Mastering a language at the B2 level signifies a strong command of its structure and vocabulary. For learners of Slovak, achieving this level means being able to communicate effectively and understand the nuances of the language. This article aims to provide you with 50 essential Slovak words that will enhance your proficiency and prepare you for real-life conversations. Let’s dive into these words and their uses, ensuring you get closer to mastering Slovak.

Everyday Vocabulary

1. **Ahoj** – This is a common way to say “hello” or “hi” in Slovak. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

2. **Prosím** – Meaning “please,” this word is essential for polite requests and interactions.

3. **Ďakujem** – This is how you say “thank you.” It’s a crucial part of any polite conversation.

4. **Prepáčte** – This translates to “excuse me” or “sorry” and is important for polite interruptions or apologies.

5. **Áno** – Simply put, it means “yes.”

6. **Nie** – This word means “no.” It’s direct and to the point.

7. **Dobrý deň** – A formal greeting used during the day, equivalent to “good day” or “good afternoon.”

8. **Dovidenia** – This is how you say “goodbye” in a formal manner.

9. **Srdce** – Meaning “heart,” this word can be used both literally and metaphorically.

10. **Rodina** – This means “family,” a core part of Slovak culture.

Describing People and Things

11. **Pekný** – This adjective means “nice” or “pretty.” It’s often used to describe people and objects.

12. **Vysoký** – Translating to “tall” or “high,” this word is used to describe height.

13. **Silný** – This means “strong,” and can describe physical strength or intensity.

14. **Mládý** – Meaning “young,” it’s used to describe someone’s age.

15. **Starý** – This translates to “old,” whether describing people or objects.

16. **Láskavý** – This adjective means “kind” or “gentle.”

17. **Chudý** – Meaning “thin” or “slim,” it can describe a person’s build.

18. **Šťastný** – This word means “happy.” It’s often used to describe emotions.

19. **Smútok** – Translating to “sadness,” it’s used to describe a state of feeling sad.

20. **Hladný** – This means “hungry,” an important word for everyday conversations.

Common Activities and Actions

21. **Čítať** – This verb means “to read.” It’s an essential action for daily activities and education.

22. **Písať** – Meaning “to write,” this verb is crucial for communication.

23. **Jesť** – This translates to “to eat,” a fundamental part of daily life.

24. **Piť** – This verb means “to drink.” It’s important for any discussion about food and beverages.

25. **Spať** – This means “to sleep,” an essential activity for health and well-being.

26. **Behať** – This verb translates to “to run,” commonly used in conversations about sports and exercise.

27. **Plávať** – Meaning “to swim,” it’s useful for discussions about activities and hobbies.

28. **Cestovať** – This means “to travel,” important for talking about vacations and journeys.

29. **Vstávať** – Translating to “to get up” or “to wake up,” it’s used in daily routines.

30. **Zaspávať** – This verb means “to fall asleep.”

Time and Frequency

31. **Ráno** – This word means “morning,” a key part of any daily schedule.

32. **Popoludnie** – Translating to “afternoon,” it’s used to describe the later part of the day.

33. **Večer** – This means “evening,” important for planning events and activities.

34. **Noc** – Translating to “night,” it’s used to describe the time after evening.

35. **Včera** – This word means “yesterday,” useful for talking about the past.

36. **Dnes** – Meaning “today,” it’s essential for discussing the present.

37. **Zajtra** – This translates to “tomorrow,” important for future plans.

38. **Hodina** – This word means “hour,” crucial for scheduling and time management.

39. **Minúta** – Translating to “minute,” it’s used in precise timekeeping.

40. **Sekunda** – This means “second,” the smallest unit of time.

Places and Directions

41. **Mesto** – This word translates to “city,” commonly used in geographical conversations.

42. **Dedina** – Meaning “village,” it’s useful for describing smaller populated areas.

43. **Domov** – This means “home,” a central concept in many conversations.

44. **Škola** – Translating to “school,” it’s essential for discussions about education.

45. **Obchod** – This word means “store” or “shop,” important for shopping and commerce.

46. **Cesta** – Meaning “road” or “way,” it’s crucial for directions and travel.

47. **Ulica** – This word translates to “street,” useful for navigating cities and towns.

48. **Námestie** – This means “square,” often used to describe central areas in towns and cities.

49. **Kostol** – Translating to “church,” it’s significant in cultural and religious contexts.

50. **Nemocnica** – This word means “hospital,” important for discussions about health and emergencies.

Conclusion

Learning these 50 essential words will greatly enhance your ability to communicate in Slovak at the B2 level. By integrating these words into your daily practice, you will not only expand your vocabulary but also gain a deeper understanding of Slovak culture and society. Remember, language learning is a gradual process, and regular practice is key to improvement. Use these words in sentences, conversations, and writing exercises to make them a natural part of your language skills. Happy learning!