Basic Croatian words and phrases to get through life in Croatia

Firule Beach in Split, Croatia

The easiest way to start learning a new language is to memorize basic phrases that are useful in daily life. Learning how to ask someone the time, how they are doing, or how to order a coffee will lead to fewer obstacles on your Croatian journey.

We are here to help you feel just a bit more comfortable using the Croatian language – even if you’re nowhere near fluent. We’ve put together a list of the most important words and phrases to know that will get you through most situations so that you can repeat them over and over until you’re an expert.

By using some of these, you will assimilate to Croatian culture much faster.

In this post, we cover:

The facts are these…

Words to get through life in Croatia

Word: da Meaning: yes  

Word: dobro Meaning: good

Word: gdje Meaning: where

Word: hoću Meaning: I will

Word: hvala Meaning: thank you

Word: idemo Meaning: let’s go

Word: jesam Meaning: Yes, I am/did

Word: izvoli Meaning: here you are

Word: krenimo, idemo Meaning: let’s go

Word: loše Meaning: bad

Word: malo Meaning: a little

Word: molim Meaning: please; you’re welcome

Word: možda Meaning: maybe

Word: može Meaning: okay

[Read: 10 ways to use “može” ]

Word: ne Meaning: no

Word: ne može Meaning: it cannot be done

Word: ne razumijem Meaning: I do not understand

Word: ne znam Meaning: I don’t know

Word: neću Meaning: I won’t

Word: nisam Meaning: No, I am not/didn’t

Word: ništa Meaning: nothing

Word: odlično Meaning: great

[Read: Croatian exclamations for when you need to shout ]

Word: oprosti Meaning: (I’m) sorry, excuse me

Word: pardon Meaning: pardon

Word: puno Meaning: a lot

Word: razumijem Meaning: I understand

Word: super Meaning: super

Word: stani, stop Meaning: stop

Word: što Meaning: what

Word: trebam Meaning: I need

Word: u redu Meaning: alright

Word: (u)pomoć Meaning: help

Word: zašto Meaning: why

Word: znam Meaning: I know

Word: živjeli Meaning: cheers

Phrases to get through life in Croatia

When talking to a stranger or an elderly person in Croatian, a formal form of the pronoun Vi is used. This is considered to be a sign of respect towards the person you don’t know or who is significantly older than you. In informal conversation, the pronoun ti is used. The vocabulary of phrases below is structured for the formal.

Phrase: Bolesna/bolestan sam. ( bolesna is feminine; bolestan is masculine) Meaning: I am sick.

Phrase: Dobro sam, hvala. Meaning: I’m good, thanks.

Phrase: Drago mi je. Meaning: Nice to meet you. (I am glad.)

Phrase: Gdje radite? Meaning: Where do you work?

Phrase: Gdje živite? Meaning: Where do you live?

Phrase: Gladna/gladan sam. ( gladna is feminine; gladan is masculine) Meaning: I am hungry.

Phrase: Govorite li hrvatski/Engleski? Meaning: Do you speak Croatian/English?

Phrase: Idemo jesti. Meaning: Let’s go eat.

[Read: All the Croatian vocabulary you might need at a restaurant or cafe in Croatia ]

Phrase: Idemo na kavu. Meaning: Let’s go for a coffee.

Phrase: Imate li…? Meaning: Do you have…?

Phrase: Ja sam iz [grad/država]. Meaning: I am from [city/state].

Phrase: Kako se zovete? Meaning: What’s your name?

Phrase: Kako ste? Meaning: How are you?

Phrase: Koliko je sati? Meaning: What’s the time?

[Read: How to tell time (in Zagreb, Split, Istria, and Dubrovnik) ]

Phrase: Koliko to košta? Meaning: How much does it cost?

Phrase: Moram ići. Meaning: I have to go/leave.

Phrase: Možemo li pričati na engleskom? Meaning: Can we speak English?

Phrase: Nemam vremena. Meaning: I don’t have time.

Phrase: Nisam dobro. Meaning: I’m not okay.

Phrase: Nisam sigurna/siguran. ( sigurna is feminine; siguran is masculine) Meaning: I’m not sure.

Phrase: Odakle ste? Otkud ste? Meaning: Where are you from?

Phrase: Ovo je moj broj telefona. Meaning: This is my phone number.

Phrase: Pustite me na miru. Meaning: Leave me alone.

Phrase: Sretan put. Meaning: Have a nice trip. (Safe travel.)

Phrase: Sretan rođendan! Meaning: Happy birthday!

Phrase: Što ima novog? Meaning: What’s up?

Phrase: Što je to? Meaning: What’s that?

Phrase: Što mislite? Meaning: What do you think?

Phrase: Što ste rekli? Meaning: What did you say?

Phrase: Trebam na wc. Meaning: I need to go to the toilet.

[Read: How to ask where the toilet is in Croatian (and how to find public toilets throughout Croatia) ]

Phrase: Trebam odmor/ pauzu . Meaning: I need a break.

Phrase: Trebate li nešto? Meaning: Do you need something?

Phrase: Ugodan dan. Meaning: Have a nice day.

[Read: All the ways to say “Hi” and “Bye“ in Croatian ]

Phrase: Zovem se [ime]. Meaning: My name is [name].

Phrase: Zvuči dobro. Meaning: Sounds good.

View our other Croatian vocabulary posts

  • All the ways to say “Hi” and “Bye“ in Croatian
  • Croatian vocabulary you might need at a restaurant or cafe in Croatia
  • Exclamations for when you need to shout
  • Holiday words and phrases
  • How to ask how someone is doing
  • How to ask where the toilet is in Croatian (and how to find public toilets throughout Croatia)
  • How to tell time (in Zagreb, Split, Istria, and Dubrovnik)
  • Immigration words and phrases
  • Sledding and winter vocabulary

Please note:  Information provided by Expat in Croatia is only for the purposes of guidance. It does not constitute legal or financial advice in any form. Croatian laws and bureaucratic rules often change, and each personal case is individual, so different rules may apply. For legal advice,  contact us  to consult with a licensed Croatian lawyer. For financial advice,  contact us  to consult with a licensed Croatian tax advisor or accountant.

