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Bulgarian Food Guide: Try the Best of Bulgarian Cuisine

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To truly learn a foreign language, you must also become familiar with that country’s culture. And its national cuisine is a great place to start! 

Traditional Bulgarian food offers a glimpse of the country’s cultural background and will help you learn more about the people there. As a language learner, you’ll benefit from exploring Bulgarian cuisine and tasting many of the traditional dishes yourself.

Today, BulgarianPod101 will lead you through the sweetest part of language learning. We’ll introduce you to the best Bulgarian foods, go over some essential food-related vocabulary, and even give you a couple of simple Bulgarian recipes you can make at home. 

Let’s begin our delicious journey into Bulgarian cuisine!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Let's Cook in Bulgarian Table of Contents
  1. Five Must-Try Dishes in Bulgarian Restaurants
  2. Authentic Bulgarian Food vs. Overseas Food
  3. Unique Bulgarian Foods
  4. Food-Related Vocabulary
  5. Bonus: Simple Recipes to Make Authentic Bulgarian Food at Home
  6. Final Thoughts

Bulgarian Vita Banitsa

1. Five Must-Try Dishes in Bulgarian Restaurants

If you’re planning a trip to Bulgaria, the most important consideration—after your accommodation and sightseeing agenda—is what you’ll eat during your visit. To help you make the most of your stay in Bulgaria, we’ll start with a list of traditional Bulgarian food you must try while you’re here. 

Banitsa

The Bulgarian food banitsa is one of the most popular traditional dishes. Its ingredients include eggs, Bulgarian cheese, Bulgarian yogurt, and “filo dough,” or кори за баница (kori za batnitsa). Filo dough refers to very thin sheets of pastry, which are used specifically for preparing banitsa. You can find them at any Bulgarian food market. 

There are many types of banitsa, differing in the arrangement of the filo dough as well as the fillings used. Besides the yogurt, cheese, and eggs, one could also add spinach, leek, or even minced meat.

One thing is for sure: You need to try banitsa! We guarantee you’ll fall in love with it, especially if you have the chance to taste a homemade one.

Bulgarian Banitsa
Photo by Borzo, under CC BY-SA 3.0

Banitsa is often eaten as a breakfast item with one of the following drinks:

  • айрян (ayrian), which is a Turkish beverage made of yogurt, water, and salt. You can easily prepare this beverage at home with the recipe at the end of this article.
Ayrian
Photo by Mavigogun, under CC BY-SA 3.0
  • боза (boza), which is an unfermented or lightly fermented beverage prepared by boiling cereal porridge and then diluting it with water. People also add sugar to make it sweet.
Boza
Photo by Ikonact, under CC BY-SA 3.0

Tarator

This is a very popular cold Bulgarian summer soup, so no boiling is needed! It’s made of yogurt, water, finely chopped or grated cucumbers, chopped walnuts, and some spices like salt and dill.

The good news is that tarator is so simple and convenient to prepare. You can make it yourself in just ten to twenty minutes using the recipe at the end of this article. But if you’re having lunch in a Bulgarian restaurant during a hot summer day, you can order tarator made with organic ingredients for a refreshing meal.

Tarator
Photo by Ikonact, under CC BY-SA 3.0

Shopska Salata

Шопска салата (Shopska salata) is a Bulgarian salad made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, roasted peppers, onions, fresh parsley, and grated white cheese. It tastes wonderful with a dressing of olive oil and vinegar. This salad makes a perfect side dish to tarator, so your vegetarian lunch in a restaurant could consist of tarator and shopska salata.

Bulgarians love to drink rakiya, a traditional strong alcoholic beverage, with this salad.

Shopska Salata

Patatnik

As the name suggests, the main ingredient of patatnik is potatoes. This is a delicious dish that’s commonly prepared by people who live in the Rhodope Mountains, and its recipe is transferred from generation to generation. 

Patatnik is made from grated potatoes, onions, cheese, eggs, and sometimes meat. These ingredients are baked in the oven at a low temperature for the perfect taste and texture. 

This is a must-try Bulgarian dish that makes a great dinner in any season!

Gyuvech

Гювеч (gyuvech) is a traditional Bulgarian dish that’s prepared in a refractory clay pot with a clay lid, also called gyuvech in Bulgarian. It’s prepared with different vegetables, such as potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes, eggplants, carrots, and onions, and meat can also be added.

This traditional Bulgarian food is worth trying because of its unique taste, achieved through cooking slowly in the clay pot. It’s a great lunch or dinner item in Bulgarian restaurants.

Guvech
Photo by Seraphim System, under CC BY-SA 4.0

2. Authentic Bulgarian Food vs. Overseas Food

Bread is a staple of authentic Bulgarian cuisine, present at the table for every meal. The nation’s history and culture play a huge role in this phenomenon. Even centuries ago, Bulgarians ate a lot of bread while under the Turkish yoke; during the years of hunger after the World Wars, many people ate хляб и лук (hlyab i luk), or “bread and onion.”

Bread Is Revered in Every Bulgarian Home
Photo by 3268zauber, under CC BY-SA 3.0

Over the past few decades, foreign restaurants have introduced Bulgarians to cuisines from many other cultures: Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Moroccan, and the list goes on. In particular, restaurants offering Mediterranean cuisine have become more and more popular because of their tasty and healthy food. 

But there are still some popular international dishes that are unfamiliar to Bulgarians, which means you’re unlikely to find them in restaurants during your visit. For example, if you were to ask a Bulgarian about gingerbread, goulash, or pot-au-feu, they probably wouldn’t have heard of them. These foods just aren’t typical for Bulgarian culture.

3. Unique Bulgarian Foods

Now, let’s take a closer look at some unique Bulgarian food classics that can really only be found in-country. You’ve probably heard of these already, so don’t miss out on tasting them during your visit.

Bulgarian Yogurt

Bulgarian yogurt is milk that’s been fermented with the microorganisms Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. These two bacteria are in a symbiotic relationship that produces Bulgarian кисело мляко (kiselo mlyako), which is famous for its health benefits and slightly sour (yet pleasant) taste. 

Unfortunately, these bacteria cannot survive naturally on other places on earth, which makes this Bulgarian milk product unique.

Bulgarian Yogurt
Photo by Ned Jelyazkov, under CC BY-SA 3.0

Bulgarian Strawberry Jam

One of the most popular and delicious jams made in Bulgaria is сладко от ягоди (sladko ot yagodi), or strawberry jam made from whole fruit wild strawberries. Our strawberry jam has no artificial ingredients, colorants, or preservatives—not to mention it tastes fantastic! Bulgarians usually eat this jam with палачинки (palachinki), or “pancakes,” for breakfast.

Bulgarian Strawberry Jam
Photo by VI, under CC BY-SA 3.0

Bulgarian Lyutenitsa

Another unique Bulgarian food to try is definitely лютеница (lyutenitsa). This is a chutney made of roasted vegetables (tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers) and seasoned with spices. The vegetables are made into a thick paste with a rich red color and an amazing flavor. Bulgarians love lyutenitsa, and they usually eat it on a slice of bread with white cheese.

Bulgarian lutenitsa
Photo by Чакаровска, under CC BY-SA 4.0

Kozunak – Easter Bread

It’s impossible to celebrate Easter in Bulgaria without this Bulgarian Easter food called козунак (kozunak) on the festive table. This sweet bread is traditionally made on the Saturday morning just before Easter, and no one is allowed to eat it before Sunday. If you happen to visit Bulgaria during the Easter celebrations, don’t miss out on trying this special bread, which typically contains raisins and Turkish delight.

Bulgarian Kozunak
Photo by Voyager, under CC BY-SA 3.0

4. Food-Related Vocabulary

Now that you’re good and hungry for traditional Bulgarian cuisine, let’s go over some useful food-related words and phrases! We’ll start with a brief review of all the dishes we’ve already mentioned.

  • баница (banitsa) – cheese pastry
  • кори за баница (kori za banitsa) – filo dough
  • айрян (ayrian) – beverage made of yogurt and water
  • боза (boza) – sweet fermented grain beverage
  • таратор (tarator) – a cold Bulgarian summer soup made of yogurt and cucumbers
  • шопска салата (shopska salata) – Bulgarian salad
  • ракия (rakiya) – traditional strong alcoholic beverage
  • пататник (patatnik) – traditional Rhodope Mountain dish made of potatoes
  • гювеч (gyuvech) – traditional Bulgarian dish made in a refractory clay pot
  • хляб (hlyab) – bread
  • лук (luk) – onion
  • кисело мляко (kiselo mlyako) – Bulgarian yogurt
  • сладко от ягоди (sladko ot yagodi) – strawberry jam
  • палачинки (palachinki) – pancakes
  • лютеница (lyutenitsa) – a thick paste made of roasted vegetables
  • козунак (kozunak) – sweet Easter bread

What’s your favorite Bulgarian food? Learn its name on our free vocabulary list!

