skup in 30 Seconds
- Skup: expensive.
- Adjective describing high cost.
- Agrees with noun: skup, skupa, skupo.
- Opposite: jeftin (cheap).
The Croatian word skup, used as an adjective, translates directly to 'expensive' in English. It describes something that costs a lot of money or is beyond one's budget. You'll hear this word frequently in everyday conversations when people discuss prices, shopping, or financial matters. It's a fundamental adjective for expressing value and cost in Croatian.
- Usage Context
- Used when discussing prices of goods, services, or even experiences that are considered high-cost.
- Opposite
- The opposite of 'skup' is 'jeftin', meaning 'cheap'.
Ovaj automobil je skup.
Imagine you're looking at a beautiful designer handbag in a shop window in Zagreb. If the price tag makes you gasp, you'd say, "Ta torba je baš skupa!" (That bag is really expensive!). Similarly, if someone asks you about the cost of a vacation in Dubrovnik during peak season, you might reply, "Putovanje je prilično skupo." (The trip is quite expensive). The word 'skup' is used across various scenarios, from discussing the price of daily groceries to the cost of major investments like a house or a car. It's a versatile adjective that helps you communicate your perception of value and affordability. For instance, if you're comparing two restaurants, and one has significantly higher prices, you might remark, "Ovaj restoran je skup, ali hrana je odlična." (This restaurant is expensive, but the food is excellent). In casual conversation, it's common to hear phrases like "Preskupo je!" (It's too expensive!), which uses a related form of the word. Understanding 'skup' is crucial for navigating shopping experiences and financial discussions in Croatia. It allows you to express your opinion on whether something is worth its price or if it's simply too costly for your liking. Remember that the adjective 'skup' changes its ending based on the gender and number of the noun it describes (e.g., 'skup' for masculine singular, 'skupa' for feminine singular, 'skupo' for neuter singular, 'skupi' for masculine plural, 'skupe' for feminine/neuter plural). This grammatical flexibility is important to note as you encounter the word in different contexts. It's a word that will quickly become part of your active vocabulary as you engage with the Croatian language and culture.
Using skup correctly involves understanding its role as an adjective that modifies nouns. Like many adjectives in Croatian, it needs to agree in gender, number, and case with the noun it describes. For A1 learners, focusing on the basic forms will be most helpful. The masculine singular form is 'skup', the feminine singular is 'skupa', and the neuter singular is 'skupo'. Plural forms exist as well: 'skupi' (masculine plural) and 'skupe' (feminine/neuter plural).
- Basic Agreement
- Masculine: skup (e.g., skup kaput - expensive coat)
- Feminine: skupa (e.g., skupa haljina - expensive dress)
- Neuter: skupo (e.g., skupo vino - expensive wine)
Ta kuća je jako skupa.
When forming sentences, you'll typically place 'skup' (or its agreed form) after the noun it modifies, or sometimes before for emphasis. For instance, to say 'an expensive book', you would say 'knjiga je skupa' (the book is expensive) or 'ta skupa knjiga' (that expensive book). The latter is less common for simple descriptions at A1 level. A more straightforward structure is to use the verb 'biti' (to be). For example, 'Ovo je skup sat.' (This is an expensive watch). 'Sat' is masculine, so we use 'skup'. If we were talking about a 'torba' (bag), which is feminine, we'd say 'Ova torba je skupa.' (This bag is expensive). For neuter nouns like 'selo' (village), you'd say 'To je skupo selo.' (That is an expensive village). When discussing multiple items, you'll use the plural forms. For example, 'Njihovi automobili su skupi.' (Their cars are expensive - 'automobili' is masculine plural). Or, 'Nove cipele su skupe.' (New shoes are expensive - 'cipele' is feminine plural). You can also use 'skup' in comparative sentences. For example, 'Ovaj proizvod je skuplji od onoga.' (This product is more expensive than that one). The comparative form is 'skuplji'. In negative sentences, you can use 'nije' (is not): 'Ovaj telefon nije skup.' (This phone is not expensive). Practice constructing simple sentences using the different forms of 'skup' with common nouns you've learned. This will solidify your understanding of adjective agreement in Croatian and make your communication more accurate and natural.
You will encounter the word skup in a wide array of real-life situations in Croatia, primarily whenever the topic of cost or value arises. It's a common adjective used in everyday conversations, in shops, restaurants, when discussing travel, and even when talking about personal finance.
- Shopping Scenarios
- In a clothing store: "Ove traperice su mi malo skupe." (These jeans are a bit expensive for me.)
- At a market: "Jabuke su ove godine skupe." (Apples are expensive this year.)
- Dining Out
- Looking at a menu: "Ovo jelo je prilično skupo." (This dish is quite expensive.)
- After a meal: "Račun je bio skup." (The bill was expensive.)
