snažit se — meaning in English: to try

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oplachovat

stát se

snažit se

děkuji

vždy

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neutral common

Usage

Native Czech speakers often use 'snažit se' when discussing personal goals or challenges in both casual and semi-formal settings. For example, you might hear someone say, 'Snažím se zlepšit svou češtinu,' meaning 'I am trying to improve my Czech.' It's common in conversations about studying, work, or any personal endeavors.

Synonyms & nuances

'Snažit se' is closely related to 'pokoušet se,' which also means 'to try.' However, 'pokoušet se' carries a slightly more experimental or tentative connotation. You would choose 'snažit se' when you are committed to putting in effort towards a goal, while 'pokoušet se' may imply a more casual attempt.

Culture

'Snažit se' comes from the verb 'snažit,' which means 'to strive' or 'to endeavor.' It's tied to a cultural emphasis on perseverance and hard work in Czech society, reflecting the values of resilience and determination that many Czechs hold dear. Interestingly, this word is often associated with the Czech proverb, 'Kdo se snaží, ten uspěje,' which translates to 'Those who try will succeed.'

FAQ

Q.How do you use 'snažit se' in a sentence?

'Snažit se' is used with an infinitive verb to express what you are trying to do. For example, 'Snažím se učit češtinu,' means 'I am trying to learn Czech.'

Q.Is 'snažit se' used in both spoken and written Czech?

'Snažit se' is versatile and can be used in both spoken and written contexts, making it a great word for learners to incorporate into their vocabulary in various situations.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'snažit se'?

A common mistake is omitting the infinitive verb that follows 'snažit se.' Remember to always pair it with what you are trying to do, such as 'snažit se mluvit' (to try to speak).

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Czech Vocabulary