use online keyboards instead. Read on for the links!

On your mobile devices, it’s even easier—you only have to change the keyboard. We also provide a few alternatives in the form of online keyboards and downloadable apps.

3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer

1- Mac

1. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Check the option “Show Keyboard & Character Viewers in Menu Bar.”

3. You’ll see a new icon on the right side of the main bar; click on it and select “Show Keyboard Viewer.”

2- Windows

1. Go to Start > Settings > Easy Access > Keyboard.

2. Turn on the option for “Onscreen Keyboard.”

3- Add-ons of Extensions for Browsers

Instead of an online keyboard, you could also choose to download a Google extension to your browser for a language input tool. The Google Input Tools extension allows users to use input tools in Chrome web pages, for example.

4. How to Change the Language Settings to Czech on Your Computer

Now that you’re all set to work with an onscreen keyboard on your computer, it’s time to download the Czech language pack for your operating system of choice:

• Windows 8 (and higher)
• Windows 7
• Mac (OS X and higher)

1- Windows 8 (and higher)

1. Go to “Settings” > “Change PC Settings” > “Time & Language” > “Region & Language.”
2. Click on “Add a Language” and select “čeština – Czech.” This will add it to your list of languages. It will appear as Czech with the note “language pack available.”
3. Click on “čeština” > “Options” > “Download.” It will take a few minutes to download and install the language pack.

2- Windows 7

1. Go to “Start” > “Control Panel” > “Clock, Language, and Region.”
2. On the “Region and Language” option, click on “Change Keyboards or Other Input Methods.”
3. On the “Keyboards and Languages” tab, click on “Change Keyboards” > “Add” > “Czech.”
4. Expand the option of “Czech” and then expand the option “Keyboard.” Select the keyboard layout marked as “Czech.” You can ignore other keyboard layouts. Click “OK” and then “Apply.”

3- Mac (OS X and higher)

If you can’t see the language listed, please make sure to select the right option from System Preferences > Language and Region

1. From the Apple Menu (top left corner of the screen) go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Click the Input Sources tab and a list of available keyboards and input methods will appear.

3. Click on the plus button, select “Czech,” and add the “Czech – QWERTY” keyboard.

5. Activating the Czech Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet

Texting and searching in Czech will greatly help you master the language! Adding a Czech keyboard on your mobile phone and/or tablet is super-easy.

You could also opt to download an app instead of adding a keyboard. Read on for our suggestions.

Below are the instructions for both iOS and Android mobile phones and tablets.

1- iOS

1. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard.

2. Tap “Keyboards” and then “Add New Keyboard.”

3. Select “Czech” from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by tapping and holding on the icon to reveal the keyboard language menu.

2- Android

1. Go to Settings > General Management > Language and Input > On-screen Keyboard (or “Virtual Keyboard” on some devices) > Samsung Keyboard.

2. Tap “Language and Types” or “ + Select Input Languages” depending on the device and then “MANAGE INPUT LANGUAGES” if available.

3. Select “čeština” from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by swiping the space bar.

3- Applications for Mobile Phones

If you don’t want to add a keyboard on your mobile phone or tablet, this is a good app to consider:

• Gboard – The Google Keyboard

6. How to Practice Typing Czech

As you probably know by now, learning Czech is all about practice, practice, and more practice! Strengthen your Czech typing skills by writing comments on any of our lesson pages, and our teacher will answer. If you’re a CzechClass101 Premium PLUS member, you can directly text our teacher via the My Teacher app—use your Czech keyboard to do this!

Do you remember the moment you fell in love with languages?

Do you desire to learn or advance in Czech quickly and effectively?

Then you need a Czech tutor.

A common question that first-time language-learners ask is “Where do I begin?” The answer? Guidance.

For native English-speakers who want to learn Asian languages, for example, timelines provided by the U.S. Foreign Service Institute can appear discouraging. However, defeating these odds is not unheard of. If you want to beat the odds yourself, one of the best learning options is a subscription to Premium PLUS from Innovative Language.

As an active Premium PLUS member of JapanesePod101.com and KoreanClass101.com myself, I have an enjoyable experience learning at an accelerated pace with at least thirty minutes of study daily. The following Premium PLUS features contribute to my success:

• Access to thousands of lessons
• A voice recorder 
• Spaced-repetition system (SRS) flashcards
• Weekly homework assignments
• A personal language instructor

As someone who decided to make Japanese her second language one year ago, I am extremely grateful for Premium PLUS.

Allow me to emphasize on how these Premium PLUS features strengthen my language studies.

Gain Unlimited Access to Audio and Video Lessons!

As a Premium PLUS member, I have full access to the lesson library and other Premium features. Best of all, I’m not limited to one level; I can learn to my heart’s content with upper-level courses.

There are lessons on various topics that tackle crucial language-learning elements, such as:

• Reading
• Writing
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• Speaking
• Conversation

Specifically, there are pathways. Pathways are collections of lessons that center on a specific topic. Some Innovative Language sites, like JapanesePod101.com, even have pathways geared toward proficiency tests. For example, the JLPT N3 Master Course pathway.

Because of the abundance of lessons, I’ve found pathways in the lesson library to help me prepare for certain events. Thanks to the “Speaking Perfect Japanese at a Restaurant” pathway, I spoke fully in Japanese while dining in Japan. Additionally, I participated in conversations at language exchange meetups in South Korea after completing the “Top 25 Korean Questions You Need to Know” pathway.

