Family is central to Slovak culture, and knowing how to talk about relatives is key to meaningful conversations. Whether you're introducing your parents or asking about someone's siblings, this guide covers the basics.
Immediate Family
Rodina
/ˈrɔdina/“Family”
| Slovak | English |
|---|---|
| matka | mother |
| otec | father |
| sestra | sister |
| brat | brother |
| dcéra | daughter |
| syn | son |
Extended Family and In-Laws
Slovak distinguishes between maternal and paternal relatives, and in-laws have specific terms. Here are some key words:
- babička (grandmother)
- dedko (grandfather)
- teta (aunt)
- strýko (uncle)
- švagor (brother-in-law)
- švagriná (sister-in-law)
Common Phrases for Family Conversations
- Mám veľkú rodinu. (I have a big family.)
- Koľko súrodencov máš? (How many siblings do you have?)
- Moja matka je učiteľka. (My mother is a teacher.)
- Bývaš s rodičmi? (Do you live with your parents?)
- Mám dve deti. (I have two children.)
For more conversational phrases, check out our guide on Hebrew for Business, which includes formal and informal introductions.
Possessive Forms
In Slovak, possessive pronouns change based on gender and number. Here’s how to say 'my' and 'your' with family members:
| English | Slovak (masculine) | Slovak (feminine) |
|---|---|---|
| my father | môj otec | moja matka |
| your brother | tvoj brat | tvoja sestra |
Cultural Notes
Slovaks often use diminutives for family members, especially children. For example, 'mama' (mum) becomes 'mamička' (mummy), and 'otec' (father) becomes 'tatko' (daddy).
If you're interested in how language reflects culture, our article on Bulgarian superstitions explores similar themes.
