Signification
Don't criticize something you received for free.
Contexte culturel
During a Slava (patron saint day), guests bring gifts like wine, coffee, or flowers. The host will never open or critique the gift in front of the guest, embodying the spirit of this proverb. Refusing food or a small gift in a village home is often seen as more rude than giving a 'bad' gift. The proverb reinforces the idea that the gesture is sacred. In the 90s, during hyperinflation, people shared whatever they had. This proverb was a daily reality—you were lucky to get anything for free, so you never complained. In cities like Belgrade, the phrase is now used ironically among friends when someone gives a 'bad' gift as a joke.
The 'Se' Trick
Remember that 'se' makes it a general rule. It's like saying 'It is done this way' in Serbian culture.
Say it with a smile
When you use this phrase, a small shrug or a smile helps convey that you are being humble, not just reciting a rule.
Signification
Don't criticize something you received for free.
The 'Se' Trick
Remember that 'se' makes it a general rule. It's like saying 'It is done this way' in Serbian culture.
Say it with a smile
When you use this phrase, a small shrug or a smile helps convey that you are being humble, not just reciting a rule.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing word in the correct case.
________ se u zube ne gleda.
The proverb requires the Dative case ('Poklonu').
Which situation best fits the proverb?
Marko receives a free sandwich from a colleague, but it has too much mayo. What should he say?
This is the polite way to acknowledge a free gift despite its flaws.
Match the Serbian phrase parts.
Match the left and right sides.
These are the standard pairings for the proverb and its variations.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Dobio sam ovaj stari sat od dede. Malo kasni. B: Pa šta, ________________________.
This fits the context of receiving a sentimental but imperfect gift.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercices________ se u zube ne gleda.
The proverb requires the Dative case ('Poklonu').
Marko receives a free sandwich from a colleague, but it has too much mayo. What should he say?
This is the polite way to acknowledge a free gift despite its flaws.
Associez chaque element a gauche avec son pair a droite :
These are the standard pairings for the proverb and its variations.
A: Dobio sam ovaj stari sat od dede. Malo kasni. B: Pa šta, ________________________.
This fits the context of receiving a sentimental but imperfect gift.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
2 questionsYes, but it's more common for small or 'useful' gifts. For very expensive gifts, it might sound like you're downplaying the giver's generosity.
Usually, yes. It's better to say it to a third person or to yourself. If you say it to the giver, it implies their gift has flaws you are choosing to ignore.
Expressions liées
Daj šta daš
similarGive whatever you can / I'll take anything.
Čist račun, duga ljubav
contrastClear accounts make for long-lasting love.
Ko rano rani, dve sreće grabi
builds onThe early bird catches the worm.
