I'm learning
polski
szczęście — meaning in English: luck
Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
luck
planować
elewacja
daleko
przykład
szczęście
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Polish for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native Polish speakers often use the word 'szczęście' in everyday conversations when discussing good fortune or favorable outcomes. For instance, someone might say 'Mam szczęście!' (I am lucky!) after winning a small lottery or when an unexpected opportunity arises. You might also hear it during celebrations, such as weddings, where people toast to the couple's szczęście in their life together.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'szczęście' translates to 'luck', it is often viewed as a more general term for good fortune, whereas 'fortuna' can imply a more whimsical or capricious form of luck. You might choose 'szczęście' when discussing personal achievements and 'fortuna' when referring to fate or chance in a broader, almost mythical sense.
Culture
Etymologically, 'szczęście' is derived from the Old Polish word 'szczęść', which means 'to be fortunate' or 'to have good luck'. In Polish culture, luck plays a significant role in superstitions and folk traditions; for example, some people believe that carrying a four-leaf clover brings szczęście, while others avoid certain actions on specific days to prevent bad luck. This cultural intertwining highlights the importance of luck in everyday life.
FAQ
