Are you planning a trip to Serbia or simply interested in learning the Serbian language? Knowing how to say basic words and phrases, like “go,” is a great first step in familiarizing yourself with the language. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “go” in Serbian, providing you with useful tips and examples along the way.
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Formal Ways to Say “Go”
If you wish to use a more polite and formal expression when saying “go” in Serbian, you can use the word “otiđite.” This form is mainly used when addressing older individuals, people in positions of authority, or strangers, emphasizing respect and courtesy.
For example:
Možete li mi reći kako otići do glavnog trga?
Can you tell me how to go to the main square?
In this example, “otići” is used to express the action of going, while “otiđite” adds a more formal touch to the sentence.
Another formal way to say “go” is by using the phrase “idite na.” This is commonly used when giving directions or instructing someone to go to a particular place.
For example:
Molim vas, idite na poslednjoj stanici i tamo ćete naći restoran.
Please go to the last station and there you will find a restaurant.
Here, “idite na” is used to indicate the act of going to the last station.
Informal Ways to Say “Go”
In informal situations, when you are talking to friends, family members, or people of a similar age or social status, you can use the word “idi” to say “go.” This form is less formal than the ones mentioned earlier, and it is the most commonly used and versatile way to say “go” in Serbian.
For example:
Idi na pijacu i kupi sveže voće.
Go to the market and buy fresh fruit.
In this instance, “idi” is used to indicate the action of going to the market.
Another informal way to say “go” is by using the word “ajde.” This is a more casual and colloquial expression often used among friends or when speaking to someone of the same age group.
For example:
Ajde da idemo u bioskop večeras!
Let’s go to the cinema tonight!
Here, “ajde” is used to express the invitation to go to the cinema.
Tips and Examples for Saying “Go” in Serbian
1. Verb Conjugation: When using the word “go,” keep in mind that the verb should be conjugated according to the subject of the sentence. For example:
Ja idem. (I go.)
Ti ideš. (You go.)
On/Ona/Ono ide. (He/She/It goes.)
Mi idemo. (We go.)
Vi idete. (You go.)
Oni/One/Ona idu. (They go.)
2. Combining “Go” with Other Words: To create more specific expressions involving “go,” you can combine it with other words. For instance:
Idi kući. (Go home.)
Idi napred. (Go forward.)
Idi levo/desno. (Go left/right.)
3. Use as a Command: In some situations, saying “go” in Serbian can be used as a command. For example:
Idi spavati! (Go to sleep!)
Idi učiti! (Go study!)
Remember to use these commands appropriately and in a respectful manner.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “go” in Serbian opens up a world of possibilities for communication and exploration in the Serbian-speaking regions. By mastering both formal and informal ways of expressing “go,” you will be able to navigate conversations and give directions effectively. Remember to adapt your language style depending on the situation, whether you are speaking formally or informally. Keep practicing and incorporating these phrases into your conversations, and soon enough, you’ll be expressing yourself fluently in Serbian!
