Croatian is a Slavic language spoken by around 7 million people, primarily in Croatia but also in neighbouring regions. While many Croatians speak English, especially in tourist areas, knowing a few key phrases in emergencies can be invaluable. This guide covers the most critical expressions you might need in urgent situations.
Medical Emergencies
Pomoć!
/ˈpomoːtɕ/“Help!”
The most basic and urgent call for assistance.
Treba mi liječnik!
/ˈtreba mi ˈʎiːetʃnik/“I need a doctor!”
Use this if you require immediate medical attention.
Gdje je bolnica?
/ɡdje je ˈbolnitsa/“Where is the hospital?”
Essential for directing someone to medical help.
- If you have allergies or a chronic condition, carry a written note in Croatian. Many pharmacies (ljekarna) can assist with minor issues.
Police & Safety
Policija!
/poˈlit͡sija/“Police!”
Shout this if you need law enforcement urgently.
Ukrali su mi novčanik.
/ˈukrali su mi ˈnoʋt͡ʃanik/“Someone stole my wallet.”
Report theft with this phrase.
Izgubio/izgubila sam se.
/ˈizɡubio/ˈizɡubila sam se/“I am lost (male/female).”
Use this if you need directions.
Croatia is generally safe, but petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and know the emergency number (192 for police).
Natural Disasters & Extreme Situations
Požar!
/ˈpoʒar/“Fire!”
Shout this if there’s a fire.
Potres!
/ˈpotres/“Earthquake!”
Croatia is seismically active - know this word.
Gdje je najbliži izlaz?
/ɡdje je ˈnajbliːʒi ˈizlaz/“Where is the nearest exit?”
Crucial in evacuation scenarios.
For more general travel phrases, see our guide on Mastering Greetings in Croatian.
Quick Reference Table
| Croatian | English | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| Hitna pomoć! | Emergency help! | /ˈhitna ˈpomoːtɕ/ |
| Zovite hitnu! | Call an ambulance! | /ˈzoʋite ˈhitnu/ |
| Ovdje je nesreća. | There’s been an accident here. | /ˈoʋdje je ˈnesretɕa/ |
Memorise at least 'Pomoć!' and 'Hitna pomoć!' - these could save your life in a crisis.