This hotel is very skup.
When discussing travel plans, someone might ask about accommodation costs: "Koliko košta hotel?" (How much does the hotel cost?) and you might reply, "Hotel je skup, ali je na dobroj lokaciji." (The hotel is expensive, but it's in a good location). In real estate, potential buyers often inquire about property prices. You might hear: "Kuća u centru grada je vrlo skupa." (A house in the city center is very expensive). Even when talking about simple purchases, 'skup' is used. For example, if you buy a new phone, you might tell a friend, "Novi telefon je bio skup, ali vrijedi svake kune." (The new phone was expensive, but it's worth every kuna). In media, news reports about economic trends or the cost of living might use the word: "Cijene goriva su postale skupe." (Fuel prices have become expensive). You'll also hear it in casual banter among friends when deciding where to go or what to buy: "Idemo li u onaj skupi restoran?" (Are we going to that expensive restaurant?). It's important to note that the perception of 'skup' can be subjective. What one person considers expensive, another might find reasonable. However, the word itself consistently denotes a high price point. Listening to native speakers in various contexts will help you internalize the nuances of its usage and understand when and how it's most appropriately applied. Pay attention to the intonation and the surrounding words, as they often provide clues to the speaker's genuine feelings about the price.
For English speakers learning Croatian, the most common mistake when using the adjective skup is failing to correctly apply its grammatical agreement with the noun it modifies. Croatian adjectives change their endings based on the gender, number, and case of the noun. Forgetting this can lead to misunderstandings or grammatically incorrect sentences.
- Mistake 1: Incorrect Gender Agreement
- Incorrect: To je skup haljina. (This is an expensive dress.)
- Correct: To je skupa haljina. ('Haljina' is feminine, so the adjective must be 'skupa'.)
- Mistake 2: Incorrect Number Agreement
- Incorrect: Oni su skup prijatelji. (They are expensive friends.)
- Correct: Oni su skupi prijatelji. ('Prijatelji' is masculine plural, so the adjective must be 'skupi'.)
The book is skupa.
Another common pitfall is using 'skup' when a related but different word is needed, though this is less frequent at the A1 level. For example, confusing it with the noun 'skup' (meaning a gathering or assembly). However, the primary challenge remains adjective agreement. Learners might also overuse the basic masculine form 'skup' for all situations, which is a significant grammatical error. It's crucial to remember the different endings: 'skup' (m.sg.), 'skupa' (f.sg.), 'skupo' (n.sg.), 'skupi' (m.pl.), 'skupe' (f./n.pl.). When in doubt, identify the noun's gender and number first. For instance, if you want to say 'expensive shoes', you first identify that 'cipele' (shoes) is feminine plural, so you must use 'skupe': 'Ove cipele su skupe.' (These shoes are expensive). Another subtle mistake can be related to case agreement, although at A1 level, nominative case is most common. If 'skup' is used in a different case, its ending will change further. For example, in the genitive case for a masculine noun: 'cijena tog skupog automobila' (the price of that expensive car). While this is more advanced, it highlights the complexity of Croatian grammar. For beginners, mastering the nominative singular and plural forms is the priority. Always double-check the noun you are describing and select the corresponding form of 'skup'. Practicing with a variety of nouns will help build intuition for these agreements.
While skup is the most common and direct translation for 'expensive' in Croatian, there are related terms and phrases that convey similar meanings or offer nuances in context. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.
- Synonym: Vredan (Valuable)
- While 'vredan' means 'valuable', it can sometimes imply expensiveness, especially when something is valuable *because* it is rare or of high quality, which often correlates with a high price. However, 'vredan' focuses more on worth than just cost.
- Related Phrase: Visoka cijena (High price)
- This is a descriptive phrase rather than a single adjective. You can say something has a 'visoka cijena', meaning it has a high price. Example: "Ovaj proizvod ima visoku cijenu." (This product has a high price.) This is very similar in meaning to 'skup'.
- Related Phrase: Preskupo (Too expensive)
- This is formed by adding the prefix 'pre-' to 'skup', meaning 'too expensive'. It indicates that the price is beyond what is acceptable or affordable. Example: "Ovo je preskupo za mene." (This is too expensive for me.)
- Antonym: Jeftin (Cheap)
- The direct opposite of 'skup'. It describes something that costs little money. Example: "Ova majica je jeftina." (This t-shirt is cheap.)
This is preskupo.