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Marija Tkalec

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Basic Croatian Phrases: 54 Useful Phrases to Learn

Basic Croatian Phrases

Whether you’re driving through one of Europe’s most scenic highways, the Adriatic Highway, hopping between the picturesque Adriatic islands, or walking around the limestone streets of Dubrovnik , you’ll find this guide to basic Croatian phrases handy during your voyages. It’s all about getting a grasp of the language spoken in Croatia, a country with ancient walled towns, limestone peaks inland, and a long coastline dotted with picturesque islands and washed by turquoise seas.

As is the case with most destinations across the planet, it’s handy to know a few words from the local lingo before you even arrive. Not only will it help when getting a taxi from the airport or ordering manistra na pome ­ – the iconic pasta dish – but you should also impress the people you meet, who may not be used to people making effort to learn their tongue.

We’ll go through some facts about the language before teaching you a few basic Croatian phrases that we think will help you during your travels. From saying thank you and sorry, to finding a bus station in busy Zagreb, you’ll be able to ask for help whenever you need it, or order food in a restaurant. Let’s begin…

Table of Contents

What language is spoken in Croatia?

croatia views

What language is spoken in Croatia ? The answer is simple: it’s Croatian. This is the mother tongue of over 90% of the country’s population and the only official language. It isn’t so popular outside of the region, though. Only about six million people across the world can speak Croatian fluently and the vast majority of them are Croatian nationals.

That said, you shouldn’t have much trouble with communication during your holidays in this sunny destination. Around 65% of the population speak English and nearly 80% can speak more than one language, especially those employed in the tourism sector. That said, it’s definitely worth knowing a few basic Croatian phrases, even if you could get away with speaking English.

More generally, Croatian is known locally as Hrvatski . It belongs to the South Slavic group that includes the tongues spoken in the neighboring countries. It is also a variety of Serbo-Croatian polycentric lingo, which was one of the official languages in the former Yugoslavia. You will actually hear many similarities in the way people speak as you travel through the Balkans, but unlike Serbian, Croatian uses the Roman alphabet, not Cyrillic. That means you shouldn’t have much trouble reading road signs or menus when you sit down to eat.

Croatian is based on the Shtokavian dialect, which is also a base for languages spoken in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. That’s why nationals of these countries can understand each other quite well when they speak, even if their languages aren’t exactly the same.

Croatian alphabet and pronunciation

boat in the sea

Croatian uses the Latin alphabet, also known as Roman. That’s the same one we use in English, but there are a few differences. For starters, there are 30 letters compared to the 26 that you’ll find in English. All vowels are exactly the same, but some consonants vary. That is to say that there are some extra ones that you might not be familiar with. Those are: Č, Ć, DŽ, Đ, LJ, NJ, Š, and Ž. But you won’t find letters such as Q, W, X, and, Y. 

When it comes to pronunciation , it’s much easier than it seems at first. All letters have a single sound assigned to them, which doesn’t change depending on a word. There are also no word combinations. That means that once you learn how to pronounce each letter, you won’t have much trouble reading in Croatian. However, some letters sound pretty similar to one another and might be hard to tell apart to an untrained ear. Also, unlike most European languages, there are quite a few words without vowel. Can you try to say krv (blood), prst (finger), or grm (bush)? Not too easy, eh?

Basic Croatian phrases for greeting people, introducing yourself, and saying goodbye

boat harbour

When you find yourself in sunny Croatia , it’s useful to know some simple phrases. Whether to greet the taxi driver waiting for you outside the airport or to say hello to the hotel receptionist, knowing some local lingo is always helpful.

While the majority of Croats, especially those working in tourism, speak at least basic English, saying things like hello or goodbye in Croatian will certainly earn you some smiles. Check out these basic Croatian phrases that will come in handy from day one:

  • Zdravo – Hello. This is probably the first thing you’ll hear and learn in this Balkan country.
  • Bok – Hi or bye. This is a much more casual way to say hi or bye, that you’d hear from a friend. It’s especially present around the capital, Zagreb.
  • Dobar dan – Good day.
  • Dobro jutro – Good morning.
  • Dobra večer – Good evening.
  • Kako si/Kako ste? – How are you? Like with many other expressions used to address people in Croatian, the first, si is informal, and the latter, ste , is formal.
  • Ja sam dobro. – I’m fine.
  • Laku noć – Good night.
  • Do viđenja – Goodbye.
  • Vaše ime? -What is your name?
  • Zovem se… – My name is…
  • Drago mi je. – Nice to meet you.
  • Odakle si?/Odakle ste? – Where are you from? (informal/formal)
  • Ja sam iz… – I’m from…

Basic Croatian phrases you should know to get by

green forests in croatia

There are some words that you simply must know if you want to interact with Croatians in their local lingo. These are the ones that will come in handy in everyday situations such as going to a shop or buying bus tickets. They will help you respond to simple questions and say yes, no, and thank you. No traveler should leave Croatia without getting a feel for them…

  • Molim – Please.
  • Da molim – Yes, please.
  • Ne hvala – No, thank you.
  • Hvala – Thank you.
  • Oprosti/Oprostite – Excuse me. The first version is informal and the second one is formal.
  • Nema na čemu – You’re welcome.
  • Žao mi je – I’m sorry.
  • Vrlo dobro – Very good.
  • Koliko je sati? – What time is it?

Basic Croatian phrases for getting around

croatia village

Whether you’re trying to find your way around the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik or want to find out how to get to Krka National Park , navigating is much easier if you know some local lingo. Let’s take a look at some expressions that will help you get around sunny Croatia from north to south, mountains to sea…

  • Gdje je…? – Where is…?
  • Izgubljen sam – I’m lost.
  • Gdje je toalet? – Where is the toilet?
  • Gdje mogu pronaći taksi? ­ – Where can I find a taxi?
  • Autobusna stanica – Bus station.
  • Željeznička stanica – Train station.
  • Zračna luka – Airport.
  • Lijevo – Left.
  • Desno – Right.
  • Ravno naprijed – Straight ahead.

