zdravo kako si
The English phrase "hello how are you" is translated into Bosnian as zdravo kako si.
This phrase is a common greeting used to start a conversation and ask about someone's well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The word zdravo is a greeting that can mean both "hello" and "hi" in a casual context.
Which one should you use?
zdravo kako si is used in an informal context, whereas zdravo kako ste is the version used when addressing someone formally or addressing a group of people.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase changes based on who you are addressing. The singular informal form uses si, while the formal or plural form uses ste, resulting in zdravo kako ste.
When do people say it?
When someone greets you with this phrase, a common response is Dobro sam, hvala (I am well, thank you).
Did you know?
- The greeting zdravo is actually a wish for the listener's health, as it is derived from the word zdrav, meaning 'healthy' or 'sane'.
- In casual Bosnian culture, the phrase kako si is often used as a rhetorical greeting rather than a genuine medical inquiry, and a short 'good' is the standard social lubricant.
Examples in context
- Dobar dan, kako se osjećate?Good day, how are you feeling?
- Ćao, kako si?Hello, how are you?
- Kako si? Jesi li dobro?How are you? Are you okay?
Example conversation
Jasmina and Emir meet at a cafe.
- JasminaZdravo kako si, Emir?Hello how are you, Emir?
- EmirZdravo Jasmina, dobro sam, a ti?Hello Jasmina, I am good, and you?
- JasminaI ja sam odlično, hvala.I am great too, thanks.
- EmirDrago mi je to čuti.I am glad to hear that.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kako, zdravo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
