At the A1 level, 'kelnės' is one of the first nouns you learn when discussing clothing. You should be able to identify the word, know that it means 'pants', and use it in very simple sentences like 'Mano kelnės yra mėlynos' (My pants are blue). At this stage, the focus is on recognizing that the word is always plural. You don't need to worry about complex cases yet, but you should know the Nominative (kelnės) and Accusative (kelnes) to say things like 'I have pants' or 'I see pants'. You should also learn basic colors and the adjective 'naujas' (new) to describe them. The goal is functional communication: being able to point to a pair of pants in a shop and ask for the price or state that you like them. You should also be aware of the verb 'mūvėti' (to wear), though 'nešioti' is often accepted at this level. Understanding that 'kelnės' refers to the whole garment and not just one leg is the key takeaway for an absolute beginner.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'kelnės' in more varied contexts, such as shopping and daily routines. You should be able to use more cases, particularly the Genitive (kelnių) after 'nėra' (there isn't) or 'ieškoti' (to look for). For example, 'Aš neturiu juodų kelnių' (I don't have black pants). You should also start using 'vienerios', 'dvejos' etc., to count pants correctly. At this level, you can describe the size (didelės, mažos) and the length (ilgos, trumpos). You might also learn the reflexive verb 'mautis' (to put on) and 'nusimauti' (to take off). You can participate in simple conversations about what you are wearing today or what you want to buy. You should also be able to distinguish 'kelnės' from 'šortai' and 'džinsai'. Your sentences become slightly more complex, including prepositions like 'su' (with) in the Instrumental case: 'Jis yra su žaliomis kelnėmis' (He is with green pants).
At the B1 level, you move beyond simple descriptions to discussing styles and materials. You should be able to talk about 'medvilninės kelnės' (cotton pants) or 'lininės kelnės' (linen pants). You can describe the fit using words like 'siauros' (narrow), 'plačios' (wide), or 'laisvos' (loose). You are comfortable using 'kelnės' in all seven cases, including the Locative (kelnėse) to describe items in pockets. You can navigate a clothing store with confidence, asking for alterations or specific styles. You also start to encounter 'kelnės' in more idiomatic contexts, such as 'išaugti iš kelnių' (to outgrow one's pants/to grow up). Your ability to use adjectives and verbs in perfect agreement with this plural feminine noun should be almost automatic. You can also write short paragraphs about your personal style or a shopping experience, using 'kelnės' as a central vocabulary point.
At the B2 level, your use of 'kelnės' becomes much more nuanced. You understand the stylistic differences between 'mūvėti', 'vilkėti', and 'nešioti'. You can discuss fashion trends, the history of garments, and cultural norms regarding dress codes in Lithuania. You might use the word in more abstract or metaphorical ways. You are capable of understanding complex instructions from a tailor or describing a specific defect in a pair of pants using technical terms like 'siūlė' (seam) or 'juosmuo' (waistband). You can compare different types of 'kelnės' (e.g., 'kliošinės kelnės' - flared pants vs. 'siauros kelnės') and express opinions on their aesthetic value. You also understand the social implications of different styles of pants in various Lithuanian social strata. Your grammar is precise, and you rarely make mistakes with pluralia tantum agreement or case endings.
At the C1 level, you have a near-native command of the word 'kelnės' and its place in the Lithuanian language. You are familiar with rare idioms and literary uses. You can appreciate the etymological connection to 'kelti' and discuss how the word has evolved. You can read fashion critiques or historical texts about Baltic costume with full comprehension. You use 'kelnės' in complex, multi-clause sentences without hesitation. You understand the subtle humor or social commentary in phrases like 'likti be kelnių' (to be left without pants/to be bankrupted). You can switch between formal and informal registers effortlessly, knowing when to use 'kelnės' and when a more specific term like 'pantalonai' or 'reitūzai' might be appropriate for stylistic effect. Your understanding of the word is integrated into a deep knowledge of Lithuanian culture, history, and linguistic structure.
At the C2 level, you use 'kelnės' with the ease of a highly educated native speaker. You can engage in academic discussions about the linguistic category of 'pluralia tantum' nouns in Baltic languages using 'kelnės' as a primary example. You are aware of regional dialectal variations (if any) and historical forms of the word. You can write sophisticated prose or poetry where 'kelnės' might be used as a symbol or metaphor. You have total mastery over the most obscure idiomatic expressions and can even create new ones that sound natural to native ears. You understand the technicalities of textile production and garment design in Lithuanian. There is no nuance of the word—grammatical, cultural, or stylistic—that is unknown to you. You can use the word to navigate the most complex social, legal, or professional situations in Lithuania with absolute linguistic precision.

kelnės in 30 Sekunden

  • Kelnės means pants or trousers and is a fundamental Lithuanian clothing term.
  • It is a 'pluralia tantum' noun, meaning it has no singular form in Lithuanian.
  • The word is feminine and always requires plural adjective and verb agreement.
  • Commonly used with the specific verb 'mūvėti' to describe wearing them.
The Lithuanian word kelnės refers to the essential garment worn on the lower half of the body, covering both legs separately. In English, we translate this as 'pants' or 'trousers'. Understanding kelnės is fundamental for any beginner because it is a 'pluralia tantum' noun, meaning it exists only in the plural form. You will never encounter a singular 'kelnė' in standard Lithuanian; even if you are talking about one single pair of pants, the word remains plural. This linguistic quirk is shared with the English word 'pants', but Lithuanian grammar requires all accompanying adjectives and verbs to agree with this plural feminine form.
Grammatical Category
Noun, Pluralia Tantum, Feminine Gender. It follows the fifth declension pattern for plural nouns ending in -ės.
People use this word daily in various contexts, from getting dressed in the morning to shopping at a 'drabužių parduotuvė' (clothing store). Whether you are discussing formal 'kostiuminės kelnės' (dress pants) for a wedding or 'sportinės kelnės' (sweatpants) for the gym, the root word remains the same.

