mať — meaning in English: to have

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mať

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človek

záhadný

vysoký

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Slovak speakers commonly use the word 'mať' in everyday conversations to express possession or ownership. You might hear it when someone talks about what they have, such as 'Mám knihu' (I have a book), during casual family gatherings or while discussing plans with friends.

Synonyms & nuances

While 'mať' means 'to have,' another word like 'vlastniť' translates to 'to own' and implies a more formal notion of possession. You would choose 'mať' in casual conversation, whereas 'vlastniť' might be preferred in legal or formal contexts.

Culture

'Mať' has roots in the Proto-Slavic language, showcasing the common Slavic linguistic heritage. Interestingly, in Slovak culture, the concept of ownership is deeply linked to identity; for instance, saying 'Mám rodinu' (I have a family) signifies not just possession but also belonging and connection within the community.

FAQ

Q.How do you conjugate 'mať' in Slovak?

'Mať' is an irregular verb and conjugates as follows: ja mám (I have), ty máš (you have), on/ona má (he/she has), my máme (we have), vy máte (you all have), oni/ony majú (they have).

Q.Can 'mať' be used in different tenses?

Yes, 'mať' can be used in various tenses. For example, in the past tense, you would say 'mal' for 'he had' and 'mala' for 'she had.' In the future tense, it becomes 'budem mať' meaning 'I will have.'

Q.Are there common phrases that use 'mať'?

Certainly! Phrases like 'mať na pamäti' (to keep in mind) and 'mať rád' (to like) are commonly used in everyday Slovak. These expressions show how versatile 'mať' is in different contexts.

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Slovak Vocabulary