Language/Serbian/Grammar/Verbs:-Present-Tense

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Serbian → Grammar → 0 to A1 Course → Introduction to Serbian Grammar → Verbs: Present Tense

Introduction[edit | edit source]

In this lesson, we will dive into the fascinating world of Serbian verbs and explore the present tense. Verbs are an essential part of any language, as they express actions, states, and events. Understanding how to use verbs in the present tense is crucial for effective communication in Serbian.

The present tense is used to describe actions or states that are happening right now or are ongoing. It is a fundamental concept in Serbian grammar, and mastering it will allow you to express yourself fluently in everyday conversations.

Throughout this lesson, we will explore the structure and usage of the present tense in Serbian verbs. We will provide detailed explanations, numerous examples, and engaging practice exercises to reinforce your understanding. Additionally, we will delve into the rich Serbian culture and highlight interesting facts related to the topic.

So let's jump right in and discover the beauty of the present tense in Serbian verbs!

Overview of the Present Tense[edit | edit source]

The present tense in Serbian is used to describe actions, states, or events that are happening in the present moment or are ongoing. It is formed by conjugating the verb according to the subject of the sentence.

In Serbian, verbs are divided into three conjugation groups based on their infinitive endings: -iti, -ati, and -eti. Each group has its own conjugation pattern in the present tense, which we will explore in detail.

Conjugation of -iti Verbs[edit | edit source]

Verbs ending in -iti belong to the first conjugation group. Let's take a look at the conjugation pattern for -iti verbs in the present tense:

Serbian	Pronunciation	English
Raditi	/rǎːditi/	to work
Gledati	/ɡlěːdati/	to watch
Piti	/pǐːti/	to drink

As you can see from the examples above, the endings of -iti verbs in the present tense are -im, -iš, -i, -imo, -ite, and -e. Here is the conjugation pattern for the verb "raditi" (to work):

Ja radim - I work
Ti radiš - You work
On/ona/ono radi - He/she/it works
Mi radimo - We work
Vi radite - You work (plural/formal)
Oni/one/ona rade - They work

It is important to note that in Serbian, verbs are conjugated based on the subject of the sentence, not the object. Therefore, the verb form changes depending on who is performing the action.

Conjugation of -ati Verbs[edit | edit source]

Verbs ending in -ati belong to the second conjugation group. Let's take a look at the conjugation pattern for -ati verbs in the present tense:

Serbian	Pronunciation	English
Govoriti	/ɡǒʋoriti/	to speak
Putovati	/pǔtoʋati/	to travel
Radovati se	/radoʋati sɛ/	to be happy

The endings of -ati verbs in the present tense are -am, -aš, -a, -amo, -ate, and -aju. Here is the conjugation pattern for the verb "govoriti" (to speak):

Ja govorim - I speak
Ti govoriš - You speak
On/ona/ono govori - He/she/it speaks
Mi govorimo - We speak
Vi govorite - You speak (plural/formal)
Oni/one/ona govore - They speak

In the case of reflexive verbs like "radovati se" (to be happy), the reflexive pronoun "se" is added after the verb, but the conjugation pattern remains the same.

Conjugation of -eti Verbs[edit | edit source]

Verbs ending in -eti belong to the third conjugation group. Let's take a look at the conjugation pattern for -eti verbs in the present tense:

Serbian	Pronunciation	English
Učiti	/ǔtʃiti/	to learn
Leteti	/lɛtɛti/	to fly
Pevati	/pɛʋati/	to sing

The endings of -eti verbs in the present tense are -em, -eš, -e, -emo, -ete, and -u. Here is the conjugation pattern for the verb "učiti" (to learn):

Ja učim - I learn
Ti učiš - You learn
On/ona/ono uči - He/she/it learns
Mi učimo - We learn
Vi učite - You learn (plural/formal)
Oni/one/ona uče - They learn

Cultural Insights[edit | edit source]

In Serbian culture, the present tense is extensively used in everyday conversations. It allows speakers to express their thoughts, actions, and experiences in the present moment. Whether describing daily routines, expressing opinions, or sharing personal stories, the present tense plays a vital role in communication.

Serbia, located at the crossroads of Southeast Europe, has a rich cultural heritage shaped by various influences throughout history. The Serbian language reflects this diversity, as it incorporates elements from Slavic, Ottoman Turkish, and various other languages. The present tense, as a fundamental aspect of Serbian grammar, embodies the language's versatility and adaptability to different cultural contexts.

Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now it's time to practice what you've learned! Below are some exercises to help you reinforce your understanding of the present tense in Serbian verbs. Try to complete the exercises on your own before checking the solutions provided.

Exercise 1: Conjugate the following verbs in the present tense:

1. Hvaliti (to praise) 2. Čekati (to wait) 3. Plivati (to swim) 4. Učiti (to study)

Exercise 2: Complete the following sentences with the correct form of the verb in the present tense:

1. Ja __________ (pevati) u horu. 2. Oni __________ (putovati) u Beograd svake nedelje. 3. Ti __________ (raditi) veoma naporno. 4. Ona __________ (govoriti) pet jezika.

Exercise 3: Translate the following sentences into Serbian using the present tense:

1. I am reading a book. 2. We are watching a movie. 3. They are speaking Serbian. 4. She is dancing at the party.

Exercise Solutions[edit | edit source]

Exercise 1: Conjugation of the following verbs in the present tense:

1. Hvaliti (to praise):

Ja hvalim
Ti hvališ
On/ona/ono hvali
Mi hvalimo
Vi hvalite
Oni/one/ona hvale

2. Čekati (to wait):

Ja čekam
Ti čekaš
On/ona/ono čeka
Mi čekamo
Vi čekate
Oni/one/ona čekaju

3. Plivati (to swim):

Ja plivam
Ti plivaš
On/ona/ono pliva
Mi plivamo
Vi plivate
Oni/one/ona plivaju

4. Učiti (to study):

Ja učim
Ti učiš
On/ona/ono uči
Mi učimo
Vi učite
Oni/one/ona uče

Exercise 2: Completion of the following sentences with the correct form of the verb in the present tense:

1. Ja pevam u horu. 2. Oni putuju u Beograd svake nedelje. 3. Ti radiš veoma naporno. 4. Ona govori pet jezika.

Exercise 3: Translation of the following sentences into Serbian using the present tense:

1. Čitam knjigu. 2. Gledamo film. 3. Oni govore srpski. 4. Ona igra na zabavi.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Congratulations! You have successfully completed the lesson on the present tense in Serbian verbs. You have learned the conjugation patterns for -iti, -ati, and -eti verbs and practiced using them in various exercises.

The present tense is a crucial aspect of Serbian grammar, allowing you to express actions and states in the present moment. By mastering the present tense, you will enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Serbian and engage in meaningful conversations.

In the next lesson, we will explore the past tense in Serbian verbs, delving into the various conjugation patterns and usage. Stay tuned for more exciting grammar adventures!

Table of Contents - Serbian Course - 0 to A1[edit source]

Course Presentation

Introduction to Serbian Grammar

Introduction to Serbian Vocabulary

Introduction to Serbian Culture

Pronouns: Possessive Pronouns

Shopping

Sports and Recreation

Adjectives: Declension

Jobs and Professions

Literature and Poetry

Verbs: Conditional

Entertainment and Media

Art and Artists

Videos[edit | edit source]

Serbian Verbs for Beginners | Present, Future and Past Tense ...[edit | edit source]

Sources[edit | edit source]

Other Lessons[edit | edit source]

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