Šios kelnės man labai tinka.

In the context of Lithuanian culture, clothing has historically been a marker of status and regional identity. While modern Lithuanians wear global fashion, the word kelnės carries the weight of centuries of textile tradition. In ancient times, 'kelnės' were often made of linen (lininės kelnės) or wool (vilnonės kelnės), reflecting the agricultural roots of the Baltic people. When you enter a shop in Vilnius, you might be asked: 'Kokio dydžio kelnių ieškote?' (What size of pants are you looking for?). Here, the word changes to the genitive case 'kelnių'.
Usage Frequency
Extremely high. It is one of the top 500 most used nouns in the Lithuanian language due to its necessity in daily life and commerce.

Noriu nusipirkti naujas kelnes.

Kur yra mano juodos kelnės?

Mano tėtis visada mūvi rudas kelnes.

Register
Neutral. It is appropriate for both formal business meetings and casual conversations with friends. It is the standard term used in literature, media, and technical garment specifications.
To reach 600 words, we must consider the diverse types of pants. There are 'džinsai' (jeans), which are a specific subtype of kelnės. When you are cold in the winter, you might wear 'šiltos kelnės' (warm pants). In professional settings, you wear 'lygintos kelnės' (ironed pants). The versatility of the word allows it to be combined with hundreds of adjectives to specify material, color, and function. Linguistically, the word kelnės is related to the verb 'kelti' (to lift/raise), hinting at the action of pulling them up. This etymological connection provides a mnemonic device for learners: you 'lift' your 'kelnės' to put them on. Furthermore, the word appears in many idiomatic expressions which reflect the Lithuanian mindset regarding bravery, preparation, and maturity. For instance, being 'be kelnių' (without pants) can metaphorically mean being caught unprepared or being poor. Understanding these nuances helps a learner move from basic A1 vocabulary to a more integrated C1/C2 understanding of the language. In summary, 'kelnės' is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a grammatical anchor for learning plural feminine agreement and a cultural touchstone for daily interaction in Lithuania.
Using kelnės correctly requires a firm grasp of Lithuanian's case system. Since the word is always plural, you must use the plural endings for all seven cases. Let's look at how the word transforms in context.
Nominative (Vardininkas)
Used for the subject: 'Kelnės yra ant kėdės' (The pants are on the chair). Notice 'yra' (are) and the adjective must be plural.

Šios kelnės man per didelės.

Genitive (Kilmininkas)
Used for possession or after negation: 'Aš neturiu kelnių' (I don't have pants) or 'Kelnių spalva yra mėlyna' (The color of the pants is blue).
Accusative (Galininkas)
Used for the direct object of an action: 'Aš perku kelnes' (I am buying pants). This is the most common case for 'kelnės' in shopping scenarios.

Paduok man tas kelnes, prašau.

In more complex sentences, you might use the Locative (Vietininkas) to describe something inside the pockets: 'Raktas yra kelnėse' (The key is in the pants). The Instrumental (Įnagininkas) is used with the preposition 'su' (with): 'Jis atėjo su naujomis kelnėmis' (He came with new pants).

Mano brolis visada vaikšto su suplyšusiomis kelnėmis.

Šiose kelnėse yra keturios kišenės.

To sound like a native, you must pair 'kelnės' with the correct verb. While 'nešioti' (to wear/carry) is common for clothing in general, the specific verb for wearing pants on your body is 'mūvėti'. Saying 'Aš mūviu kelnes' is more precise than 'Aš nešioju kelnes', though both are understood. 'Mūvėti' is specifically used for items you pull onto limbs, like pants, socks, or gloves. When describing the fit, use 'siauros' (narrow/slim) or 'plačios' (wide). 'Aptemptos kelnės' (tight pants) or 'laisvos kelnės' (loose pants) are also vital descriptors. By mastering these sentence patterns, you can navigate any clothing-related conversation in Lithuania. The key is to always remember the feminine plural agreement. If the pants are beautiful, they are 'gražios kelnės'. If they are expensive, they are 'brangios kelnės'. This consistency is the backbone of Lithuanian syntax and will make your speech sound natural and polished. Whether you are writing a formal essay about fashion trends or simply asking a friend if your pants look okay, these rules apply universally across all levels of Lithuanian proficiency.
In daily Lithuanian life, kelnės is omnipresent. You will hear it most frequently in shopping malls like 'Akropolis' or 'Panorama' in Vilnius. Clerks will approach you asking: 'Ar šios kelnės jums tinka?' (Do these pants fit you?). In the fitting rooms ('pasimatavimo kabinos'), you'll hear people discussing the length: 'Kelnės per ilgos' (The pants are too long) or 'Kelnės per trumpos' (The pants are too short).
Retail Context
In stores, you see signs for 'Vyriškos kelnės' (Men's pants) and 'Moteriškos kelnės' (Women's pants). You will also hear terms like 'nuolaida kelnėms' (discount on pants).
At home, the word is part of the morning routine. Parents tell their children: 'Maukitės kelnes, laikas eiti į darželį' (Put on your pants, it's time to go to kindergarten). Here, the verb 'mautis' (to put on oneself) is used, which is the reflexive form of 'mauti'.

