szwagier
/ˈʂfa.ɡjɛr/
The Polish word for brother-in-law is szwagier.
In Polish, szwagier is a broad term used to refer to both the husband of one's sibling and the brother of one's spouse.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word szwagier changes to szwagra when it functions as a direct object in a sentence. The feminine form of the word is szwagierka, which means sister-in-law.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ˈʂfa.ɡjɛr/. It has two syllables, and the stress is on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- In Polish culture, the szwagier is often a comedic figure in jokes and folk tales, typically portrayed as a slightly clumsy or cunning relative.
- In many Polish families, the term szwagier is used colloquially as a friendly, informal way to address a male friend or an acquaintance, even if there is no legal familial connection.
- While szwagierka is the literal female version, Polish speakers often use the broader term bratowa specifically for the wife of one's brother.
Examples in context
- Mój szwagier jest bardzo zabawny.My brother-in-law is very funny.
- Czy twój szwagier mieszka w Warszawie?Does your brother-in-law live in Warsaw?
- Mój szwagier przyjechał do nas w gości.My brother-in-law came to visit us.
Example conversation
Tomasz and Anna are discussing family members at a cafe.
- TomaszCzy twój szwagier też będzie na obiedzie?Will your brother-in-law also be at dinner?
- AnnaTak, mój szwagier obiecał przyjść.Yes, my brother-in-law promised to come.
- TomaszTo świetnie, bardzo lubię jego towarzystwo.That's great, I really enjoy his company.
- AnnaOn też bardzo lubi ciebie, Tomaszu.He likes you a lot too, Tomasz.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry szwagier, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
