When learning a new language, one of the most exciting aspects is the ability to describe people and things around us. Croatian, with its rich vocabulary, offers a myriad of descriptive words. Here are some common adjectives you can use to describe individuals in Croatian.
Visok – Tall
This adjective is used for individuals who are of above-average height. It can also be metaphorically used to describe high objects.
Moj brat je vrlo visok, skoro dva metra.
Nizak – Short
Opposite to ‘visok’, ‘nizak’ is used for someone who is not very tall.
Ona je malo niza, ali jako brza u trčanju.
Mršav – Thin/Slim
Describes a person who is slender in build or has a low body mass.
Nakon dijete, postala je prilično mršava.
Debel – Fat
This adjective is used to describe a person that has more body fat than what is considered average or healthy.
Doktor je rekao da je debel i treba smršaviti.
Pametan – Smart/Intelligent
For describing intellectual ability or someone who is clever in their thinking.
Njezin sin je jako pametan, uvijek ima odlične ocjene.
Glup – Stupid
Used for someone whose actions or decisions may not seem rational or who lacks common sense.
Bilo je glupo od njega što je to napravio bez razmišljanja.
Lijep – Beautiful/Handsome
It is used for both males and females and denotes physical attractiveness.
Njezina kćer je vrlo lijepa djevojka s plavim očima.
Ružan – Ugly
Refers to someone who is not pleasant to look at.
Bio je jako ružan kad se probudio upravo iz sna.
Vesel – Cheerful/Happy
This word describes someone who is often in a good mood and has a bright disposition.
On je uvijek tako vesel, zarazno je.
Tužan – Sad
Used when someone feels sorrow or unhappiness.
Nakon što je pogledala film, bila je vrlo tužna.
Stidljiv – Shy
Describes a person who is reserved or nervous around others, especially in unfamiliar situations.
Njezin bratić je jako stidljiv oko novih ljudi.
Hrabar – Brave
An adjective for someone who is ready to face and endure danger or pain.
Vatrogasci su vrlo hrabri ljudi.
Strog – Strict
This adjective is used for individuals who are very firm in their rules or expectations.
Naš novi učitelj je prilično strog, ali pošten.
These adjectives can enrich your Croatian vocabulary and help you describe individuals in a detailed way. Remember that the form of the adjective must agree with the gender, number, and case of the noun it accompanies, which can be a challenging but essential aspect of mastering Croatian grammar. Keep practicing and expanding your descriptive language skills!