If you find yourself in Croatia or interacting with Croatian speakers, it’s helpful to know how to say “dinner” in their language. Whether you want to engage in a formal conversation or use colloquial terms with friends, this guide will provide you with various ways to express the concept of dinner in Croatian. We’ll explore both standard forms and mention any regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Dinner
When it comes to formal expressions, Croatian has a few options for the word “dinner.” These phrases are suitable for business meetings, formal events, or polite conversations.
1. Večera
The most commonly used and widely understood formal word for dinner in Croatian is “večera.” It is phonetically pronounced as “VEH-cheh-rah.” This term is appropriate for any formal setting or when speaking with people you don’t know well. For example:
“Bila sam na službenoj večeri s kolegama.” (I attended a business dinner with my colleagues.)
2. Obrok u večernjim satima
Another formal way to express dinner in Croatian is the phrase “obrok u večernjim satima,” which literally translates to “a meal in the evening hours.” Although more complex, this phrase conveys the meaning of dinner precisely. It’s appropriate for formal occasions and emphasizes the specific time of day. Consider this example:
“Molim vas da budete prisutni na obroku u večernjim satima.” (Please be present at the dinner in the evening hours.)
Informal Ways to Say Dinner
Informal language allows you to connect more closely with Croatian speakers in casual situations. Here are a few colloquial phrases that are commonly used for dinner:
1. Ručak
Although “ručak” is generally used to refer to lunch in Croatia, it’s often used interchangeably to mean “dinner” in less formal contexts. Depending on the region and personal preferences, Croatians might use “ručak” to describe both the midday and evening meal. Here’s an example:
“Dobrodošao/-la! Ručak je gotov. Pripremio/la sam tjesteninu.” (Welcome! Dinner is ready. I made pasta.)
2. Večerati
Another informal way to express the action of having dinner is by using the verb “večerati,” which translates to “to have dinner.” This term is commonly used in casual conversations or when making plans with friends. For instance:
“Hoćeš večerati s nama u restoranu?” (Do you want to have dinner with us at the restaurant?)
Regional Variations
While the previously mentioned phrases cover the majority of Croatia, it’s important to note that different regions might have their own variations or dialect-specific expressions for dinner. These variations can add charm and uniqueness to the language. Here is an example from the Istria region:
1. Večeraće
In Istria, locals may use the word “večeraće” to mean “dinner.” This term is derived from the regional dialect and is primarily used in informal conversations or among family and friends. For instance:
“Hoćemo li večeraće zajedno?” (Shall we have dinner together?)
Conclusion
Learning how to say “dinner” in Croatian can greatly enhance your communication skills and cultural understanding while in Croatia or interacting with Croatian speakers. In formal settings, “večera” and “obrok u večernjim satima” are the appropriate phrases to use. If you’re looking for a more informal tone, “ručak” and “večerati” are commonly used in everyday conversation. Consider any regional variations to connect more personally with the locals. So, whether you’re enjoying a formal dinner event or having a casual dinner with friends, now you have the vocabulary you need to express yourself in Croatian!