In more formal or specific contexts, you might encounter terms like 'raskošan' (luxurious), which often implies expensiveness. However, 'raskošan' emphasizes the splendor and richness of an item or experience, rather than just its cost. For A1 learners, the most important alternatives to grasp are 'skup' itself and its direct opposite, 'jeftin'. Understanding 'preskupo' is also very useful for expressing strong opinions about prices. When comparing items, you'll use the comparative form 'skuplji' (more expensive) and the superlative 'najskuplji' (most expensive). For example, "Ovaj model je skuplji od prošlog." (This model is more expensive than the previous one.) And, "Ovo je najskuplji automobil u salonu." (This is the most expensive car in the showroom). While these are related, they are comparative and superlative forms, not direct synonyms for the basic adjective 'skup'. The phrase 'visoka cijena' serves as a good alternative when you want to explicitly refer to the 'price' aspect of being expensive. For instance, instead of saying "Ovo je skup proizvod", you could say "Ovaj proizvod ima visoku cijenu." Both convey that the product is costly. Mastering 'skup' and its direct opposite 'jeftin' will cover the majority of your needs for expressing cost at an A1 level. The other terms and phrases offer more advanced ways to describe value and price.
How Formal Is It?
"Implementacija novih tehnologija pokazala se kao iznimno skup, ali neophodan pothvat."
"Ovaj ručak u restoranu je bio malo skup."
"Brate, ovo je preskupo!"
"Ta igračka je jako skupa, ne možemo je kupiti."
"Ovo je ubica cijena, fakat skupo!"
Fun Fact
Interestingly, the noun 'skup' (meaning a gathering or assembly) shares the same root. The adjective 'skup' (expensive) likely developed from the idea that things which are rare or hard to gather are more valuable and thus more expensive. Similarly, the verb 'skupljati' (to gather/collect) is directly related.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'u' as a long 'oo' sound (like in 'pool'). It should be a short 'u' sound.
- Adding an extra vowel sound before or after the word.
- Misplacing stress if the word were longer (though 'skup' is monosyllabic).
Difficulty Rating
At A1 level, 'skup' is straightforward. Recognizing its meaning and basic agreement is key. The challenge increases with more complex sentences and grammatical cases at higher levels.
Beginners might struggle with adjective agreement (gender, number, case). Mastering the basic forms is essential for correct writing.
Pronunciation is simple. The main challenge is recalling the correct form of 'skup' in spontaneous speech.
Easy to recognize when spoken, especially with context about prices.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement (Gender, Number, Case)
The adjective 'skup' must change its ending to match the noun it describes. For example: 'skup' (masculine singular), 'skupa' (feminine singular), 'skupo' (neuter singular), 'skupi' (masculine plural), 'skupe' (feminine/neuter plural).
Comparative and Superlative Forms
To form comparisons, use 'skuplji' (more expensive) and 'najskuplji' (most expensive). Example: 'Ovaj je skuplji od onoga.' (This one is more expensive than that one.) 'Ovo je najskuplji proizvod.' (This is the most expensive product.)
Use of 'Biti' (to be)
The verb 'biti' is often used with 'skup' to state that something is expensive. Example: 'Auto je skup.' (The car is expensive.)
Prefix 'Pre-' for 'Too'
Adding the prefix 'pre-' creates 'preskup', meaning 'too expensive'. Example: 'Ovo je preskupo.' (This is too expensive.)
Case Usage
In different cases, the adjective form changes further. For example, in the genitive plural: 'cijena skupih automobila' (the price of expensive cars).
Examples by Level
Ovaj sat je vrlo skup.
This watch is very expensive.
'Sat' (watch) is masculine singular, so the adjective is 'skup'.
Ta kuća je previše skupa.
That house is too expensive.
'Kuća' (house) is feminine singular, so the adjective is 'skupa'.
Je li ovo skup poklon?
Is this an expensive gift?
'Poklon' (gift) is masculine singular, so the adjective is 'skup'.
Nova knjiga je skupa.
The new book is expensive.
'Knjiga' (book) is feminine singular, so the adjective is 'skupa'.
Njihov auto je jako skup.
Their car is very expensive.
'Auto' (car) is masculine singular, so the adjective is 'skup'.
To je skupo vino.
That is expensive wine.
'Vino' (wine) is neuter singular, so the adjective is 'skupo'.
Ove cipele su skupe.
These shoes are expensive.
'Cipele' (shoes) is feminine plural, so the adjective is 'skupe'.
Putovanje je skupo.
The trip is expensive.
'Putovanje' (trip) is neuter singular, so the adjective is 'skupo'.
Ovaj restoran je skup, ali hrana je odlična.
This restaurant is expensive, but the food is excellent.
Connects two clauses with contrasting ideas. 'Restoran' is masculine singular.
Ne mogu si priuštiti tako skup automobil.
I cannot afford such an expensive car.
Uses the verb 'priuštiti' (to afford) and the accusative case for 'skup automobil'.
Kupio sam skupe ulaznice za koncert.
I bought expensive tickets for the concert.
'Ulaznice' (tickets) is feminine plural, requiring 'skupe'.