Basic Croatian phrases for travelers

birdseye view of split

Whether you’re heading to Split to enjoy the beaches or going inland to hike around the beautiful lakes in Plitvice Lakes National Park, mastering some basic Croatian phrases might come in handy in all situations. You’ll often need to ask for help, no matter if you’re looking for a bus station or find yourself in more serious trouble. Here’s a list of expressions that you should find helpful on that count…

  • Govorite li engleski? – Do you speak English?
  • Ne razumijem. – I don’t understand.
  • Koliko ovo košta? – How much is it?
  • Pomozite! – Help!
  • Trebam liječnika – I need a doctor.
  • Policija – Police.
  • Gdje mogu razmijeniti novac? – Where can I exchange money?

Basic Croatian phrases for food

food in croatia

No matter if you’re a foodie or not, eating is an essential part of traveling wherever you go, and trips to Croatia are no different. Although Croatian food hasn’t got the same fame as French, Thai or Indian, it doesn’t mean there are no delicacies out there. From simple pasta dishes such as manistra na pome to the national dish zagorski štrukli , knowing these basic Croatian phrases will come in handy whatever treat you want to taste.

  • Živjeli! – Cheers! It literally translates to ‘let’s live’. Another word used for toasts is uzdravlje, which means ‘to good health’.
  • Mogu li dobiti jelovnik? – Can I get the menu?
  • Ne jedem… – I don’t eat…
  • Meso – Meat.
  • Riba – Fish.
  • Svinjetina – Pork.
  • Govedina – Beef.
  • Ja sam vegetarijanac/vegan. – I’m vegetarian/vegan.
  • Uživajte u jelu. – Enjoy your meal.
  • Ukusna hrana. – Delicious food.
  • Mogu li dobiti račun? – Can I get the check?
  • Zadrži ostatak. – Keep the change.

Basic Croatian phrases – the conclusion

This guide to basic Croatian phrases will by no means teach you how to speak this beautiful South Slavic language in full. It only scratches the surface of this extensive European lingo. That said, you don’t need to speak like a native to convey some simple messages in Croatian. Knowing a few basic phrases will help in many situations, whether you want to ask for directions when you’re lost, introduce yourself, or just say hello to people you meet during your holidays.

We’ve introduced 54 useful words and expressions that should help you from the moment you set foot in this wonderful country. Although most travelers don’t have trouble getting by in English, saying some Croatian vocabulary won’t go unnoticed, you can rest assured of that.

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Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Home » General Info » Useful Croatian Phrases You Must Know

Useful Croatian Phrases You Must Know

Croatian Language

Learning some Croatian phrases before traveling to Croatia will not only make a good impression on local people, but can also be of great help to make your stay trouble-free and more pleasant.

Phrases in Croatian

At the restaurant

Croatian uses the Latin alphabet. The spelling of Croatian is largely phonetic so most words are written exactly as they are pronounced. Just make sure to learn how to pronounce Croatian letters – read my Croatian language guide !

Essential Terms

Accommodation croatian phrases.

If you read my budget tips page you’ll notice I recommend staying in private accommodation, rooms or apartments, as Croatia has a long and reliable tradition in this tourist offer.

If you are traveling to Split and you miss booking your accommodation in advance (not recommended particularly in July and August), you will be obliged to search accommodation by yourself.

In this situation you will probably hear the common phrase ‘nema problema’ (“no problem” or “there’s no problem”). Don’t take it for granted and just learn some terms to avoid real problems.

Consider staying at least three nights, with four or five being the best as prices are more convenient. Don’t hesitate bargaining for the best deal and ask for cheaper offers if you are staying longer. Don’t be shy, it’s your money on the table!

Here are some expressions and phrases you can find useful:

Essential accommodation terms

Don’t miss my Croatian language guide for travelers with basic words, language difficulties and small talk expressions.

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Below are my recommended sailing trips in Croatia from trusted companies and tour operators. Feel free to check the offers and links to find additional information and more related cruises!

From Split:

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Top rated: Dubrovnik Discovery

 Dubrovnik Cruises

Depart from Dubrovnik on a week long cruise and explore Mljet, Hvar, Korcula, Trstenik, and Sipan.

More departure ports:

One-day sailing trips:.

  • From Dubrovnik
  • View all Croatia 1-day sailing trips

Organized tours are excellent ways to explore my beautiful country, and I highly recommend taking at least one trip during your visit. There are limitless fascinating places to see, and you can easily book a tour or day trip from my trusted partners below.

Below are five top rated tours from Split!

Discover more trip ideas:

  • Top day trips from Split (my article)
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  • See all tours in Croatia »
  • Browse more tours on Viator (200+)

Find transfers and compare prices on:

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Cruises are fantastic and inexpensive way to discover multiple destinations in Croatia.

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  • ← Croatian Language Guide for Travelers
  • Split Party Cruises: Best Boat Parties in Dalmatia →

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A Beginners’ Croatian Phrasebook – Simple Croatian Words for Tourists

Croatian words for tourists

So you’re thinking of going on a trip to Croatia? Before embarking on this journey of a lifetime to explore its fascinating historic sights and captivating beaches, it is important to equip yourself with a few basic Croatian words for tourists. Having these handy words and phrases under your belt before departing will make your interactions with the local people that much easier! 

Whether it is ordering in a restaurant, or needing directions to the nearest restroom, this helpful beginners guide will ensure you have the resources at hand to converse in everyday situations.

An Introduction to the Croatian Language

Croatia is a country that boasts a rich cultural heritage and a unique linguistic identity. The language spoken here is Croatian. It is part of the South Slavic languages and shares a few similarities with its neighboring Slavic-speaking countries such as Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. 

While the languages found in these bordering countries may see some crossovers in the fundamental building blocks of the language, Croatian does have its own distinct characteristics, influenced by historical and regional factors. 

For English speakers here in the US, you’ll be pleased to know that the Croatian language utilizes the Latin alphabet, making it visually accessible to visitors of the country and beginners to the Slovic languages. However, there are a few letters you may not recognize in the Croatian language, these are:

  • C – pronounced “tz”
  • Č – pronounced “ch”
  • Ć – similar to Č but a bit softer, more like “tu”
  • Đ – pronounced “j”
  • Dž – similar to Đ but a bit harder
  • J – pronounced “y”
  • Lj – pronounced “lli”
  • Š – pronounced “sh”
  • Ž – pronounced “s”

It also has a simple phonetic system which closely aligns the sounds and letters of words, making it easy for beginners to quickly grasp the basic pronunciation of Croatian words. 

