Meaning
Said before eating.
Cultural Background
In Serbia, it is considered very rude to start eating before everyone is served and someone has said 'Prijatno'. Across the Balkans, the concept of 'Prijatno' is universal. It is a sign of good upbringing. Similar to Mediterranean cultures, the meal is a social event. Prijatno is the glue that holds the social aspect together. Many Slavic cultures have similar phrases, but the Serbian 'Prijatno' is uniquely short and versatile.
Use it everywhere
Don't be afraid to use it. It is always polite.
The response
Always respond with 'Hvala' (Thanks) or 'Hvala, prijatno i vama' (Thanks, enjoy yours too).
Meaning
Said before eating.
Use it everywhere
Don't be afraid to use it. It is always polite.
The response
Always respond with 'Hvala' (Thanks) or 'Hvala, prijatno i vama' (Thanks, enjoy yours too).
The social glue
It is the most important word for dining etiquette in Serbia.
Test Yourself
Which is the correct situation to use 'Prijatno'?
You are sitting down to eat lunch with a friend. What do you say?
Prijatno is the standard phrase used before starting a meal.
Complete the sentence.
Konobar donosi hranu i kaže: '____!'
The waiter is serving food, so they wish the guest a pleasant meal.
Match the phrase to the correct context.
When do you use 'Prijatno'?
Prijatno is exclusively for dining contexts.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesYou are sitting down to eat lunch with a friend. What do you say?
Prijatno is the standard phrase used before starting a meal.
Konobar donosi hranu i kaže: '____!'
The waiter is serving food, so they wish the guest a pleasant meal.
When do you use 'Prijatno'?
Prijatno is exclusively for dining contexts.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it is used for all meals.
It is neutral and works in all settings.
No, it is a fixed expression.
It's okay, but try to remember next time.
Yes, in most of the Balkans.
Yes, it is appropriate for all ages.
Yes, it is the exact equivalent.
No, it is a polite gesture.
Usually it is for food, but it can be used for a meal that includes drinks.
No, never use it as a greeting.
Related Phrases
Hvala
builds onThank you
Uživajte
similarEnjoy
Dobar tek
similarGood appetite
Prijatno jelo
specialized formEnjoy the meal