Njezina nova haljina je bila jako skupa.
Her new dress was very expensive.
Past tense usage. 'Haljina' is feminine singular.
Je li to stvarno bio najskuplji izbor?
Was that really the most expensive option?
Uses the superlative form 'najskuplji' (most expensive). 'Izbor' is masculine singular.
Ovaj sat je skup, ali je kvalitetan.
This watch is expensive, but it is high-quality.
Emphasizes the trade-off between cost and quality. 'Sat' is masculine singular.
Gradnja nove škole bila je skup projekt.
The construction of the new school was an expensive project.
'Projekt' (project) is masculine singular.
Nismo očekivali tako skup ručak.
We didn't expect such an expensive lunch.
'Ručak' (lunch) is masculine singular.
Cijena nekretnina u centru grada je postala izuzetno skupa.
The price of real estate in the city center has become extremely expensive.
Uses 'izuzetno' (extremely) to intensify 'skupa'. 'Nekretnina' (real estate) is feminine plural.
Odustali smo od kupnje tog skupocjenog automobila.
We gave up on buying that very expensive car.
Uses 'skupocjen' (very expensive, luxurious) as a synonym, and the genitive case after 'od kupnje'.
Njihov luksuzni odmor sigurno je bio skup.
Their luxurious vacation was surely expensive.
'Luksuzni' (luxurious) implies expensiveness. 'Odmor' (vacation) is masculine singular.
Pokušavamo pronaći jeftiniji smještaj, jer su hoteli ovdje vrlo skupi.
We are trying to find cheaper accommodation, because the hotels here are very expensive.
Uses comparative 'jeftiniji' (cheaper) and contrasts with 'skupi'. 'Hoteli' is masculine plural.
Ta umjetnička djela vrijede mnogo, ali su i vrlo skupa.
Those artworks are worth a lot, but they are also very expensive.
Connects 'vrijede mnogo' (are worth a lot) with 'skupa'. 'Umjetnička djela' (artworks) is neuter plural.
Financiranje ovog projekta pokazalo se kao skup pothvat.
Financing this project turned out to be an expensive undertaking.
'Pothvat' (undertaking) is masculine singular. 'Skup' agrees.
Iako je bio skup, kupio sam ga jer mi se jako svidio.
Although it was expensive, I bought it because I really liked it.
Uses 'iako' (although) to introduce a concessive clause. 'Ga' refers to a masculine singular object.
Njihova strategija je bila skupa, ali se isplatila.
Their strategy was expensive, but it paid off.
'Strategija' (strategy) is feminine singular. 'Skupa' agrees.
Ulaganje u obnovljive izvore energije često je skupo u početku, ali dugoročno donosi značajne uštede.
Investing in renewable energy sources is often expensive initially, but brings significant savings in the long run.
Discusses long-term financial implications. 'Ulaganje' (investment) is neuter singular.
Njihov najnoviji proizvod, iako skup, odmah je postao hit na tržištu.
Their newest product, although expensive, immediately became a hit on the market.
Uses 'iako' (although) and the superlative 'najnoviji' (newest). 'Proizvod' is masculine singular.
Troškovi održavanja takvog povijesnog zdanja su neizbježno skupi.
The costs of maintaining such a historical building are inevitably expensive.
'Troškovi' (costs) is masculine plural, so 'skupi' is used. 'Zdanje' (building) is neuter singular.
Morali smo revidirati proračun zbog neočekivano skupih komponenti.
We had to revise the budget due to unexpectedly expensive components.
Uses 'neočekivano' (unexpectedly) and 'komponente' (components) which is feminine plural, requiring 'skupih' (genitive plural).
Iako je bila svjesna da je to skup potez, odlučila se na rizik.
Although she was aware that it was an expensive move, she decided to take the risk.
'Potez' (move) is masculine singular. 'Skup' agrees. 'Svjesna' (aware) agrees with a feminine subject.
Neki stručnjaci smatraju da je cijena ove tehnologije još uvijek previsoka i skupa za širu primjenu.
Some experts believe that the price of this technology is still too high and expensive for wider application.
Uses 'previsoka' (too high) and 'skupa'. 'Tehnologija' is feminine singular.
Dobro planiranje može pomoći u smanjenju skupih pogrešaka u budućnosti.
Good planning can help in reducing expensive mistakes in the future.
'Pogreške' (mistakes) is feminine plural, requiring 'skupih' (genitive plural).
Taj luksuzni automobil, iako skup, nudi neusporedivu udobnost i performanse.
That luxury car, although expensive, offers incomparable comfort and performance.
Connects 'luksuzni' and 'skup'. 'Automobil' is masculine singular.
Strategija diverzifikacije portfelja, premda skupa u početnim fazama, pokazala se ključnom za dugoročnu stabilnost.