At Adventures Croatia , we know how important it is to fully immerse yourself in the local culture to acquire a truly authentic experience. And one of the easiest ways to achieve this is by conversing with the locals in their home language with a few Croatian phrases. 

So, pack your bags and get your explorer’s hat ready as we guide you through the enchanting world of the Croatian language and some of the important phrases to know in our ultimate Croatian phrasebook.

Croatian words for tourists

Croatian Sayings – Greetings and Basic Expressions

Croatia, like most countries in Europe, values politeness and courtesy. Mastering a few common Croatian phrases and greetings to show respect and gratitude can go a long way. 

Basic greetings and Croatian words for tourists when greeting new people:

  • Bok (bohk) – Hello
  • Kako si? (kah-koh steh) – How are you?
  • Ja sam dobro, hvala (yah sahm doh-broh, hva-lah) – I am fine, thank you
  • Drago mi je (dra-goh mee yeh) – Nice to meet you
  • Dobro jutro (doh-broh you-troh) – Good morning
  • Dobar dan (doh-bahr dahn) – Good afternoon
  • Kako se zovete? (kak-koh seh zoh-ve-teh) – What is your name?
  • Zovem se … (zoh-vhem se) – My name is …
  • Govorite li engleski? (goh-voh-ree-teh lee en-glees-kee) – Do you speak English?
  • I’m from…..  – Ja sam iz…
  • Doviđenja (doh-vee-jeh-nyah) – Goodbye

Croatian sayings to express politeness: 

  • Hvala (hvah-lah) – Thank you
  • Molim (moh-leem) – Please
  • Oprostite (oh-pros-tee-teh) – Excuse me
  • Žao mi je (zhao mee yeh) –  I’m sorry
  • Nema na čemu (Neh-mah nah cheh-moo) – You’re welcome

Replies to questions:

  • Da (dah) – Yes
  • Ne (neh) – No

The locals will appreciate your efforts to use their language – so fret not about mispronouncing a few words here and there! But if need be, most locals tend to have a basic understanding of English and much of the staff found in tourist hubs such as hotels and attractions will be able to help you in English.

For help booking your accommodation and the activities in Croatia, speak to our travel specialist today. 

Ordering Food and Drinks:

Croatia is a food-lovers dream! Full of authentic Mediterranean flavors and tantalizing aromas. One of the highlights of your Croatian vacation will undoubtedly be indulging in some of the country’s most delectable dishes.

To help you navigate menus with ease and make the ordering process a little bit simpler, there are a few common Croatian phrases you can use:

  • Imate li jelovnik na engleskom? (ee-mah-teh lee yeh-lov-neek nah ehn-gle-skohm) – Do you have a menu in English?
  • Koliko ovo košta? (Koh-lee-koh oh-voh koh-shtah) – How much is this?
  • Rezervacija (res-ee-vaci-a)– Reservation

Croatian words for tourists

Croatian words for tourists to use when ordering:

  • Hranu, molim (hra-noo, moh-leem) – Food, please
  • Piće, molim (pee-cheh, moh-leem) – Drinks, please
  • Pivo / kavu / čaj (Pee-voh / Kah-voo / Ch-ay) – A beer / coffee / tea
  • Preporučite mi nešto lokalno (preh-poh-roo-cheh-teh mee neh-sh-toh loh-kahl-no) – Recommend something local for me
  • Još jedno (yosh yehd-noh, moh-leem) – One more
  • Račun (rah-choon, moh-leem) – The bill

Our Croatia travel specialists have put together a list of the best restaurants in Croatia and a special guide to Croatia’s Michelin Star restaurants that are tourist friendly and sure to leave a lasting impression. 

Contact our agents today to find out more information about the best spots in Croatia to eat and drink.

Exploring Croatia and Getting Around:

As you begin to discover Croatia for yourself, knowing how to ask for directions and use transportation will be invaluable. 

Here are some useful Croatian sayings that will help you find your way:

  • Gdje je…? (gyeh yeh…) – Where is…?
  • Kako doći do…? (kah-koh doh-chee doh…) – How do I get to…?
  • Autobusna stanica (ow-toh-boos-nah stah-nee-tsah) – Bus station
  • Koliko je udaljeno? (koh-lee-koh yeh oo-dahl-yeh-noh) – How far is it?
  • Gdje je WC? (gd-yeh yeh WC?) – Where is the restroom?
  • Možete li mi pomoći? (Moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-moh-chee?) – Can you help me?
  • Desno (dehs-noh) – Right
  • Lijevo (lee-yeh-voh) – Left

Croatian words for tourists

And that concludes our Croatian phrasebook and our quick lesson on essential Croatian words for tourists to know before they embark on their travels. 

At Adventures Croatia, we’d love to be part of your journey, so if you’re looking to book your next vacation to Croatia, contact our travel specialists today. With everything from private journeys to Croatia with pre-planned itineraries to custom tours which let you create your dream vacation from scratch. We’re here to help you find the perfect tour to suit your vacation needs. 

Sretan put! (Bon voyage!)

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Croatian Phrases and More about the Language

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: December 1, 2019

Categories Croatia , Languages

Home / Europe / Croatia / Croatian Phrases and More about the Language

Croatian Phrases and More about the Language

Traveling to Croatia? Then it might be a good idea to learn a few Croatian Phrases. Here’s a list with useful words and phrases as well as some more information about the language itself. 

Most of the younger generations will speak English fluently, but there are still some from the older generations which only speak basic English or none at all. 

That’s why you should learn a few local phrases before your trip. This is also often appreciated and will make it easier to get a connection with the Croatians, and I promise it will be a more memorable journey!

Useful Croatian Phrases

Below you can see the translation from English to Croatian for some of the most common phrases.

Croatian Words

Below you have the words written in English to the left, and how to write them in Croatian to the right.

How to Count to ten in Croatian

While you’re learning a few local phrases and words, it might be useful to learn how to count from 1 to 10 in Croatian as well.

More about the Croatian language

Croatian is a Slavic language which is part of the Indo-European language family. It is mostly spoken in Croatia, but also in some parts of Bosnia and Hercegovina as well as other countries with Croats. 

