20/09/2026
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOVORITI AND PRIČATI
Both verbs can mean “to speak” or “to talk”, but there is a difference in how they are used.
1. GOVORITI – TO SPEAK
We use this verb when talking about the languages someone knows, the ability to speak, or the way someone speaks.
Examples:
Govorim hrvatski. – I speak Croatian.
Govoriš li engleski? – Do you speak English?
Ona govori polako. – She speaks slowly.
Molim te, govori glasnije. – Please speak louder.
2. PRIČATI – TO TALK / TO TELL A STORY
We use this verb when talking to someone, discussing a particular topic, or telling a story.
Examples:
Pričam s prijateljicom. – I am talking to my friend.
Pričamo o poslu. – We are talking about work.
On priča zanimljivu priču. – He is telling an interesting story.
Volim pričati s tobom. – I like talking to you.
3. THE IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE
Govorim hrvatski. – I speak Croatian.
Pričam s prijateljem. – I am talking to a friend.
Govorim polako. – I speak slowly.
Pričam o svom životu. – I am talking about my life.
4. WHEN CAN WE USE BOTH VERBS?
In everyday Croatian, we can often use both verbs with almost the same meaning.
Examples:
Govorim s prijateljicom. – I am talking to my friend.
Pričam s prijateljicom. – I am talking to my friend.
Both sentences are correct and have almost the same meaning.
IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER!
When talking about your ability to speak a language, it is more standard to use the verb GOVORITI.
Govorim hrvatski. – I speak Croatian.
Govorim engleski. – I speak English.
In everyday conversation, you may also hear “Pričam hrvatski”, but “Govorim hrvatski” is the recommended expression when referring to your ability to speak a language.
