Signification
Being desperate or out of options.
Contexte culturel
Czechs often use self-deprecation and 'complaining' as a social bonding tool. Saying 'Jsem v koncích' is a common way to invite sympathy and start a conversation about shared struggles. During 'Zkouškové období' (exam period), this phrase is ubiquitous in libraries and cafes. It's almost a rite of passage to be 'v koncích' before a big exam. In Czech offices, admitting you are 'v koncích' is often seen as more honest and productive than pretending everything is fine, as it allows for 'týmová práce' (teamwork) to kick in.
Add 'úplně' for emphasis
To sound more natural and emphasize your despair, add 'úplně' (completely): 'Jsem úplně v koncích.'
Watch the plural
Never say 'v konci'. It must always be plural 'v koncích'.
Signification
Being desperate or out of options.
Add 'úplně' for emphasis
To sound more natural and emphasize your despair, add 'úplně' (completely): 'Jsem úplně v koncích.'
Watch the plural
Never say 'v konci'. It must always be plural 'v koncích'.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'být' and the idiom.
Zkusil jsem všechno, ale teď už ___ ___ ___.
The subject is 'já' (implied by 'zkusil jsem'), so the verb must be 'jsem'.
Which sentence correctly uses the idiom?
Vyberte správnou větu:
The idiom describes Petr's state of helplessness.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Už jsi ten úkol dokončil? B: Ne, je to moc těžké. ___.
'Jsem v koncích' expresses that the task is too hard and the person is stuck.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesZkusil jsem všechno, ale teď už ___ ___ ___.
The subject is 'já' (implied by 'zkusil jsem'), so the verb must be 'jsem'.
Vyberte správnou větu:
The idiom describes Petr's state of helplessness.
A: Už jsi ten úkol dokončil? B: Ne, je to moc těžké. ___.
'Jsem v koncích' expresses that the task is too hard and the person is stuck.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
3 questionsNo, it is a neutral idiom. You can use it with your boss or your grandmother.
Yes, but it's better to say 'být v koncích s dechem' or 'být na dně'.
'V prdeli' is very vulgar slang. 'V koncích' is polite and neutral.
Expressions liées
Být v úzkých
similarTo be in a tight spot.
Nevědět kudy kam
synonymNot knowing which way to go.
Mít toho plné zuby
similarTo be fed up with something.
