Learning a new language can be an exciting yet challenging journey. Reaching the B1 level in Slovenian means you already have a basic understanding of the language, and now you are moving towards becoming an independent user. To help you on this journey, we have compiled a list of 50 essential words that you need to know at the B1 level. These words will not only expand your vocabulary but also enhance your ability to communicate effectively in various situations.

1. Pozdravljeni (Hello)

A warm greeting is always the best way to start a conversation. “Pozdravljeni” is a formal way to say hello in Slovenian. For informal situations, you can use “Živjo” or “Zdravo.”

2. Hvala (Thank you)

Expressing gratitude is essential in any language. “Hvala” is the Slovenian word for thank you. For more emphasis, you can say “Najlepša hvala” (Thank you very much).

3. Prosim (Please)

Politeness goes a long way. “Prosim” is the word for please, and it is also used to say “You’re welcome” after someone thanks you.

4. Oprosti (Sorry)

Whether you need to apologize or get someone’s attention, “Oprosti” is the word you need. In more formal situations, you can use “Oprostite.”

5. Da (Yes) / Ne (No)

Simple yet essential, knowing how to affirm or negate is crucial. “Da” means yes, and “Ne” means no.

6. Kje (Where)

When asking for directions or location, “Kje” is the word you will use. For example, “Kje je stranišče?” (Where is the bathroom?).

7. Kaj (What)

To ask about something specific, use “Kaj.” For instance, “Kaj je to?” (What is this?).

8. Kdo (Who)

When you need to inquire about a person, “Kdo” is the word to use. For example, “Kdo je to?” (Who is this?).

9. Kdaj (When)

Timing is everything. Use “Kdaj” to ask about time-related matters. For example, “Kdaj prideš?” (When are you coming?).

10. Zakaj (Why)

Understanding reasons and motives is crucial. “Zakaj” is the word for why. For example, “Zakaj si zamudil?” (Why are you late?).

11. Kako (How)

To ask about the manner or method of doing something, use “Kako.” For example, “Kako si?” (How are you?).

12. Voda (Water)

One of the basic necessities of life, “Voda” means water. You might need to ask, “Ali imate vodo?” (Do you have water?).

13. Hrana (Food)

Knowing the word for food is essential, especially when dining out. “Hrana” is the Slovenian word for food.

14. Pijača (Drink)

When you’re thirsty, knowing how to ask for a drink is crucial. “Pijača” means drink.

15. Trgovina (Shop)

Whether you’re shopping for groceries or souvenirs, “Trgovina” is the word for shop.

16. Šola (School)

Education is a significant part of life. “Šola” means school.

17. Delo (Work)

If you’re discussing employment or tasks, “Delo” is the word for work.

18. Hiša (House)

Knowing how to talk about where you live is essential. “Hiša” means house.

19. Stanovanje (Apartment)

For those living in apartments, “Stanovanje” is the word you need.

20. Mesto (City)

When talking about urban areas, “Mesto” means city.

21. Vas (Village)

For rural areas, “Vas” is the word for village.

22. Avto (Car)

Transportation is a common topic. “Avto” means car.

23. Vlak (Train)

If you’re traveling by rail, “Vlak” is the word for train.

24. Avtobus (Bus)

Public transportation is essential in any city. “Avtobus” means bus.

25. Letalo (Airplane)

For air travel, “Letalo” is the word you need.

26. Kolo (Bicycle)

For a more eco-friendly mode of transport, “Kolo” means bicycle.

27. Park (Park)

A place for relaxation and leisure, “Park” means park.

28. Restavracija (Restaurant)

Dining out is a common activity. “Restavracija” means restaurant.

29. Bolnišnica (Hospital)

In case of emergencies, knowing the word for hospital is crucial. “Bolnišnica” means hospital.

30. Lekarna (Pharmacy)

For medical supplies, “Lekarna” is the word for pharmacy.

31. Policija (Police)

For safety and security, “Policija” means police.

32. Pošta (Post Office)

Sending mail or packages? “Pošta” means post office.

33. Denar (Money)

Financial transactions are a part of everyday life. “Denar” means money.

34. Banka (Bank)

For banking needs, “Banka” is the word to use.

35. Trg (Square)

Many Slovenian cities have central squares. “Trg” means square.

36. Cesta (Street)

When navigating urban areas, “Cesta” means street.

37. Most (Bridge)

Bridges are common landmarks. “Most” means bridge.

38. Gora (Mountain)

Slovenia is known for its beautiful mountains. “Gora” means mountain.

39. Jezero (Lake)

For natural bodies of water, “Jezero” means lake.

40. Morje (Sea)

Slovenia has a small coastline. “Morje” means sea.

41. Trgovec (Shopkeeper)

When shopping, you might need to talk to the “Trgovec” or shopkeeper.

42. Učitelj (Teacher)

In educational settings, “Učitelj” means teacher.

43. Zdravnik (Doctor)

For medical consultations, “Zdravnik” means doctor.

44. Voznik (Driver)

When discussing transportation, “Voznik” means driver.

45. Pisarniški delavec (Office Worker)

In professional settings, “Pisarniški delavec” means office worker.

46. Študent (Student)

If you’re talking about education, “Študent” means student.

47. Prijatelj (Friend)

Building relationships is important. “Prijatelj” means friend.

48. Družina (Family)

Family is a central part of life. “Družina” means family.

49. Praznik (Holiday)

Celebrations and time off are important. “Praznik” means holiday.

50. Vreme (Weather)

Small talk often involves discussing the weather. “Vreme” means weather.

Conclusion

Mastering these 50 essential words will significantly boost your Slovenian vocabulary and improve your ability to communicate effectively. Whether you’re asking for directions, making small talk, or navigating daily life, these words will serve as a solid foundation for your language skills. Practice using them in sentences, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—every effort brings you closer to fluency. Happy learning!