Ways to say it
| Polish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| brat | /ˈbrat/ /ˈbrat/ (Middle, Polish) |
masculine, person |
| brachol | colloquial, masculine | |
| braciszek | /braˈt͡ɕi.ʂɛk/ | colloquial, masculine |
The term is used to refer to a male sibling. You can specify age by using młodszy brat for a younger brother.
Which one should you use?
While brat is the standard and most common form, several variations exist depending on the tone you want to set. Braciszek is a diminutive used to mean 'little brother' or to express affection. Brachu is a casual term similar to the English 'bro', and bracuś is an affectionate variation used within the family circle. For a more colloquial or slangy feel, you can use brachol.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Brat is the standard form suitable for most situations. For informal or affectionate contexts, you might use the diminutives braciszek, brachu or bracuś. The form brachol is a colloquial, slightly more slangy option.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the word changes depending on its role in a sentence. For example, brata is the genitive case, which is used after certain verbs or to indicate possession (such as in mam brata, meaning 'I have a brother'). The plural form for brothers is bracia. When directly addressing your brother, use the form bracie.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbrat/
Did you know?
- The diminutive braciszek can be used ironically or sarcastically in Polish to address someone who is not actually a sibling or is acting childishly.
- If you use the term brat in a religious context, it does not just mean a sibling, but also refers to a monk or a member of a religious order.
- In Polish, the plural form bracia is an irregular noun that does not follow the standard pluralization rules of the language.
Examples in context
- Tom to jej brat.Tom is her brother.This sentence is useful for identifying someone's brother.Tatoeba #13343152 by Radek, translation #2590077 by CM
- To jest mój brat.This is my brother.This sentence is useful for stating that someone is your brother.Tatoeba #3085205 by jeedrek, translation #463308 by lukaszpp
- Mój brat pije sok.My brother is drinking juice.This sentence is useful for describing an action your brother is performing.Tatoeba #12058232 by jimbojim, translation #8109742 by Takirabor
- Dobrze się bawiłem z moim bratem na wczorajszej imprezie.I had a great time with my brother at last night's party.
- Cześć, braciszku! Co robisz dzisiaj?Hi, little brother! What are you up to today?
- Nasz starszy brat jest bardzo opiekuńczy.Our older brother is very caring.
- 171 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Agnieszka and Tomasz are talking about their families at a cafe.
- AgnieszkaCzy masz brata, Tomasz?Do you have a brother, Tomasz?
- TomaszTak, mam jednego brata.Yes, I have one brother.
- AgnieszkaCzy twój brat jest starszy od ciebie?Is your brother older than you?
- TomaszNie, on jest młodszy.No, he is younger.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “brother” translations and entries brat, braciszek, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
