المعنى
The first attempt is often a failure.
خلفية ثقافية
The proverb reflects a fatalistic yet kind worldview. It accepts that the world is imperfect and that humans are prone to error, especially when starting out. Many Serbian idioms use 'mače' (kitten) or 'pas' (dog) because these animals were essential parts of farm life. The diminutive 'mačići' shows a soft spot for the young, even in a harsh proverb. In Belgrade's growing tech scene, this phrase is used to justify 'failing fast.' It has been adopted as a way to explain why a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) isn't perfect. Teachers in Serbia often use this to reduce 'test anxiety' among younger students, fostering a culture where the first attempt is seen as a 'free pass.'
Use it for yourself
It's a great way to show humility. If you make a mistake in Serbian, say this phrase immediately. It will impress native speakers and make them laugh.
Don't use for people
Never use this to refer to a first-born child! It is only for tasks, objects, or abstract attempts.
المعنى
The first attempt is often a failure.
Use it for yourself
It's a great way to show humility. If you make a mistake in Serbian, say this phrase immediately. It will impress native speakers and make them laugh.
Don't use for people
Never use this to refer to a first-born child! It is only for tasks, objects, or abstract attempts.
The 'Se' particle
Remember that 'se' makes the sentence passive. Without it, you are saying the kittens are throwing things into the water!
اختبر نفسك
Fill in the missing word in the proverb.
Prvi mačići se u ____ bacaju.
The proverb literally says 'into the water' (u vodu).
In which situation is it MOST appropriate to say 'Prvi mačići se u vodu bacaju'?
Select the best context:
The phrase is for first-time failures in low-stakes, everyday situations.
Which of these is the correct grammatical form of the proverb?
Choose the right sentence:
This is the standard word order and uses the correct accusative case 'vodu' for motion.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
Marko: 'Ovo mi je prvi put da sviram gitaru i zvuči užasno!' Jelena: '_________________'
Jelena is encouraging Marko after his first failed attempt at playing guitar.
🎉 النتيجة: /4
وسائل تعلم بصرية
بنك التمارين
4 تمارينPrvi mačići se u ____ bacaju.
The proverb literally says 'into the water' (u vodu).
Select the best context:
The phrase is for first-time failures in low-stakes, everyday situations.
Choose the right sentence:
This is the standard word order and uses the correct accusative case 'vodu' for motion.
Marko: 'Ovo mi je prvi put da sviram gitaru i zvuči užasno!' Jelena: '_________________'
Jelena is encouraging Marko after his first failed attempt at playing guitar.
🎉 النتيجة: /4
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةNo, not at all. In modern Serbian, the literal meaning is completely ignored. It is seen as a very kind and supportive thing to say.
Technically no. It specifically uses the word 'prvi' (first). For later tries, use 'Na greškama se uči'.
Yes, this proverb is common across all countries that speak the Shtokavian dialect (Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro).
The singular is 'mače' (neuter). However, the proverb is almost always used in the plural.
No, the fixed form is 'u vodu' (into the water). Changing it makes it sound like you're making up a new sentence rather than using a proverb.
It's neutral. You can use it with your boss if you have a good relationship, but maybe not in a formal legal document.
The 'se' here creates a passive voice. It means 'the kittens are thrown' (by some unnamed force/tradition).
Yes, very much so. It's one of the most 'alive' proverbs in the language.
Yes! It's a very common way to break the ice if the date is going a bit awkwardly.
That's perfect. Most people will understand exactly what you mean without you finishing the sentence.
عبارات ذات صلة
Svaki početak je težak
similarEvery beginning is difficult.
Na greškama se uči
similarOne learns from mistakes.
Po jutru se dan poznaje
contrastThe day is known by the morning.
Ispeci pa reci
builds onBake it, then say it (Think before you speak).
Uzdaj se u se i u svoje kljuse
similarRely on yourself and your horse.
