brālis — meaning in English: brother

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

Guess the translation for brother

izaicinājums

brālis

kļūda

tālo

neapmierinātība

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

informal very common

Usage

Native Latvian speakers often use the word 'brālis' in familial conversations and casual settings. For instance, during family gatherings, one might say, 'Mans brālis ir šeit,' meaning 'My brother is here.' This word can also appear in everyday discussions among friends when referring to close companions as brothers in a figurative sense.

Synonyms & nuances

'Brālis' can be contrasted with 'brāļi,' which is its plural form, meaning 'brothers.' You would use 'brālis' when referring to one brother specifically, while 'brāļi' encompasses multiple brothers, reflecting a subtle yet important difference in meaning.

Culture

'Brālis' has roots in the Proto-Indo-European word *bhrāter, which is also the source of related words in many Indo-European languages, like 'brother' in English. In Latvian culture, the bond between brothers is often celebrated in literature and folklore, emphasizing loyalty and camaraderie, making 'brālis' a term rich with emotional significance.

FAQ

Q.What does 'brālis' mean in English?

'Brālis' translates to 'brother' in English. It is commonly used to refer to a male sibling, and in a broader sense, it can also signify a close male friend.

Q.How do you pronounce 'brālis'?

'Brālis' is pronounced as 'BRAH-lis,' with emphasis on the first syllable. Practicing the Latvian 'ā' sound, similar to the 'a' in 'father,' can help improve your pronunciation.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'brālis'?

A common mistake is confusing 'brālis' with 'brāļi.' Remember, 'brālis' is singular and refers to one brother, while 'brāļi' is plural for multiple brothers. Using the wrong form can lead to misunderstandings in conversation.

Learn latvian with Maspeak →

Latvian Vocabulary