The strategy of portfolio diversification, although expensive in the initial phases, proved to be key for long-term stability.
Uses 'premda' (although) and sophisticated financial terminology. 'Strategija' is feminine singular.
Implementacija novih sigurnosnih protokola zahtijevala je značajna sredstva, čineći početni trošak vrlo skupim.
The implementation of new security protocols required significant funds, making the initial cost very expensive.
Focuses on financial investment and cost implications. 'Trošak' is masculine singular.
Unatoč visokoj cijeni, ekskluzivna vina iz te regije smatraju se neophodnima za prave kolekcionare.
Despite the high price, exclusive wines from that region are considered essential for true collectors.
Uses 'unatoč' (despite) and implies expensiveness through 'visokoj cijeni' and 'ekskluzivna'. 'Vina' is neuter plural.
Restauracija stare palače bila je dugotrajan i iznimno skup pothvat, ali je sačuvana kulturna baština.
The restoration of the old palace was a long and extremely expensive undertaking, but the cultural heritage was preserved.
Combines temporal and financial aspects. 'Palača' is feminine singular, 'pothvat' is masculine singular.
Njegova opsesija za rijetkim antikvitetima dovela ga je do financijskih poteškoća, kupujući uvijek skupe predmete.
His obsession with rare antiques led him to financial difficulties, always buying expensive items.
Links obsession with financial consequence. 'Predmete' (items) is masculine plural accusative.
Razvoj napredne umjetne inteligencije predstavlja skup, ali potencijalno transformativan projekt za budućnost čovječanstva.
The development of advanced artificial intelligence represents an expensive, but potentially transformative project for the future of humanity.
'Projekt' is masculine singular. Highlights potential benefits outweighing cost.
Iako su medicinski tretmani postali sve skuplji, dostupnost inovativnih terapija se povećava.
Although medical treatments have become increasingly expensive, the availability of innovative therapies is increasing.
Uses comparative 'skuplji' and discusses accessibility. 'Tretmani' is masculine plural.
Kvalitetni materijali za gradnju, iako skupi, osiguravaju dugovječnost i sigurnost građevine.
Quality construction materials, although expensive, ensure the longevity and safety of the building.
'Materijali' (materials) is masculine plural. 'Građevine' (building) is feminine singular.
Paradoksalno, najskuplji luksuz često proizlazi iz jednostavnosti i majstorske izrade, a ne iz pretjerane raskoši.
Paradoxically, the most expensive luxury often arises from simplicity and masterful craftsmanship, rather than from excessive opulence.
Explores the paradox of luxury and cost. Uses superlative 'najskuplji'.
Ekonomski analitičari upozoravaju da bi nepromišljeno smanjenje poreza moglo dovesti do skupih financijskih posljedica na dugi rok.
Economic analysts warn that ill-considered tax cuts could lead to expensive financial consequences in the long run.
Discusses economic policy and future ramifications. 'Posljedica' is feminine plural.
Iako je posjedovanje klasičnog automobila prestižan statusni simbol, njegovo održavanje predstavlja iznimno skup i zahtjevan pothvat.
Although owning a classic car is a prestigious status symbol, its maintenance represents an extremely expensive and demanding undertaking.
Juxtaposes prestige with cost. 'Automobil' is masculine singular, 'pothvat' is masculine singular.
Ulaganje u obrazovanje, unatoč početnim skupim troškovima, dugoročno je najisplativija investicija za svako društvo.
Investment in education, despite the initial expensive costs, is the most profitable investment for any society in the long run.
Uses superlative 'najisplativija' (most profitable) to contrast with 'skupim troškovima' (dative plural).
Njegova reputacija kao vrhunskog stručnjaka, iako ga je činila traženim, također je rezultirala time da su njegove usluge bile iznimno skupe.
His reputation as a top expert, although it made him sought-after, also resulted in his services being extremely expensive.
Connects reputation, demand, and cost. 'Usluge' (services) is feminine plural.
Savjetovanje s vodećim pravnim stručnjacima, iako skupo, ključno je za izbjegavanje potencijalno katastrofalnih pravnih pogrešaka.
Consulting with leading legal experts, although expensive, is crucial for avoiding potentially catastrophic legal mistakes.
Highlights the necessity of costly services for risk mitigation. 'Pogrešaka' is genitive plural.
Jedan od glavnih izazova u razvoju održivih tehnologija jest njihova inicijalna visoka cijena, što ih čini skupljima od konvencionalnih alternativa.
One of the main challenges in developing sustainable technologies is their initial high price, which makes them more expensive than conventional alternatives.
Uses comparative 'skupljima' and discusses cost-benefit analysis. 'Tehnologija' is feminine singular.
