nauka
/naˈu.ka/
The Polish word for learning is nauka.
nauka refers to the action of learning. Depending on the context, it can also refer to the act of teaching or instruction. Additionally, in formal contexts, it can mean a science or a specific field of study.
Meaning: action of the verb (noun)
Which one should you use?
While nauka covers the process of learning and teaching, the plural form nauki is used specifically when referring to multiple sciences or disciplines.
How does it change in a sentence?
In a formal context, nauka can be used to mean 'science' or 'a discipline'. When you wish to refer to multiple sciences, use the form nauki.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable: /naˈu.ka/.
Did you know?
- The Polish word nauka descends from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₁ewk-, which is also the distant ancestor of the English word 'increase'.
- While nauka means 'learning', the phrase wyciągnąć naukę means to 'learn a lesson' from a mistake or a bad experience.
- In Polish culture, nauka is often used in the context of 'hard work' or 'drilling', emphasizing the effort rather than just the acquisition of knowledge.
Examples in context
- Nauka gramatyki ma sens.Learning grammar makes sense.This sentence shows how to use nauka regarding grammar.Tatoeba #13748829 by mx31, translation #11890202 by Adelpa
- Nauka języków to moja pasja.Learning languages is my passion.This sentence illustrates the use of nauka with languages.Tatoeba #6935651 by jestembluepanda2, translation #5937651 by mailohilohi
- Nauka koreańskiego nie jest łatwa.Learning Korean is difficult.This sentence demonstrates how to use nauka when discussing the difficulty of Korean.Tatoeba #989472 by zipangu, translation #989331 by Brian255
- Nauka języków obcych jest ważna dla rozwoju intelektualnego.Learning foreign languages is important for intellectual development.
- Chciałbym kontynuować moją naukę na uniwersytecie.I would like to continue my learning at the university.
- Czy chciałbyś być partnerem do nauki języka polskiego?Would you like to be a language learning partner for Polish?
- Uczę się grać na gitarze od kilku miesięcy.I've been learning to play the guitar for a few months.
- 9 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Małgorzata and Paweł are talking about a new course.
- MałgorzataJak ci idzie ta nauka?How is your learning going?
- PawełJest bardzo trudna, Małgorzato.It is very difficult, Małgorzata.
- MałgorzataMoże potrzebujesz trochę pomocy?Maybe you need a little help?
- PawełTak, to byłoby świetne.Yes, that would be great.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry nauka, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nauka, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
