The Czech language verb system is very similar to other Slavic languages (Russian, Ukrainian, Polish etc.), including tenses, conjugations, gender sensitivity, formal aspect, reflexive verbs, imperfective and perfective aspect, imperatives and much more.

If you are not familiar with the terminology, carry on reading and click on links which you find relevant to your studies.

Tenses

The Czech language has only three basic tenses:

Conjugation

The Verb Conjugation means that the verb endings change depending on the person who the sentence is about. Compared with English, it is like s added to verbs such as at I think / he thinks but for all grammatical persons (I, you, he, she, it, we, you, they).

Gender Sensitive Verbs

Certain verbs are also Gender Sensitive in some parts of grammar. This means that in addition to the rule above, the verb has to be sometimes further altered in connection with the gender of the person (The sentence “I like dogs.“ said by a woman will be different from “I like dogs.“ said by a man).

Formal Aspect

Moreover, there is the Formal Aspect, meaning that the verb changes its end depending on who we are talking to. “You are good.” to your mother will be different from “You are good.” to a shop assistant.

Reflexive Verbs

There is also a part of grammar called Reflexive Verbs which deals with verbs that directly relate to and influence the subject of the sentence. “Let me introduce myself.” is a good English example, however, reflexive verbs are used in the Czech language vastly more.

Imperfective and Perfective Aspect

The largest part of verb related grammar is Imperfective and Perfective Aspect dealing with the future and the past tenses. Most Czech verbs have two different forms similar to English (“I see a man.” – ” I saw a man.”) but to a much larger and more complex extent.

Imperatives

Another part of grammar, Imperatives, is linked with giving orders and asking favours. Verbs “Stop!“ or “Come here!” will be in a special form.

More Information

There is a couple of more rules you can access by clicking on anywhere on the website.

It may seem like a lot to learn, but don’t forget that studying a language should be well structured and your teacher will guide you through it step by step.