Translation of Polish word "być" to English
być
/bɨt͡s/
Meaning
VerbAs an auxiliary verb: Used with past participles of verbs to form the passive voice.
How to use
The verb 'być' (to be) is highly irregular and is often omitted in the present tense when expressing identity using the noun 'to' (e.g., 'On to lekarz' instead of 'On jest lekarzem'). Note that when using 'jest', the following noun must be in the instrumental case ('On jest lekarzem'), but with 'to', it remains in the nominative ('On to lekarz').
🇬🇧 English
to be
Structure Guide
Polish Word: być
Translation: to be
Example Sentences
Lubiliśmy rozmawiać podczas jedzenia.
We liked to talk while eating.
Mają tu zostać do mojego powrotu.
They are to stay here until I return.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- być może— maybe / perhaps
- być w błędzie— to be mistaken
- być winnym— to be guilty / owe
This concept in other languages
📖 Related grammar
🦊 Conjugation of the verb "być"Full conjugation →
Present Tense (Czas teraźniejszy)
Past Tense (Czas przeszły)
Perfect Aspect (Czas przeszły złożony)
ja byłem / byłam
Imperative (Tryb rozkazujący)
Frequency rank: #3 in Polish
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Polish word "być" mean?▼
The Polish word "być" means "to be" in English.
How do you pronounce the Polish word "być"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "być" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see a usage guide or example with "być"?▼
Yes, here is a practical context/example: "She is my friend.".
More Core Verbs words
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