Signification
Used to apologize or get attention.
Contexte culturel
The 'vykání' system is central. Using 'Promiňte' is a sign of respect for the social hierarchy. The language is very similar to Czech, and 'Prepáčte' is the Slovak equivalent. Polish also uses formal address. 'Przepraszam' is the equivalent and is used in almost identical situations. In the broader region, formal address is a sign of education and good manners.
The 'ň' sound
The 'ň' is a unique Czech sound. Practice saying 'canyon' and focus on the 'ny' sound.
Vykání
Always use the 'te' ending for strangers. It is the golden rule of Czech politeness.
Signification
Used to apologize or get attention.
The 'ň' sound
The 'ň' is a unique Czech sound. Practice saying 'canyon' and focus on the 'ny' sound.
Vykání
Always use the 'te' ending for strangers. It is the golden rule of Czech politeness.
Add 'Prosím'
Saying 'Promiňte, prosím' makes you sound extra polite and is very common.
Teste-toi
Which phrase is appropriate when talking to a stranger?
You need to ask a stranger for the time. What do you say?
Promiňte is the formal/plural form, which is required for strangers.
Complete the sentence.
______, kde je nejbližší lékárna?
You are asking a stranger, so you need the formal 'Promiňte'.
Match the situation to the correct phrase.
Match: 1. Stranger, 2. Friend
Promiňte is for formal/strangers, Promiň is for informal/friends.
Complete the dialogue.
Stranger: [You bump into them]. You: ______
When you bump into someone, you apologize with 'Promiňte'.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesYou need to ask a stranger for the time. What do you say?
Promiňte is the formal/plural form, which is required for strangers.
______, kde je nejbližší lékárna?
You are asking a stranger, so you need the formal 'Promiňte'.
Associez chaque element a gauche avec son pair a droite :
Promiňte is for formal/strangers, Promiň is for informal/friends.
Stranger: [You bump into them]. You: ______
When you bump into someone, you apologize with 'Promiňte'.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, use 'Omlouvám se' for serious matters.
It's not rude, but it's weird. It sounds like you are being sarcastic or distant.
It's a soft 'n' sound, common in Czech grammar.
Yes, it is perfect for that.
Pardon is more casual; Promiňte is more standard/polite.
Czechs will still understand you, but the 'ň' is important for sounding natural.
No, a slight nod is enough.
Yes, in formal emails or letters.
Yes, it's the standard way to do so.
No, it is the same for everyone.
Expressions liées
Omlouvám se
synonymI apologize
Pardon
similarPardon
Prosím
builds onPlease
Děkuji
contrastThank you