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As someone who’s constantly on-the-go, I heavily benefit from mobile access to lessons. Podcasts and lesson notes are available on the Innovative Language app and/or Podcasts app for iOS.

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Practice Speaking with the Voice Recording Tool!

Pronunciation is an essential ingredient in language-learning. Proper pronunciation prompts clear understanding during conversations with native speakers.

Prior to learning full Korean sentences, my online Korean language tutor assigned the “Hana Hana Hangul” pathway to me. It demonstrated the writing and pronunciation of Hangul, the Korean alphabet. Throughout this pathway, I submitted recordings of my Hangul character pronunciations to my language teacher for review.

I was given a similar task on JapanesePod101.com with the “Ultimate Japanese Pronunciation Guide” pathway. My Japanese language teacher tested my pronunciation of the Japanese characters kana. My completion of the two pathways boosted my confidence in speaking.

Speaking is one of the more challenging components of learning a language. The voice recording tool in particular was a great way for me to improve my speaking skills. Further, because the lesson dialogues are spoken by native speakers, I’m able to practice speaking naturally.

This feature is also available for vocabulary words and sample sentences. Being able to hear these recordings improves my pronunciation skills for languages like Japanese, where intonation can change the meaning of a word entirely. The voice recorder examines my speed and tone. I also follow up by sending a recording to my online language tutor for feedback.

A great way to boost one’s speaking confidence is to shadow native speakers. During the vocabulary reviews, it’s helpful for me to hear the breakdown of each word; doing so makes a word that was originally difficult to even read a breeze to say!

Some lessons create opportunities to speak your own sentences. For example, the “Top 25 Korean Questions You Need to Know” pathway presents opportunities to answer questions personally. This helps you gain the ability to give answers as the unique individual you are.

Example Scenario:

The host asks the following question:

어디에 살고 있습니까?

eodieseo salgo isseumnikka

“Where do you live?”

If you live in Tokyo, you would readily say the following:

도쿄에 살고 있습니다.

Tokyo-e salgo isseumnida.

“I live in Tokyo.”

Increase Your Vocab with Spaced-Repetition Flashcards and More!

Imagine having a conversation with a native speaker and hesitating because you lack a solid vocabulary base.

Premium PLUS offers various features to expand learners’ vocabulary, including Free Gifts of the Month. CzechClass101’s free gifts for April 2020 included an e-book with “400 Everyday Phrases for Beginners,” and the content is updated every month. When I download free resources like this, I find opportunities to use them with co-teachers, friends, or my language tutors.

An effective way to learn vocabulary is with SRS flashcards. SRS is a system designed for learning a new word and reviewing it in varying time intervals.

You can create and study flashcard decks, whether it’s your Word Bank or a certain vocabulary list. For example, if you need to visit a post office, the “Post Office” vocabulary list for your target language would be beneficial to study prior to your visit.

In addition to the SRS flashcards, each lesson has a vocabulary slideshow and quiz to review the lesson’s vocabulary.

There’s also the 2000 Core Word List, which includes the most commonly used words in your target language. Starting from the 100 Core Word List, you’ll gradually build up your knowledge of useful vocabulary. These lists can be studied with SRS flashcards, too.

With the SRS flashcards, you can change the settings to your liking. The settings range from different card types to number of new cards per deck. Personally, I give myself vocabulary tests by changing the settings.

After studying a number of flashcards, I change the card types to listening comprehension and/or production. Then I test myself by writing the translation of the word or the spoken word or phrase.

The change in settings allow me to remember vocabulary and learn how to identify the words. This is especially helpful with Japanese kanji!

Complete Homework Assignments!

Homework assignments are advantageous to my language studies. There are homework assignments auto-generated weekly. They range from multiple-choice quizzes to writing assignments.

Language tutors are readily available for homework help. Some writing assignments, for instance, require use of unfamiliar vocabulary. In such cases, my language teachers assist me by forwarding related lessons or vocabulary lists.

In addition to these auto-generated homework tasks, language tutors customize daily assignments. My daily homework assignments include submitting three written sentences that apply the target grammar point of that lesson, and then blindly audio-recording those sentences. My personal language tutor follows up with feedback and corrections, if needed.

Your language tutors also provide assignments upon requests. When I wanted to review grammar, my Korean teacher sent related quizzes and assignments. Thus, you are not only limited to the auto-generated assignments.

Every weekend, I review by re-reading those written sentences. It helps me remember sentence structures, grammar points, and vocabulary to apply in real-world contexts.

Furthermore, I can track my progress with language portfolios every trimester. It’s like a midterm exam that tests my listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.

Get Your Own Personal Language Teacher!

My language teachers cater to my goals with personalized and achievable learning programs. The tangible support of my online language teachers makes it evident that we share common goals.

Once I share a short-term or long-term goal with my teacher, we establish a plan or pathway that will ultimately result in success. I coordinate with my teachers regularly to ensure the personalized learning programs are prosperous. For example, during my JLPT studies, my Japanese language tutor assigned me practice tests.

Your language tutor is available for outside help as well. When I bought drama CDs in Japan, I had difficulty transliterating the dialogue. My Japanese teacher forwarded me the script to read along as I listened.

