barszcz
/ˈbarʂt͡ʂ/masculine
The English phrase 'borscht' is translated into Polish as barszcz. If unsure, use barszcz. Wiktionary also lists barszcz czerwony.
Meaning: beetroot soup (noun)
Ways to say it
| Polish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| barszcz | /ˈbarʂt͡ʂ/ /bɒrʂt͡ʂ/ (Middle, Polish) |
masculine |
| barszcz czerwony | /ˈbarʂt͡ʂ t͡ʂɛrˈvɔ.nɘ/ | masculine |
In Polish, the term is used to describe beetroot soup.
Which one should you use?
While barszcz is a general term that can refer to any beetroot soup, barszcz czerwony specifically refers to the clear, red beetroot broth that is often served as a starter.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using the genitive case, which is required after certain prepositions or certain verbs, such as when saying 'I want some…', the form changes from barszcz to barszczu.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbarʂtʂ/
Did you know?
- Depending on the region in Poland, you might find barszcz biały, a 'white borscht' made from fermented flour, which tastes entirely different from the red version.
- During the traditional Christmas Eve dinner in Poland, barszcz czerwony is typically served with uszka, which are tiny dumplings that translate to 'little ears'.
- The word barszcz originally referred to a soup made from hogweed rather than beets. Over time, the name shifted from this specific plant to describe any sour soup, and finally to the beetroot soup we know today.
Examples in context
- Chciałbym zjeść barszcz.I would like to eat borscht.
- Mama, czy możesz ugotować barszcz czerwony na obiad?Mom, can you cook red borscht for dinner?
- Ten barszcz jest bardzo smaczny.This borscht is very tasty.
- Czy w menu jest barszcz?Is there borscht on the menu?
- Zjadłem dziś gorący barszcz.I ate hot borscht today.
Example conversation
Paweł and Anna are having dinner at home.
- PawełAniu, chcesz zjeść barszcz?Anna, do you want to eat borscht?
- AnnaTak, bardzo chętnie!Yes, I'd love to!
- PawełNalać ci trochę do miski?Shall I pour some into a bowl for you?
- AnnaTak, poproszę barszcz z uszkami.Yes, borscht with little dumplings, please.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “borscht” translations and entries barszcz, barszcz czerwony, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries barszcz, barszcz czerwony, czerwony, CC BY-SA 4.0.
