I'm learning lietuvių

brolis — meaning in English: brother

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for brother
brolis
lėktuvas
užsienis
nuo
kavinė
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Lithuanian for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
informal very common
Usage
Lithuanian speakers often use 'brolis' in family gatherings, casual conversations, or when referring to a close male friend as a brother figure. It's a term of endearment that reflects camaraderie and solidarity, making it suitable for both personal and informal settings.
Synonyms & nuances
'Brolis' is often used to mean brother in a literal sense, while 'brolis' can also refer to a close male friend in a figurative sense. In contrast, 'giminaitis' refers to a relative more broadly, encompassing cousins and other family members, which lacks the same intimate connotation as 'brolis.'
Culture
'Brolis' originates from the Proto-Baltic word *broļis, which emphasizes the deep-rooted familial ties in Lithuanian culture. In traditional Lithuanian society, brothers often played crucial roles as protectors, confidants, and partners in various life events, highlighting the importance of this term in expressing kinship and loyalty.
FAQ
Q.What does 'brolis' mean in English?
'Brolis' translates to 'brother' in English. It refers to a male sibling or can denote a close male friend treated like a brother.
Q.How do you pronounce 'brolis'?
'Brolis' is pronounced as 'broh-lees.' The emphasis is on the first syllable, and the 'r' is rolled, which is common in Lithuanian phonetics.
Q.Is 'brolis' used in formal situations?
'Brolis' is primarily an informal term and is not typically used in formal contexts. For more formal references, such as in legal documents, other terms would be more appropriate.
Learn lithuanian with Maspeak →
Lithuanian Vocabulary