Filatelisti su spremni platiti pozamašne svote za rijetke primjerke poštanskih maraka, unatoč tome što su takve kolekcije skupe za održavanje.
Philatelists are willing to pay considerable sums for rare postage stamps, despite such collections being expensive to maintain.
Discusses a niche hobby and its associated costs. 'Kolekcije' is feminine plural.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— That is too expensive for me.
Vidjela sam tu haljinu, ali je previše skupo za mene.
— How much does it cost? Is it expensive?
Pitao sam za cijenu i onda dodao: "Je li skupo?"
— More expensive than I thought.
Ovaj proizvod je skuplje nego što sam mislio.
— I don't regret paying a lot.
Iako je bilo skupo, nije mi žao što sam platio skupo za ovu kvalitetu.
Often Confused With
The noun 'skup' means 'gathering' or 'assembly'. It sounds identical but has a different meaning and grammatical function. Example: 'Bio je veliki skup ljudi.' (It was a large gathering of people.)
This verb means 'to gather' or 'to collect'. It shares the same root but is a verb, not an adjective. Example: 'Skupljam novčiće.' (I collect coins.)
This noun means 'assembly' or 'parliament', derived from the same root as 'skup' (gathering). Example: 'Sjednica skupštine počinje sutra.' (The parliamentary session starts tomorrow.)
Idioms & Expressions
— To pay the full price, often implying it was expensive but worth it or unavoidable.
Za kvalitetu moraš platiti punu cijenu.
Neutral— To waste money, often on something that is expensive and provides little value.
Kupovati jeftine stvari koje se brzo pokvare je kao bacati novac u vjetar.
Informal— It cost him dearly (often implies a high price paid, not just financially, but in terms of consequences or effort).
Njegova pogreška ga je skupo koštala.
Neutral— To have deep pockets, meaning to be wealthy and able to afford expensive things.
Samo netko tko ima dubok džep može si priuštiti takav automobil.
Informal— The price is not an issue (used when someone can afford something expensive).
Za njega cijena nije problem, on želi samo najbolje.
Neutral— Not all that glitters is gold (used to caution against things that appear valuable or attractive but may not be, or may be deceptively expensive).
Taj novi gadget izgleda sjajno, ali nije zlato sve što sja, provjeri cijenu i recenzije.
Proverbial— More expensive than gold (used to emphasize extreme expensiveness).
Vrijeme je skuplje nego zlato, nemoj ga gubiti.
Figurative— In the end, it all comes down to the price (emphasizing the importance of cost in decision-making).
Možemo razgovarati o kvaliteti, ali na kraju se sve svede na cijenu.
Proverbial— To pay for quality (implies that higher quality often comes with a higher price).
Radije ću platiti za kvalitetu nego kupovati jeftine stvari koje se brzo kvare.
Neutral— To be too expensive for someone.
Taj luksuzni brend je jednostavno biti preskup za mene.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both mean expensive.
'Skupocjen' is a more intense form of 'skup', often implying luxury, high quality, and a significantly higher price point. It's typically used for very valuable items like jewelry, art, or luxury vehicles. 'Skup' is a more general term for anything costly.
Ovaj sat je <strong>skup</strong>. (This watch is expensive.) vs. Ovaj sat je <strong>skupocjen</strong>, napravljen je od platine i dijamanata. (This watch is very expensive, made of platinum and diamonds.)
Both relate to high prices.
'Preskup' specifically means 'too expensive', implying the price is beyond what is reasonable or affordable. 'Skup' simply means expensive, without necessarily implying it's unaffordable.
Ova kava je <strong>skupa</strong>. (This coffee is expensive.) vs. Ova kava je <strong>preskupa</strong>, neću je kupiti. (This coffee is too expensive, I won't buy it.)
They are direct opposites.
'Skup' means expensive, while 'jeftin' means cheap or inexpensive. They represent opposite ends of the price spectrum.
Ovaj proizvod je <strong>skup</strong>. (This product is expensive.) vs. Ovaj proizvod je <strong>jeftin</strong>. (This product is cheap.)
Both can relate to high value.
'Vrijedan' means 'valuable' or 'worthwhile'. While valuable items are often expensive, 'vrijedan' focuses on the intrinsic worth or benefit, whereas 'skup' focuses solely on the monetary cost.
Ovo je <strong>vrijedan</strong> savjet. (This is valuable advice.) vs. Ovaj savjet je bio <strong>skup</strong>. (This advice was expensive - perhaps paid for.)
Both relate to price.
'Pristupačan' means 'affordable' or 'accessible', implying a reasonable price that most people can manage. 'Skup' means expensive, suggesting a high price that might be difficult to afford.
Našli smo <strong>pristupačan</strong> hotel. (We found an affordable hotel.) vs. Hotel je bio <strong>skup</strong>. (The hotel was expensive.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + je + skup/skupa/skupo.