Now, let’s suppose that you’re in a Bulgarian restaurant. Here are a few practical words and phrases you can use with your waiter.

How to Order in a Bulgarian Restaurant?

  • келнер (kelner) – waiter
  • Менюто, моля! (menyuto, molya!) – The menu, please.
  • Пържени яйца (parzheni yaitsa) – fried eggs
  • Варени яйца (vareni yaitsa) – boiled eggs
  • Пица (pitsa) – pizza
  • Пържени картофи (parzheni kartofi) – french fries
  • Кашкавал пане (kashkaval pane) – fried breaded yellow cheese
  • Запеканка (zapekanka) – casserole
  • Какво ще ми препоръчате за основно ястие? (Kakvo shte mi preporachate za osnovno yastie?) – What would you recommend for a main course?
  • Какво предлагате за пиене? (Kakvo predlagate za piene?) – What do you offer to drink?
  • Какви видове супи имате? (Kakvi vidove supi imate?) – What types of soups do you have?
  • Какво предлагате за десерт? (Kakvo predlagate za desert?) – What do you offer for dessert?

If you would like to learn some more useful phrases you could use in a restaurant, BulgarianPod101 offers a list of the most Useful Phrases for Ordering Food.

5. Bonus: Simple Recipes to Make Authentic Bulgarian Food at Home

If you like to cook, you might enjoy making some traditional Bulgarian dishes. You could certainly impress your family, friends, or guests with your Bulgarian cooking! Here are three easy-to-follow Bulgarian food recipes you can try.

How to Make Mekitsi

Mekitsi, also known in English as Bulgarian Fried Dough, is one of the favorite breakfast foods among Bulgarians—both young and old!

How to Make Bulgarian Mekitsi?
Photo by Biser Todorov, under CC BY-SA 3.0

The recipe is easy to follow and you’ll definitely want to make these fried mekitsi again and again after you try them once. 

Ingredients:

  • 14  cup of warm water
  • 12  teaspoon of dry yeast
  • 1 egg
  • about 2 cups of flour
  • 12  cup of yogurt
  • a pinch of salt
  • oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Dilute the dry yeast in the warm water. To help it activate faster, you can also add a pinch of sugar to the water. 

2. Then, add the yogurt and egg to the water and stir the mixture well. Now add the salt and flour, and mix. Make sure your dough is soft and not too thick. Then, let it stay for an hour. 

3. After that period, it’s ready for frying. Heat the oil in a pot. Meanwhile, roll the dough into circles. Once the oil is heated, drop them in the pot. When they turn golden in color, turn them over to fry the other side. 

4. When ready, mekitsi are usually sprinkled with powdered sugar. Bon appetit!

How to Make Tarator

This simple Bulgarian cold soup will take a maximum of twenty minutes to prepare. 

Ingredients:

  • 500g of Bulgarian yogurt (kiselo mlyako)
  • 2 cucumbers
  • 500g of water
  • 2 tablespoons of crushed walnuts
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • Olive oil 
  • Salt
  • Dill

Instructions:

1. Cut the cucumbers into tiny cubes or use a grater to grate them. 

2. Beat the yogurt to give it an even consistency and add it together with the cucumbers, crushed garlic, and walnuts in a big bowl. The dill is an obligatory spice for this soup, so add a generous amount of it. Add salt and olive oil to taste, add the water, and stir. 

3. Your tarator is ready. If you would like to chill it, you can add a few ice cubes or put it in the refrigerator for thirty minutes.

How to Make Ayran

This beverage is quite popular in Bulgaria, especially during the hot summer days. To make it, you need only three ingredients. 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of Bulgarian yogurt (kiselo mlyako)
  • 1 cup of water
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

Just mix all the ingredients together using your blender (or you can stir them together by hand). Your cool summer beverage is ready!

6. Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed our little guide to Bulgarian meals and other popular food items! Which of these Bulgarian foods would you most like to try? Have you already tried any of them? 

Are you new here? BulgarianPod101 is a Bulgarian language learning platform where you can learn Bulgarian in a different and innovative way. We offer tons of fun and effective lessons for learners at every level, as well as free vocabulary lists and other learning resources. We hope to see you around!

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What Do Bulgarian Quotes Say About Life & Love?

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Sometimes, life is not easy! Everyone has gone through many challenges in life. In such moments, it is helpful to know that other people have gone through the same things and overcame them successfully. 

In this article, we’ll show you Bulgarian quotes from some of the most popular Bulgarian heroes, poets, writers, and fighters for Bulgarian liberty who lost their lives without seeing their most cherished dream coming true. Their lives weren’t easy either, and their wisdom inspires the Bulgarian people to this day. 

The quotes in this article are from well-known Bulgarians who loved their country. One thing is for sure: after reading these inspirational Bulgarian quotes, you’ll definitely walk away with a better understanding of Bulgarian history and culture, which will help you a lot in your language studies. You’ll also get better acquainted with the authors of these amazing quotes and learn more about their life and works.

BulgarianPod101 has decided to divide the Bulgarian quotes in this comprehensive guide into different categories, from success to friendship and everything in-between. This will make it easier for you to find your favorite ones. Each of these Bulgarian expressions and quotes has been translated into English, which gives you the opportunity to learn more Bulgarian words and add them to your daily practice. So let the inspiration begin now!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Bulgarian Table of Contents
  1. Quotes About Bulgaria
  2. Quotes About Life
  3. Quotes About Love
  4. Quotes About Family
  5. Quotes About Friendship
  6. Quotes About Work
  7. Quotes About Success
  8. Quotes About Language Learning
  9. How Can BulgarianPod101 Help You Learn Bulgarian?

1. Quotes About Bulgaria

We’ll start with quotes about Bulgaria simply because all of the legendary Bulgarians loved their country. Most of them died fighting to see it free from the Ottoman yoke. Some of their sayings reveal that their love for Bulgaria surpassed their love for their own families. Many of them were killed before they reached forty years of age. Let’s see how their deep love for Bulgaria is reflected in these quotes.

#1

BulgarianОпознай Родината, за да я обикнеш!(Opoznay Rodinata, za da ya obiknesh!)
AuthorAleko Konstantinov
Meaning“Get to know your motherland and you will fall in love with it!”
Aleko Konstantinov is a popular Bulgarian writer who lived in the nineteenth century and whose pseudonym was Щастливеца (Shtastlivetsa), meaning “The Lucky Man.” His most popular books are Бай Ганьо (Bai Ganyo) and the travelogue До Чикаго и назад (To Chicago and Back). 

Interestingly, the Lucky Man was not so lucky, as he was mistakenly killed by assassins at the age of 34, having swapped seats with a politician friend while on a journey. This quote of his is so popular that it can even be seen on some road signs while you travel across Bulgaria.

Bulgaria boasts a beautiful and diverse natural environment, which looks like a piece of paradise. It’s worth traveling across the mountains, the rural areas, and the ancient cities to watch the wildlife and admire the crystal-clear rivers, the Black Sea resorts, and the majestic natural scenery. There are also great fields of wheat, corn, sunflowers, lavender, and vines. If you get to know Bulgaria, you’ll definitely fall in love with it!

Medieval Stronghold Tsarevets

#2

BulgarianАко спечеля, печеля за цял народ—ако загубя, губя само мене си.(Ako spechelya, pechelya za tsyal narod—ako zagubya, gubya samo mene si.)
AuthorVasil Levski
Meaning“If I win, I win for the whole nation—if I lose, I only lose myself.”
Vasil Levski is a national hero, also known as the Apostle of Freedom. He was a founder of the Internal Revolutionary Organization, whose goal was to unite all Bulgarians in the fight against the Ottoman Empire

This quote reveals his belief that his death would not affect the nation, but that his victory would give Bulgaria its long sought-after freedom. He was killed before seeing his dreams come true, but his death was a loss for the whole nation. Levski remains one of Bulgaria’s most-loved national heroes.

#3

BulgarianПредателите на Отечеството не заслужават милост.(Predatelite na Otechestvoto ne zasluzhavat milost.)
AuthorStefan Stambolov
Meaning“The Fatherland’s traitors deserve no mercy.”
Stefan Stambolov is probably one of the most popular Bulgarian politicians of the past, and he was also a poet, a journalist, and a revolutionist. After the liberation of Bulgaria, he was nominated a Prime Minister and regent. He, too, was killed by a group of assassins.

His quote shows that he placed Bulgaria ahead of everything else and had no tolerance for traitors of the country. That’s probably why he was so loved by some people and hated by others.

#4

BulgarianГлавата ми да отсекат, пак ще викам: “Да живее България!(Glavata mi da otsekat, pak shte vikam: “Da zhivee Balgariya!”)
AuthorNikolay Haytov
Meaning“Even if they cut off my head, I will still shout: ‘Long live Bulgaria!’”
Nikolay Haytov was a popular fiction writer who lived in the twentieth century. This quote reveals his patriotism. Apart from his popular books, he wrote ten plays, 800 articles, and reviews. He also saw success as a screenplay writer, with his films and TV series being very popular. 

