Learning a new language is not just about mastering grammar and vocabulary; it’s also about understanding the culture and traditional expressions that give it character and depth. Croatian is a rich language steeped in history, and to truly speak it well, one must learn the traditional and cultural expressions that are woven into everyday communication. Let’s explore some of these expressions, their meanings, and how you can use them in your dialogue to sound like a native speaker.

Pomalo
“Pomalo” is a word that embodies the Croatian laid-back lifestyle. It translates to “take it easy” or “slowly.” This expression is often used to encourage someone to relax and not rush through their tasks or worries.

Kad si na odmoru u Dalmaciji, važno je živjeti “pomalo”.

Inat
“Inat” is a term that refers to a sense of stubbornness or defiance. It can be a positive trait, indicating perseverance and resilience, but it can also imply being stubborn just for the sake of it.

On ima veliki “inat”, nikada se ne predaje bez borbe.

Fjaka
“Fjaka” is a specific state of mind and body in Dalmatia. It describes a sublime state of aspiration for nothing and the ability to relax and embrace the feeling of doing absolutely nothing.

Nakon dugog dana na suncu, osjetila se prava “fjaka”.

Čaša razgovora
This phrase means “a glass of conversation,” and it is often used to invite someone for a drink and a good, long chat. It’s a social invitation that signifies bonding and friendship.

Hajdemo na “čašu razgovora” i nadoknaditi izgubljeno vrijeme.

Gablec
“Gablec” is a term used in northern Croatia for a warm mid-morning or midday meal. It is similar to brunch in the sense that it’s a meal between breakfast and lunch, but it can also be a hearty lunch.

Odlazak na “gablec” je svakodnevna tradicija za mnoge radnike.

Merak
“Merak” is a word borrowed from Turkish that has made its way into the Croatian lexicon. It describes a feeling of great pleasure or contentment derived from simple things, similar to the concept of ‘joie de vivre.’

Slušanje stare glazbe na ploči pravi je “merak” za nju.

Prijateljstvo
While the translation of “prijateljstvo” is simply friendship, in the Croatian context, this concept often carries with it a deeper sense of loyalty, trust, and a bond that is perceived as almost familial.

U teškim vremenima pravo “prijateljstvo” dolazi do izražaja.

Živjeli
“Živjeli” is a common toast in Croatia, similar to saying “Cheers” in English. It comes from the word “živjeti” which means “to live,” and it’s an expression of good wishes for health and happiness to those being toasted.

Podigli smo čaše i uzviknuli “živjeli” prije nego što smo popili vino.

Tako je to
A philosophical reflection used in conversation, “tako je to” translates to “that’s how it is” or “such is life.” It’s spoken to acknowledge a situation, often with a sense of resignation or acceptance.

Ponekad stvari ne idu po planu, “tako je to” u životu.

Learning these expressions and integrating them into your conversations can enrich your communication and deepen your understanding of the Croatian culture. The charm of these phrases lies in their ability to convey complex emotions and cultural nuances with just a few words. As you continue practicing Croatian, keep an ear out for these unique expressions and try using them to sound more like a native speaker.