Signification
Explaining one's limited language ability.
Contexte culturel
Slovenians are very proud of their language. Even a tiny effort to speak it is seen as a sign of deep respect. They will often switch to English to help you, but they will appreciate the attempt. In the capital, almost everyone speaks excellent English. Using this phrase here is more of a social 'icebreaker' than a necessity. In smaller villages, older generations might only speak Slovenian and perhaps some German or Italian. Here, the phrase is vital for setting expectations. Slovenian has a strong literary tradition. Mentioning you are learning the language (even 'malo') can lead to long discussions about Slovenian poets like France Prešeren.
The Smile Factor
Always pair this phrase with a smile. It signals that you are happy to be learning and makes the local more likely to help you.
Don't over-apologize
You don't need to say 'Sorry' ten times. 'Govorim malo slovensko' is an explanation, not a crime!
Signification
Explaining one's limited language ability.
The Smile Factor
Always pair this phrase with a smile. It signals that you are happy to be learning and makes the local more likely to help you.
Don't over-apologize
You don't need to say 'Sorry' ten times. 'Govorim malo slovensko' is an explanation, not a crime!
The Dual Trap
If you say this, a local might jokingly ask you if you know the 'dual'. Just laugh and say 'To je težko!' (That is hard!)
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing word to say 'I speak a little Slovenian'.
Govorim _______ slovensko.
'Malo' is the correct adverb for 'a little'.
Which of these is the most natural way to tell a local you are a beginner?
Select the correct phrase:
This is the standard idiomatic expression.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are at a tourist office and the clerk is speaking too fast.
This politely asks the speaker to slow down due to your limited level.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Ali govorite slovensko? B: ________, govorim malo slovensko.
'Oprostite' (Excuse me/Sorry) is a polite way to preface your limited ability.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesGovorim _______ slovensko.
'Malo' is the correct adverb for 'a little'.
Select the correct phrase:
This is the standard idiomatic expression.
You are at a tourist office and the clerk is speaking too fast.
This politely asks the speaker to slow down due to your limited level.
A: Ali govorite slovensko? B: ________, govorim malo slovensko.
'Oprostite' (Excuse me/Sorry) is a polite way to preface your limited ability.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsUse 'slovensko' with the verb 'govoriti' (to speak). Use 'slovenščina' when it's the subject or object of other verbs, like 'Slovenščina je lepa' (Slovenian is beautiful).
Yes, changing the word order is fine and very common. It slightly emphasizes the 'malo'.
Yes, it's perfectly neutral. If you want to be extra polite, you can add 'žal' (unfortunately) at the start.
Then say 'Ne govorim slovensko'. But if you know even five words, 'Govorim malo slovensko' is better!
No, 'Govorim' already means 'I speak'. Adding 'Jaz' makes it very emphatic, like 'I (specifically) speak...'
You can say 'Govorim le čisto malo slovensko'.
Yes! Just swap 'slovensko' for 'angleško' (English), 'nemško' (German), etc.
In Slovenian, 'v' before a consonant or at the end of a word often takes a 'w' sound (bilabial semivowel).
It's neutral. You can use it with a doctor, a friend, or a waiter.
Usually 'To je lepo!' (That's nice!) or 'Kje ste se naučili?' (Where did you learn?)
Expressions liées
Razumem malo
similarI understand a little
Ne govorim slovensko
contrastI don't speak Slovenian
Učim se slovensko
builds onI am learning Slovenian
Govorite angleško?
similarDo you speak English?
