In the journey of learning a new language, the distinction between dreams and reality can often blur. This is especially true for language learners who aspire to become fluent in Bosnian. While dreaming about fluency and actually achieving it can be quite different, understanding the nuances of the language can bridge this gap. Let’s delve into some essential Bosnian vocabulary and explore the theme of dreams versus reality.

San vs Stvarnost: Understanding Dreams

San – Dream. In Bosnian, the word san refers to the images, thoughts, and emotions that occur during sleep. It can also metaphorically represent one’s aspirations or ambitions.

Imala sam prekrasan san sinoć.

Sanjati – To dream. This verb is used when one is describing the act of dreaming while asleep or in a metaphorical sense, dreaming about future goals.

Volim sanjati o boljoj budućnosti.

Snovi – Dreams. This is the plural form of san, used when referring to multiple dreams or aspirations.

Njeni snovi su veoma ambiciozni.

Stvarnost: The Reality Check

Stvarnost – Reality. The term stvarnost is used to describe the state of things as they actually exist, rather than as they may appear or might be imagined.

Moramo se suočiti sa stvarnošću.

Prava – Real. This adjective is used to describe something genuine or true in the context of reality.

Ovo je prava ljubav.

Istina – Truth. The word istina refers to the quality or state of being in accord with fact or reality.

Uvijek govori istinu.

Bridging the Gap

Nada – Hope. The term nada signifies a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen, often bridging the gap between dreams and reality.

Imam nadu da će sve biti u redu.

Trud – Effort. This word is used to describe the exertion of physical or mental energy towards achieving a goal, often a necessary step in turning dreams into reality.

Uložila je mnogo truda u svoj rad.

Upornost – Perseverance. The quality of continuing to try to achieve a particular aim despite difficulties, which is essential in making dreams come true.

Njegova upornost je zaista inspirativna.

Dreams in Daily Life

Mašta – Imagination. This word refers to the ability of the mind to be creative or resourceful, often playing a role in one’s dreams and aspirations.

Njena mašta nema granica.

Želja – Wish. This term is used to express a strong desire for something that is not easily attainable.

Moja najveća želja je da putujem svijetom.

Ambicija – Ambition. The word ambicija refers to a strong desire to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work.

Njegova ambicija je da postane doktor.

Reality in Daily Life

Obaveze – Obligations. This term is used to describe duties or commitments that one is bound to by law or moral precept.

Imam mnogo obaveza danas.

Rizik – Risk. The possibility of suffering harm or loss, often encountered in the pursuit of making dreams a reality.

Preuzeo je veliki rizik da bi ostvario svoj san.

Izazov – Challenge. This word refers to a task or situation that tests someone’s abilities, often a part of the journey from dreams to reality.

Ovaj projekat je veliki izazov za mene.

Intertwining Dreams and Reality

Inspiracija – Inspiration. The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative, often derived from dreams and aspirations.

Priroda je moja najveća inspiracija.

Motivacija – Motivation. The reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way, crucial in turning dreams into reality.

Njena motivacija dolazi iz želje da pomogne drugima.

Plan – Plan. A detailed proposal for doing or achieving something, a necessary step in the transition from dreaming to achieving.

Imamo dobar plan za budućnost.

Common Expressions and Phrases

Ostvariti san – To make a dream come true. This phrase is used to describe the achievement of a dream or aspiration.

Naporno je radila da ostvari svoj san.

Stajati čvrsto na zemlji – To stand firmly on the ground. This expression means to be realistic and practical, not swayed by dreams or fantasies.

Iako ima velike snove, uvijek staje čvrsto na zemlji.

Živjeti u oblacima – To live in the clouds. This phrase is used to describe someone who is lost in their dreams and not in touch with reality.

On često živi u oblacima i zaboravlja na stvarnost.

Conclusion

Learning a new language like Bosnian involves navigating between dreams and reality. While it’s important to dream and set high aspirations, understanding the reality of the learning process and the effort required is crucial. By mastering essential vocabulary and phrases, language learners can better articulate their dreams and confront the realities of their journey. So, keep dreaming, stay motivated, and face the challenges head-on as you embark on your Bosnian language learning adventure.