It is estimated that there are about 5,6 million people who speak Croatian fluently. The language is very similar to Bosnian, Montenegrin, and Serbian, and most of the times, people from all these nations can understand each other without too much difficulty. 

But there are still differences in words and pronounciations. On top of that, there are also 3 main dialects of the Croatian language known as Shtokavian, Chakavian, and Kajkavian.

It also differs because the Croat culture is more similar to Central European countries than other Balkan countries. 

The Croatian language has a total of 30 letters, which are the following: A B C Č Ć D Dž Đ E F G H I J K L Lj M N Nj O P R S Š T U V Z Ž. Back in history, Glagolitic alphabet and later on the Cyrillic alphabet before changing to the Latin alphabet in 1830. 

Learn Croatian

Photo: Shutterstock

Translate from English to Croatian

Google Translate is the best option if you want to translate some single words or easy phrases. It’s not completely reliable and it does have its fair share of wrong translations, but it’s often good enough to make yourself understood. 

You can download the app and use it offline, which is quite convenient if you don’t have access to the internet. 

Learn Croatian

There are many Croats living in Sweden and other countries in Europe as well as Australia/New Zealand and the US. So there’s a quite good chance that there will be Croatian lessons available at your local university. 

This is a good way to learn the language since you will be led by a teacher who is fluent, and thus you can ask questions and practice your speaking skills and pronunciation. 

Another great way of learning other languages is to watch TV-series and movies in the local language with subtitles in your own language or English. 

There are also online platforms available where you can pay 20-30 Euro for 30-60 minutes sessions with a private teacher who speaks Croatian fluently. This is yet another good way to practice and make sure that you’re doing some progress. 

Want to learn more phrases in Croatian? Leave a comment below!

croatia travel words

A to Ž Guide to Croatian Phrases and Words in 2020

Even with Croatian blood and living in the country now for the past three years, I’ve found that learning the Croatian language is no easy feat. Most of the time people still laugh at me when I try to speak full sentences. However, learning a few Croatian phrases and Croatian slang words has helped me get by.

Not only are phrases in Croatian crucial to understanding everyday conversation, they are essential to understanding the culture . Each region has distinct Croatian slang with regional pronunciation. There are certain phrases like “fjaka” or “pomalo” that are used more often in the Dalmatian region, while “cugati” is used in Zagreb.

Croatian Phrases: A to Ž

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croatia travel words

This Croatian phrase is used throughout Croatia for almost any scenario. It’s similar to saying “Omg!” when you are scared or excited. However, it can also mean “ugh” if you are tired and not in the mood. For this particular scenario, you would say, “Ajme ne dam mi se!”, which means “ugh, I am not in the mood!”

croatia travel words

Bura is the infamous Northern wind in Croatia that everyone complains about in Dalmatia. Typically you’ll know it’s Bura when it is sunny out but there’s still a bone-chilling breeze in the air. There’s a joke that when Dalmatian people come to Zagreb in winter, where it is much colder, they’ll always say, “oh this is nothing, you should see how cold it is when the bura is blowing!”

This slang word from the Zagreb area and means “to drink alcohol”. It’s popular to use among the younger generation around Zagreb, especially the bar regulars. For example: “Idemo cugati!” means, “lets go drink!” Obviously, one of the most useful Croatian phrases for when you come here, as everyone loves to drink!

Č ešnjak means Garlic, which is one of the building blocks of Croatian cuisine. It is used in nearly early meal, except desert. Croatians also believe in the healing benefits of garlic, such as eating raw garlic for an extra immunity boost.

Ćakula is a word, which translates to having a conversation or talk with someone. It could be about any topic, but is usually referred to a casual setting. “Ćakula na kavi” refers to having a conversation over coffee specifically, because we all know Croatians love to talk while sipping espresso!

Dišpet is a Dalmatian slang word, which translates to “despite”. If someone tells you cannot do something, this means you’re going to do it despite them, or prove them wrong. It is especially well known as “Splitski dišpet”.

Džabe is a word that is used in Croatia and throughout Balkan countries, which means cheap, or next to nothing. Let’s say you find something on sale,, you would say, “Džabe!” indication you scored a good deal. And we all know how much Croats love a solid bargin!

croatia travel words

This common Croatian phrase translates to “where are you”, but is similar to saying “what’s up?” Most of Croatia pronounces this GE- DE-JE SI but in Dubrovnik, where words are often shortened, it is pronounced like “JES-SI”. However you pronounce it, this is a useful Croatian phrase used as a casual greeting when you see a friend or someone you pass on the street. It’s also similar to saying “how are you?” in Croatia, but specifically Dalmatia.

Evala is a common slang word that is used in Split specifically. It is similar to saying “great” or “good job!” It refers specifically to a situation when you approve or praise someone or some things.

croatia travel words

Fjaka is one of the most popular Dalmatian slang word, which bears no direct translation. Instead, it refers to a state of bliss and relaxation one feels while being in the sun. Fjaka is often associated with the stereotype that Dalmatian people are lazy, but this isn’t true. It rather refers to the purest form of zen, when you are living in the moment and unbothered by the rest of the world. Usually on the sea or at the beach, of course.

Gušt is a Dalmatian slang word that means simple pleasure. It is usually used in reference to many of the pleasures Dalmatians love most: barbecue with friends, laying on the beach, fishing, or drinking. Yes, Dalmatians know how to enjoy the simple things in life so much that they have a word for it!

It’s no secret that Croats have very…colorful swear words. There are too many to fill this post, but we’ll start with “huncut”. This Croatian slang word comes from the German word “hundsfott”, which means “bastard“. It is used for a person who is malicious, or doing bad things sneaky.

Dalmatian slang word that refers to someone who is fascinated into someone or something, or crazy in loved with someone or something. Example: „Infišan u Hajduka.“ – Fascinated/in love with Hajduk footbal club.

Jugo definition: Croatian phrases and Slang

The only match for Bura is Jugo, the Southern wind that blows in Croatia, especially in coastal parts. In contrast to bura, jugo wind is associated with rainy weather. Most Croats will blame their bad mood or fatigue on jugo to this day. This is especially common in Dubrovnik, where the former republic postponed major decisions until the gloomy Jugo weather cleared.