Additionally, I often practice Korean and Japanese with music. I memorize one line of the lyrics daily. Every time, I learn a new grammar point and new vocabulary. I add the vocabulary to my SRS flashcards, locate the grammar in the Grammar Bank, and study the associated lessons online.

I send my teachers the name of the songs, making them aware of my new goal. One time, my song for Korean was “If You Do” by GOT7. My Korean teacher revealed that she was a huge fan of GOT7 like me! For Japanese, it was “CHA-LA HEAD-CHA-LA,” also known as the Dragonball Z theme song. My Japanese teacher excitedly told me that she sang the song a lot as a kid!

A remarkable thing happened to me in South Korea. I was stressed about opening a bank account with limited Korean. I sought help from my Korean teacher. She forwarded me a script of a bank conversation.

After two days, I visited the local bank. It all started with my opening sentence:

은행 계좌를 만들고 싶어요

eunhaeng gyejwaleul mandeulgo sip-eoyo.

I want to open a bank account.

Everything went smoothly, and I exited the bank with a new account!

The MyTeacher Messenger allows me to share visuals with my teachers for regular interaction, including videos to critique my pronunciation mechanisms. I improve my listening and speaking skills by exchanging audio with my teachers. In addition to my written homework assignments, I exchange messages with my language teachers in my target language. This connection with my teachers enables me to experience the culture as well as the language.

Why You Should Subscribe to Premium PLUS

It’s impossible for me to imagine my continuous progress with Japanese and Korean without Premium PLUS. Everything—from the SRS flashcards to my language teachers—makes learning languages enjoyable and clear-cut.

You’re assured to undergo the same experience with Premium PLUS. You’ll gain access to the aforementioned features as well as all of the Premium features.

Complete lessons and assignments to advance in your target language. Increase your vocabulary with the “2000 Core Word List” for that language and SRS flashcards. Learn on-the-go with the Innovative Language app and/or Podcasts app for iOS users.

Learning a new language takes dedication and commitment. The Premium PLUS features make learning irresistibly exciting. You’ll look forward to learning daily with your language tutor.

As of right now, your challenge is to subscribe to Premium PLUS! Complete your assessment, and meet your new Czech teacher.

Have fun learning your target language in the fastest and easiest way!

Subscribe to Posted by CzechClass101.com in Czech Language, Czech Online, Feature Spotlight, Learn Czech, Site Features, Speak Czech, Team CzechClass101 | Comment

Do you know your left from your right in Czech? Asking for directions can mean the difference between a heavenly day on the beach and a horrible day on your feet, hot and bothered and wondering how to even get back to the hotel. Believe me – I know! On my earlier travels, I didn’t even know simple terms like ‘go straight ahead’ or ‘go west,’ and I was always too shy to ask locals for directions. It wasn’t my ego, but rather the language barrier that held me back. I’ve ended up in some pretty dodgy situations for my lack of directional word skills.

This never needs to happen! When traveling in Czech Republic, you should step out in confidence, ready to work your Czech magic and have a full day of exploring. It’s about knowing a few basic phrases and then tailoring them with the right directional words for each situation. Do you need to be pointed south in Czech? Just ask! Believe me, people are more willing to help than you might think. It’s when you ask in English that locals might feel too uncertain to answer you. After all, they don’t want to get you lost. For this reason, it also makes sense that you learn how to understand people’s responses. 

Asking directions in Czech Republic is inevitable. So, learn to love it! Our job here at CzechClass101 is to give you the confidence you need to fully immerse and be the intrepid adventurer you are.

Table of Contents

1. Talking about position and direction in Czech
2. Getting directions in Czech
3. Conclusion

1. Talking about position and direction in Czech

Have you ever tried saying the compass directions of north, south, east and west in Czech? These words are good to know, being the most natural and ancient method of finding direction. In the days before GPS – before the invention of the compass, even – knowing the cardinal directions was critical to finding the way. Certainly, if you were lost somewhere in the mountain regions now and using a map to navigate, you’d find them useful. Even more so if you and a Czech friend were adrift at sea, following the stars!

In most situations, though, we rely on body relative directions – your basic up, down, left and right, forward and backwards. Most cultures use relative directions for reference and Czech is no exception. Interestingly, in a few old languages there are no words for left and right and people still rely on cardinal directions every day. Can you imagine having such a compass brain?

Well, scientists say that all mammals have an innate sense of direction, so getting good at finding your way is just a matter of practice. It’s pretty cool to think that we were born already pre-wired to grasp directions; the descriptive words we invented are mere labels to communicate these directions to others! Thus, the need to learn some Czech positional vocabulary. So, without further ado… let’s dive in.

1- Top – svršek

If planting a flag at the top of the highest mountain in Czech Republic is a goal you’d rather leave for  adrenaline junkies, how about making it to the top of the highest building? Your view of the city will be one you’ll never forget, and you can take a selfie  for Twitter with your head in the clouds. 

2- Bottom – spodek

The ‘bottom’ can refer to the lower end of a road, the foot of a mountain, or the ground floor of a building. It’s the place you head for after you’ve been to the top!

