Learning Bulgarian can be an enriching experience, and grasping the essentials of any language begins with verbs. Verbs are the backbone of a sentence, bringing action and life to the language. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most commonly used Bulgarian verbs to give you a running start in both speaking and understanding the language.
Съм (sum) – To be
This verb is undoubtedly the most basic yet crucial in forming sentences and expressing states of being.
Той е учител по професия. (Toy e uchitel po profesia.) – He is a teacher by profession.
Имам (imam) – To have
A versatile verb that can denote possession, relationships, or characteristics.
Имам три брата. (Imam tri brata.) – I have three brothers.
Мога (moga) – Can, to be able to
This verb is essential for expressing ability or the possibility of doing something.
Мога да говоря български. (Moga da govorya bŭlgarski.) – I can speak Bulgarian.
Искам (iskam) – To want
Express desires or intentions with this verb, which is fundamental for making requests or plans.
Искам да пия кафе. (Iskam da piya kafe.) – I want to drink coffee.
Трябва (tryabva) – Must, to have to
An authoritative verb, it denotes obligation or necessity.
Трябва да уча за изпит. (Tryabva da ucha za izpit.) – I must study for the exam.
Мога да (moga da) – Can, to be able to
Similar to “мога”, this phrase is used in conjunction with another verb to express capability.
Мога да свиря на китара. (Moga da svirya na kitara.) – I can play the guitar.
Ходя (khodya) – To go, to walk
It refers both to the physical action of walking and the broader sense of going somewhere.
Ходя до магазина всеки ден. (Khodya do magazina vseki den.) – I go to the store every day.
Виждам (vizhdam) – To see
This verb allows you to talk about things you observe or understand.
Виждам красивата планина. (Vizhdam krasivata planina.) – I see the beautiful mountain.
Казвам (kazvam) – To say, to tell
A verb used when recounting or telling something to someone.
Казвам истината. (Kazvam istinata.) – I am telling the truth.
Разбирам (razbiram) – To understand
An important verb for communication, expressing comprehension.
Разбирам всичко, което каза. (Razbiram vsichko, koeto kaza.) – I understand everything you said.
Правя (pravya) – To do, to make
This action word is used for creating, performing, or engaging in activities.
Правя домашните си. (Pravya domashnite si.) – I am doing my homework.
Обичам (obicham) – To love
An emotional verb which is used to express fondness or preference.
Обичам да чета книги. (Obicham da cheta knigi.) – I love to read books.
Знам (znam) – To know
Use this verb when you have knowledge or are aware of something.
Знам много песни. (Znam mnogo pesni.) – I know many songs.
Трябва да (tryabva da) – Must, should
When combined with another verb, it expresses a stronger sense of obligation or advice.
Трябва да спиш осем часа. (Tryabva da spish osem chasa.) – You must sleep eight hours.
These verbs are an excellent starting point for language learners. By familiarizing yourself with these commonly used Bulgarian verbs, you can build a strong foundation for further learning and communication. Remember, consistent practice and real-world application are key to mastering any language, so make sure to use these verbs in your daily speech and writing as you continue your Bulgarian language journey.