It might be interesting for you to watch some of the most popular ones, among which are: The Goat Horn (1972)—which is considered one of the outstanding achievements of Bulgarian cinema—Manly Times (1977), and the Captain Petko Voivode series. 

2. Quotes About Life

For most popular Bulgarian heroes, life meant Bulgaria and Bulgaria meant life. Still, there’s no shortage of Bulgarian quotes about life that touch on the various experiences and lessons we learn as we live.

#5

BulgarianЧовек е дълго изречение, написано с много любов и вдъхновение, ала пълно с правописни грешки.(Chovek e dalgo izrechenie, napisano s mnogo lyubov i vdahnovenie, ala palno s pravopisni greshki.)
AuthorJordan Radichkov
Meaning“A man is a long sentence, written with much love and inspiration, but full of spelling errors.”
Jordan Radichkov was another great Bulgarian writer of the twentieth century. He was also a dramatist, a screenwriter, and a representative of magical realism. This satirical quote reveals the essence of life in one short but wise saying.

The Man Is a Long Sentence, Written with Much Love and Inspiration, but Full of Spelling Errors!

#6

BulgarianЧовек е роб на свойта воля, но господар на своето дело.(Chovek e rob na svoyta volya, no gospodar na svoeto delo.)
AuthorColonel Boris Drangov
Meaning“The man is a slave of his own will, but a master of his own work.”
Colonel Boris Drangov was a Bulgarian officer, a military educator, and a prolific writer who lived during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. This amazing quote was written by him to his fiancée instead of a love letter. Later, he became a faithful husband and a loving father, as well as a talented writer. He participated in both Balkan wars and was a commander during World War I. He was killed in the war at the age of 45.

#7

BulgarianИдеалът на земното щастие е в труда, в здравето и в природата.(Idealat na zemnoto shtastie e v truda, v zdraveto i v prirodata.)
AuthorIvan Vazov
Meaning“The ideal of earthly happiness is in work, in health, and in nature.”
Ivan Vazov is also known as the Patriarch of Bulgarian Literature. He lived from the middle of the nineteenth century to the first quarter of the twentieth century, so his poems reflect two historical epochs: the Renaissance and post-liberation Bulgaria. 

This awarded author reveals what happiness is for him. It’s interesting to note that he lists not only health and nature as being important for people, but also work; he considered work to be a blessing leading to happiness.

#8

BulgarianТакава е човеческата натура! Хората забравят всичко, даже и угризението на своята собствена съвест.(Takava e chovecheskata natura! Horata zabravyat vsichko, dazhe i ugrizenieto na svoyata sobstvena savest.)
AuthorLyuben Karavelov
Meaning“Such is human nature! People forget everything, even the remorse of their own conscience.”
Lyuben Karavelov, who lived in the nineteenth century, is a national hero and was a fighter for the liberation of Bulgaria from the Ottoman rule. He was also a poet, ethnographer, writer, encyclopedist, and journalist. This popular quote is from his short novel Old Time’s Bulgarians, where it serves as the conclusion of the long narrative.

Fun fact: The best character in this novel is an old man named Liben, who says: “Nothing is better in this world than doing good.”

3. Quotes About Love

All of us need to love and be loved. Learn what some famous Bulgarians thought about this topic through these Bulgarian quotes about love.

Bulgarian Love Quotes

#9

BulgarianДа обича, това е работа на душата. Не се бъркайте в нейните работи.(Da obicha, tova e rabota na dushata. Ne se barkayte v neynite raboti.)
AuthorPetar Deunov
Meaning“To love is the work of the soul. Don’t interfere in its work.”
Peter Deunov, who lived 100 years ago, founded the White Brotherhood religious doctrine and was called the “Master” by his followers. He was also a popular Bulgarian philosopher. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church declared his doctrine to be heretical because of its connection to occultism.

Some of his teachings include the belief that light is alive and has consciousness; he believed that atoms have consciousness, as well. Knowing these facts, it’s easier to understand his quote about love.

#10

BulgarianНай-силна е онази любов, която може да проявява слабости.(Nay-silna e onazi lyubov, koyato mozhe da proyavyava slabosti.)
AuthorElin Pelin
Meaning“The strongest is the love that can show weakness.”
The author’s real name is Dimitar Stoyanov, but all Bulgarians know him by his pen-name Elin Pelin. He was a Bulgarian writer, also known as the Singer of the Bulgarian village. This is because the Bulgarian village takes the central place in his works.

Along with this quote, there is one more famous love quote from his short novel Geratsite, where Elin Pelin wrote words that apply to today: Любовта бяга от човешките сърца, хората не са вече братя. (Lyubovta byaga ot choveshkite sartsa, horata ne sa veche bratya.) This means: “Love runs away from the human hearts, people are no longer brothers.”

#11

BulgarianНа любовта трябва да се наложи карантина, както на холерата и чумата, от които Тя прави по-големи опустошения.(Na lyubovta tryabva da se nalozhi karantina, kakto na holerata i chumata, ot koito Tya pravi po-golemi opustosheniya.)
AuthorIvan Vazov
Meaning“Love must be quarantined, as cholera and plague, from which the Love makes greater devastation.”
This quote from the great writer Ivan Vazov is found in the narration of Kardashev on the Hunt. In it, a man named Kardashev says the following: 

“To you poets, love in the world may be much needed as the main building block in your creations; but humanity doesn’t need it. A person doesn’t need love but reason and bills to be happy. Love is an enemy of peace and human virtue.”

These words are then followed by our featured quote. These are the words of Vazov’s character who denies the necessity of love; Vazov himself doesn’t agree with this philosophy. Ivan Vazov wrote many love poems, one of which is named Love is Needed.

#12

BulgarianНикога не ги карай да те обичат, дете мое. Настоявай да те оставят. И знай, че този, който устои и остане, те обича истински.(Nikoga ne gi karay da te obichat, dete moe. Nastoyavay da te ostavyat. I znay, che tozi, koyto ustoi i ostane, te obicha istinski.
AuthorDimitar Talev
Meaning“Never make them love you, my child. Insist that they leave you. And know that he, who endures and stays, really loves you.”
The life of the famous Bulgarian writer Dimitar Talev was not easy. His father died when he was only nine; after that, Talev survived three wars, including World War I. Then, because of his patriotic views, the communists arrested him and sent him to the labor camps. The grief and hunger of these years are reflected in his works.

This unique love quote is from his historical novel Железният светилник (Zhelezniyat svetilnik), or The Iron Candlestick, which is part of a tetralogy that also includes The Bells of Prespa, Ilinden (St. Ilia’s Day), and Your Voices I Hear.


4. Quotes About Family

Not all Bulgarian national heroes were able to have their own families, as they were killed very young in the fight for Bulgaria’s liberation. However, all of them respected and deeply loved their parents, as seen in the following Bulgarian quotes about family. Maybe we can take something from these wise words.

#13

BulgarianТози, който не обича майка си, баща си, жена си и децата си, то той не обича и своето Отечество!(Tozi, koyto ne obicha mayka si, bashta si, zhena si i detsata si, to toy ne obicha i svoeto Otechestvo!)
AuthorHristo Botev
Meaning“He who does not love his mother, his father, his wife, and his children, does not love his Fatherland either!”
Hristo Botev was a Bulgarian national hero, as well as a poet, a publicist, and a revolutionary killed by the Ottoman Army at the age of 28. Although Botev wasn’t able to write many poems during his short life, his works are considered the best of Bulgarian Renaissance literature. 

He was a patriot who was very closely attached to his family. This is reflected not only in this quote, but also in some of his poems: To My Mother, To My Brother, To My First Love.

#14

BulgarianСтари обичаи не презирай! Бащино огнище не забравяй!(Stari obichai ne preziray! Bashtino ognishte ne zabravyay!)
AuthorGeorgi Sava Rakovski
Meaning“Do not despise old customs! Don’t forget your father’s fireplace!”
Georgi Sava Rakovski is mostly known as the founder of the organized national revolutionary struggle for the liberation of Bulgaria, but he was also an historian, ethnologist, ethnographer, journalist, publicist, writer, and poet. He was one of the few patriots not killed during the wars, but instead died at the age of 46 from tuberculosis.

His wisdom can be seen in this short quote that reminds us to keep the customs and beliefs of our parents, as this will help us survive as a nation.


5. Quotes About Friendship

Vasil Levski had a lot to say about friendship during those uncertain times when people weren’t sure who was a friend and who was a traitor or enemy. 

#15

BulgarianВсичко се състои в нашите задружни сили.(Vsichko se sastoi v nashite zadruzhni sili.)
AuthorVasil Levski
Meaning“Everything is in our joint forces.”
Levski’s goal of winning Bulgaria’s liberation would have been impossible to accomplish without the joint forces of the entire nation. That’s why he went from village to village and from city to city all across the country to organize secret committees. He believed that the entire nation must be united to win its liberation.

