Meaning
The person who acts first gets the reward.
Cultural Background
The proverb reflects the 'snađi se' (manage/fend for yourself) mentality, which is highly valued in the Balkans. Similar usage, but often delivered with a more stoic or heroic tone, emphasizing the 'victory' of being first. Commonly used in the 'čaršija' (market) context, where being a fast negotiator is key. Serbian immigrants use this phrase to maintain a connection to their competitive but humorous roots.
Shorten it for effect
Native speakers often just say 'Ko pre devojci...' and leave the rest to the listener's imagination. It sounds more cool and idiomatic.
Don't be too aggressive
While the phrase is common, using it to justify being rude (like cutting in line) can still make you look bad. Use it with a smile!
Meaning
The person who acts first gets the reward.
Shorten it for effect
Native speakers often just say 'Ko pre devojci...' and leave the rest to the listener's imagination. It sounds more cool and idiomatic.
Don't be too aggressive
While the phrase is common, using it to justify being rude (like cutting in line) can still make you look bad. Use it with a smile!
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct form of the word 'devojka'.
Ko pre ________, njegova devojka.
The Dative case 'devojci' is required in this fixed expression.
In which situation is it MOST appropriate to use this phrase?
You and your friend are both looking at the last pair of shoes on sale.
The phrase is used to justify taking a limited resource first.
Choose the best response for Speaker B.
Speaker A: 'Zauzeo si mi omiljenu stolicu!' Speaker B: '_________________'
This is a classic playful response to someone complaining about a lost seat.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesKo pre ________, njegova devojka.
The Dative case 'devojci' is required in this fixed expression.
You and your friend are both looking at the last pair of shoes on sale.
The phrase is used to justify taking a limited resource first.
Speaker A: 'Zauzeo si mi omiljenu stolicu!' Speaker B: '_________________'
This is a classic playful response to someone complaining about a lost seat.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsHistorically, yes, as it treats a woman as a prize. However, in modern usage, it is 99% metaphorical and used by everyone regardless of gender.
Absolutely. A woman can say it when she grabs the last seat or a good deal at a shop.
It is in the Dative case because the implied verb is 'to go/come TO the girl'.
Not really. It's a proverb, so it's inherently informal. In formal settings, use 'Prvenstvo ima onaj ko se prvi javi'.
Related Phrases
Ko rano rani, dve sreće grabi
similarThe early bird catches the worm.
Ko prvi, njemu dve
synonymThe first one gets two.
Prvi mačići se u vodu bacaju
contrastThe first attempt is usually a failure.
