10 Native Serbian Phrases You’ll Actually Use Every Day

Learn how to speak Serbian like a local – not like a textbook.

Want to learn Serbian that people actually speak — not the robotic phrases from language apps or outdated textbooks?

In this quick guide, you’ll learn 10 native Serbian phrases that locals use daily in conversations. Whether you’re a beginner or just visiting Serbia, these expressions will help you sound more natural and confident.


1. Ćao!

Meaning: Hi / Bye
Pronunciation: chao
A casual, friendly way to say both “hello” and “goodbye.” Use it with friends, family, or anyone you feel comfortable with.


2. Šta ima?

Meaning: What’s up?
Pronunciation: shtah ee-ma
Use this with friends to casually ask how things are going. It literally means “What’s there?”


3. Važi!

Meaning: Alright / Got it
Pronunciation: vah-zhee
Super common when confirming something. It’s like saying, “Okay, cool.”


4. Ma daj!

Meaning: Come on! / No way!
Pronunciation: mah die
Used to express surprise, sarcasm, or disbelief. Locals say this all the time when reacting to something unexpected.


5. Nema veze.

Meaning: No worries / It’s okay
Pronunciation: neh-ma veh-zeh
A chill way to say “don’t worry about it” or “it doesn’t matter.” A must-know phrase in everyday Serbian.


6. Idemo!

Meaning: Let’s go!
Pronunciation: ee-deh-moh
Use it when you’re ready to leave, or to hype people up. Think of it like the Serbian version of “Let’s roll!”


7. Ajde.

Meaning: Let’s go / Okay / Come on
Pronunciation: eye-deh
One of the most flexible Serbian words. You’ll hear it in tons of contexts. Short, punchy, and powerful.


8. Gde si, brate?

Meaning: What’s up, man?
Pronunciation: gdeh see, bra-teh
Literally means “Where are you, brother?” A casual and common greeting among friends — even if they’re not actually brothers 😅


9. Kako si?

Meaning: How are you?
Pronunciation: kah-koh see
Basic and essential. Great for starting any conversation.


10. Vidimo se.

Meaning: See you later
Pronunciation: vee-dee-moh seh
A friendly way to end a conversation — works in both casual and polite settings.


Conclusion: Ready to Speak Serbian Like a Local?

These 10 phrases will help you sound more fluent, natural, and confident in everyday Serbian conversations. Don’t stop here — this is just the beginning.


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