Signification
Talking at a low speed.
Contexte culturel
In Dalmatia, 'polako' is more than a speed; it's a lifestyle. You will often hear 'pomalo', which is the local dialect version. It implies that nothing is so urgent that it requires rushing. People in Zagreb tend to speak faster and use more German-influenced fillers. They are generally patient with learners but might need a 'polako' reminder more often than people in the south. Istrians often have a melodic, slightly slower tempo due to Italian influence. 'Govoriti polako' here feels very natural and is often accompanied by expressive hand gestures. Slavonians are known for their hospitality and 'wide soul'. They might speak slowly naturally while offering you food, making 'polako' a part of the dining ritual.
The Hand Gesture
Pair the phrase with a 'calm down' hand gesture (palms facing down, moving slightly) to make your intent 100% clear.
Don't just say 'Polako!'
Saying just 'Polako!' can sound like you are telling someone to 'Watch out!' or 'Be careful!'. Always include the verb 'govorite' for clarity.
Signification
Talking at a low speed.
The Hand Gesture
Pair the phrase with a 'calm down' hand gesture (palms facing down, moving slightly) to make your intent 100% clear.
Don't just say 'Polako!'
Saying just 'Polako!' can sound like you are telling someone to 'Watch out!' or 'Be careful!'. Always include the verb 'govorite' for clarity.
The 'Vi' Rule
Always use 'Govorite' (formal) with anyone older than you or in a professional setting. It opens doors and hearts.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'govoriti' for a formal request.
Molim Vas, ________ polako.
The 'Vi' form (formal) of the imperative for 'govoriti' is 'govorite'.
Which sentence means 'Can you speak slowly?' in an informal way?
Choose the correct option:
'Možeš li' is the informal 'ti' form of 'can you'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are at a loud party and can't hear the volume of the person's voice.
If you can't hear the volume, you need them to speak 'louder' (glasnije), not 'slower' (polako).
Complete the dialogue.
A: Brzo pričam, zar ne? B: Da, molim te, ________.
Since the speaker used 'pričam' (informal speak), the response 'pričaj polako' is the most natural fit.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Speed vs. Volume
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesMolim Vas, ________ polako.
The 'Vi' form (formal) of the imperative for 'govoriti' is 'govorite'.
Choose the correct option:
'Možeš li' is the informal 'ti' form of 'can you'.
You are at a loud party and can't hear the volume of the person's voice.
If you can't hear the volume, you need them to speak 'louder' (glasnije), not 'slower' (polako).
A: Brzo pričam, zar ne? B: Da, molim te, ________.
Since the speaker used 'pričam' (informal speak), the response 'pričaj polako' is the most natural fit.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questions'Polako' means 'slowly', while 'sporije' means 'slower'. You can use both, but 'polako' is more common for general requests.
It's rare in emails. Usually, you'd say 'Molim Vas za strpljenje' (I ask for your patience) instead.
Yes, in many contexts 'Polako!' means 'Take it easy!' or 'Don't rush!'.
'Pomalo' is the regional dialect version used on the coast. It's very common and friendly.
Not at all! In Croatia, it's seen as a sign that you are trying hard to learn their language.
The opposite is 'govoriti brzo' (to speak fast).
No, that's too informal. Use 'Možete li, molim Vas, govoriti polako?'.
You say 'Govorite sporije'.
No, adverbs like 'polako' never change for gender or number.
Smile and say: 'Oprostite, još uvijek je prebrzo za mene.' (Sorry, it's still too fast for me.)
Expressions liées
pričati polako
synonymTo talk slowly (more informal).
govoriti glasno
contrastTo speak loudly.
govoriti tečno
builds onTo speak fluently.
usporiti
specialized formTo slow down.