This quote can also apply, in a broader sense, to faithful friends.

#16

BulgarianВреме за помагане е сега—закъснелите не ще бъдат наши приятели.(Vreme za pomagane e sega—zakasnelite ne shte badat nashi priyateli.)
AuthorVasil Levski
Meaning“The time to help is nowthose who are late will not be our friends!”
This is another quote related to the fight for liberation. It means that Levski’s so-called friends, should they fail to support the fight at its most difficult, would no longer be considered friends. There’s an English saying that describes this quote well: False friends are worse than open enemies.

#17

BulgarianТрябва изпит за всеки. Защото има примери: Днес е човек, а утре – магаре.(Tryabva izpit za vseki. Zashtoto ima primeri: Dnes e chovek, a utre – magare.)
AuthorVasil Levski
Meaning“There should be a test for everyone. Because there are examples: Today he is a human and tomorrow he is a donkey.”
The biggest advantage of a true friendship is that you can count on your friend in difficult moments. False friends who won’t encourage or support you during those times are like donkeys, as Vasil Levski said in this quote.

True Friend or a Donkey?

6. Quotes About Work

To make sure we offered you the best Bulgarian quotes concerning work, we chose two from the great Bulgarian Colonel Boris Drangov—who knew how to work and do his duty faithfully—and one quote from the philosopher Petar Deunov.

#18

BulgarianРаботи спокойно, отчетливо, разумно и толкова по-спокойно, колкото опасността е по-близо.(Raboti spokoyno, otchetlivo, razumno i tolkova po-spokoyno, kolkoto opasnostta e po-blizo.)
AuthorColonel Boris Drangov
Meaning“Work calmly, clearly, reasonably, and calmer as the danger is getting closer.”
What a great thought! When the danger is closer, there should be less panic and stress. In order to overcome the danger, just work calmer than ever!

#19

BulgarianЗа да служиш достойно и полезно, отречи се от себе си.(Za da sluzhish dostoyno i polezno, otrechi se ot sebe si.)
AuthorColonel Boris Drangov
Meaning“To serve worthily and usefully, renounce yourself.”
This thought is undoubtedly a reference to Christianity and the sacrifice of Christ. According to the Bible, God, in the face of Christ, has renounced Himself for the good of man and calls us to do so. Colonel Boris Drangov followed this Christian principle during his life, and maybe this is why he became a great man!

#20

BulgarianЕдинственото нещо, което повдига човека, е работата. За да се проявите в каквото и да е направление, трябва да работите. Работата е свещено нещо. Работа, вършена с любов, е щастие.(Edinstvenoto neshto, koeto povdiga choveka, e rabotata. Za da se proyavite v kakvoto i da e napravlenie, tryabva da rabotite. Rabotata e sveshteno neshto. Rabota, varshena s lyubov, e shtastie.)
AuthorPetar Deunov
Meaning“The only thing that elevates the person is work. You need to work in order to succeed in any direction. Work is a sacred thing. Work done with love is happiness.”
According to this Bulgarian philosopher, work is needed to prevent people’s destruction. If you would like to find your happiness in work, do what you love to do. Indeed, if you love your work, it won’t be a burden to you. For this reason, many people at some stage in their lives change their professions, seeking the work they love most, which brings them true satisfaction!

7. Quotes About Success

The following success quotes represent the strategies of young Bulgarians who achieved success in different business spheres in Bulgaria. These words could serve as a great motivation to other young people who have not yet entered the workforce.

Successful Young People

#21

BulgarianАко спрем за момент да се оплакваме и вземем живота в свои ръце, всичко ще стане по-лесно и по-ясно!(Ako sprem za moment da se oplakvame i vzemem zhivota v svoi ratse, vsichko shte stane po-lesno i po-yasno!)
AuthorKaterina Arsova
Meaning“If we stop complaining for a moment and take our lives in our own hands, everything will become easier and clearer!”
Complaining makes things harder than they actually are. People who don’t want to assume an active role in their own lives tend to complain, but this is a surefire way to fail.

#22

BulgarianСмисълът на израстването е моята мотивация за успех.(Smisalat na izrastvaneto e moyata motivatsiya za uspeh.)
AuthorAleksandra Zhekova
Meaning“The meaning behind growth itself is my motivation for success.”
Motivation to be successful is a great power that should be used during your journey toward a successful career. 

#23

BulgarianНикога не изневерявайте на специфичния си талант.(Nikoga ne izneveryavayte na spetsifichniya si talant.)
AuthorRadoslav Gizgindzhiev
Meaning“Never betray your specific talent.”
Every person has a specific talent (or talents) that can lead them to success if he or she develops that talent.

#24

BulgarianВъзрастта не е определящ фактор, а духът!(Vazrastta ne e opredelyasht faktor, a duhat!)
AuthorEvgeniya Peeva
Meaning“Age is not the determining factor, but the spirit is!”
There’s a wise saying that goes: A person learns while he or she is alive. Whatever your age, never stop developing your skills and knowledge, and your spirit will stay forever young!

#25

BulgarianПросперитетът не е функция на местоположението, а начин на мислене.(Prosperitetat ne e funktsiya na mestopolozhenieto, a nachin na mislene.)
AuthorNeli Georgieva
Meaning“Prosperity is not a function of location, but a way of thinking.”
No matter where you live, if you believe in your strength, you will succeed! Just consider yourself a winner before the end of the battle and you will become a winner regardless of the circumstances.

8. Quotes About Language Learning

BulgarianPod101 has compiled a few quotes about language learning from popular Bulgarians. We hope that these words motivate you to proceed in your Bulgarian studies, regardless of your age or skill level. Let these quotes shine along your path to a deeper understanding of the Bulgarian language and culture.

#26

BulgarianНауката е светилото на един народ, литературата е животът му.(Naukata e svetiloto na edin narod, literaturata e zhivotat mu.)
AuthorIvan Vazov
Meaning“Science is the luminary of a nation, and its literature is its life.”
You’ll never be able to fully understand Bulgarian literature if you read the translated versions. To really extend your knowledge and learn more about the Bulgarian culture and view of life, start reading Bulgarian books in the original language. It could be hard at first, and there will be many unknown words that you’ll have to search for in a dictionary, but it will be a rewarding exercise that will greatly accelerate your language knowledge. 

#27

BulgarianИ ний сме дали нещо на света, на славяни книга да четат.(I niy sme dali neshto na sveta, na slavyani kniga da chetat.)
AuthorIvan Vazov
Meaning“We have also given something to the world, to the Slavic people to read books.”
With this quote, Ivan Vazov says that the early Cyrillic alphabet was developed during the First Bulgarian Kingdom; later, Cyril’s and Methodius’ disciples Kliment and Naum finalized and spread it among the Slavic nations. These nations now have a script thanks to these self-sacrificing Bulgarians.

#28

BulgarianБъди строг, но най-първо и най-много към себе си!(Badi strog, no nay-parvo i nay-mnogo kam sebe si!)
AuthorColonel Boris Drangov
Meaning“Be strict, but firstly and mostly toward yourself!”
Self-discipline—that is what, according to Colonel Boris Drangov, leads to success in whatever you do, including your language learning. Be a very strict language teacher to yourself and you’ll soon notice your improvement.  


9. How Can BulgarianPod101 Help You Learn Bulgarian?

We hope you enjoyed this overview of some of the most fascinating Bulgarian quotes. We believe that they can motivate you to start reading Bulgarian books on your own to obtain even deeper knowledge of Bulgarian culture, history, customs, and characteristics.

If you would like to have a teacher by your side, you can choose one through our MyTeacher feature, which allows you to take advantage of the professional guidance of experienced native Bulgarian teachers.

BulgarianPod101 is always here for you! We want to help you learn more intriguing and motivating facts about the Bulgarian language. 

Before you go, please share your favorite quote with us in the comments. We eagerly look forward to hearing from you!

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A Stepping Stone to Freedom: Liberation Day in Bulgaria

Independence did not come easily for Bulgaria. The nation only gained its freedom after hundreds of years of oppression, and the process was a lengthy and trying one. One event in particular helped propel the nation toward its goal: the nation’s liberation from the Ottoman Empire in 1878. 

In this article, you’ll learn all about Bulgarian Liberation Day (also known as Bulgaria’s Day of Liberation from Ottoman Domination) and how it’s celebrated today. Let’s get started!

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1. What is Liberation Day?

The Bulgarian Flag Waving Against a White Background

Bulgaria’s struggle for independence goes way back, beginning in the fourteenth century when the Ottomans began organizing attacks on various cities within the country. The Ottomans eventually gained control of the Bulgarian territory, forming what is now referred to as the Ottoman Yoke. Beginning in 1762, the Bulgarian Revival fought back against the Ottoman Rule. Still, the Ottoman Yoke lasted for roughly 500 years—until one of Bulgaria’s most defining moments occurred on March 3, 1878. 

