Bosnian is a South Slavic language spoken primarily in Bosnia and Herzegovina and neighboring regions. Learning common phrases for writing and communication can be incredibly beneficial for anyone looking to study the language, travel to the area, or connect with Bosnian speakers. This article will outline some essential phrases and vocabulary that are useful for navigating day-to-day interactions in Bosnian.
Zdravo – Hello
It’s a basic but essential word, used to greet someone at any time of the day.
Zdravo! Kako si danas? (Hello! How are you today?)
Hvala – Thank you
Expressing gratitude is important in any language, and “hvala” is the word you’ll need in Bosnian.
Hvala ti na pomoći. (Thank you for your help.)
Molim – Please / You’re welcome
This versatile word can be used both for making polite requests and for responding to thanks.
Molim te za informaciju. (Please, I ask you for information.)
Hvala na kafi. Molim. (Thanks for the coffee. You’re welcome.)
Izvinite – Excuse me / Sorry
Whether you need to get someone’s attention or apologize, “izvinite” is the word to use.
Izvinite, gdje je WC? (Excuse me, where is the restroom?)
Kako se zovete? – What is your name?
Introducing yourself and asking someone else’s name is the first step in making a new acquaintance.
Kako se zovete? Ja sam Ana. (What is your name? I am Ana.)
Drago mi je – Nice to meet you
After learning someone’s name, it’s polite to express that you are pleased to meet them.
Drago mi je, Mirza. Ja sam Marko. (Nice to meet you, Mirza. I am Marko.)
Koliko košta? – How much does it cost?
When shopping or buying services, this phrase comes in handy to inquire about the price of an item.
Koliko košta ova knjiga? (How much does this book cost?)
Email – Email (pronounced as ‘e-mejl’)
It’s the same as English, but make sure you pronounce it the Bosnian way when asking for someone’s email address.
Mogu li dobiti vaš email? (Can I get your email?)
Mogu li dobiti… – May I have…
Whether you need a menu in a restaurant or a pen to write with, this is a polite way to ask for something.
Mogu li dobiti meni, molim vas? (May I have the menu, please?)
Gdje se nalazi… – Where is…
This important question phrase can help you find places when you’re navigating around.
Gdje se nalazi najbliža apoteka? (Where is the nearest pharmacy?)
Da – Yes
Affirmation is as simple as this little yet powerful word.
Da, razumijem. (Yes, I understand.)
Ne – No
Just as important as being able to agree is the ability to disagree or decline politely.
Ne, hvala, nisam gladan. (No, thank you, I am not hungry.)
Govorite li engleski? – Do you speak English?
When in doubt, it’s useful to know if someone speaks your language.
Izvinite, govorite li engleski? (Excuse me, do you speak English?)
Ne razumijem – I don’t understand
Communicating that you do not understand can help in having someone clarify or repeat information more slowly.
Žao mi je, ali ne razumijem. (I’m sorry, but I don’t understand.)
Molim vas da ponovite – Please repeat
If you didn’t catch something someone said, this phrase is essential for asking them to say it again.
Molim vas da ponovite, nisam čuo/čula. (Please repeat, I didn’t hear.)
By familiarizing yourself with these phrases for writing and communication in Bosnian, you will be well on your way to having meaningful interactions. Practice them regularly, and don’t be afraid to try them out with native speakers who are generally appreciative of any effort to speak their language. Sretno! (Good luck!)