What are your favorite ‘bottoms’? I love the first rung of a ladder, the base of a huge tree or the bottom of a jungle-covered hill. What can I say? I’m a climber. Divers like the bottom of the ocean and foxes like the bottom of a hole. Since you’re learning Czech, hopefully you’ll travel from the top to the bottom of Czech Republic.

3- Up – nahoru

This is a very common and useful word to know when seeking directions. You can go up the street, up an elevator, up a cableway, up a mountain… even up into the sky in a hot air balloon. It all depends on how far up you like to be!

4- Down – dolů

What goes up, must surely come down. This is true of airplanes, flaming arrows and grasshoppers – either aeronautics or gravity will take care of that. In the case of traveling humans who don’t wish to go down at terminal velocity, it’s useful to know phrases such as, “Excuse me, where is the path leading back down this mountain?”

5- Middle – střed

In Lord of the Rings, Tolkien’s characters live in Middle-earth, which is just an ancient word for the inhabited world of men; it referred to the physical world, as opposed to the unseen worlds above and below it. The ancients also thought of the human world as vaguely in the middle of the encircling seas.

When we talk about the ‘middle’, we’re referring to a point that’s roughly between two horizontal lines – like the middle of the road or the middle of a river. While you’re unlikely to ask for directions to the ‘middle’ of anything, you might hear it as a response. For example, “You’re looking for the castle ruins? But they’re in the middle of the forest!”

6- Center – střed

In Czech, the words for “middle” and “center” are the same. Technically, “center” means the exact central point of a circular area, equally distant from every point on the circumference.  When asking for directions to the center of town, though, we don’t mean to find a mathematically-accurate pinpoint!

7- Front – předek

The front is the place or position that is seen first; it’s the most forward part of something.  In the case of a hotel, the front is going to be easy to recognize, so if you call a taxi and are told to wait “in front of the hotel”, you won’t have a problem. It’s pretty cool how just knowing the main Czech directional words can help you locate something if there’s a good landmark nearby.

8- Back – zadní strana

I once rented a house in a charming little street that was tucked away at the back of a popular mall. It was so easy to find, but my boss took three hours to locate it from 300 meters away. Why? Well, because she spoke no English and I had no clue what the word for ‘back’ was. All she heard, no matter which way I said it, was “mall, mall, mall”.  As a result, she hunted in front of and next to the mall until she was frazzled. 

Knowing how to describe the location of your own residence is probably the first Czech ‘directions’ you should practice. This skill will certainly come in handy if you’re lost and looking for your way home. 

9- Side – strana

If the place you’re looking for is at the ‘side’ of something, it will be located to the left or the right of that landmark. That could mean you’re looking for an alleyway beside a building, or a second entrance (as opposed to the main entrance). 

As an example, you might be told that your tour bus will be waiting at the right side of the building, not in front. Of course, then you’ll also need to understand “It’s on the right” in Czech.

10- East – východ

If you’re facing north, then east is the direction of your right hand. It’s the direction toward which the Earth rotates about its axis, and therefore the general direction from which the sun appears to rise. If you want to go east using a compass for navigation, you should set a bearing of 90°. 

We think of Asia as the ‘East’. Geographically, this part of the world lies in the eastern hemisphere, but there’s so much more that we’ve come to associate with this word. The East signifies ancient knowledge and is symbolic of enlightenment in many cultures.

11- West – západ

West is the opposite to east and it’s the direction in which the sun sets. To go west using a compass, you’ll set a bearing of 270 degrees. 

If you were on the planet Venus, which rotates in the opposite direction from the Earth (retrograde rotation), the Sun would rise in the west and set in the east… not that you’d be able to see the sun through Venus’s opaque clouds. 

Culturally, the West refers mainly to the Americas and Europe, but also to Australia and New Zealand, which are geographically in the East. The Western way of thinking is very different to that of the East. One of the most striking differences is individualism versus collectivism. In the West, we grew up with philosophies of freedom and independence, whereas in the East concepts of unity are more important. 

Food for thought: as a traveler who’s invested in learning the languages and cultures of places you visit, you have an opportunity to become a wonderfully balanced thinker – something the world needs more of.

12- North – sever

North is the top point of a map and when navigating, you’d set a compass bearing of 360 degrees if you want to go that way. Globes of the earth have the north pole at the top, and we use north as the direction by which we define all other directions.

If you look into the night sky, the North Star (Polaris) marks the way due north. It’s an amazing star, in that it holds nearly still in our sky while the entire northern sky moves around it. That’s because it’s located nearly at the north celestial pole – the point around which the entire northern sky turns. Definitely a boon for lost travelers!

13- South – jih

South is the opposite of north, and it’s perpendicular to the east and west. You can find it with a compass if you set your bearings to 180 degrees. 

The south celestial pole is the point around which the entire southern sky appears to turn. In the night sky of the southern hemisphere, the Southern Cross is a very easy to find constellation with four points in the shape of a diamond. If you come from the southern hemisphere, chances are your dad or mum pointed it out to you when you were a kid. You can use the Southern Cross to find south if traveling by night, so it’s well worth figuring it out!

14- Outside – ven

This word refers to any place that is not under a roof. Perhaps you’ve heard talk about some amazing local bands that will be playing in a nearby town on the weekend. If it’s all happening outside, you’ll be looking for a venue in a park, a stadium or some other big open space. Come rain or shine, outside definitely works for me!

