Meaning
A warning to be careful or notice a danger.
Cultural Background
The sign 'Pozor, zlý pes!' is found on almost every residential gate in rural Slovakia. It is a cultural icon. Hikers use 'Pozor' to warn those below them of falling rocks, which is a vital safety rule in the mountains. The automated voice in Slovak trams and buses uses 'Pozor' before announcing that doors are closing. The command 'Pozor!' is the only one used to bring soldiers to a halt and stiff posture, reflecting its absolute authority.
The 'Na' Rule
Always pair 'Pozor' with 'na' if you are naming the danger. It's the most common grammar mistake for beginners.
Don't be too loud
In a quiet office, shouting 'Pozor!' will scare everyone. Use 'Prosím o pozornosť' instead.
Meaning
A warning to be careful or notice a danger.
The 'Na' Rule
Always pair 'Pozor' with 'na' if you are naming the danger. It's the most common grammar mistake for beginners.
Don't be too loud
In a quiet office, shouting 'Pozor!' will scare everyone. Use 'Prosím o pozornosť' instead.
Bacha is King
If you want to sound like a local in a pub or on the street, use 'Bacha!' instead of 'Pozor!'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct preposition to say 'Watch out for the dog'.
Pozor ___ psa!
The phrase 'Pozor na' is a fixed expression in Slovak.
Which word is the casual/slang version of 'Pozor'?
Ahoj, ____! Ide auto.
'Bacha' is the common informal/slang warning.
Match the phrase to the situation.
1. Pozor, schod! 2. Prosím o pozornosť. 3. Opatrne s tou vázou.
'Pozor' is for danger, 'Pozornosť' for speeches, 'Opatrne' for careful movement.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Where you will see 'Pozor!'
Signs
- • Zlý pes
- • Mokrá podlaha
- • Vysoké napätie
Public
- • Train station
- • Bus doors
- • Radio announcements
Practice Bank
3 exercisesPozor ___ psa!
The phrase 'Pozor na' is a fixed expression in Slovak.
Ahoj, ____! Ide auto.
'Bacha' is the common informal/slang warning.
1. Pozor, schod! 2. Prosím o pozornosť. 3. Opatrne s tou vázou.
'Pozor' is for danger, 'Pozornosť' for speeches, 'Opatrne' for careful movement.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral. It's not rude when there is danger, but it's not a 'polite' way to ask for a favor.
Yes, 'Pozor!' is the perfect translation for 'Heads up!' in a sports or safety context.
Pozor is 'Watch out!' (alert). Opatrne is 'Carefully' (manner).
Use 'Dávaj na mňa pozor' or 'Sleduj ma'.
Related Phrases
Dávať pozor
builds onTo pay attention / To be careful
Opatrne
similarCarefully
Výstraha
specialized formA formal warning/alert
Bacha
synonymWatch out (slang)
Pozornosť
builds onAttention (noun)
