Learning a new language is like embarking on an adventure, filled with exciting discoveries and occasional challenges. One of the most intriguing aspects of learning Czech, a Slavic language spoken by about 10 million people primarily in the Czech Republic, is its vocabulary. Some words can be particularly tricky for English speakers due to their similar spellings but vastly different meanings. Two such words are “želva” and “želez.” At first glance, they might seem confusingly similar, but they couldn’t be more different. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Czech vocabulary, exploring the differences between “želva” and “želez,” and how to master them.
Understanding “Želva” and “Želez”
Let’s start by breaking down these two words.
Želva
The word “želva” in Czech means “turtle.” It is a common noun used to refer to the reptile that is known for its hard shell and slow movements. The word is pronounced as [ˈʒɛlva], with the “