15- Inside – uvnitř

I can tolerate being inside if all the windows are open, or if I’m watching the latest Homeland episode. How about you? I suppose going shopping for Czech-style accessories would be pretty fun, too, and that will (mostly) be an inside affair. 

16- Opposite – naproti

This is a great word to use as a reference point for locating a place. It’s right opposite that other place! In other words, if you stand with your back to the given landmark, your destination will be right in front of you. 

17- Adjacent – přilehlý

So, the adorable old man from next door, who looks about ninety-nine, explains in Czech that the food market where he works is adjacent to the community hall on the main road. ‘Adjacent’ just means next to or adjoining something else, so… head for the hall! 

While you’re marveling at the wondrous and colorful displays of Czech food, think about how all of these delicious stalls lie adjacent to one another. Having a happy visual association with a new word is a proven way to remember it!

18- Toward – směrem k

To go toward something is to go in its direction and get closer to it. This word can often appear in a sentence with ‘straight ahead’, as in:

“Go straight ahead, toward the park.”

If you’ve come to Czech Republic to teach English, you might have to ask someone how to find your new school. Depending on what town you’re in, you could simply head toward the residential area at lunch time. You’ll see (and probably hear) the primary school soon enough – it will be the big fenced building with all the kids running around the yard!

19- Facing – čelem k

If you look at yourself in a mirror, you’ll be facing your reflection. In other words: you and your reflection look directly at each other.  Many plush hotels are ocean-facing or river-facing, meaning the main entrance is pointed directly at the water, and the beach out front faces the hotel. 

20- Beside – vedle

I know of a special little place where there’s a gym right beside a river. You can watch the sun go down over the water while working out – it’s amazing. What’s more, you can park your scooter beside the building and it will still be there when you come out.

21- Corner – roh

I love a corner when it comes to directions. A street corner is where two roads meet at an angle – often 90 degrees – making it easier to find than a location on a straight plane. 

“Which building is the piano teacher in, sir?”

“Oh, that’s easy – it’s the one on the corner.”

The key to a corner is that it leads in two directions. It could form a crossroads, a huge intersection, or it could be the start of a tiny one-way cobblestone street with hidden treasures waiting in the shadow of the buildings.

22- Distant – vzdálený

When a location is distant, it’s in an outlying area. This Czech word refers to the remoteness of the site, not to how long it takes to get there. For that reason, it’s a very good idea to write the directions down, rather than try to memorize them in Czech. Even better, get a Czech person to write them down for you. This may seem obvious, but always include the location of your starting point! Any directions you’re given will be relative to the exact place you’re starting from.

23- Far – daleký

This word has a similar meaning to the previous one, but it speaks more about the fact that it will take some time to get there. If you’re told that your destination is “far”,  you’ll no doubt want to go by public transport if you don’t have your own vehicle. Get your hands on a road map and have the directions explained to you using this map. Don’t hesitate to bring out the highlighters. 

24- Close – blízko

This word is always a good one to hear when you have your heart set on a very relaxing day in the sun. It means there’s only a short distance to travel, so you can get there in a heartbeat and let the tanning commence. Remember to grab your Nook Book – learning is enhanced when you’re feeling happy and unencumbered. Being close to ‘home’ also means you can safely steal maximum lazy hours and leave the short return trip for sunset! 

25- By – při

This word identifies the position of a physical object beside another object or a place. A Bed and Breakfast can be ‘by the sea’ if it’s in close proximity to the sea. 

‘By’ can also be used to describe the best mode of transport for your route, as in:

“You can get there by bus.”

26- Surrounding – obklopující

If something is surrounding you, it is on every side and you are enclosed by it – kind of like being in a boat. Of course, we’re not talking about deep water here, unless you’re planning on going fishing. Directions that include this word are more likely to refer to the surrounding countryside, or any other features that are all around the place you’re looking for.

27- All sides – všechny strany

Another useful descriptive Czech term to know is ‘all sides’. It simply means that from a particular point, you will be able to see the same features to the front, back and sides of you. It doesn’t necessarily imply you’ll be completely surrounded, just more-or-less so. Say, for example, you’re visiting the winelands for the day. When you get there, you’ll see vineyards on all sides of you. How stunning! Don’t neglect to sample the local wines – obviously. 

28- Next to – vedle

The person giving you directions is probably standing next to you. The place being described as ‘next to’ something is in a position immediately to one side of it. It could refer to adjoining buildings, neighbouring stores, or the one-legged beggar who sits next to the beautiful flower vendor on weekdays. ‘Next to’ is a great positional term, as everything is next to something! 

“Excuse me, Ma’am.  Where is the train station?”

“It’s that way – next to the tourist market.”

29- Above – nad

This is the direction you’ll be looking at if you turn your head upwards. Relative to where your body is, it’s a point higher than your head. If you’re looking for the location of a place that’s ‘above’ something, it’s likely to be on at least the first floor of a building; in other words, above another floor.

‘Above’ could also refer to something that will be visible overhead when you get to the right place. For example, the road you’re looking for might have holiday decorations strung up from pole to pole above it. In the cities, this is very likely if there’s any kind of festival going on.

30- Under – pod

Under is the opposite of above, and refers to a place that lies beneath something else. In the case of directions in Czech, it could refer to going under a bridge – always a great landmark – or perhaps through a subway. In some parts of the world, you can even travel through a tunnel that’s under the sea!

