Learning a new language isn’t just about mastering grammar and vocabulary—it’s also about understanding the cultural nuances that come with it. Czech, a West Slavic language spoken in the Czech Republic, is no different. To help you navigate social situations, here are some essential expressions for discussing family and relationships in Czech, complete with definitions and examples.

Rodina
The word “rodina” translates directly to “family” in English. It encompasses the immediate family members as well as extended relatives.

Moje rodina je pro mě velmi důležitá.

Matka
“Matka” means “mother,” an integral part of any family.

Moje matka vaří nejlepší guláš.

Otec
Similarly, “otec” is the Czech word for “father.”

Můj otec chodí každou neděli na ryby.

Bratr
“Bratr” stands for “brother.” It could refer to both older and younger brothers.

Mám dva bratry a oba jsou vysocí.

Sestra
“Sestra” means “sister” and is used in the same context as in English.

Moje sestra studuje medicínu.

Děti
The word “děti” translates to “children.” This can refer to one’s own children or children in general.

Máme tři děti a všechny jsou ještě na základní škole.

Manžel
“Manžel” is the term for “husband,” denoting a married partner.

Můj manžel je velmi podporující.

Manželka
Similarly, “manželka” means “wife.”

Moje manželka je skvělá kuchařka.

Partner/Partnerka
These words mean “partner” and are used for both unmarried and married couples, often indicating a significant other. “Partner” is masculine, while “partnerka” is feminine.

Můj partner je úžasný člověk.

Přítel/Přítelkyně
Used for “boyfriend” and “girlfriend” respectively, these words indicate a romantic relationship. “Přítel” is for males, and “přítelkyně” for females.

Moje přítelkyně miluje horolezectví.

Prarodiče
This term translates to “grandparents,” combining both the paternal and maternal side.

Moji prarodiče mají úžasný smysl pro humor.

Děda
“Děda” refers specifically to a “grandfather.”

Můj děda rád vypráví příběhy ze svého mládí.

Babička
Contrastingly, “babička” is the word for “grandmother.”

Moje babička vždy peče nejlepší buchty.

Vnuk/Vnučka
These words mean “grandson” and “granddaughter.” “Vnuk” is used for boys, and “vnučka” for girls.

Náš vnuk se učí hrát na klavír.

Teta
“Teta” refers to an “aunt,” a sister to one’s mother or father.

Má teta je profesionální malířka.

Strýc
On the flip side, “strýc” means “uncle.”

Můj strýc bydlí v Ostravě.

Sourozenci
The plural word “sourozenci” signifies “siblings,” denoting both brothers and sisters collectively.

Mám fantastické sourozence, kterým mohu vždy důvěřovat.

Understanding these terms can give you a better grasp of Czech family dynamics and help you express your own family relationships to Czech speakers. Practice these expressions and integrate them into your conversations for a more authentic learning experience. Remember, family and relationships form a substantial part of one’s culture, and learning about them is a step closer to understanding the heart of the Czech language and its people. Učení je cesta, ne cíl — learning is a journey, not a destination.