idi u Srbiju
The phrase 'go to Serbia' in Serbian is idi u Srbiju.
This phrase is used as a command or instruction to tell someone to travel to the country of Serbia.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of idi (go – imperative), u (into/to) and Srbiju (Serbia – accusative case).
Which one should you use?
While idi u Srbiju is a command directed at someone else, the phrase idem u Srbiju is used to state that you are going to Serbia.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the imperative mood to issue a command. The word idi is the singular imperative form of the verb 'ići' (to go), used when addressing one person informally. To address multiple people or to use the formal/polite 'you', the verb changes from idi to idite.
Did you know?
- The word Srbiju is the accusative form of Srbija, which comes from the 'Serbs' (Srbi), a tribe whose name is traditionally linked to the word srebro meaning 'silver'.
- While idi means 'go', the phrase idi u… is often used in Serbian slang to tell someone to get lost or go away, depending on the tone and destination.
- The word u in this phrase is a linguistic fossil that shares an ancient ancestor with the English word 'in'. Both words trace back to the same Proto-Indo-European roots, illustrating a deep connection between the two language families.
Examples in context
- Idi u Srbiju, sigurno ćeš uživati!Go to Serbia, you will certainly enjoy it!
- Idite pravo, pa skrenite desno na glavnom raskršću i nastavite put do granice Srbije.Go straight, then turn right at the main intersection and continue until you reach the Serbian border.
Example conversation
Luka and Milica are discussing their summer vacation plans.
- LukaGde želiš da putuješ letos, Milica?Where do you want to travel this summer, Milica?
- MilicaŽelim idi u Srbiju kod moje tetke.I want to go to Serbia to visit my aunt.
- LukaTo zvuči kao odlična ideja!That sounds like a great idea!
- MilicaHoćeš li i ti idi u Srbiju sa mnom?Do you want to go to Serbia with me too?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries u, CC BY-SA 4.0.
