kafa
Latin, feminine
The English word "coffee" is translated into Bosnian as kafa. Wiktionary also lists kava and kahva.
Meaning: beverage (noun)
Ways to say it
| Bosnian | Note |
|---|---|
| kafa | Latin, feminine |
| kava | Latin, feminine |
| kahva | Latin, feminine |
The word refers to the beverage and serves as a central element of social life and rituals in Bosnian culture.
Which one should you use?
While all forms refer to the beverage, kafa is the standard version. The form kahva is used in more relaxed or informal settings.
Is it said differently in some regions?
kafa is the most common version used in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in urban areas and within the standard Bosnian language.
How does it change in a sentence?
When the word is the direct object of a sentence, such as when ordering or saying "I drink coffee", the form changes to kafu.
When do people say it?
In Bosnian culture, kafa is much more than just a drink. It is a central social ritual that is often accompanied by long conversations.
Did you know?
- The Arabic root of kafa, which is 'qahwa', originally referred to a type of wine or a substance that 'suppressed appetite'.
- A traditional Bosnian coffee service always includes a glass of cold water and a piece of rahat lokum or chocolate on the side.
- A common social etiquette is that the person who invites others for 'kafa' is expected to pay for everyone, regardless of who ordered what.
Examples in context
- Hajmo na kavu!Let's go for coffee!
- Da li je kafa jaka?Is the coffee strong?
- Ova kafa je odlična.This coffee is excellent.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “coffee” translations and entries kahva, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kafa, kava, CC BY-SA 4.0.
