Basic Czech: 10 Basic Czech Words and Phrases I Learned While Studying Abroad in The Czech Republic

One of the most challenging aspects of studying abroad was learning the language. It was incredibly impressive how well citizens of the Czech Republic spoke fluent English. However, the effort of communicating in Czech and trying to learn the language was greatly appreciated by people from Czechoslovakia. Being able to carry a basic conversation in Czech as an English speaker was an important aspect of respecting one’s own positionality and the positionality of others. Czech, a Slavic language, can be difficult to learn for English speakers, however, it is a fun challenge. Here are some basic phrases I learned and helpful words that made basic day to day communication much easier! Whether you are planning a trip to Prague, planning on studying in Prague, or just looking for something to do while in quarantine, these 10 words/statements are something to practice/learn. 

1. Hello = Dobrý Den (dobree den)

2. Thank you = Děkuji (dyekooyi)

3. Yes = Ano (ano)

4. No = Ne (ne)

5. Please = Prosím (proseem)

6. How are you? = Jak Se máte? (jak se mahte )

7. I don’t understand = Nerozumím. (nerozoomeem)

8. Do you speak english? = Mluvíte anglicky? (mlooveete anglitskee)

9. Nice to meet you = Těší mě. (tyeh-sheee mnyeh)

10. My name is  = Jmenuji se… (Menooyi se)

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