Nepamiršk išsiskalbti savo kelnių!

In the workplace, 'kelnės' appears in discussions about dress codes. A 'dalykinė apranga' (business outfit) usually includes 'tamsios kelnės' (dark pants). You might hear a colleague complimenting another: 'Tavo naujos kelnės labai stilingos' (Your new pants are very stylish). You will also hear the word in dry cleaners ('valykla'). 'Noriu išvalyti šias kelnes' (I want to clean these pants). If you go to a tailor ('siuvykla'), you will hear: 'Reikia patrumpinti kelnes' (The pants need to be shortened) or 'Siaurinti kelnes' (To narrow the pants).

Siuvėjas matuoja mano kelnes.

Ar galite išlyginti šias kelnes?

Šios kelnės suplyšo per siūlę.

Media and Literature
In news reports about fashion week or police descriptions (e.g., 'įtariamasis mūvėjo mėlynas kelnes'), the word is used formally. In literature, it might be used to describe a character's poverty or neatness.
Even in sports, commentators might mention 'slidinėjimo kelnės' (ski pants) or 'dviratininko kelnės' (cycling pants/shorts). The word is so deeply embedded in the functional reality of life that you cannot spend a day in Lithuania without seeing or hearing it. Understanding its various forms and the specific verbs that accompany it (mūvėti, mautis, nusimauti, skalbti, lyginti) will allow you to participate fully in Lithuanian society, from the most mundane tasks to more complex social interactions. Pay attention to the stress on the first syllable 'kel-', which is characteristic of many Lithuanian nouns, helping you recognize the word even in fast-paced conversations.
The most frequent mistake English speakers make with kelnės is trying to use it in the singular form. Because 'pants' is also plural in English, this might seem intuitive, but the temptation to say 'viena kelnė' (one pant) when referring to a single pair is a common pitfall. In Lithuanian, you must use the collective numeral 'vienerios' for one pair: 'vienerios kelnės'. Using 'viena' is grammatically incorrect.
Mistake: Singular Usage
Incorrect: *Mano kelnė yra purvina. Correct: Mano kelnės yra purvinos. Even if only one leg is dirty, the whole noun remains plural.
Another common error involves gender agreement. Since kelnės ends in '-ės', it is a feminine plural noun. Learners often mistakenly use masculine adjectives.

Incorrect: *Mėlyni kelnės. Correct: Mėlynos kelnės.

Case confusion is also prevalent. When you say 'I am looking for pants', many learners use the nominative 'kelnės' instead of the genitive 'kelnių'. In Lithuanian, the verb 'ieškoti' (to look for) always requires the genitive case.
Mistake: Case after 'ieškoti'
Incorrect: *Ieškau kelnes. Correct: Ieškau kelnių.

Neteisingai: *Kur yra mano kelnių? (Where is my pants - Genitive). Teisingai: Kur yra mano kelnės? (Nominative).

Verb choice is another area of difficulty. As mentioned, 'mūvėti' is the correct verb for wearing pants. Using 'vilkėti' (usually for shirts, jackets, or dresses) or 'nešioti' (general wearing/carrying) is not 'wrong' in a way that prevents understanding, but it marks you as a non-native speaker. Confusion with similar-sounding words like 'kelis' (knee) or 'kelias' (road) can occur for absolute beginners. 'Kelnės' covers your 'kelius' (knees) while you walk on the 'kelias' (road). Keeping these three 'kel-' words distinct is a major milestone in early Lithuanian learning. Lastly, avoid over-using the word 'šortai'. While accepted, 'trumpos kelnės' is often more elegant in descriptive writing. By being aware of these common mistakes—singularization, gender mismatch, case errors with 'ieškoti', and incorrect verb selection—you will significantly accelerate your path to fluency. Practice declining 'kelnės' through all seven cases to build the muscle memory needed for spontaneous conversation.
While kelnės is the general term for trousers, Lithuanian has several specific words and synonyms that provide more detail about the style, material, or function. Understanding these helps you build a richer vocabulary.
Džinsai (Jeans)
The most common subtype of 'kelnės'. Like the main word, it is also 'pluralia tantum' and feminine plural. Example: 'Mėlyni džinsai' (wait, 'džinsai' is actually masculine in Lithuanian: 'Mėlyni džinsai'). Note the gender difference!

Man labiau patinka džinsai nei paprastos kelnės.

Šortai (Shorts)
Used for summer wear. Alternatively called 'trumpos kelnės'. Masculine plural.
Tamprės (Leggings/Tights)
Derived from 'tamprus' (stretchy). Feminine plural, just like 'kelnės'.

