Meaning
Request for someone to slow down speech.
Cultural Background
Czechs often speak very quickly and elide sounds. Asking them to slow down is not seen as an insult, but rather as a sign that you are trying to learn. Slovak is very similar to Czech. You can use 'Hovorte pomaly' in Slovakia, and the cultural reaction will be equally helpful. In Prague, people are used to foreigners and might switch to English immediately if you say 'Mluvte pomalu'. In villages, they will likely just slow down and keep speaking Czech. In Czech universities, professors appreciate students who ask for clarity. 'Mluvte pomalu' is a standard request during lectures for international students.
Add 'Prosím'
Always add 'prosím' (please) to the end. 'Mluvte pomalu, prosím' sounds like a polite request, while 'Mluvte pomalu' alone can sound like a command.
Don't just nod
If you don't understand, don't just say 'ano' (yes). Use this phrase immediately. Czechs will respect you more for being honest about your level.
Meaning
Request for someone to slow down speech.
Add 'Prosím'
Always add 'prosím' (please) to the end. 'Mluvte pomalu, prosím' sounds like a polite request, while 'Mluvte pomalu' alone can sound like a command.
Don't just nod
If you don't understand, don't just say 'ano' (yes). Use this phrase immediately. Czechs will respect you more for being honest about your level.
The 'V' Form
Always use the '-te' ending with strangers. Using 'Mluv pomalu' with an older person or a clerk is considered quite rude.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to complete the polite request.
Mluvte ______, prosím. Nerozumím.
'Pomalu' is the correct adverb meaning 'slowly'.
Which of these is the most formal way to ask someone to slow down?
Choose the best option:
This uses the conditional 'mohl byste' and the comparative 'pomaleji', making it very polite.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
Situation: You are talking to your 5-year-old Czech cousin.
With a child, you use the informal 'Ty-form' (Mluv).
Complete the dialogue.
A: Tady je váš lístek, nástupiště čtyři, směr Brno, odjezd v deset patnáct. B: Promiňte, ______.
The speaker is giving a lot of information quickly, so asking them to slow down is appropriate.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMluvte ______, prosím. Nerozumím.
'Pomalu' is the correct adverb meaning 'slowly'.
Choose the best option:
This uses the conditional 'mohl byste' and the comparative 'pomaleji', making it very polite.
Situation: You are talking to your 5-year-old Czech cousin.
With a child, you use the informal 'Ty-form' (Mluv).
A: Tady je váš lístek, nástupiště čtyři, směr Brno, odjezd v deset patnáct. B: Promiňte, ______.
The speaker is giving a lot of information quickly, so asking them to slow down is appropriate.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, as long as you add 'prosím' and use a friendly tone. It shows you are engaged and want to understand.
'Pomalu' means 'slowly', while 'pomaleji' means 'more slowly'. Both are acceptable, but 'pomaleji' is often more natural in a request.
Yes, absolutely. Teachers expect this and it helps them calibrate their speed to your level.
It's a matter of perception! Every language sounds fast to a learner. Czech has many consonants, which can make it sound 'staccato' and rapid.
Related Phrases
Ještě jednou
similarOne more time / Once again
Nerozumím
builds onI don't understand
Co jste říkal?
similarWhat did you say?
Zpomalte
synonymSlow down
