Which one should you use?
While fajny is used colloquially to mean 'cool' (as in 'awesome'), chłodny is the correct adjective to describe a slightly low temperature.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The term fajny is informal and common in everyday speech. For even more informal variations, you can use fajnie or elegancko. If you want to convey a strong sense of 'cool' in informal contexts, you might hear zajebiście, though be aware that this may be considered vulgar.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The word klawo is an alternative to 'cool' found in some parts of Poland.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective fajny must agree in gender with the noun it describes. Use fajna for feminine nouns, fajne for neuter nouns and fajni for groups of men or mixed-gender groups.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ˈfaj.nɘ/ and has 2 syllables. The stress is on 1 of 2.
Did you know?
- Although it translates to 'cool' or 'nice', fajny originally entered the Polish language from the German word fein, which means 'fine' or 'delicate'.
- The word elegancko is used as a synonym for 'cool' or 'great' even when the situation has nothing to do with elegance.
- The word klawo is a delightful, old-fashioned way to say something is 'cool', often used to evoke a sense of retro charm.
Examples in context
- Jego samochód jest naprawdę fajny.His car is really cool.This sentence demonstrates how to use fajny to describe a car.Tatoeba #589377 by Bilberry, translation #465114 by CK
- Jesteś fajny.You're cool.This sentence shows how to use fajny to describe a person.Tatoeba #5665003 by machmet, translation #2202690 by CK
- Gra wideo była fajna.The video game was cool.
- Twoja prezentacja była mistrzowska.Your presentation was masterful.
- Wpadnij na imprezę, będzie elegancko.Come to the party, it'll be cool.
Example conversation
Tomasz and Małgorzata are talking about the weather outdoors.
- TomaszCzy nie uważasz, że jest dziś fajny wiatr?Don't you think there is a cool breeze today?
- MałgorzataTak, jest bardzo odświeżająco.Yes, it is very refreshing.
- TomaszDlatego ten dzień jest taki fajny.That is why this day is so cool.
- MałgorzataZgadzam się z tobą, Tomaszu.I agree with you, Tomasz.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry fajny, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fajny, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