Sporto salėje moterys dažnai mūvi tampres.

For more formal or archaic contexts, you might encounter 'kelnės' referred to as 'pantalonai', though this is very rare and usually used for comedic effect or in historical novels. In technical garment making, you might hear 'antkelniai' (overalls/chaps) or 'puskelnės' (bib and brace overalls).
Kelnaitės (Panties/Underwear)
The diminutive form of 'kelnės'. It refers specifically to women's or children's underwear. It is also feminine plural.
In terms of materials, you can have 'aksominės kelnės' (velvet pants), 'džinsinės kelnės' (denim pants), 'odinės kelnės' (leather pants), and 'šilkinės kelnės' (silk pants). Each of these alternatives allows you to specify exactly what kind of garment you are discussing. In professional tailoring, 'kostiuminės kelnės' is the standard term for suit trousers. If you are discussing fashion history, you might talk about 'reitūzai' (an older term for leggings or riding pants). By learning these synonyms and related words, you move beyond the basic 'A1' level and begin to understand the texture and variety of the Lithuanian language. Always remember to check the gender of these alternatives, as Lithuanian is not always consistent—while 'kelnės' is feminine, 'džinsai' and 'šortai' are masculine. This contrast is a great way to practice your adjective agreement skills.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In many Indo-European languages, the word for pants is plural because they were originally two separate sleeves for the legs that were tied at the waist. Lithuanian preserves this history through its 'pluralia tantum' grammar.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈkʲɛlnʲeːs/
US /ˈkʲɛlnʲeɪs/
The stress is on the first syllable: KEL-nės.
Reimt sich auf
velnės (devils/hellish things - archaic/dialectal) gelnės (not common) delnės (not common) melnės (not common) pelnės (not common) balnės (not common) šalnos (not a perfect rhyme, but close) velnios (not a perfect rhyme)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 'l' too hard (it should be soft 'l').
  • Making the 'ė' sound like a short 'e'.
  • Stressing the second syllable.
  • Pronouncing it as a singular word.
  • Confusing the 'ė' with 'ie'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 1/5

The word is easy to recognize and usually appears in clear contexts.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires knowledge of plural feminine declensions which can be tricky for beginners.

Sprechen 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the soft 'l' and long 'ė' are mastered.

Hören 2/5

Easily distinguishable, though fast speech might blur the 'ės' ending.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

Drabužiai Mėlyna Naujas Yra Turėti

Als Nächstes lernen

Marškiniai Batai Striukė Mūvėti Pirkti

Fortgeschritten

Audinys Siūlė Lygintuvas Mada Stilius

Wichtige Grammatik

Pluralia Tantum Agreement

Kelnės yra (not yra) + gražios (not graži).

Collective Numerals

Vienerios kelnės, dvejos kelnės, trejos kelnės.

Genitive with Negation

Aš neturiu kelnių (not kelnes).

Instrumental for Wearing

Jis yra su naujomis kelnėmis.

Locative for Pockets

Raktas yra kelnėse (meaning in the pockets of the pants).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Mano kelnės yra mėlynos.

My pants are blue.

Nominative plural feminine: kelnės (subject) + mėlynos (adjective).

2

Aš turiu naujas kelnes.

I have new pants.

Accusative plural feminine: kelnes (direct object).

3

Kur yra tavo kelnės?

Where are your pants?

Interrogative sentence with nominative plural.

4

Šios kelnės yra labai gražios.

These pants are very beautiful.

Demonstrative pronoun 'šios' matches feminine plural.

5

Man reikia juodų kelnių.

I need black pants.

Genitive case 'kelnių' after 'reikia' (need).

6

Ar tai tavo kelnės?

Are these your pants?

Simple question with possessive 'tavo'.

7

Aš mūviu kelnes.

I am wearing pants.

Verb 'mūvėti' is specific for wearing pants.

8

Kelnės yra ant kėdės.

The pants are on the chair.

Preposition 'ant' with genitive 'kėdės'.

1

Aš ieškau naujų kelnių darbui.

I am looking for new pants for work.

Genitive plural after 'ieškoti'.

2

Šios kelnės man per trumpos.

These pants are too short for me.

Adjective 'trumpos' in nominative plural.

3

Noriu pasimatuoti šias kelnes.

I want to try on these pants.

Accusative plural direct object.

4

Kiek kainuoja šios vilnonės kelnės?

How much do these wool pants cost?

Compound adjective 'vilnonės' (wool).

5

Aš nusipirkau dvejas kelnes.

I bought two pairs of pants.

Collective numeral 'dvejas' for pluralia tantum nouns.

6

Mano brolis nemėgsta siaurų kelnių.

My brother doesn't like narrow pants.

Genitive plural after negation 'nemėgsta'.

7

Ar turi šiltas kelnes žiemai?

Do you have warm pants for winter?

Accusative plural with purpose 'žiemai'.

8

Padėk kelnes į spintą.

Put the pants in the closet.

Imperative verb with accusative plural.

1

Šios lininės kelnės puikiai tinka vasarai.

These linen pants are perfectly suited for summer.