This was the date when the Liberation of Bulgaria took effect, following the signing of the Treaty of San Stefano, or Санстефански мирен договор (Sanstefanski miren dogovor). The treaty was signed in order to end the Russian-Turkish war. However, even after this momentous occasion, Bulgaria was considered a vassal state of the Ottoman Empire and thus did not have full freedom as a nation. The signing of this treaty is celebrated, however, because it marked the beginning of Bulgaria’s eventual rise to complete freedom and autonomy. 

A few months later, on July 13, 1878, another treaty was signed: the Берлински договор (Berlinski dogovor), or Treaty of Berlin. This treaty gave Bulgaria further autonomy, though the nation would not gain full independence until 1908. 

In Bulgaria, Liberation Day is viewed as one of the most important holidays, marking a key event in the nation’s history. The holiday has been celebrated unofficially since 1880 (when it was called Day of the Emperor Alexander II’s Assassination and the Conclusion of the San Stefano Peace Treaty—yes, it’s a mouthful). In 1888, it was shortened to Liberation Day of Bulgaria, and two years later was given official holiday status.


2. Traditions for Bulgarian Liberation Day

A Sketch of the Bulgarian Liberation Day Ceremony

On National Liberation Day, Bulgarian workers can look forward to a full day off work. Due to the significance of the holiday, there’s an array of activities and celebrations throughout the nation, many of which vary by city. For example, in cities where historical battles were held, there may be larger observances or activities that are more focused on that specific battle. Wherever you go, the Bulgarian flag will be hoisted high!

There are several speeches, parades, concerts, and other cultural celebrations put on by the government, some of which are attended by the Bulgarian President and city mayors, as well as other government officials. One of the most popular events is the nighttime fireworks show at the National Assembly Square. 

Numerous lives were lost in Bulgaria’s long fight for freedom, so there are wreath layings at various memorials throughout the nation. People may also leave flowers or cards to show respect for those who gave their lives. Because other nations aided in Bulgaria’s liberation, the focus is not only on Bulgarian heroes, but on those of Russia, Finland, and Romania. (In fact, the Russian President often takes part in the Liberation Day observances.)

The Bulgarian Orthodox Church hosts a liturgy and prayer event, commemorating the events leading up to the nation’s liberation. There are also masses that take place. 

Two key locations for this holiday are the Shipka Monument and Shipka Pass. The latter is where a major battle took place, and people gather there in large groups in memory of it. 

To conclude, here’s a rather unique tradition: On the Day of Liberation, Bulgarian men swim across the Danube River to Romania’s coast. This is because Svishtov (located near the Romanian border) was the first city to be liberated.

3. Another Key Event in Bulgarian History

While the liberation of Bulgaria in 1878 was a major turning point in the right direction, there was another event that occurred a few years later that aided Bulgaria on its road to freedom.

This event was the joining of Източна Румелия (Iztochna Rumeliya), or Eastern Rumelia (one of the three parts into which Bulgaria was divided), with liberated Bulgaria. It occurred in 1885, and created yet another stepping stone toward the nation’s independence. To commemorate this event, Bulgarians celebrate Unification Day each year. 

4. Key Bulgarian Vocabulary for Liberation Day

Several Old Papers with a Red Wax Stamp

Ready to stretch your Bulgarian vocabulary skills and expand your mental word bank? Then study up on these useful phrases and be sure to practice their pronunciation on our Liberation Day vocabulary list! 

Ден на Освобождението на България от турско робство / noun, masculine
Den na Osvobojdenieto na Bylgariya ot tursko robstvo
Liberation Day

Източна Румелия / noun, feminine
Iztochna Rumeliya
Eastern Rumelia

Санстефански мирен договор / noun, masculine
Sanstefanski miren dogovor
Treaty of San Stefano

Берлински договор / noun, masculine
Berlinski dogovor
Treaty of Berlin

Подписвам договор / phrase
Podpisvam dogovor
Sign a treaty

Възстановяване на българската държавност / phrase, neutral
Vazstanovyavane na balgarskata darzhavnost
Recovery of the Bulgarian state

Княжество България / noun, neutral
Knyazhestvo Balgariya
Principality of Bulgaria

Национален празник / noun, masculine
Natsionalen praznik
National holiday

Церемония / noun, feminine
Tseremoniya
Ceremony

Празнуване / noun, neutral
Praznuvane
Celebration

Final Thoughts 

Bulgaria’s Day of Liberation marks one of a few key events in the nation’s centuries-long struggle for autonomy and independence. We hope that learning about this holiday and its background has given you a craving for even more knowledge on Bulgarian culture and holidays! 

To continue your Bulgarian studies, we recommend you check out the following pages on BulgarianPod101.com: 

If you sample our content and like what you find, remember that you can create your free lifetime account at any time! This will give you access to tons of lessons for learners at every level, our flagship podcast, spaced repetition flashcards, and much more! 

It’s our goal to make learning Bulgarian both fun and effective, so what are you waiting for? 

Before you go: Does your nation have a holiday similar to Liberation Day? If so, how do you celebrate?

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An Extensive Guide to Bulgarian Business Phrases

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The number of foreigners who visit Bulgaria for business purposes is increasing. The statistics announced by the National Statistical Institute of Bulgaria show that about twenty percent of the total visitors in 2019 were in the country for business purposes. Maybe you plan on joining that number in the near future!

Although the majority of Bulgarians speak some English, learning Bulgarian business phrases will help you more freely interact with Bulgarian business partners, build closer connections, and ensure that you’re properly understood.

Usually, advanced language learners study Bulgarian business words and phrases after they have a more solid foundation to step on. But even if you don’t have this solid foundation yet, you can start learning the most important Bulgarian business phrases with BulgarianPod101’s extensive guide. Start communicating right away with your Bulgarian business partners in their native language, and make a great impression!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Business Words and Phrases in Bulgarian Table of Contents
  1. Getting Started
  2. Nailing a Job Interview
  3. Interacting with Coworkers
  4. Sounding Smart in a Meeting
  5. Handling Business Phone Calls and Emails
  6. Going on a Business Trip
  7. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Learn Bulgarian Business Language

1. Getting Started

To start communicating in Bulgarian with your business partners or coworkers, you have to learn the most important rule related to Bulgarian business language.

The Most Important Bulgarian Business Rule

It’s obligatory to use the formal style for every verb you use in your business communications. Let’s examine a few examples:

Instead of: 

  • Здравей, как си? 
    Zdravey, kak si?
    “Hello, how are you?” (informal style)

You have to use the polite form:

  • Здравейте, как сте?
    Zdraveyte, kak ste?
    “Hello, how are you?” (formal style)

Instead of: 

  • Как върви твоят бизнес? 
    Kak varvi tvoyat biznes?
    “How is your business going?” (informal style)

You have to use the polite form:

  • Как върви Вашият бизнес?
    Kak varvi Vashiyat biznes?
    “How is your business going?” (formal style)

As you can see from the examples, the formal and informal expressions are the same in English, which is often a cause for error when foreigners speak Bulgarian in business settings. You have to pay extra attention and use only the formal style in your business communications!

The Most Common Bulgarian Business Words and Phrases

There are certain business Bulgarian phrases and words that you should know if you plan on doing business in Bulgaria. Here’s a list of the most common ones. We recommend that you learn them by heart using flashcards or other methods of effective language learning.

Bulgarian English
купувач (kupuvach)
“buyer”
продавач (prodavach)
“seller”
представител (predstavitel)
“representative”
запитване (zapitvane)
“inquiry”
преговори (pregovori)
“negotiations”
среща (sreshta)
“meeting”
цена (tsena)
“price”
търсене (tarsene)
“search”
приемам офертата (priemam ofertata)
“I accept the offer”
условия за доставка (usloviya za dostavka)
“terms of delivery”
условия за плащане (usloviya za plashtane)
“payment terms”
приемлив (priemlif)
“acceptable”
намаляване на цените на стоките (namalyavane na tsenite na stokite)
“reduction in commodity prices”
уговарям си среща (ugovaryam si sreshta)
“to make an appointment”
на едро (na edro)
“wholesale”
на дребно (na drebno)
“retail”
производител (proizvoditel)
“manufacturer”
доставчик (dostavchik)
“supplier”

Practical Language Exercise

Try to make a basic dialogue with the Bulgarian business words and phrases from above.

Ready? Below, we’ve prepared a quick dialogue example for you to review. How does yours compare?

Let’s Practice!

A:

Здравейте, аз съм представител на фирма за техническо оборудване на офиси. Търся продавач на офис столове на едро.

(Zdraveyte, az sam predstavitel na firma za tehnichesko oborudvane na ofisi. Tarsya prodavach na ofis stolove na edro.)

“Hello, I am a representative of an office equipment company. I’m looking for wholesale office chairs.”

B:

Здравейте, попаднали  сте на правилното място. Ние сме най-големият доставчик на офис столове в града. 

