I'm learning latviešu

atcerēties — meaning in English: to remember

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

Guess the translation for to remember
uzrakstīt
Piederēt
domāt
ceļot
atcerēties
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Latvian 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 commonly use 'atcerēties' during conversations about past experiences, such as reminiscing about childhood memories or recalling shared events with friends. It's often employed in both casual and serious discussions, like when reflecting on important life lessons or family gatherings.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym of 'atcerēties' is 'pārdzīvot,' which means 'to relive.' While 'atcerēties' focuses on the act of recalling a memory, 'pārdzīvot' emphasizes experiencing that memory again. You would choose 'atcerēties' when discussing the mere act of remembering, but use 'pārdzīvot' when wanting to highlight the emotional experience associated with that memory.
Culture
'Atcerēties' has roots in the Proto-Baltic language, which illustrates the deep connection Latvians have with memory and history. In Latvian culture, remembering is not just a personal act but a communal one, often tied to traditions, folklore, and the collective experiences of the nation, especially during significant anniversaries and celebrations.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'atcerēties' in Latvian?
'Atcerēties' is a reflexive verb, meaning it's conjugated with the reflexive pronoun. For example, in the present tense, it changes to 'es atceros' (I remember), 'tu atceries' (you remember), and 'viņš/viņa atceras' (he/she remembers).
Q.Can 'atcerēties' be used in formal writing?
Yes, 'atcerēties' is suitable for both informal conversations and formal writing. For example, you might use it in essays, reports, or speeches when discussing historical events or personal reflections.
Q.What are common mistakes when using 'atcerēties'?
A common mistake is confusing 'atcerēties' with 'aizmirst,' which means 'to forget.' Ensure you use 'atcerēties' when you want to express the act of recalling something, whereas 'aizmirst' should be used when talking about forgetting.
Learn latvian with Maspeak →
Latvian Vocabulary