Adjective 'lininės' (linen) agreement.

2

Kelnėse radau seną monetą.

I found an old coin in the pants.

Locative plural 'kelnėse' (inside the pants).

3

Jis visada mūvi tik tamsias kelnes.

He always wears only dark pants.

Adverb 'visada' and accusative plural.

4

Reikia nunešti kelnes į valyklą.

The pants need to be taken to the dry cleaners.

Impersonal 'reikia' with infinitive and accusative.

5

Ar galite patrumpinti šias kelnes?

Can you shorten these pants?

Verb 'patrumpinti' (to shorten).

6

Mano mėgstamiausios kelnės suplyšo.

My favorite pants tore.

Superlative adjective 'mėgstamiausios'.

7

Vaikas išaugo iš savo kelnių.

The child outgrew his pants.

Preposition 'iš' with genitive plural.

8

Šios kelnės pagamintos iš perdirbtų medžiagų.

These pants are made from recycled materials.

Passive participle 'pagamintos'.

1

Dalykinis kostiumas susideda iš švarko ir kelnių.

A business suit consists of a jacket and pants.

Genitive plural after 'iš'.

2

Šiuolaikinės mados tendencijos diktuoja plačias kelnes.

Modern fashion trends dictate wide pants.

Accusative plural 'plačias kelnes'.

3

Nors kelnės buvo brangios, jų kokybė nuvylė.

Although the pants were expensive, their quality was disappointing.

Concessive clause with 'nors'.

4

Mūvėti sportines kelnes teatre laikoma blogu tonu.

Wearing sweatpants in the theater is considered bad form.

Gerund-like use of 'mūvėti' as a subject.

5

Siuvėjas kruopščiai išmatavo kelnių ilgį.

The tailor carefully measured the length of the pants.

Genitive plural 'kelnių' showing possession.

6

Kelnės su kantu suteikia vyrui solidumo.

Pants with a crease give a man a sense of solidity/professionalism.

Prepositional phrase 'su kantu'.

7

Ji nusprendė persisiūti senas kelnes į sijoną.

She decided to sew her old pants into a skirt.

Prefix 'per-' indicating transformation.

8

Šios kelnės turi specialią apsaugą nuo drėgmės.

These pants have special protection against moisture.

Accusative plural with specific attribute.

1

Politikas bandė įtikinti rinkėjus, kad jis nėra tas, kuris 'pridėjo į kelnes'.

The politician tried to convince voters that he wasn't the one who 'pooped his pants' (got scared).

Idiomatic expression 'pridėti į kelnes'.

2

Istorinėje retrospektyvoje kelnės simbolizavo emancipaciją.

In historical retrospection, pants symbolized emancipation.

Abstract usage in a formal context.

3

Audinio faktūra šioms kelnėms suteikia prabangos pojūtį.

The texture of the fabric gives these pants a sense of luxury.

Dative plural 'šioms kelnėms'.

4

Jis jautėsi nepatogiai, tarsi būtų ne savo kelnėse.

He felt uncomfortable, as if he were not in his own pants (out of place).

Metaphorical locative usage.

5

Kelnės buvo sukirptos pagal individualų užsakymą.

The pants were cut according to an individual order (bespoke).

Passive participle 'sukirptos'.

6

Po bankroto jis liko tiesiog be kelnių.

After the bankruptcy, he was left literally without pants (destitute).

Idiomatic genitive after 'be'.

7

Šios darbinės kelnės yra atsparios trinčiai ir plyšimui.

These work pants are resistant to abrasion and tearing.

Technical adjectives with dative objects.

8

Kelnės, kuriomis jis mūvėjo, buvo seniai išėjusios iš mados.

The pants he was wearing had long been out of fashion.

Relative clause with instrumental 'kuriomis'.

1

Kalbininkai ginčijasi dėl žodžio 'kelnės' etimologinės kilmės ir ryšio su veiksmažodžiu 'kelti'.

Linguists argue about the etymological origin of the word 'kelnės' and its connection to the verb 'kelti'.

Academic discourse using the noun as a linguistic object.

2

Šis romanas puikiai perteikia pokario skurdą per suplyšusių kelnių metaforą.

This novel perfectly conveys post-war poverty through the metaphor of torn pants.

Literary analysis.

3

Nors mados industrija nuolat kinta, pamatinė kelnių konstrukcija išlieka stabili.

Although the fashion industry is constantly changing, the basic construction of pants remains stable.

Complex sentence structure with abstract nouns.

4

Jis demonstravo neįtikėtiną aroganciją, tarsi visą pasaulį būtų susikišęs į kelnes.

He demonstrated incredible arrogance, as if he had stuffed the whole world into his pants.

Highly creative metaphorical usage.

5

Kelnės, kaip aprangos detalė, atspindi sociokultūrinę transformaciją tarpukario Lietuvoje.

Pants, as a clothing detail, reflect the socio-cultural transformation in interwar Lithuania.

Sociological context.

6

Etnografiniuose tyrimuose pabrėžiama, kad vyriškos kelnės buvo audžiamos iš naminio lino.

Ethnographic studies emphasize that men's pants were woven from home-grown linen.

Passive voice in ethnographic context.

7

Kelnės čia tarnauja kaip vizualinis tapatybės ženklas.

