Šťastnú cestu
The English phrase "have a safe trip" is translated into Slovak as Šťastnú cestu.
Šťastnú cestu is the standard and most common way to wish someone a safe journey. It is used universally for any mode of travel, such as by car, train or plane. Another common alternative is Príjemnú cestu!, which literally translates to "Have a pleasant journey!"
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Šťastnú cestu literally translates to "happy journey", where šťastnú means "happy" and cestu means "journey" or "way".
How does it change in a sentence?
Šťastnú cestu is in the accusative case because it is an elliptical form of a wish, such as "[I wish you a] happy journey".
When do people say it?
When someone wishes you Šťastnú cestu, the most natural response is to say Ďakujem (Thank you).
Did you know?
- Slovak culture sometimes uses the phrase Maj sa as a parting wish, which translates to 'have yourself' and functions as a general 'take care' alongside Šťastnú cestu.
- While šťastný means 'happy' in the context of Šťastnú cestu, it is also the primary word used to describe a 'lucky' person or a 'fortunate' event.
- If you are traveling with a group, you still use the singular Šťastnú cestu even if multiple people are going on multiple different trips.
Examples in context
- Martin, prajem ti príjemnú a bezpečnú cestu!Martin, I wish you a pleasant and safe journey!
- Maria, prajem ti príjemnú a bezpečnú cestu do Londýna! Dúfam, že si si hojne užiješ a vrátiš sa s nezabudnuteľnými zážitkami.Maria, I wish you a pleasant and safe journey to London! I hope you have a wonderful time and return with unforgettable memories.
- Martin, nech ti Pán Boh žehná a tvoju cestu ochraňuje. Príjemnú cestu!Martin, may God bless you and protect your journey. Have a pleasant trip!
- Šťastnú cestu!Have a safe trip!
- Peknú dovolenku a šťastnú cestu.Have a nice holiday and a safe trip.
Example conversation
Zuzana is waving goodbye to Peter at the airport.
- ZuzanaUž odlietaš? Šťastnú cestu, Peter!Are you flying already? Have a safe trip, Peter!
- PeterĎakujem pekne, Zuzana.Thank you very much, Zuzana.
- ZuzanaNapíš mi, keď pristaneš.Write to me when you land.
- PeterUrčite to urobím. Ahoj!I will definitely do that. Bye!