Klošar is perhaps one of my favorite Croatian slang words. A term used throughout Croatia, this is basically a fancy way of calling someone a village drunk. A typical Klošar is usually a man 40+ who drinks beer outside the grocery store, and has minimal life aspirations. Although Croatia has its fair share of Klošar s, they are generally harmless to the population.

Along the same thread as the above, a “lero” is a term for a nobody that thinks they are a somebody. This Dalmatian slang word is used for people that think they have the right to say or do whatever they want. However, the rest of the village would consider this person to be foolish and illegitimate.

croatia travel words

Lj is one of the hardest letters to pronounce, but you’ll have to learn it to declare your love to a Croat. Ljubav is the Croatian word for love, and ljubavi means “my love”. Croatians have a lot of love to give, and use ljubav for many different type of love. This applies to love for your family, partner, or homeland. Croatians may come across as tough, but are actually never afraid to express passion and love.

Moskar is a Croatian word for the Dubrovnik area, which means “hand fan”. In the 1950’s, all the high-profile and classy ladies could be seen carrying around a fancy Moskar on a hot summer day. Today, Moskar is the name of the regional Dubrovnik magazine, which features notable locals. I even made the cover a couple years ago!

N: Nonvelendo

Nonvelendo is a Dalmatian slang word, which means “unintentionally“. This is one of many words that Croats borrowed from the Italians. In Dalmatia especially, the regional accent sounds very similar to Italian sometimes.

Njoki is how Croatians spell gnocchi, the potato-shaped pasta known to Italy and other parts of South American. Every grocery store is always stacked with lots of Njoki near the dairy section. Many Croatian meals mix njoki in with goulash, meat, or they may make it homemade. To read more about Croatian foods, click here .

Oprosti is the Croatian phrase for saying “I’m sorry”. Pronounce OPE-PROST-TI you would say this also similar to “excuse me”. In a more formal setting you would say, oprosti te, pronounced OPE-PROST-TE-TAE. Make sure you say it loud enough and with confidence, or no one will acknowledge you! (Learned this one the hard way several times).

Croatian phrases: pomalo meaning

Without a doubt my favorite word in Croatian is pomalo. This directly translates to “take it easy”, which is usually said when you say goodbye to someone. You could also say “pomalo” to someone who is stressed and in a rush.

However, the world pomalo is indicative of the Croatian way of life: taking it easy, sitting for hours over a cup of coffee, and enjoying the little things in life. Pomalo is about embracing a slower way of life, which is more relevant now than ever. Read more about pomalo living here .

Dalmatians just don’t have enough versions of the word idiot. Similar to lero, Redikul is the name for the foolish person that every neighborhood or village has. Similar to a class clown, it’s someone that is never taken seriously. In every Dalmatian movie or show, there is always at least one redikul.

“Sudamja” is the name of the celebration of Saint Duje, who is the patron protector of Split. It is held every year on 7th of May, and considered to be one of the most important days to people of Split. As Croatia is a predominantly Catholic country, each city has a patron saint. For example, Saint Blaise is the protector of Dubrovnik, and every February they celebrate him as well.

Š: Šotobraco

Šotobraco is a Dalmatian slang word that means “hand in hand”, literally. You would say this when a couple walks down the street holding hands. This word is often used in many Klapa songs, talking about lovers walking Šotobraco. Specifically, there is one song by Vinko Coce, where we talks about wanting to walk one more time with a girl “šotobraco”.

Treseta is an Italian card game that is widely played throughout the Dalmatian coast and islands. Each region has slightly different rules, but generally the card game is the same. Knowing how to play is a right of passage for most Dalmatians, young and old!

Užanca is a slang word from Dubrovnik, which translates to “cultural customs”. This refers to the traditions and practices that are happening specifically in Dubrovnik, such as “Kolenda” on Badnjak, and seaside BBQs. To learn more about customs through Croatia, read this post here .

Vapor is a popular Dalmatian word for a large ship. We usually hear this word in many Dalmatian books and stories about the sea. Especially in klapa songs, we hear vapor in countless songs about the sea.

Ziher is the Zagreb version of saying “for sure” or “definitely”. For example, you would say “Croatia will win this match, ziher!” or “We are going to make money, ziher!”

Zivjeli definition; Croatian slang

Pronounced GE-VA-LI, this is the catch-all phrase for any cheers or toast you make in Croatia. It translates to “to life!” or “long live all!” You can also use this as a phrase to say “see you later” or “bye”.

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A to Ž: Croatia Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

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18 things you need to know before visiting Croatia

Mary Novakovich

Mar 17, 2024 • 7 min read

croatia travel words

Plan the perfect Croatia trip with these top tips © TerryPrince / Getty Images

With its glittering coastline, 1244 islands, endlessly fascinating cities and extraordinarily dramatic landscapes, Croatia has been steadily making its way up people’s must-go lists. 

Naturally, tourists are drawn to those beautiful Adriatic beaches that easily hold their own against their Mediterranean rivals. But inland Croatia is just as captivating, from the hilltop villages of Istria to the elegantly buzzing capital, Zagreb .

Don't book your flights just yet though – first, make the most of our planning tips covering everything you need to know about health, safety and etiquette before you go.

People swimming in pools fed by waterfalls

1. Don’t overstretch yourself when planning an itinerary

It might be tempting to squeeze in as many destinations as possible into one trip, but you won’t be doing yourself any favors unless you’re staying for at least two weeks. If you’re planning to visit more than one Adriatic island, think realistically about how much time you can spend in each place and how you will be getting around .

Check the schedule of the national ferry operator,  Jadrolinija , if you intend to do some island-hopping. Croatia has an extensive bus network, but factor in some long journey times if you’re traveling along the Adriatic coast.

2.  Croatia's currency is the euro

Although Croatia joined the EU in 2013, the euro was only introduced as the national currency on the January 1, 2023. The Croatian kuna is no longer in use, and if you happen to have any of the old currency, you'll need to go to the Croatian National Bank to exchange them. 