Of course, you might just be missing your home brew and looking for an awesome coffee shop that happens to be under the very cool local gym you were also looking for. Nice find!

2. Getting directions in Czech

The quickest and easiest way to find out how to get where you’re going is simply to ask someone. Most people on the streets of Czech Republic won’t mind being asked at all and will actually appreciate your attempt to ask directions in Czech. After all, most tourists are more inclined to ask in their own language and hope for the best. How pedestrian is that, though?

I know, I know – you normally prefer to find your own way without asking. Well, think of it like this: you obviously need to practice asking questions in Czech as much as you need to practice small talk, counting, or ordering a beer. Since you can’t very well ask a complete stranger if they would please help you count to five hundred, you’ll have to stick with asking directions!

We spoke earlier about body relative directions and these tend to be the ones we use most. For example:

“Turn left.”

“Go straight.”

“Turn right.” 

Remember, too, that your approach is important. Many people are wary of strangers and you don’t want to scare them off. It’s best to be friendly, direct and get to the point quickly.  A simple ‘Hi, can you help me?” or “Excuse me, I’m a bit lost,” will suffice. If you have a map in your hand, even better, as your intentions will be clear. 

The bottom line is that if you want to find your way around Czech Republic with ease, it’s a good idea to master these basic phrases. With a little practice, you can also learn how to say directions in Czech. Before you know it, you’ll be the one explaining the way!

3. Conclusion

Now that you have over thirty new directional phrases you can learn in Czech, there’s no need to fear losing your way when you hit the streets of Czech Republic. All you need is a polite approach and your own amazing smile, and the locals will be excited to help you. It’s a chance for them to get better at explaining things to a foreigner, too. Most will enjoy that!

I advise keeping a few things handy in your day pack: a street map, a highlighter, a small notebook and pen, and your Czech phrasebook. It would be useful to also have the Czech WordPower app installed on your phone – available for both iPhone and Android. 

Here’s a quick challenge to get you using the new terms right away. Can you translate these directions into Czech?

“It’s close. Go straight ahead to the top of the hill and turn left at the corner. The building is on the right, opposite a small bus stop.”

You’re doing amazingly well to have come this far! Well done on tackling the essential topic of ‘directions’ – it’s a brave challenge that will be immensely rewarding. Trust me, when you’re standing at a beautiful location that you found just by knowing what to ask in Czech, you’re going to feel pretty darn good.

If you’re as excited as I am about taking Czech to an even deeper level, we have so much more to offer you. Did you know that we’ve already had over 1 billion lesson downloads? I know – we’re blown away by that, too. It’s amazing to be bringing the world’s languages to people who are so hungry for learning. Let me share some of our best options for you:

• If you haven’t done so already, grab your free lifetime account as a start. You’ll get audio and video lessons, plus vocabulary building tools. 
• My favorite freebie is the word of the day, which will arrive in your inbox every morning. Those are the words I remember best!
• Start listening to Czech music. I’m serious – it really works to make the resistant parts of the brain relax and accept the new language. Read about it here for some tips.
• If you enjoy reading, we have some great iBooks for your daily commute.
• If you have a Kindle and prefer to do your reading on a picnic blanket,  there are over 6 hours of unique lessons in Czech for you right there.

That’s it for today! Join CzechClass101 to discover many more ways that we can offer you a truly fun and enriching language learning experience. Happy travels!

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.

Did you know that every minute of the day, one billion tons of rain falls on the earth? Hard to believe, considering the climate crisis! Of course, all that rain is not equally shared across the planet.

So, would you mention this fascinating fact to your new Czech acquaintance? Well, small talk about local weather is actually a great conversation-starter. Everyone cares about the weather and you’re sure to hear a few interesting opinions! Seasons can be quite unpredictable these days and nobody knows the peculiarities of a region better than the locals.

CzechClass101 will equip you with all the weather vocabulary you need to plan your next adventure. The weather can even be an important discussion that influences your adventure plans. After all, you wouldn’t want to get caught on an inflatable boat with a two-horsepower motor in Hurricane Horrendous!

Table of Contents

1. Talking about the weather in Czech Republic
2. Words for the first day of spring
3. Do You Know the Essential Summer Vocabulary?
4. Must-Know Autumn vocabulary
5. Winter
6. CzechClass101 can prepare you for any season.

1. Talking about the weather in Czech Republic

If you’re like me, your day’s activity plan is likely to begin with a strong local coffee and a chat about what the sky is doing. After all, being prepared could be the difference between an amazing day and a miserable one! Luckily, it’s not difficult to comment on Czech weather – just start with these simple words and phrases.

1- The rain is falling on the street – Na ulici padá děšť.

Watercolor artists, take out your paints! You might not be able to venture out on foot today, but just embrace the rain as part of your Czech experience. When the rain stops, the air will be clean and colours vibrant.

2- The snow has covered everything – Sníh pokryl všechno.

A fresh blanket of snow is irresistibly beautiful. Pull on your boots and beanie, and leave your tracks in this foreign landscape. Don’t resist the urge to build a snowman – you need this!

3- Fluffy cloud – Načechrané mraky

When you’re waiting for a warm beach day, fluffy white clouds in a blue sky are a good sign. Don’t forget your sunscreen, as clouds will intensify the UV rays hitting your skin.