Auto je <strong>skup</strong>.
Ovo/To + je + skup/skupa/skupo + Noun.
Ovo je <strong>skup</strong> poklon.
Ovi/Ove/Ova + Noun + su + skupi/skupe.
Ove knjige su <strong>skupe</strong>.
Subjekt + htjeti/moći + (ne) + priuštiti + skup/skupa/skupo + Noun.
Ne mogu si priuštiti <strong>skup</strong> auto.
Iako + Clause, + Clause.
Iako je bilo skupo, kupili smo ga.
Vrlo/Izuzetno + skup/skupa/skupo.
Ovo je <strong>vrlo skupo</strong>.
Skup/skupa/skupo + nego + Clause.
Ovo je <strong>skupo</strong> nego ono.
Clause + (što) + čini + skup/skupa/skupo + Noun.
To ga čini <strong>skupim</strong>.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very high
-
Using 'skup' for all genders and numbers.
→
Using the correct form based on the noun's gender and number (skup, skupa, skupo, skupi, skupe).
Croatian adjectives must agree with the noun. Forgetting this leads to grammatical errors. For example, 'skup haljina' is incorrect; it should be 'skupa haljina'.
-
Confusing 'skup' (expensive) with 'skup' (gathering).
→
Understanding context to differentiate between the adjective 'skup' (expensive) and the noun 'skup' (gathering).
These are homonyms. The meaning is determined by the surrounding words and sentence structure. For example, 'Ovaj auto je skup' clearly refers to the adjective 'expensive'.
-
Using 'skup' when 'preskup' is more appropriate.
→
Using 'preskup' to indicate that something is excessively expensive, beyond affordability.
'Skup' simply means expensive. 'Preskup' adds the nuance of 'too much'. Saying 'Ovo je skupo' is factual, while 'Ovo je preskupo' is an opinion about the price being too high.
-
Incorrectly forming comparative/superlative.
→
Using 'skuplji' for comparative and 'najskuplji' for superlative.
Learners might try to add prefixes or use other words incorrectly. The standard forms are 'skuplji' (more expensive) and 'najskuplji' (most expensive).
-
Applying 'skup' to abstract concepts without proper context.
→
Using 'skup' appropriately for tangible items, services, or experiences, or abstract concepts where cost is a direct factor.
While 'skup' can be used metaphorically, its primary use is for monetary cost. For abstract concepts like 'time' or 'effort', other words might be more suitable unless a direct financial cost is implied.
Tips
Master Adjective Agreement
The most crucial aspect of using 'skup' correctly is its agreement with the noun. Always identify the noun's gender (masculine, feminine, neuter) and number (singular, plural) before choosing the right ending for 'skup' (skup, skupa, skupo, skupi, skupe).
Learn the Opposite
Knowing the opposite of a word is a powerful learning tool. The opposite of 'skup' (expensive) is 'jeftin' (cheap). Practicing these two together will reinforce their meanings and usage.
Short Vowel Sound
Ensure you pronounce the 'u' in 'skup' as a short, sharp sound, similar to the 'u' in 'cup' or 'sup', not a long 'oo' sound.
Create Associations
Link 'skup' to images or scenarios involving high prices, luxury items, or situations where you've had to consider cost. The more vivid the association, the easier it will be to recall.
Build Simple Sentences
Start by creating basic sentences like 'Ovaj sat je skup.' (This watch is expensive.) or 'Ta haljina je skupa.' (That dress is expensive.). Gradually increase complexity as you become more confident.
Distinguish from 'Skupocjen'
'Skupocjen' is a stronger term for 'very expensive' or 'luxurious'. Use 'skup' for general expensiveness and 'skupocjen' for items that are notably high-end and costly.
Avoid Gender/Number Errors
The most common mistake is using the wrong form of 'skup'. Always double-check the noun's gender and number to ensure correct agreement.
Use Intensifiers
To emphasize the degree of expensiveness, use adverbs like 'vrlo' (very), 'izuzetno' (extremely), or the prefix 'pre-' to form 'preskup' (too expensive).
Contextual Perception
Understand that what's considered 'skup' can differ. In tourist areas, prices might be higher, leading to more frequent use of the term compared to non-touristy regions.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a very fancy, 'skoo'-py (sounds like 'skup') diamond ring. Because it's so fancy and special, it's incredibly expensive.
Visual Association
Picture a shopping cart overflowing with items, each with a very high price tag. The sheer volume of expensive items makes the whole cart 'skup'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three items you own or wish to own using the word 'skup' (or its correct form) and explain why they are expensive.
Word Origin
The word 'skup' originates from the Proto-Slavic root '*skupъ', which carried the meaning of 'gathered together' or 'collected'. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass the idea of something being consolidated or amassed, leading to the concept of cost or value being 'gathered' into a price.
