Language/Polish/Grammar/Locative-Case
The locative case is one of the seven cases in the Polish language, used to indicate the location of a noun, the time and place of an action, and certain prepositions. In this lesson, we will cover the basics of the locative case, including its formation, usage, and examples.
Don't hesitate to look into these other pages after completing this lesson: Conditional Mood & How to Use Be.
Formation of the Locative Case:[edit | edit source]
The locative case is formed by adding specific endings to the stem of the noun, depending on the gender and animacy of the noun.
Masculine animate:[edit | edit source]
The ending -u is added to the stem ending in -o, -e or -a.
Example: Kot -> kocie
Masculine inanimate:[edit | edit source]
The ending -u is added to the stem.
Example: Stół -> stole
Feminine:[edit | edit source]
The ending -e is added to the stem.
Example: Książka -> książce
Neuter:[edit | edit source]
The ending -u is added to the stem.
Example: Dziecko -> dziecku
Usage of the Locative Case:[edit | edit source]
Location:[edit | edit source]
The locative case is used to indicate the location of a noun.
Example: Jestem w domu. (I am at home.)
Time and Place:[edit | edit source]
The locative case is used to indicate the time and place of an action.
Example: Spotkajmy się w parku o piątej. (Let's meet in the park at five.)
Certain prepositions:[edit | edit source]
The locative case is used after certain prepositions like w (in), na (on), przy (near), and między (between) among others.
Example: Książka jest na stole. (The book is on the table.)
Adjectives:[edit | edit source]
The locative case is used after certain adjectives to indicate the location of something.
Example: Jestem zadowolony z mojego mieszkania. (I am happy with my apartment.)
Names of cities:[edit | edit source]
The locative case is used with the names of cities to indicate the location of something in the city.
Example: Mieszkam w Warszawie. (I live in Warsaw.)
Examples of Locative Case in Context:[edit | edit source]
- Słyszę ptaki za moim oknem. (I hear birds behind my window.)
- Kupiłam kwiaty dla babci w kwiaciarni. (I bought flowers for grandma at the florist.)
- Jestem szczęśliwy w swoim życiu. (I am happy with my life.)
- Pracuję w biurze na piętrze drugim. (I work in an office on the second floor.)
- Chodzę na spacery w parku przy moim domu. (I go for walks in the park near my house.)
In conclusion, the locative case is an important case in Polish grammar, used to indicate the location of a noun, the time and place of an action, and certain prepositions. It is essential to learn the formation and usage of the locative case in order to communicate effectively in Polish.