Language/Croatian/Vocabulary/Idiomatic-Expressions
Hi Croatian learners! 😊
In this lesson, we will focus on Croatian idiomatic expressions, also known as "izreke" or "poslovice". These expressions are commonly used in everyday conversations and have a special meaning that cannot be understood based on the individual words. It is essential to know them to truly understand Croatian culture and language.
Consider broadening your understanding by checking out these related lessons: How to Say Hello and Greetings & City.
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Idiomatic expressions are phrases that cannot be translated directly into another language word for word. These phrases are generally unique to a specific language or culture and represent a rich cultural heritage. Croatian is no exception. Idiomatic expressions in Croatian often have a surprising meaning when compared to their literal translation.
In this lesson, we will learn some commonly used Croatian idioms, their meanings, and how to use them in context. Using idiomatic expressions will enrich your language skills and help you sound more like a native speaker.
To master Croatian idiomatic expressions, you should practice them with native speakers. Find native speakers and ask them any questions to get the most out of this lesson.
Idiomatic expressions[edit | edit source]
1. Biti u sedmom nebu[edit | edit source]
| Croatian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Biti u sedmom nebu | Been tee oo sed-mom ne-boo | To be in the seventh heaven |
This expression is used to express joy or happiness. It can be used in different situations, such as when someone receives good news, accomplishes a long-term goal, or is experiencing a great moment.
Dialogue:
- Person 1: Dobila sam posao koji sam oduvijek željela. (I got the job I've always wanted.)
- Person 2: Wow, čestitam! Sigurno si u sedmom nebu. (Wow, congratulations! You must be in the seventh heaven.)
2. Polizati prste[edit | edit source]
| Croatian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Polizati prste | Po-lee-za-tee pr-steh | To lick your fingers |
This expression is used to describe something that tastes delicious. You can use it to describe a meal, a dessert, or any food that is particularly enjoyable.
Dialogue:
- Person 1: Ova pita je fantastična. (This pie is fantastic.)
- Person 2: Znam, polizala bih prste da nisam već pojela cijeli komad. (I know, I would lick my fingers if I hadn't already eaten the whole piece.)
3. Kamen u ruci[edit | edit source]
| Croatian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Kamen u ruci | Kah-men oo roo-tsee | A stone in hand |
This expression is used to describe being certain of something or having a definite solution to a problem. It is important to note that this expression implies that someone's opinion or solution is correct and cannot be disputed.
Dialogue:
- Person 1: Hoće li sutra kiša ili sunce? (Is it going to rain or be sunny tomorrow?)
- Person 2: Znam sigurno da će biti oblačno, jer je točno tako bilo prošli put kad sam posudio ovaj kamen od svog susjeda. Rekao je da kiša neće doći dok mu je kamen u ruci. (I know for sure that it will be cloudy because that's exactly how it was last time I borrowed this stone from my neighbor. He said that the rain wouldn't come as long as he had the stone in his hand.)
4. Sve je po zakonu, samo drži dlaku[edit | edit source]
| Croatian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Sve je po zakonu, samo drži dlaku | Sveh yeh poh zah-ko-noo, sah-moh dhr-zhee dlah-koo | Everything is legal, but hold onto a hair |
This expression is used to express that although things might appear to be legal on the surface, there is still some risk involved. It warns of the potential danger or negative outcome of a situation.
Dialogue:
- Person 1: Idemo na planinarenje, ali trebamo se popeti uz jedan strmi stijenoviti dio. (We're going hiking, but we need to climb a steep rocky part.)
- Person 2: Budimo oprezni. Sve je po zakonu, samo drži dlaku, jer ima dosta opasnih mjesta na putu. (Let's be careful. Everything is legal, but hold onto a hair, because there are a lot of dangerous spots on the way.)
5. Imati petlju[edit | edit source]
| Croatian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Imati petlju | Ee-mah-tee peht-lyoo | To have guts |
This expression is used to describe someone who is brave, courageous or audacious. It implies fearlessness and the ability to take on challenges.
Dialogue:
- Person 1: Zar nisi prestrašena da ispričaš tu priču pred toliko ljudi? (Aren't you afraid to tell that story in front of so many people?)
- Person 2: Naravno da jesam, ali imam petlju da to napravim, jer je to važno. (Of course, I am, but I have the guts to do it because it's important.)
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
In conclusion, Croatian idiomatic expressions are a fun way to express yourself like a native speaker. Not only do they give you a deeper understanding of the language and culture, but they also help you break the ice in social interactions.
To improve your Croatian Vocabulary, you can also use the Polyglot Club website. Find native speakers and ask them any questions!
➡ If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments section below.
➡ Feel free to edit this wiki page if you think it can be improved. 😎
Impressive work on finishing this lesson! Explore these additional pages to enhance your understanding: Numbers 1 100 & Phrasal Verbs and Collocations.
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
Sources[edit | edit source]
- 15+ Incredible Croatian Idioms To Enhance Your Croatian Vocabulary
- 15 Beautiful Croatian Phrases We Need in English
- English idioms that are a little different in Croatian - Expat In Croatia