(Zdraveyte, popadnali ste na pravilnoto myasto. Nie sme nay-golemiyat dostavchik na ofis stolove f grada.)

“Hello, you have come to the right place. We are the city’s largest supplier of office chairs.”

A: 

Бих желал да си уговоря среща с Вас за договаряне на условията за плащане и доставка.

(Bih zhelal da si ugovorya sreshta s vas za dogovaryane na usloviyata za plashtane i dostavka.)

“I would like to make an appointment with you to negotiate the payment and delivery terms.”

B: 

Разбира се! В понеделник в 9:30 ч. сутринта удобно ли е?

(Razbira se! V ponedelnik v 9:30 chasa sutrinta udobno li e?)

“Of course! Is it convenient on Monday at 9:30 a.m.?”

Business Bulgarian: Ways to Say Hello

It’s important to learn how to greet your business partner in Bulgarian when you meet with him or her. Here are a few ways you can do this:

  • Здравейте! Добре дошли!
    Zdraveyte! Dobre doshli!
    “Hello! Welcome!”
  • Добро утро!
    Dobro utro!
    “Good morning!”
  • Добър вечер!
    Dobar vecher!
    “Good evening!”
  • Радвам се да Ви видя отново.
    Radvam se da Vi vidya otnovo.
    “I am glad to see you again.”
  • Как сте?
    Kak ste?
    “How are you?”
Greet your Bulgarian Business Partner in Bulgarian

Business Bulgarian: Ways to Say Goodbye

It’s equally important to know how to properly end your business conversation, especially if your interlocutor is long-winded and you have other tasks to do. In that case, you can choose one of the following phrases, or even combine a couple of them:

  • Извинете, но сега трябва да тръгвам!
    Izvinete, no sega tryabva da tragvam!
    “Sorry, but I have to leave now!”
  • Приятен ден!
    Priyaten den!
    “Have a nice day!”
  • Очаквам с нетърпение следващата ни среща!
    Ochakvam s netarpenie sledvashtata ni sreshta!
    “I look forward to our next meeting!”
  • Беше ми приятно, че се срещнахме!
    Beshe mi priyatno, che se sreshtnahme!
    “It was a pleasure to meet you!”
  • Всичко най-добро! Успех!
    Vsichko nay-dobro! Uspeh!
    “All the best! Good luck!”

Do you feel like you need more phrases up your sleeve? BulgarianPod101 provides you with a valuable list of phrases for doing business successfully.

2. Nailing a Job Interview

Job Interview

Having a job interview with a Bulgarian employer is probably one of the biggest challenges for the foreigner. For this reason, we’ve included here the five most common questions and answers to help you nail your job interview.

Question #1 

Разкажете ми за себе си.
Razkazhete mi za sebe si.
“Tell me about yourself.”

Answer: 

Завършил съм магистратура по икономика и финанси и съм работил 5 години в банка.
Zavarshil sam magistratura po ikonomika i finansi i sam rabotil 5 godini v
“I have a Master’s degree in economics and finance and I have worked for five years in a bank.”

Obviously, you’ll need to change the information based on your own specialization and work experience. You can check out our Jobs / Work vocabulary list to find out the name of your occupation!

Question #2 

Защо кандидатствате за тази работа?
Zashto kandidatstvate za tazi rabota?
“Why are you applying for this job?”

Answer: 

Мисля, че с опита си на финансист бих могъл да съдействам за развитието на фирмата Ви.
Mislya, che s opita si na finansist bih mogal da sadeystvam za razvitieto na firmata Vi.
“I think that with my experience as a financier, I could contribute to your company’s development.”

Question #3 

Къде се виждате след пет или десет години?
Kade se vizhdate sled pet ili deset godini?
“Where do you see yourself in five or ten years?”

Answer: 

Аз съм перфекционист и се стремя постоянно да научавам нови умения и знания. Надявам се след 5 или 10 години да заемам по-висока длъжност във фирмата Ви.
Az sam perfektsionist i se stremya postoyanno da nauchavam novi umeniya i znaniya. Nadyavam se sled pet ili deset godini da zaemam po-visoka dlazhnost vav firmata Vi.
“I am a perfectionist and I constantly strive to learn new skills and knowledge. I hope that in five or ten years, I will be in a higher position in your company.”

Question #4 

Как бихте реагирали в стресова ситуация?
Kak bihte reagirali v stresova situatsia?
“How would you react in a stressful situation?”

Answer: 

Ще опитам да запазя спокойствие и да се мобилизирам максимално, за да завърша поставената задача в срок.
Shte opitam da zapazya spokoystvie i da se mobiliziram maksimalno, za da zavarsha postavenata zadacha v srok.
“I will try to stay calm and mobilize myself to complete the task on time.”

Question #5 

Какво заплащане очаквате?
Kakvo zaplashtane ochakvate?
“What payment do you expect?”

Answer: 

Справедливо, в зависимост от длъжността, която заемам и от натоварването.
Spravedlivo, v zavisimost ot dlazhnostta, koyato zaemam i ot natovarvaneto.
“Fair, depending on my position and workload.”

Being able to answer these questions in Bulgarian will ensure that you stand out among the other foreign candidates for the same position.

 
Business Phrases

3. Interacting with Coworkers

If you’ve been approved for the position and will soon start working with your new Bulgarian team, it will be crucial to pick up even more business Bulgarian. In conjunction with a good knowledge of Bulgarian business etiquette, the phrases below can help you be well-liked by your new coworkers. The situations we outline are things you’ll likely encounter on a day-to-day basis, so memorizing even a few of these phrases can help you a lot in the long run!

Being Kind to Your Coworkers

The following sentences and phrases will help you show your gratitude toward your colleagues and will shorten the distance between you and the person you’re speaking to. Even if you don’t know much Bulgarian yet, learning how to communicate in your coworkers’ native language would be a great surprise for them, and they’ll appreciate this gesture of attention.

  • Много благодаря за помощта!
    Mnogo blagodarya za pomoshtta!
    “Thank you very much for your help!”
  • Оценявам съветите ти!
    Otsenyavam savetite ti!
    “I appreciate your advice!”
  • Благодаря ти, че винаги мога да разчитам на теб.
    Blagodarya ti, che vinagi moga da razchitam na teb.
    “Thank you for always being dependable.”
  • Радвам се, че мога да работя с теб!
    Radvam se, che moga da rabotya s tep!
    “I’m glad I can work with you!”
  • Ти си страхотен колега!
    Ti si strahoten kolega!
    “You are a great coworker!”

You can find even more kind words in our list of the top 15 compliments in Bulgarian.

You Are a Great Coworker!

How to Politely Agree and Disagree with Your Coworkers

Unfortunately, whether you like it or not, you’re likely to be in disagreement with your coworkers at some point. Prepare yourself for such a situation by learning practical phrases for politely disagreeing.

How to Disagree Politely with Your Coworkers
  • Не споделям това мнение.
    Ne spodelyam tova mnenie.
    “I do not share this opinion.”
  • Не мога да се съглася с тази идея.
    Ne moga da se saglasya s tazi ideya.
    “I can’t agree with this idea.”
  • Бих казал точно обратното.
    Bih kazal tochno obratnoto.
    “I would say exactly the opposite.”
  • Това не винаги е вярно.
    Tova ne vinagi e vyarno.
    “This is not always true.”
  • Не мисля така.
    Ne mislya taka.
    “I do not think so.”

And here are a couple of phrases you can use to express agreement!

  • Съгласен съм с теб.
    Saglasen sam s tep.
    “I agree with you.”
  • И аз мисля така.
    I az mislya taka.
    “I think so, too.”

How to Politely Interrupt Your Interlocutor

If your interlocutor is talkative or getting the conversation off-track, there are a few ways to politely interrupt to get the conversation on the right path again. 

  • Мога ли да добавя нещо?
    Moga li da dobavya neshto?
    “Can I add something?”
  • Съжалявам, че ще Ви прекъсна, но…
    Sazhalyavam, che shte vi prekasna, no…
    “I’m sorry to interrupt, but…”
  • Преди да продължите, бих искал да кажа нещо.
    Predi da prodalzhite, bih iskal da kazha neshto.
    “Before you go on, I’d like to say something.”
  • Ако мога да добавя нещо…
    Ako moga da dobavya neshto…
    “If I may add something…”
  • Само за момент, бих искал да кажа…
    Samo za moment, bih iskal da kazha…
    “Just a moment, I’d like to say…”
What To Do If Your Interlocutor Talks Too Much

4. Sounding Smart in a Meeting

Now, let’s go over some useful Bulgarian for business meetings. These phrases will help you get your point across and make a lasting impression on your coworkers, partners, or boss.