3. Expect to tip at least 10% in restaurants

Croatia’s tipping culture is more laid-back than in other countries. Having said that, it’s customary to leave at least 10% in restaurants and for beauty and spa treatments. In bars and cafes, just round up the bill. Tour guides appreciate a few euros at the end of a tour, and taxi drivers don’t expect a tip, but, again, if you want to round up a fare to the next euro, it’s appreciated. If you’re filling up your car and notice a few students cleaning car windscreens, consider giving them a couple of euros as they’re working for tips only.

A woman cycles along a coastal path

4. Croatia is generally considered a safe place to travel

Croatia is a safe country with low levels of violent crime. The most prevalent issue for tourists is pickpocketing, but even that’s on a much lower scale than in other European countries. Solo women travelers should be safe on their own, although it’s wise to ask your accommodation provider if there are any areas in the vicinity that are best avoided. When using taxis, all travelers should make certain they’re using a licensed car either from an official taxi rank or ordered from your hotel. Uber operates in most major towns and cities, including Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split .

5. Some caution is recommended for LGBTIQ+ travelers 

In this relatively conservative country, homosexuality is tolerated, but LGBTIQ+ travelers should be discreet. Public displays of affection could raise a few eyebrows, and some travelers have experienced hostile reactions. Zagreb’s gay scene is growing, however, and both Zagreb and Split hold Gay Pride festivals every June.

6. Bring some swimming shoes

Most of Croatia’s beaches are pebbly or rocky and can be hard to enjoy in bare feet. Just pick up a pair of those neoprene or plastic swimming shoes you see in all the resorts, and you’ll also be protecting your feet from sea urchins that lurk under rocks and pebbles.

7. Nudity at the beach is pretty standard

Naturist beaches are popular in Croatia, and sometimes you won’t know you’re on one until people start stripping off. Most are marked with FKK – the German phrase “Frei-Körper-Kultur,” meaning free body culture – which isn't surprising as Germans make up some of the biggest numbers of tourists in Croatia. Away from the FKK beaches, topless bathing is quite common.

8. Dodge the crowds in Dubrovnik by timing your visit carefully

There could be times when up to 8000 cruise ship passengers might descend on Dubrovnik in one day. That’s the cue to stay away from the Old Town  within the city walls until they leave in the late afternoon. Keep an eye on the Dubrovnik Port Authority’s website for cruise arrivals and the online crowd monitoring system that predicts the numbers of visitors. 

9. Wi-fi is readily available

Croatia is part of EU roaming, which is handy if you have a contract that allows you to use your data abroad. It’s easy to find wi-fi in cafes and bars – just ask the server for the password ( šifra ).

People in swimsuits sunbathe on the pier in Adriatic coast with sailboats, ship and houses in the distance behind them

10. Swimwear is for the beach, not the town

If you’re visiting churches and other sacred sites, keep your shoulders covered and avoid bare thighs. If you’re wearing a hat, take it off when you’re in a church. Even though dress codes are relaxed on the coast, Split, Dubrovnik and Hvar have passed laws against walking around the city in swimwear or bare-chested. Croatians like to dress smartly and take great pride in their appearance, so do as they do and avoid looking scruffy.

11.  Don’t get drunk in public

Croatia has developed a reputation as a place to party, which has led to some areas being inundated with badly behaved drunken tourists. After years of enduring this, the mayor of Hvar Town had enough. In 2017, the destination started to issue fines of up to €700 for public drunkenness and things like taking a drunken nap in a public place, such as on a park bench. Split introduced fines of up to €300 in 2023, placing signs in the city center reminding people that public drinking is not allowed, and that no one should be urinating on the walls of Diocletian's Palace .

12. Get to know the Croatian character

Croatians can be quite reserved people, sometimes appearing brusque. It’s nothing personal, which you'll realize when you get to know them better, and the initial reserve melts to reveal a warm and friendly side.

13. Be tactful when talking about Croatia’s war of independence

The 1990s war that splintered the former Yugoslavia is a topic that needs careful handling. If people show a willingness to talk about it, then by all means ask sensible questions. But don’t be intrusive, and bear in mind that Croatians won’t take too kindly to being called either Yugoslav or Balkan. Similarly, in this predominantly Catholic country, be mindful of making loud statements against religion.

14. You can drink the tap water

Tap water in Croatia is perfectly safe and very drinkable, and you can refill your reusable water bottles at public drinking fountains.

A red car drive around a bend with Dubrovnik in the background

15. Keep your lights on if driving during winter months

If you’re driving in Croatia from November to April, it’s compulsory to have your lights on during daylight hours as well as at night.

16. Croatia has occasional earthquakes

Croatia has a history of earthquakes going back centuries, but two recent ones in 2020 caused significant damage. The quake that shook Zagreb damaged thousands of buildings, many of which are in the old town, including the cathedral. Soon after, the city of Petrinja, about an hour’s drive south of Zagreb, was severely damaged in a quake, and aftershocks rippled throughout the region. If an earthquake happens while you're there, follow local guidance.

17. There are still some landmines

There are still parts of the country in the hinterlands of Northern Dalmatia and Lika where landmines remain from the war of independence, but these will be signposted with a skull and crossbones symbol. Don’t go anywhere near them.

18. Take out travel insurance

Dial 112 for general emergencies, 192 for police, and 194 for an ambulance. If you fall ill in Croatia and you're an EU citizen with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a UK citizen with a Global Health Insurance Card, you’re entitled to a vastly reduced price for health care . But even with this cover, you should still take out travel insurance.

This article was first published May 2022 and updated March 2024

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15 Beautiful Croatian Phrases We Need in English

Doće maca na vratanca

Every culture has its own pearls of wisdom, handed down from generation to generation. Classic phrases used by Croatians are rooted in its peasant past, with references to nature and animals, although some have modern-day origins. Many, though by no means all, have some kind of equivalent in English. Here are 15 colourful and imaginative Croatian idioms and phrases you need to know about.

Stara koka, dobra juha.

‘Old hen, good soup’: An older woman might have more appeal.

Stara koka, dobra juha

Neka visi Pedro

Tko vino večera, vodu doručkuje.

‘Who dines on wine has water for breakfast’: You have to pay the price for whatever you did the night before.

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Čovjek snuje, Bod određuje

‘Man devises, God determines’: The best laid plans of mice and men.