Original meaning: Gathered, collected, assembled.
Indo-European > Balto-Slavic > Slavic > South Slavic > West Herzegovinian dialect group (modern Croatian)Cultural Context
While 'skup' is a neutral descriptor of price, using it excessively without context might imply dissatisfaction or a complaint about cost. It's generally safe to use when discussing prices factually, but be mindful of the tone when expressing personal opinions.
In English-speaking countries, 'expensive' is the direct equivalent. Phrases like 'pricey', 'costly', 'high-end', or 'luxury' also convey similar meanings. The concept of 'affordability' is equally important.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Shopping for clothes
- Ova majica je skupa.
- Je li ovo na sniženju?
- Tražim nešto jeftinije.
Ordering food in a restaurant
- Koliko košta ovo jelo?
- Ovo je skupo.
- Imate li nešto povoljnije?
Discussing travel plans
- Hotel je skup.
- Avionske karte su skupe.
- Tražimo povoljan smještaj.
Buying a car or house
- Ovaj automobil je preskup.
- Kuća je skupa, ali lijepa.
- Mogu li dobiti bolju cijenu?
Talking about everyday expenses
- Gorivo je postalo skupo.
- Namirnice su skupe.
- Sve je skuplje.
Conversation Starters
"What's the most expensive thing you've ever bought?"
"Do you think quality always means expensive?"
"When is it okay to spend a lot of money on something?"
"What's something that used to be cheap but is now expensive?"
"How do you decide if something is worth its expensive price?"
Journal Prompts
Describe an item you recently bought that you felt was expensive. Why did you buy it despite the cost?
Think about a time you had to choose between a cheap item and an expensive, high-quality one. What did you choose and why?
Imagine you have unlimited money for one day. What expensive things would you buy?
What are some common things in Croatia that locals consider expensive?
Write a short story where the main character faces a dilemma involving a very expensive item.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Skup' is a Croatian adjective that means 'expensive' or 'costly'. It is used to describe something that costs a lot of money.
Like many Croatian adjectives, 'skup' changes its ending to agree with the noun it describes in gender and number. The basic forms are: 'skup' (masculine singular), 'skupa' (feminine singular), 'skupo' (neuter singular), 'skupi' (masculine plural), and 'skupe' (feminine/neuter plural).
The direct opposite of 'skup' is 'jeftin', which means 'cheap' or 'inexpensive'.
While technically possible, it's more common to use 'skup' to describe objects, services, or experiences. Describing a person as 'skup' might imply they are very wealthy or have expensive tastes, but it's less direct than describing an item.
'Skup' means expensive. 'Preskup' means 'too expensive', indicating that the price is excessively high and potentially unaffordable.
'Skupocjen' is used for items that are exceptionally expensive and often luxurious, like high-end jewelry, art, or designer goods. 'Skup' is a more general term for anything that costs a lot.
Yes, 'skup' is a very common and fundamental adjective in Croatian, used frequently in everyday conversations about prices and shopping.
The plural forms depend on the gender of the noun. For masculine plural nouns, it's 'skupi'. For feminine or neuter plural nouns, it's 'skupe'. For example: 'skupi automobili' (expensive cars), 'skupe haljine' (expensive dresses).
You use the comparative form 'skuplji'. For example: 'Ovaj proizvod je skuplji od onoga.' (This product is more expensive than that one.)
You use the superlative form 'najskuplji'. For example: 'Ovo je najskuplji automobil u salonu.' (This is the most expensive car in the showroom.)
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The Croatian adjective 'skup' means 'expensive'. It is used to describe anything that costs a lot of money. Remember that its form changes to match the gender and number of the noun it describes (e.g., skup auto - expensive car, skupa kuća - expensive house). Its opposite is 'jeftin' (cheap).
- Skup: expensive.
- Adjective describing high cost.
- Agrees with noun: skup, skupa, skupo.
- Opposite: jeftin (cheap).
Master Adjective Agreement
The most crucial aspect of using 'skup' correctly is its agreement with the noun. Always identify the noun's gender (masculine, feminine, neuter) and number (singular, plural) before choosing the right ending for 'skup' (skup, skupa, skupo, skupi, skupe).
Learn the Opposite
Knowing the opposite of a word is a powerful learning tool. The opposite of 'skup' (expensive) is 'jeftin' (cheap). Practicing these two together will reinforce their meanings and usage.
Context is Key
While 'skup' means expensive, the perception of what is 'skup' can be subjective. Pay attention to the context and the speaker's tone to understand if they mean simply costly or excessively pricey.
Short Vowel Sound
Ensure you pronounce the 'u' in 'skup' as a short, sharp sound, similar to the 'u' in 'cup' or 'sup', not a long 'oo' sound.