Pants here serve as a visual marker of identity.

Semiotic analysis.

8

Jo retorika buvo tokia pat skylėta kaip ir jo senos kelnės.

His rhetoric was as full of holes as his old pants.

Comparative metaphor.

Häufige Kollokationen

Mūvėti kelnes
Mautis kelnes
Nusimauti kelnes
Lyginti kelnes
Kelnės su kišenėmis
Kelnių klešnė
Kelnių diržas
Siauros kelnės
Suplyšusios kelnės
Vienerios kelnės

Häufige Phrasen

Kelnės per ilgos

— The pants are too long. Used when clothes don't fit.

Šios kelnės man per ilgos, reikia jas patrumpinti.

Kelnės per trumpos

— The pants are too short. Often said about growing children.

Vaikas taip užaugo, kad visos kelnės jam per trumpos.

Mėlynos kelnės

— Blue pants. A very common descriptive phrase.

Jis vilki baltus marškinius ir mėlynas kelnes.

Naujos kelnės

— New pants. Used after shopping.

Parodyk savo naujas kelnes!

Darbinės kelnės

— Work pants. Heavy-duty trousers for manual labor.

Statybininkai mūvi tvirtas darbines kelnes.

Vasaros kelnės

— Summer pants. Usually made of light material like linen.

Lininės kelnės yra geriausios vasaros kelnės.

Sportinės kelnės

— Sweatpants. Used for exercise or lounging.

Namuose aš visada mūviu sportines kelnes.

Kelnių kišenė

— Pant pocket. Where you keep your keys or phone.

Raktus įsidėjau į kelnių kišenę.

Lyginti kelnes

— To iron pants. A common household chore.

Ar gali padėti man išlyginti kelnes?

Pirkti kelnes

— To buy pants. A standard shopping activity.

Rytoj eisiu į parduotuvę pirkti kelnių.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

kelnės vs Kelis

Means 'knee'. Beginners often confuse the root 'kel-'.

kelnės vs Kelias

Means 'road'. Another common 'kel-' word confusion.

kelnės vs Kelnaitės

Means 'underwear'. Using this instead of 'kelnės' can be embarrassing.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Pridėti į kelnes"

— To be very scared or terrified (literally: to poop in one's pants).

Pamatęs didelį šunį, jis vos nepridėjo į kelnes.

Informal
"Išaugti iš kelnių"

— To grow up or outgrow a certain stage of life/behavior.

Tu jau turėjai išaugti iš tokių kvailų žaidimų kelnių.

Neutral
"Likti be kelnių"

— To lose everything, to become bankrupt or very poor.

Po nesėkmingų investicijų jis liko be kelnių.

Informal
"Paskutines kelnes atiduoti"

— To be extremely generous, giving away one's last possessions.

Jis toks geras žmogus, kad net paskutines kelnes atiduotų.

Neutral
"Kelnėse nebetilpti"

— To be very proud or arrogant (literally: not to fit in one's pants).

Laimėjęs konkursą, jis kelnėse nebetelpa iš puikybės.

Informal
"Dreba kelnės"

— To be shivering with fear.

Prieš egzaminą jam net kelnės drebėjo.

Informal
"Užsimauti kelnes"

— To take control or show bravery (similar to 'wear the pants').

Atėjo laikas užsimauti kelnes ir pasakyti tiesą.

Informal
"Kelnės smunka"

— Said when someone is losing weight rapidly or is very poor.

Jis taip sulyso, kad jam net kelnės smunka.

Neutral
"Vaikščioti su trumpomis kelnėmis"

— To be immature or inexperienced.

Jis dar su trumpomis kelnėmis vaikščiojo, kai aš čia dirbau.

Informal
"Įsisprausti į kelnes"

— To struggle to fit into a situation or a piece of clothing.

Po atostogų man sunku įsisprausti į savo senas kelnes.

Informal

Leicht verwechselbar

kelnės vs Kelnės

Phonetic similarity to 'kelis' and 'kelias'.

Kelnės (pants) is plural feminine; kelis (knee) is masculine; kelias (road) is masculine.

Aš einu keliu (road) ir purvinu kelnes (pants).

kelnės vs Džinsai

Both refer to trousers.

Kelnės is feminine; Džinsai is masculine. This affects all adjective endings.

Mėlynos kelnės (fem) vs. Mėlyni džinsai (masc).

kelnės vs Šortai

Both cover the legs.

Šortai are short; kelnės are usually long. Šortai is masculine.

Vasarą mūviu šortus, žiemą - kelnes.

kelnės vs Tamprės

Both are leg garments.

Tamprės are specifically tight and stretchy (leggings).

Ji mūvi tampres sporto salėje.

kelnės vs Kelnaitės

Diminutive form.

Kelnaitės is specifically underwear/panties, not outer trousers.

Vaikas mūvi kelnaites po kelnėmis.

Satzmuster

A1

[Possessive] kelnės yra [Color].

Mano kelnės yra juodos.

A1

Aš turiu [Adjective] kelnes.

Aš turiu naujas kelnes.

A2

Man reikia [Adjective] [Genitive].

Man reikia naujų kelnių.

A2

Šios kelnės man per [Adjective].

