smacznego
/smat͡ʂˈnɛ.ɡɔ/
The English phrase ‘enjoy’ (in the sense of wishing someone a good appetite) is translated into Polish as smacznego.
It is typically said to someone just before they begin eating a meal.
How does it change in a sentence?
In this context, smacznego is used as an indeclinable interjection, which means it does not change regardless of who you are addressing.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable: /smatʂˈnɛ.ɡɔ/.
When do people say it?
When someone says smacznego to you, the standard response is dziękuję (thank you).
Did you know?
- While smacznego is the standard wish, some Polish people believe that saying it before a meal can actually bring bad luck or spoil the appetite, though this superstition is now rare.
- While smacznego is for food, Polish has a separate, specific word na zdrowie used when wishing someone 'cheers' before a drink.
- The word smacznego is an adjective in the genitive case, which is a grammar form usually used for possession or negation, rather than a direct command or wish.
Examples in context
- Mam przyjemność oglądać tę wystawęI have the pleasure of viewing this exhibition.
- Baw się dobrze na imprezie!Have fun at the party!
- Miłej zabawy na koncercie!Have a good time at the concert!
- Smacznego!Enjoy your meal!
- Dziękuję, smacznego!Thank you, enjoy your meal too!
- Proszę, smacznego.Here you go, enjoy.
Example conversation
Anna is serving a warm lunch to Tomasz at the table.
- AnnaOto twój obiad, smacznego!Here is your lunch, enjoy!
- TomaszDziękuję, Anno.Thank you, Anna.
- AnnaCzy wszystko smakuje?Does everything taste good?
- TomaszTak, jest pyszne!Yes, it is delicious!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry smacznego, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
