I'm learning srpski

voleti — meaning in English: to love

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

Guess the translation for to love
majka
subjektivnost
ići
voleti
proveriti
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Serbian for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'voleti' in both casual conversations and serious discussions about love and relationships. For example, someone might say 'Volim te' to express romantic feelings or 'Volim svoje roditelje' when talking about familial love during a family gathering.
Synonyms & nuances
'Voleti' is often compared to the word 'sviđa mi se,' which means 'I like.' While 'voleti' conveys a deeper emotional connection, 'sviđa mi se' is more casual and can apply to likes or preferences, such as a favorite food or hobby. Choose 'voleti' when you want to express strong affection or love.
Culture
'Voleti' comes from the Proto-Slavic root '*velěti', which means 'to wish' or 'to love.' It reflects the deep cultural value that Serbians place on love and relationships, often expressed in songs, poetry, and folklore. For instance, many traditional Serbian folk songs celebrate the theme of love in its various forms, showcasing how integral this concept is to their cultural identity.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'voleti' in the present tense?
'Voleti' is conjugated as follows: 'ja volim' (I love), 'ti voliš' (you love), 'on/ona voli' (he/she loves), 'mi volimo' (we love), 'vi volite' (you all love), 'oni/one vole' (they love). This pattern is essential for forming sentences in daily conversations.
Q.What is the difference between 'voleti' and 'gajiti'?
'Gajiti' can also mean 'to love,' but it tends to imply nurturing or caring for something, like a hobby or a plant. Use 'voleti' for expressing romantic or emotional love, while 'gajiti' is suitable for more tender or supportive contexts.
Q.Can 'voleti' be used in a non-romantic context?
Yes, 'voleti' can be used in non-romantic contexts as well. For example, you can say 'Volim kafu' (I love coffee) to express a strong liking for coffee. However, ensure the context is clear so that it doesn't confuse listeners regarding the depth of feeling you're conveying.
Learn serbian with Maspeak →
sh Vocabulary