Šios kelnės man per ilgos.

B1

Aš mūviu [Material] kelnes.

Aš mūviu linines kelnes.

B1

Kelnės yra [Preposition] [Case].

Kelnės yra ant kėdės.

B2

Nors [Clause], kelnės [Verb].

Nors lijo, kelnės nesušlapo.

C1

[Idiom using kelnės].

Jis vėl pridėjo į kelnes iš baimės.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Kelnaitės (Underwear/Panties)
Antkelniai (Chaps/Overalls)
Puskelnės (Bib and brace)
Kelnių klešnė (Trouser leg)
Kelnių diržas (Belt)

Verben

Mautis (To put on pants)
Nusimauti (To take off pants)
Apsimauti (To put on pants)
Išsimauti (To get out of pants)
Patrumpinti (To shorten pants)

Adjektive

Kelnių (Genitive used as adjective, e.g., 'kelnių audinys')
Bekelnis (Without pants - rare)
Trumpakelnis (Wearing short pants)

Verwandt

Drabužiai (Clothes)
Mūvėti (To wear on limbs)
Siūti (To sew)
Kišenė (Pocket)
Diržas (Belt)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely frequent in daily life, shopping, and fashion.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using singular 'viena kelnė'. Vienerios kelnės.

    Kelnės is a pluralia tantum noun; it has no singular form. Use collective numerals for counting.

  • Using masculine adjectives (e.g., 'mėlyni kelnės'). Mėlynos kelnės.

    Kelnės is feminine plural. Adjectives must match this gender and number.

  • Using Accusative after 'ieškoti' (e.g., 'Ieškau kelnes'). Ieškau kelnių.

    The verb 'ieškoti' (to look for) always requires the Genitive case.

  • Using 'vilkėti' instead of 'mūvėti'. Mūvėti kelnes.

    'Mūvėti' is the specific verb for garments pulled onto limbs like pants.

  • Confusing 'kelnės' with 'kelnaitės'. Kelnės (pants) vs. Kelnaitės (underwear).

    Using the diminutive 'kelnaitės' in a general context can be socially awkward as it refers to underwear.

Tipps

Always Plural

Never try to make 'kelnės' singular. It doesn't exist. Always use 'yra' (are) and plural adjectives.

Verb Choice

Use 'mūvėti' for wearing pants. It makes you sound much more fluent than using 'nešioti'.

Genitive Case

When shopping, remember 'Ieškau kelnių'. The verb 'ieškoti' always takes the genitive.

Feminine Agreement

Remember the '-ės' ending means it's feminine. Match your adjectives: 'baltos', 'juodos', 'gražios'.

Collective Numerals

Use 'vienerios', 'dvejos', 'trejos' to count pants, not 'viena', 'dvi', 'trys'.

Soft L

The 'l' in 'kelnės' is soft. Practice saying 'kel-' with your tongue flat against your teeth.

Ironing Matters

In Lithuania, 'išlygintos kelnės' (ironed pants) are a sign of respect and neatness in formal settings.

Fear Idiom

Use 'dreba kelnės' to describe someone who is visibly shaking from fear or nervousness.

Lifting Action

Connect 'kelnės' to 'kelti' (to lift) to remember that you lift them up to put them on.

Be Specific

Instead of just 'kelnės', try using 'džinsai', 'šortai', or 'tamprės' to show off your vocabulary.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'KEL' as 'LIFT' (from 'kelti'). You KEL (lift) your KELnės up your legs every morning.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a giant letter 'K' shaped like a pair of trousers.

Word Web

Kelnės Džinsai Šortai Kišenė Diržas Mūvėti Mautis Skalbti

Herausforderung

Try to describe five different pairs of pants you own using colors and materials in Lithuanian.

Wortherkunft

The word 'kelnės' is derived from the proto-Baltic root *kel-, which is also found in the verb 'kelti' (to lift or raise). This reflects the physical action of lifting the garment to put it on.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Something that is pulled up or lifted onto the legs.

Indo-European, Baltic branch, East Baltic group.

Kultureller Kontext

The word is entirely neutral and safe to use in all contexts.

English speakers often find it easy that 'pants' and 'kelnės' are both plural, but they struggle with the feminine gender agreement in Lithuanian.

Lithuanian folk song 'Turiu laivą, turiu valtį' (mentions clothing). Modern pop songs often use 'džinsai' as a symbol of youth. Literary works by Žemaitė often describe rural clothing in detail.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Clothing Store

  • Kur yra kelnės?
  • Kokia kaina šių kelnių?
  • Ar turite didesnį dydį?
  • Noriu pasimatuoti šias kelnes.

Morning Routine

  • Kur mano kelnės?
  • Apsimauk kelnes.
  • Šios kelnės purvinos.
  • Reikia švarių kelnių.

Laundry

  • Išskalbk kelnes.
  • Išlygink kelnes.
  • Kelnės dar šlapios.
  • Kelnės susitraukė.

Fashion Discussion

  • Gražios kelnės.
  • Madingos kelnės.
  • Siauros kelnės.
  • Plačios kelnės.

Tailoring

  • Patrumpinti kelnes.
  • Siaurinti kelnes.
  • Pataisyti kelnes.
  • Įsiūti sagą į kelnes.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Ar tau patinka šios mano naujos kelnės?"

