Meaning
Having a lot of work or tasks.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'pridnost' (being hardworking) is a pillar of Slovenian identity. Being 'zaposlen' is often seen as a moral positive. In Slovenian offices, 'biti zaposlen' is a valid reason to skip non-essential meetings. Time is highly respected. On weekends, being 'zaposlen' usually refers to physical labor on one's property, which is a source of pride. In more relaxed social circles, being 'too zaposlen' can be teased as 'acting like a German' (too rigid/work-focused).
Gender is Key
Always check if you need to add an 'a' at the end if you are female. It's the most common A1 mistake!
The Toilet Rule
Never say a toilet is 'zaposlen'. People will think the toilet has a career.
Meaning
Having a lot of work or tasks.
Gender is Key
Always check if you need to add an 'a' at the end if you are female. It's the most common A1 mistake!
The Toilet Rule
Never say a toilet is 'zaposlen'. People will think the toilet has a career.
Polite No
If you want to sound professional when declining an invite, say 'Žal sem že zaposlen' (Unfortunately, I'm already busy).
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of 'zaposlen' (zaposlen, zaposlena, zaposleni).
Moj brat je ______ v banki, moja sestra pa je ______ v šoli.
Brat (brother) is masculine, so 'zaposlen'. Sestra (sister) is feminine, so 'zaposlena'.
Which sentence is correct for a woman saying she is busy?
Kako reče ženska, da ima veliko dela?
Women must use the feminine ending -a.
Match the phrase to the situation.
1. 'Zasedeno!' 2. 'Zaposlen sem.'
'Zasedeno' is for objects/spaces, 'zaposlen' is for people/work.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Greva v kino? B: Ne morem, ______ ______ s projektom.
'Sem zaposlen' followed by 's/z' is the standard way to explain what is keeping you busy.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Zaposlen vs Zaseden
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMoj brat je ______ v banki, moja sestra pa je ______ v šoli.
Brat (brother) is masculine, so 'zaposlen'. Sestra (sister) is feminine, so 'zaposlena'.
Kako reče ženska, da ima veliko dela?
Women must use the feminine ending -a.
1. 'Zasedeno!' 2. 'Zaposlen sem.'
'Zasedeno' is for objects/spaces, 'zaposlen' is for people/work.
A: Greva v kino? B: Ne morem, ______ ______ s projektom.
'Sem zaposlen' followed by 's/z' is the standard way to explain what is keeping you busy.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, for a street with a lot of traffic, use 'prometen'.
It is neutral. It's safe for both your boss and your friends.
Say 'Sem samozaposlen'.
'Zaposlen' means you have work to do. 'Zaseden' means you are already in a meeting or a relationship.
Related Phrases
imeti polne roke dela
idiomTo have one's hands full.
biti zaseden
similarTo be occupied.
ukvarjati se z
builds onTo be dealing with/busy with.
brezposeln
contrastUnemployed.