4- The water froze on the glass – Voda zamrzla na skle.

Night temperatures can get chilly and might freeze the condensation on your windows. A good way to clear them up is with warm salt water.

5- The heavy rain could cause flash flooding – Tento silný déšť by mohl způsobit povodně.

If you’re visiting Czech Republic in the wet season, it’s important to stay informed when heavy rain sets in, so keep an eye on the weather radar. Avoid river activities and rather spend this time making a home-cooked meal and brushing up on your Czech weather words.

6- Flood – Povodeň

If you do get caught in a flood, your destination should no longer be ‘home’, but the nearest high ground.

7- The typhoon has hit – phrase

Not all countries experience typhoons, but you need to know when to prepare for one! It will be very scary if you’ve never experienced one before. Your local neighbours are the best people to advise you on where to take shelter, as they’ve been doing it for generations. Be sure to get the low-down at the first sign of rough weather!

8- Check the weather report before going sailing – Než půjdete plachtit, zkontrolujte předpověď počasí.

When planning an outdoor activity, especially on a body of water, always be prepared for a change in the weather. Ask your hotel receptionist or neighbour where you can get a reliable daily weather report, and don’t forget your sweater!

9- Today’s weather is sunny with occasional clouds – Dnes je slunečno s občasnýmy mraky.

Sunny weather is the dream when traveling in Czech Republic! Wake up early, pack the hats and sunblock and go and experience the terrain, sights and beautiful spots. You’ll be rewarded with happy vibes all around.

10- A rainy day – deštivý den

Remember when you said you’d save the Czech podcasts for a rainy day? Now’s that day!

11- Scenic rainbow – scénická duha

The best part about the rain is that you can look forward to your first rainbow in Czech Republic. There’s magic in that!

12- Flashes of lightning can be beautiful, but are very dangerous – Záblesky blesku mohou být krásné, ale velmi nebezpečné.

Lightning is one of the most fascinating weather phenomena you can witness without really being in danger – at least if you’re sensible and stay indoors! Did you know that lightning strikes the earth 40-50 times per second? Fortunately, not all countries experience heavy electric storms!

13- 25 degrees Celsius – 25 stupňů Celsia

Asking a local what the outside temperature will be is another useful question for planning your day. It’s easy if you know the Czech term for ‘degrees Celsius’.

14- Water freezes at thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit – Voda zamrzá ve třiceti dvou (32) stupních Farenheita.

Although the Fahrenheit system has been replaced by Celsius in almost all countries, it’s still used in the US and a few other places. Learn this phrase in Czech in case one of your companions develops a raging fever.

15- Clear sky – jasno

Clear skies mean you’ll probably want to get the camera out and capture some nature shots – not to mention the great sunsets you’ll have later on. Twilight can lend an especially magical quality to a landscape on a clear sky day, when the light is not filtered through clouds.

16- Light drizzle – lehké poprchávání

Days when it’s drizzling are perfect for taking in the cultural offerings of Czech Republic. You could go to the mall and watch a Czech film, visit museums and art galleries, explore indoor markets or even find the nearest climbing wall. Bring an umbrella!

17- Temperature – teplota

Because of the coronavirus, many airports are conducting temperature screening on passengers. Don’t worry though – it’s just a precaution. Your temperature might be taken with a no-touch thermometer, which measures infrared energy coming off the body.

18- Humid – vlhko

I love humid days, but then I’m also a water baby and I think the two go
together like summer and rain. Find a pool or a stream to cool off in – preferably in the shade!

19- With low humidity the air feels dry – Při nízké vlhkosti se vduch zdá suchý.

These are the best days to go walking the hills and vales. Just take at least one Czech friend with you so you don’t get lost!

20- The wind is really strong – Vítr je opravdu silný.

A strong wind blows away the air pollution and is very healthy in that respect. Just avoid the mountain trails today, unless you fancy being blown across the continent like a hot air balloon.

21- It’s very windy outside – větrný den

Wind! My least favourite weather condition. Of course, if you’re a kitesurfer, a windy day is what you’ve been waiting for!

22- Wet roads can ice over when the temperature falls below freezing – Vlhké silnice mohou zamrznout, pokud teplota klesne pod bod mrazu.

The roads will be dangerous in these conditions, so please don’t take chances. The ice will thaw as soon as the sun comes out, so be patient!

23- Today is very muggy – Dnes je velmi dusno.

Muggy days make your skin feel sticky and sap your energy. They’re particular to high humidity. Cold shower, anyone? Ice vest? Whatever it takes to feel relief from the humidity!

24- Fog – mlha

Not a great time to be driving, especially in unknown territory, but keep your fog lights on and drive slowly.

25- Hurricane – hurikán

Your new Czech friends will know the signs, so grab some food and candles and prepare for a night of staying warm and chatting about wild weather in Czech Republic.

26- Tornado – tornádo

If you hear these words, it will probably be obvious already that everyone is preparing for the worst! Definitely do whatever your accommodation hosts tell you to do when a tornado is expected.

27- It’s cloudy today – Dnes je zataženo.

While there won’t be any stargazing tonight, the magnificent clouds over Czech Republic will make impressive photographs. Caption them in Czech to impress your friends back home!

