líška hrdzavá
The English phrase "red fox" is translated into Slovak as líška hrdzavá.
líška hrdzavá is the standard way to refer to the species Vulpes vulpes.
Meaning: Vulpes vulpes (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The adjective hrdzavá literally means "rusty" and is used to describe the reddish-brown color of the fox.
Which one should you use?
Liška obyčajná is a formal expression for red fox used by scientists and researchers.
Did you know?
- The term hrdzavá can occasionally carry a slightly negative or derogatory connotation in Slovak, implying something is worn out or neglected, similar to an old piece of metal.
- The formal scientific term líška obyčajná translates literally as 'ordinary fox', suggesting that the red fox is viewed as the default or baseline species in the region.
- While 'hrdzavá' means 'rusty' in a literal sense, it is also used in Slovak to describe someone with hair the color of a fox.
Example conversation
Michal and Barbora are walking in the woods.
- MichalPozri, Barbora, tam je líška hrdzavá!Look, Barbora, there is a red fox!
- BarboraAch, je krásna!Oh, it is beautiful!
- MichalUž uteká do krív.It's already running into the bushes.
- BarboraBoli sme šťastní, že sme ju videli.We were lucky to see it.
