prosím a děkuji
[ˈprosiːm ˈa ˈɟɛkujɪ]word by word
The English phrase 'please and thank you' is expressed in Czech as prosím a děkuji.
In English, 'please and thank you' is often used as a single idiomatic unit. However, Czech speakers typically use the individual words prosím and děkuji as separate, distinct utterances depending on the specific context of the interaction.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a combination of the word prosím (please/I beg) and děkuji (I thank).
How does it change in a sentence?
The word děkuji is the first-person singular form of the verb děkovat, meaning 'I thank'.
Did you know?
- A learner might be surprised to find that prosím is often used as a way to say 'Pardon?' or 'What was that?' if you did not hear someone clearly.
- When receiving a compliment, a humble Czech speaker might respond with ale ne, meaning 'but no', instead of saying děkuji.
- While prosím is the standard polite request, adding the word láskavě can make a request sound even more gentle or pleading, literally meaning 'lovingly'.
Examples in context
- Vždycky používej prosím a děkuji.Always use please and thank you.
- Děti se musí učit prosím a děkuji.Children must learn please and thank you.
Example conversation
Jana is asking Jakub to pass the salt at dinner.
- JanaJakube, podáš mi tu sůl, prosím a děkuji?Jakub, will you pass me the salt, please and thank you?
- JakubTady ji máš, Jano.Here it is, Jana.
- JanaMoc děkuji.Thank you very much.
- JakubRádo se stalo.You're welcome.