Bulgarian English
Според мен… (Spored men…)“According to me…”
Според моя опит…. (Spored moya opit…)“In my experience…”
От моя гледна точка… (Ot moya gledna tochka…)“In my point of view…”
Ако питате мен… (Ako pitate men…)“If you ask me…”
Това, което искам да кажа е… (Tova, koeto iskam da kazha e…)“What I want to say is…”
Струва ми се, че… (Struva mi se, che…)“I believe that…”
Искам да отбележа, че… (Iskam da otbelezha, che…)“I want to point out that…”
Бих предложил, че… (Bih predlozhil, che…)“I would suggest that…”

5. Handling Business Phone Calls and Emails

Business phone calls and emails often contain certain business vocabulary. The following tables will help you know which phrases and sentences to include in your business communications with Bulgarians.

Business Phone Calls

Following are the most common business Bulgarian phrases that you may hear or use during business phone calls with Bulgarians.

Business Phone Calls
Bulgarian English
Здравейте, бихте ли ме свързали с г-н…?
(Zdraveyte, bihte li me svarzali s gospodin…?)
“Hello, can you put me through to Mr. …?” 
Останете на линия, моля.
(Ostanete na liniya, molya.)
“Hold the line, please.”
Съжалявам, не успях да Ви чуя ясно.
(Sazhalyavam, ne uspyah da Vi chuya yasno.)
“I am sorry, I couldn’t hear you clearly.”
Кой се обажда, моля?
(Koy se obazhda, molya?)
“Who’s calling, please?”
Можете ли да повторите, моля? (Mozhete li da povtorite, molya?)“Can you repeat, please?”
Мога ли да си уговоря среща с г-н…?
(Moga li da si ugovorya sreshta s gospodin…?)
“Can I make an appointment with Mr. …?”
Благодаря Ви, дочуване!
(Blagodarya Vi, dochuvane!)
“Thank you, goodbye!”
Ще се обадя по-късно.(Shte se obadya po-kasno.)“I will call you later.”


Business Emails

Business Emails

If you have to write business emails, you can include the following Bulgarian business letter phrases to give them a more formal appearance.

Bulgarian English
Уважаеми г-н/ Уважаема г-жо,
(Uvazhaemi gospodin/ Uvazhaema gоspozho,)
“Dear Mr./Mrs.,” 
Благодаря за Вашето писмо/предложение.
(Blagodarya za Vasheto pismo/predlozhenie.)
“Thanks for your letter/proposal.”
Бих желал да Ви представя накратко нашата компания.
(Bih zhelal da Vi predstavya nakratko nashata kompaniya.)
“I would like to briefly introduce you to our company.”
Интересувате ли се от…?
(Interesuvate li se ot…?)
“Are you interested in…?”
При интерес, моля, отговорете на това писмо.
(Pri interes, molya, otgovorete na tova pismo.)
“If interested, please reply to this letter.”
С най-добри пожелания!
(S nay-dobri pozhelaniya!)
“Best regards!”
С уважение.(S uvazhenie.)“With respect.”

6. Going on a Business Trip

Business Trip

Your business trip in Bulgaria will be successful if you learn and use the following words and sentences:

Bulgarian English
резервация
(rezervatsiya)
“booking”
Мога ли да направя резервация за хотел?
(Moga li da napravya rezervatsiya za hotel?)
“Can I book a hotel?”
Колко време трае пътуването?
(Kolko vreme trae patuvaneto?)
“How long does the journey take?”  
Кога пристигаме?
(Koga pristigame?)
“What time do we arrive?”
Бих искал да пътувам до…
(Bih iskal da patuvam do…)
“I’d like to travel to…”
Може ли два билета за…
(Mozhe li dva bileta za…)
“May I have two tickets to…”
еднопосочен билет
(ednoposochen bilet)
“one-way ticket”
двупосочен билет
(dvuposochen bilet)
“round trip”

To learn even more vocabulary for your next business trip, listen to BulgarianPod101’s lesson on talking about travel plans.

7. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Learn Bulgarian Business Language

As a Bulgarian language platform that consists of materials and lessons to help you improve your language skills, BulgarianPod101 can be a great source for studying the most common business phrases in Bulgarian. If you enjoyed this comprehensive lesson, be sure to create your free lifetime account. This will allow you to study our database for free for seven days before upgrading. If you feel the need for personal guidance by a native language professional, you can upgrade to Premium PLUS and utilize our MyTeacher service. Your Bulgarian teacher will help you learn everything you need to know about using Bulgarian phrases for business in real life.

Before you go, please let us know if you found this guide helpful and what additional questions it raises for you. We look forward to hearing from you and will help out the best we can!

Happy learning, and good luck with your business endeavors.

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The Best YouTube Channels to Learn the Bulgarian Language

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Is it possible to make studying a foreign language fun? Yes, it is! 

Studies show that the more entertaining your language practice is, the quicker and easier you’ll pick that language up. 

So, what’s one way you can make learning Bulgarian fun again? Watching YouTube.

Here are just a few benefits of supplementing your regular studies with Bulgarian language YouTube content:

  • Watching Bulgarian YouTube channels is a great way to practice your listening skills.
  • You choose the topic and the time. By picking channels or videos that interest you, you’ll learn new vocabulary related to those topics in a more natural way.
  • You’ll get a sense of how the language works without studying all of those boring grammar rules.
  • Bulgarian YouTube channels are a great way to replace real-life communication with Bulgarians, especially when you don’t have the opportunity to meet and interact with the local people.
  • Sometimes, textbooks contain old phrases that are no longer used in everyday life. But Bulgarian YouTubers will keep you up-to-date with the language as it’s used today.
Learn Bulgarian with Your Favorite Bulgarian YouTube Channels!

BulgarianPod101 gives you the opportunity to take advantage of all these benefits and learn Bulgarian in the easiest and most fun way: by watching your favorite Bulgarian YouTube channels. This comprehensive guide contains not only a list of the best YouTube channels for learning Bulgarian, but also tips on how to use these resources effectively. 

What are you waiting for? Start familiarizing yourself with spoken Bulgarian right away!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Bulgarian Table of Contents
  1. How to Learn Effectively with Bulgarian YouTube Channels
  2. Господари на ефира I Gospodari na efira
  3. HeyKids – Детски Песни
  4. Кухнята на Звездев – La Cocina Búlgara
  5. The Clashers
  6. academico
  7. LILI IVANOVA
  8. Новините на NOVA
  9. Learn Bulgarian with BulgarianPod101.com
  10. Why is BulgarianPod101 the Best Place to Learn Bulgarian?

1. How to Learn Effectively with Bulgarian YouTube Channels

Our list of the top Bulgarian YouTube channels will do you little good if you don’t know how to make the most of your watching time. To take full advantage of these resources, BulgarianPod101 suggests that you follow the steps below.

Step 1: Get used to the language!

Getting used to the spoken language takes time! Don’t expect to get something from the very first video. 

But this doesn’t mean that you have to give up! There are numerous resources out there that can make the adaptive process easier for you, such as our vocabulary lists and audio lessons


Step 2: Prepare for the specific topic beforehand!

Getting prepared upfront for the topic you’re going to watch will help you a lot. In particular, we recommend that you learn the most common vocabulary related to that topic. For example, if you intend to watch a culinary show, you can learn the following Bulgarian words and try to recognize them in the dialogue:

  • рецепта (retsepta) – recipe
  • продукти (produkti) – products
  • ястие (yastie) – dish
  • картофи (kartofi) – potatoes
  • месо (meso) – meat
  • фурна (furna) – oven
  • минути (minuti) – minutes
    ➢ Of course, your list could be much more extensive than this one. You can get more words for your list from BulgarianPod101’s cooking vocabulary list.

Step 3: Make use of the subtitles!

One of YouTube’s greatest features is the option of turning the subtitles on, which will enable you to read the Bulgarian text while it’s spoken. Just think what a great reading, listening, and comprehension exercise this could be! Moreover, if you find it difficult to comprehend the meaning of something, turn on the English subtitles instead. This will help you understand the meaning of any unknown words and memorize them better.

Step 4: Turn off the subtitles!

As soon as you’ve started to understand the greater part of the dialogue and have memorized some of the most commonly used phrases, it’s time to turn off the subtitles and move on to the next level: pure listening.

Start listening to the Bulgarian Language!

Step 5: Adjust the speed when needed!

YouTube’s speed regulation button is of great help to foreign language learners. It allows you to adjust the speed of speech, meaning that you can slow down any parts that you’re struggling to understand and listen word-for-word. 

We recommend that you understand at least eighty percent of the video before you go on to the next one. This means that you’ll have to watch the same video multiple times, until you get used to most of the words and phrases. This will significantly reduce the amount of time it takes you to understand Bulgarian.

Now, it’s time to present you with our picks for the best YouTube channels for learning the Bulgarian language!

2. Господари на ефира I Gospodari na efira

Gospodari na Efira BG Show

Category: Humoristic TV show
Link to the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Wyun_X7gtPavYKL-_i-7Q
Example Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5okwH6V1eqI
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

Everyone needs a good laugh now and then, so we’ll start our list with this popular Bulgarian TV YouTube channel. With more than 178 thousand followers, this show is well-known across Bulgaria for its humorous (and oftentimes silly) content. 