28- Below freezing temperatures – teploty pod bodem mrazu

When the temperature is below freezing, why not take an Uber and go shopping for some gorgeous Czech winter gear?

29- Wind chill is how cold it really feels outside – Efektivní teplota znamená, jakou zimu skutečně venku cítíme.

Wind doesn’t change the ambient temperature of the air, it just changes your body temperature, so the air will feel colder to you than it actually is. Not all your Czech friends will know that, though, so learn this Czech phrase to sound really smart!

30- Water freezes at zero (0) degrees Celsius – Voda zamrzá při nula (0) stupních Celsia.

If you’re near a lake, frozen water is good news! Forgot your ice skates? Don’t despair – find out where you can hire some. Be cautious, though: the ice needs to be at least four inches thick for safe skating. Personally, I just slide around on frozen lakes in my boots!

31- Waiting to clear up – čekat na vyjasnění

Waiting for the weather to clear up so you can go exploring is frustrating, let’s be honest. That’s why you should always travel with two things: a scintillating novel and your Czech Nook Book.

32- Avoid the extreme heat – vyhýbejte se extrémnímu horku

Is the heat trying to kill you? Unless you’re a hardened heatwave hero, definitely avoid activity, stay hydrated and drink electrolytes. Loose cotton or linen garb is the way to go!

33- Morning frost – ranní mráz

Frost is water vapour that has turned to ice crystals and it happens when the earth cools so much in the night, that it gets colder than the air above it. Winter is coming!

34- Rain shower – dešťová přeháňka

Rain showers are typically brief downpours that drench the earth with a good drink of water.

35- In the evening it will become cloudy and cold – Večer se udělá zataženo a zima.

When I hear this on the Czech weather channel, I buy a bottle of wine (red, of course) and wood for the fireplace. A cold and cloudy evening needs its comforts!

36- Severe thunderstorm – prudká bouře

Keep an eye on the Czech weather maps if it looks like a big storm is coming, so you’ll be well-informed.

37- Ice has formed on the window – Na okně se udělala námraza.

You could try this phrase out on the hotel’s helpful cleaning staff, or fix the problem yourself. Just add a scoop or two of salt to a spray bottle of water – that should work!

38- Large hailstones – velké kroupy

As a kid, I found hail crazy exciting. Not so much now – especially if I’m on the road and large hailstones start pummeling my windscreen!

39- Rolling thunder – zvlněný blesk

The rumble of rolling thunder is that low-volume, ominous background sound that goes on for some time. It’s strangely exciting if you’re safely in your hotel room; it could either suddenly clear up, or escalate to a storm.

40- Sleet – déšť se sněhem

Sleet is tiny hard pieces of ice made from a mixture of rain and melted snow that froze. It can be messy, but doesn’t cause major damage the way hail does. Pretty cool to know this word in Czech!

2. Words for the first day of spring

You know the feeling: your heart skips a beat when you wake up and spring has sprung! Spring will reward you with new blossoms everywhere, birdsong in the air, kittens being born in the neighborhood and lovely views when you hit the trails. Pack a picnic and ask a new Czech friend to show you the more natural sights. Don’t forget a light sweater and a big smile. This is the perfect time to practice some Czech spring words!

3. Do You Know the Essential Summer Vocabulary?

Summer! Who doesn’t love that word? It conjures up images of blue skies, tan skin, vacations at the beach and cruising down the coast in an Alfa Romeo, sunglasses on and the breeze in your hair. Of course, in Czech Republic there are many ways to enjoy the summer – it all depends on what you love to do. One thing’s for sure: you will have opportunities to make friends, go on picnics, sample delicious local ice-cream and maybe even learn to sing some Czech songs. It’s up to you! Sail into Czech summer with this summer vocab list, and you’ll blend in with ease.

4. Must-Know Autumn vocabulary

Victoria Ericksen said, “If a year was tucked inside of a clock, then autumn would be the magic hour,” and I agree. Who can resist the beauty of fall foliage coloring the Czech landscape? Birds prepare to migrate; travelers prepare to arrive for the best weather in Czech Republic.

The autumnal equinox marks the moment the Sun crosses the celestial equator, making day and night almost equal in length. The cool thing about this event is that the moon gets really bright – the ‘harvest moon’, as it’s traditionally known.

So, as much as the change of season brings more windy and rainy days, it also brings celebration. Whether you honor Thanksgiving, Halloween or the Moon Festival, take some time to color your vocabulary with these Czech autumn words.

5. Winter

Winter is the time the natural world slows down to rest and regroup. I’m a summer girl, but there are fabulous things about winter that I really look forward to. For one, it’s the only season I get to accessorize with my gorgeous winter gloves and snug down coat!

Then, of course, there’s ice skating, holiday decorations and bonfires. As John Steinbeck said, “What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness?” Get ready for the cold season with our list of essential Winter words!

6. CzechClass101 can prepare you for any season.

Now that you know how to inquire and comment on the weather in Czech Republic, you
can confidently plan your weather-ready travel itinerary. How about this for an idea: the next
time you’re sitting in a Czech street café, try asking someone local this question:

“Do you think the weather will stay like this for a few days?” If you loved learning these cool Czech weather phrases with us, why not take it a step further and add to your repertoire? CzechClass101 is here to help!