ano
[ˈano]
The English word "yes" is ano in Czech.
ano is a particle used to indicate agreement or acceptance. It can also function as a noun meaning an answer that shows agreement or acceptance.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Which one should you use?
While ano is the standard form, jo is the common informal equivalent used in daily conversation. For a more emphatic response among friends or acquaintances, you can use No jistě.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
If you want to be polite and express a confident "yes", you can use Jistě, which translates to "certainly". In contrast, Jasně is used in informal contexts and is equivalent to "sure" or "yeah", while jo is a colloquial version used among friends and family.
Related words
Did you know?
- While ano is the standard 'yes', the word no in Czech actually means 'well' or 'so' and is often used to start a sentence.
- In Czech, it is common to answer a negative question, such as 'You are not coming?', with ano to mean 'yes, I am actually coming'.
- While ano is the dictionary standard, using it in a text message to a close friend might make you appear as if you are being cold or distant.
Examples in context
- Ano, bylo to dobré.Yes, it was good.This sentence is useful for practicing the form ano in a simple statement.Tatoeba #10939721 by Ergulis, translation #10939552 by CK
- Odpověď zní ano i ne.The answer is both yes and no.This sentence shows how ano can be used as a noun meaning an answer.Tatoeba #4448833 by lipao, translation #4225696 by Hybrid
- Ano, dneska je pátek.Yes, today is Friday.This sentence shows how ano is used to affirm a statement.Tatoeba #10141349 by aldar, translation #1764759 by AlanF_US
- 44 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucie and Tomáš are deciding if they should go for a walk.
- LucieChceš jít na procházku?Do you want to go for a walk?
- TomášAno, to je skvělý nápad.Yes, that is a great idea.
- LucieMáš už s sebou deštník?Do you have an umbrella with you already?
- TomášNe, ale vezmu ho.No, but I will take it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “yes” translations and entries ano, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
