Jak se máš?
In Czech, the phrase "how are you?" is expressed as Jak se máš?
The phrase is a common greeting used to ask someone about their general well-being. A common way to respond to this greeting is by saying Dobře (Good/Well) or V pořádku (Fine).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Jak se máš? literally translates to "How do you have yourself?"
Which one should you use?
Jak se máš? is the informal version used with friends, family or children. In contrast, Jak se máte? is the formal version.
How does it change in a sentence?
Use the form Jak se máte? when addressing someone formally or when addressing a group of people.
When do people say it?
A common and natural response to Jak se máš? is Dobře, which means "Well" or "Good".
Did you know?
- Unlike English, where 'how are you' is often a polite formality, asking Jak se máš? in Czech can signal that the speaker genuinely wants a detailed update on your life.
- The word máš comes from the verb 'to have', meaning that in Czech, you do not 'be' well, but rather 'have' yourself in a certain state. You are literally asking how someone is 'possessing' their current condition.
- While Jak se máš? is the standard phrase, Czechs often use the single word Ahoj to simultaneously say 'hello' and 'goodbye' without asking about well-being at all.
Examples in context
- Jak se máš?How are you?
Example conversation
Two friends meet for coffee in a cafe.
- LukášAhoj Terezo, jak se máš?Hi Tereza, how are you?
- TerezaMám se dobře, díky.I am doing well, thanks.
- LukášTo je dobře.That is good.
- TerezaA co ty, Lukáši?And what about you, Lukáš?