Kad na vrbi rodi grožđe

‘When the willow bears grapes’: When pigs fly.

Kad na vrbi rodi grožđe

Mi o vuku, a vuk na vrata

‘We were talking about the wolf, and now it’s at the door’: Speak of the devil

Da padne na leđa, razbio bi nos

‘If he fell on his back, he would break his nose’: Whatever he does, he will always be unlucky.

Žuri polako

‘Hurry slowly’: More speed, less haste.

Doće maca na vratanca

‘The cat will come to the tiny door’: The consequences of your actions will come back to haunt you.

Doće maca na vratanca

Bez muke nema nauke

‘Without hardship there is no knowledge’: No pain, no gain.

Tko prvi, njegova djevojka

‘Whoever is first gets the girl’: First come, first served.

Ne trči pred rudo

‘Don’t run in front of the carriage’: Don’t jump the gun.

Ne trči pred rudo!

Ispeći pa reći

‘Bake it, then say it’: Think before you speak.

Kititi se tuđim perjem

‘Dress yourself in borrowed feathers’: To take credit for someone else’s deeds.

Kititi se tuđim perjem

Bogu iza nogu

‘Behind God’s legs’: In the middle of nowhere.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Welcome to Croatia Traveller! I'm Jeanne Oliver and my online travel guide to Croatia is here to make planning a trip to Croatia easy and fun. I've been travelling to and writing about Croatia since 1996, first as a guidebook writer and now as the force behind Croatia Traveller.

I'm obsessive about updating this site with all the latest information too. From ferries and flights to the latest hotels and hottest destinations, I've got you covered. So plunge in and get everything you need to have the holiday of your dreams.

You could start with whatever pops into your head and type it into this searchbox...:

. . .or get started with this overview:

Maksimir Park, Zagreb in spring

When to go?

Late spring and early fall are the best times to avoid the crowds and take advantage of fine weather on the coast. While Zagreb empties out in the summer, the coast and islands are jam-packed. Winters are too cold for swimming but great for Christmas festivals. More .

Hvar town

And the climate?

Croatia has a continental climate inland and a Mediterranean climate on the coast. Summers are hot throughout Croatia. Winters are cold inland and chilly on the coast. Rain and storms are common late fall through early spring. More .

Croatian money

What about money?

The unit of currency is the euro. Costs are somewhat lower than in Western Europe especially for accommodation. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. More .

Croatia Airlines plane

How to Get There?

Low-cost flights link Croatia internationally spring through fall. Ferries link Croatia to Italy throughout the year with more routes during the summer. International trains run mainly to Zagreb but international buses connect coastal cities as well. More .

Jadrolinija boat in Sobra

How to Get Around?

Trains are limited but frequent buses connect major destinations. Car ferries to the islands run all year but many passenger services stop off-season. A car is handy to visit small villages and hidden beaches. More .

Plitvice Lakes

Top Places to See?

Major destinations are Dubrovnik , Plitvice Lakes National Park , Hvar , Korcula and Mljet islands, Rovinj and Split . Dare to be different and take a look at Zadar , Zagreb , Brac and Vis islands, Krka Waterfalls National Park, Sibenik and Istria . More .

Dubrovnik old port

How to Plan a Trip?

I offer a customised trip-planning service to sort you out in a hurry. Or, follow one of my detailed itineraries . From the Best of Croatia in 2 weeks to 7 days in Dalmatia , get the itinerary that's right for you. More .

Esplanade hotel, Zagreb

Where to Stay?

The comfort level of accommodation in Croatia is high while costs are within bounds. Hotels typically include breakfast and free WiFi is standard everywhere. There are ample apartments to rent on the coast (perfect for families) and a bevy of new hostels offer design on a budget. More .

Rock climbing in Paklenica

Best Experiences?

Sample Croatia's delightful food and wine . Active travellers can kayak, bike, hike or climb. Soak up the sun on a beach or charter a gulet. Delve into Croatian history at a world heritage site or commune with nature in one of Croatia's national parks .

Border entrance

How about visas?

Croatia is part of the EU and part of Schengen. Visa-free travel up to 90 days is available for EU citizens, the USA, Canada, Australia and several dozen other countries. EU citizens can enter with a national ID card. Otherwise, present a passport. More .

Croatian flag

I don't speak Croatian!

No matter. English is spoken widely and well. It helps to learn a few words of Croatian of course if only for haggling in the markets. Movies and TV shows are always presented in the original version with subtitles. More .

Detail from Sibenik cathedral

Is it Safe?

Croatia is a safe country for travellers. Violent crime is extremely rare. Exercise the usual precautions against street crime particularly in large cities. Mishaps happen which is why a good travel insurance policy is indispensable. More .

Recommended Tours

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Useful Croatian phrases

A collection of useful phrases in Croatian for almost every occasion.

Jump to phrases

See these phrases in any combination of two languages in the Phrase Finder . If you can provide recordings, corrections or additional translations, please contact me .

Key to abbreviations: inf = informal, frm = formal.

Recordings provided by Learn-Croatian.com and Sasa Vitman

Download all the audio files (Zip format, 500K)

Here some more Croatian phrases

If you would like to make any corrections or additions to this page, or if you can provide recordings, please contact me .

Information about Croatian | Phrases | Numbers | Time | Tower of Babel | Learning materials

Other collections of Croatian phrases (some with audio) http://www.visit-croatia.co.uk/croatianfortravellers/ http://www.hr/hrvatska/language/ http://www.everything2.com/index.pl?node_id=1355876 http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/other/quickfix/croatian.shtml http://www.linguanaut.com/english_croatian.htm

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    Bok (/'bohk/) / Pozdrav (/'poh-zdrahv/) Meaning: Hi or bye (informal) / Hi or bye (formal) Say bok to the most basic greetings in Croatia. Use bok when greeting one or more friends and pozdrav in formal situations. Both can be used to say goodbye too, under the same circumstances. Consider bok and pozdrav your Croatian alohas.

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  23. Useful Croatian phrases

    Useful Croatian phrases. A collection of useful phrases in Croatian for almost every occasion. Jump to phrases. See these phrases in any combination of two languages in the Phrase Finder.If you can provide recordings, corrections or additional translations, please contact me.