I'm learning čeština

kniha — meaning in English: book

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

Guess the translation for book
ztratit se
úzkost
kniha
zakoušet
návštěva
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Czech for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'kniha' in a variety of situations, such as discussing reading habits with friends over coffee, borrowing a book at a public library, or recommending a novel in a book club setting. It's also commonly encountered in educational contexts, where students might refer to a 'kniha' as part of their coursework.
Synonyms & nuances
'Kniha' is the general term for 'book', but it can be nuanced by specific types of books like 'učebnice' (textbook) or 'román' (novel). You would choose 'kniha' when referring to any book in a general sense, whereas the other terms specify the type of content.
Culture
'Kniha' has its roots in the Old Czech word 'kniha', which shares similarities with words in other Slavic languages. In Czech culture, books are highly valued, and the country has a rich literary tradition, including famous authors like Franz Kafka and Milan Kundera, which adds a layer of cultural significance to the term. Interestingly, the word also reflects a broader appreciation for literature, as Czech people often engage in discussions about their favorite 'kniha' during social gatherings.
FAQ
Q.What is the plural form of 'kniha' in Czech?
'Kniha' becomes 'knihy' in the plural form. So, when you're talking about multiple books, you'd say 'mám tři knihy' (I have three books).
Q.How do you pronounce 'kniha' correctly?
'Kniha' is pronounced as 'knee-ha', with a soft 'k' and a long 'ee' sound. Practicing the pronunciation will help you sound more natural when speaking Czech.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'kniha'?
One common mistake is confusing 'kniha' with 'knihař', which means 'bookbinder'. Make sure to use 'kniha' when referring to the book itself, not the profession related to making or repairing books.
Learn czech with Maspeak →
Czech Vocabulary