Czech Verbs for Beginners

Byt – To be
This verb is one of the most fundamental in the Czech language and is used similarly to its English equivalent—to express existence, identity, or characteristics.
Jsem student. (I am a student.)

Mít – To have
In Czech, “mít” expresses possession, much like the English “to have”.
Mám novou knihu. (I have a new book.)

Dělat – To do/make
The versatility of “dělat” means it can mean either “to do” or “to make,” depending on the context.
Děláš dobře. (You are doing well.)

Jít – To go (on foot)
As opposed to other forms of movement, “jít” is specifically used to describe going somewhere on foot.
Jdu do obchodu. (I am going to the shop.)

Potřebovat – To need
When expressing necessity, “potřebovat” is your go-to verb in Czech.
Potřebuji tvou pomoc. (I need your help.)

Umět – Can (to be able to)
Use “umět” to talk about abilities or skills, similar to the English modal verb “can.”
Umím mluvit česky. (I can speak Czech.)

Chtít – To want
When expressing desires or wishes “chtít” is at your disposal.
Chci kávu. (I want coffee.)

Pracovat – To work
Any form of labor or employment can be described with “pracovat.”
Pracuji v kanceláři. (I work in an office.)

Vidět – To see
This verb is all about visual perception.
Vidím tě z okna. (I see you from the window.)

Slyšet – To hear
Need to express the act of hearing? “Slyšet” allows you to do just that.
Slyším hudbu. (I hear music.)

Jíst – To eat
Whether you’re eating a meal or a snack, “jíst” is the verb you will use.
Jím snídani. (I’m eating breakfast.)

Pít – To drink
Anytime you’re consuming a beverage, “pít” comes into play.
Piju vodu. (I am drinking water.)

Jezdit – To ride/to travel
This verb denotes traveling or riding, typically on some form of transportation.
Jezdím autobusem do práce. (I ride the bus to work.)

Spát – To sleep
The realm of dreams is entered with “spát.”
Spím osm hodin každou noc. (I sleep eight hours every night.)

Mluvit – To speak/talk
For verbal communication in any language, “mluvit” is used in Czech.
Mluvíme spolu o politice. (We’re talking about politics.)

Učit se – To learn
As you are learning Czech, “učit se” will undoubtedly describe your endeavors in the language.
Učím se česky každý den. (I learn Czech every day.)

These verbs form the backbone of many daily Czech conversations, and having them in your vocabulary arsenal will be highly beneficial as you progress in your language learning. Remember, practice is key, so try to use these verbs in sentences as often as possible to help them stick in your memory. Good luck with your studies!