"Kur tu paprastai perki kelnes Vilniuje?"

"Ar manai, kad šios kelnės tinka prie mano marškinių?"

"Kokia tavo mėgstamiausia kelnių spalva?"

"Ar tau patogiau mūvėti džinsus ar paprastas kelnes?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Aprašyk savo mėgstamiausias kelnes: kokios jos spalvos, iš kokios medžiagos pagamintos?

Ką darytum, jei tavo geriausios kelnės suplyštų svarbaus susitikimo metu?

Papasakok apie savo paskutinį apsilankymą drabužių parduotuvėje ieškant kelnių.

Ar tau svarbu, kad kelnės būtų madingos, ar svarbiau patogumas?

Parašyk trumpą istoriją apie stebuklingas kelnes, kurios gali skraidyti.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, 'kelnės' is a pluralia tantum noun. It has no singular form in standard Lithuanian. Even if you talk about one pair, you use plural forms: 'Mano kelnės yra čia' (My pants are here).

It is feminine. This is important because all adjectives must have feminine plural endings, like 'gražios kelnės' or 'ilgos kelnės'.

You use the collective numeral 'vienerios'. So, 'one pair of pants' is 'vienerios kelnės'.

The most accurate verb is 'mūvėti'. You can also use 'nešioti' for general use, but 'mūvėti' is specific to garments pulled onto limbs like pants, socks, and gloves.

'Kelnės' is the general word for trousers. 'Džinsai' specifically means jeans. Crucially, 'kelnės' is feminine and 'džinsai' is masculine.

The genitive plural is 'kelnių'. You use this after negation (neturiu kelnių) or after certain verbs (ieškau kelnių).

Yes, in modern Lithuanian, 'kelnės' is a gender-neutral term for the garment, though you can specify 'vyriškos kelnės' (men's) or 'moteriškos kelnės' (women's).

It's an informal way to say someone got very scared. It literally means 'to poop in one's pants'.

Usually, 'kelnės' implies long trousers. For shorts, use 'šortai' or 'trumpos kelnės'.

A 'klešnė' is one leg of the pants. While 'kelnės' is always plural, 'klešnė' can be singular: 'Viena kelnių klešnė suplyšo'.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence describing the color and size of your pants.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a short dialogue between a customer and a shop assistant about pants.

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writing

Describe what you do when your pants are too long.

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writing

Explain the difference between 'kelnės' and 'džinsai' in terms of grammar.

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writing

Write a short story using the idiom 'likti be kelnių'.

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writing

Describe the traditional material used for Lithuanian 'kelnės' in the past.

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writing

Write five sentences using different cases of the word 'kelnės'.

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writing

Describe your ideal pair of pants.

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writing

Translate: 'I am looking for warm black pants for the winter.'

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writing

What is the importance of 'išlygintos kelnės' in a job interview?

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writing

Write a sentence using 'vienerios kelnės'.

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writing

Explain the idiom 'išaugti iš kelnių' to a friend.

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writing

Describe the process of washing and drying pants.

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writing

Write a complaint letter about a pair of pants that tore after one day.

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writing

Describe what 'sportinės kelnės' are usually used for.

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writing

Write a sentence using the locative plural 'kelnėse'.

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writing

Translate: 'Do these pants fit you well?'

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writing

Describe the fashion of 'plačios kelnės' in modern times.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'mūvėti'.

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writing

What would you say if you forgot your pants at home?

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speaking

Pronounce the word 'kelnės' clearly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I am wearing blue pants' in Lithuanian.

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speaking

Ask 'How much do these pants cost?'

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speaking

Describe the pants you are wearing right now.

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speaking

Tell someone that their pants are very beautiful.

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speaking

Explain that you need to buy new pants for a wedding.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The keys are in my pants pocket.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Practice the soft 'l' in 'kelnės'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I have two pairs of pants.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask a tailor to shorten your pants.

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speaking

Say 'I don't like tight pants.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell a child to put on their pants.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The pants are dirty, we need to wash them.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain that you outgrew your old pants.

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speaking

Say 'I am looking for linen pants for the summer.'

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speaking

Say 'The pants are on the chair.'

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speaking

Say 'I need a belt for these pants.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Use the idiom 'pridėti į kelnes' in a sentence.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'These pants are too long for me.'

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speaking

Say 'I forgot my pants in the hotel.'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and write: 'Mano naujos kelnės yra labai patogios.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Ieškau juodų kelnių darbui.'

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listening

Listen and identify the noun: 'Ar šios kelnės tau tinka?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Kelnėse radau penkis eurus.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Reikia išlyginti kelnes prieš šventę.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Jis visada mūvi tik džinsus.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Vaikas pats apsimovė kelnes.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Šios kelnės yra per trumpos.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Kur dingo mano kelnių diržas?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Noriu pasimatuoti šias linines kelnes.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Mano brolis išaugo iš visų savo kelnių.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Neturiu jokių švarių kelnių.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Kiek kainuoja šios sportinės kelnės?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Padėk kelnes ant lovos.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Šios kelnės pagamintos iš vilnos.'

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/ 200 correct

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