Meaning
Informal way to ask how someone is.
Cultural Background
Slovenians are generally reserved. Don't be offended if someone doesn't ask you back immediately; they might just be shy. The 'ti/vi' distinction is a cornerstone of social interaction across all Slavic languages. In the capital, people are slightly more casual, but the 'ti/vi' rule still applies strictly in professional settings. In smaller villages, people are very friendly, but they still respect the formal 'vi' for elders.
Listen for the answer
Slovenians expect a real answer. Don't just say 'Fine' and walk away.
The 'ti/vi' rule
Always check if you should be using 'ti' or 'vi' before greeting someone.
Meaning
Informal way to ask how someone is.
Listen for the answer
Slovenians expect a real answer. Don't just say 'Fine' and walk away.
The 'ti/vi' rule
Always check if you should be using 'ti' or 'vi' before greeting someone.
Test Yourself
Which is the correct informal way to ask a friend how they are?
___?
'Kako si?' is the 2nd person singular informal form.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Živijo! ___? B: V redu, hvala.
The context is informal, so 'Kako si' is appropriate.
Match the situation to the correct greeting.
You are talking to your boss.
Bosses require formal address.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercises___?
'Kako si?' is the 2nd person singular informal form.
A: Živijo! ___? B: V redu, hvala.
The context is informal, so 'Kako si' is appropriate.
You are talking to your boss.
Bosses require formal address.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, use 'Kako ste?'.
Only if you don't know the person well.
Related Phrases
Kako gre?
similarHow is it going?
Kako ste?
contrastHow are you? (formal)
V redu sem.
builds onI am fine.
Kako kaj?
similarHow's it going?