We recommend this channel for intermediate and advanced learners, as it can help you practice real-life conversational phrases. In addition, you’ll gain some insight into Bulgarian humor!

3. HeyKids – Детски Песни

HeyKids - Детски Песни Bulgarian Channel for Kids’ Songs

Category: Children’s songs
Link to the YouTube Channel
Example Video Link
Level: Beginner – Intermediate

This channel is a great option for beginners who would like to learn the Bulgarian language basics on YouTube. The children’s songs featured on this channel can be easily memorized, making it a great resource for growing your Bulgarian vocabulary.

One great feature of this channel is its Bulgarian subtitles, which will help learners better understand the song lyrics—plus, they’ll make it easier for you to start singing along. If you already know the basics, you can still enjoy listening to a few tales in Bulgarian and practice your listening comprehension.

4. Кухнята на Звездев – La Cocina Búlgara

Кухнята на Звездев - La Cocina Búlgara Bulgarian Culinary Show

Category: Culinary TV series
Link to the YouTube Channel
Example Video Link
Level: Beginner – Intermediate

Do you enjoy watching culinary shows? You can combine your interests with your Bulgarian studies by watching this popular cooking show, featuring masterchef Ivan Zvezdev. 

Watching this Bulgarian food YouTube channel will not only teach you how to make great recipes, but it will also familiarize you with important Bulgarian vocabulary related to ingredients and kitchen utensils. Although there are no subtitles, written Bulgarian instructions often appear on the screen. And, as the title of the channel suggests, you can also find a few Spanish series with Bulgarian subtitles.

5. The Clashers

The Clashers Bulgarian Channel Provides Interesting Facts

Category: Interesting facts
Link to the YouTube Channel
Example Video Link
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

If you’re curious about the world around you and love to discover new things, we think you’ll enjoy watching The Clashers. This channel’s main host, Slavi, is among those YouTubers that can help you learn Bulgarian in an entertaining way, especially if you’re already at the intermediate level.

Much of their content consists of Top 10 charts, 50 amazing facts videos, product reviews, and vlogs. This variety of fascinating content can help Bulgarian learners practice the vocabulary they’ve learned so far and learn more new words related to a specific topic.

6. academico

The Academico Bulgarian Channel Provides Phort and Funny School Lessons

Category: Short school lessons
Link to the YouTube Channel
Example Video Link
Level: Beginner – Intermediate

The academico channel provides short lessons on school subjects for Bulgarian students up to seventh grade. Because these videos are designed for younger viewers, they’re easy to understand, funny, and feature clearly spoken language. This combination of factors makes the channel perfect for Bulgarian language learners! 

Additionally, learners can begin picking up new Bulgarian vocabulary in a simple format, starting with first grade videos and moving up to seventh.

7. LILI IVANOVA

LILI IVANOVA YouTube Channel for Popular Bulgarian Songs

Category: Pop songs
Link to the YouTube Channel
Example Video Link
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

If you’re interested in discovering Bulgarian songs, YouTube has a plethora of channels to help you out! But we recommend Lili Ivanova’s channel for a few reasons.

Lili is a beloved pop singer in Bulgaria, with a beautiful voice and touching music. In addition to hearing some of Bulgaria’s best music, you’ll be able to test your listening comprehension skills and pick up new vocabulary by following along with the lyrics.

8. Новините на NOVA

Новините на NOVA - The Most Popular YouTube Channel for Bulgarian News

Category: TV news
Link to the YouTube Channel
Example Video Link
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

Новините на NOVA is the most popular news channel in Bulgaria, providing updated information about all areas of life in Bulgaria. This Bulgarian news YouTube channel allows you to improve your language skills while staying up-to-date on things going on in the country. 

The news presenters speak clearly, making it easier for learners to improve their own pronunciation. This channel is also a great way to learn the economical, political, tourist, and social situation in the country before traveling there.

9. Learn Bulgarian with BulgarianPod101.com

Category: Language learning
Link to the YouTube Channel
Example Video Link
Level: Beginner – Advanced

The BulgarianPod101 YouTube channel provides learners with the opportunity to improve their Bulgarian skills, regardless of their current level. We help people learn basic, intermediate, and advanced Bulgarian—without needing to pay for a private Bulgarian teacher.

Our channel offers a lot of unit lessons, grammar and vocabulary learning videos, exercises, and more. Moreover, you can turn on the subtitles to understand the content in your own language. In addition to listening, reading, and overall comprehension practice, we implement learning strategies that will help you learn Bulgarian better and faster.

10. Why is BulgarianPod101 the Best Place to Learn Bulgarian?

Whether you have three minutes a day to study Bulgarian or an hour, systematic learning is the best approach for gaining new knowledge. Our channel, Learn Bulgarian with BulgarianPod101.com, offers three-minute lessons for those who don’t have much time, as well as ten-minute educational videos and twenty- to thirty-minute videos for those with more time. You’ll even find videos with a duration of two hours or more!

Our videos are made by professional linguists who are native Bulgarians, so you can be sure that their pronunciation is correct. Moreover, the channel provides a free way to start learning the language, from Absolute Beginner all the way up to Advanced. Whether you want to learn basic vocabulary for daily conversations or need phrases for business negotiation—or anything in-between—we have you covered.

We provide a rich variety of content, and regularly update our channel with new videos. The practical lessons and exercises on our channel can help you overcome your language barriers and start communicating freely with native Bulgarians. 

If you would like to dig even deeper into the grammar, you can turn to the BulgarianPod101 website, which offers great guides for everyone. We also offer a MyTeacher service for Premium PLUS members, where you can find a professional Bulgarian teacher to speed up your learning. You can also use our free app, which is available for all kinds of smartphones.

Did you like our comprehensive guide on the ten best Bulgarian YouTube channels for learners? We would love to hear from you in the comments. Also feel free to share with us which of these channels you want to watch first, and why. We look forward to hearing from you!

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How to Say Goodbye in Bulgarian

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Imagine that you were just introduced to someone, talked with them for a few minutes, and then left the conversation without saying goodbye. What would this person think about you? Saying goodbye in Bulgarian is as important as saying hello and introducing yourself. Here are just a few reasons why:

  • Saying goodbye in the Bulgarian language will show that you respect your new Bulgarian friend and his or her language (even if you know very little Bulgarian).  
  • In addition, it will show your interlocutor that you’re willing to meet him or her again and that you’re interested in pursuing a friendship with them.
  • Saying goodbye in their language will make it easier for you to build close relationships with Bulgarians, and they’re likely to trust you more. 

In this article, BulgarianPod101.com will teach you everything you need to know about bidding native Bulgarians farewell in their own language. From how to give a formal goodbye in Bulgarian to the best ways to say goodbye to your new besties, we’ll provide you with the words and phrases you need to sound more like a native! Start with a bonus, and download the Must-Know Beginner Vocabulary PDF for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Bulgarian Table of Contents
  1. The Most Common Ways to Say Goodbye
  2. Specific Ways to Say Goodbye
  3. Common Goodbye Phrases in Bulgarian That Do Not Contain the Word “Goodbye”
  4. Cultural Insights Related to Saying Hello and Goodbye
  5. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Learn the Specifics of Bulgarian

1. The Most Common Ways to Say Goodbye

Most Common Goodbyes

There are many different ways to say hello and goodbye in Bulgarian depending on the situation. It’s important to note that Bulgarian differentiates between formal and informal language, meaning that you should choose your words carefully. Here, we’ve divided the most common Bulgarian goodbye phrases based on whether they’re formal or informal, so you can always choose the perfect parting words.

How to Give a Formal Goodbye in Bulgarian

Before we go any further, how do you know if your relationship with someone is formal? There are generally three stages in a formal relationship:

  • The introduction
  • Working together
  • Getting closer

Now, here are the most common ways to say goodbye in the Bulgarian language for each of these three stages.

Phase 1: Introduction

After you’ve been introduced to someone in a formal situation and talked a while, the best Bulgarian word for goodbye is:

  • Довиждане!
    Dovizhdane!
    “Goodbye!”

This word actually consists of two different words: до (do), meaning “until,” and виждане (vizhdane), meaning “seeing.” It means: “Until I see you again.” Because this is a common Bulgarian word for goodbye, it’s versatile and can be used any time of the day.

Phase 2: Working together

Here’s another formal phrase, which can be used among colleagues or in other formal situations:

  • До утре!
    Do utre!
    “See you tomorrow!”

In particular, you should use this phrase when you know you’ll be meeting the other person frequently. Although Довиждане! is a great phrase to use during your initial acquaintance with someone, it can be considered too formal once you become closer to that colleague. It’s better to use До утре! in this phase of your formal relationship. 

До скоро! is another popular phrase:

  • До скоро!
    Do skoro!
    “See you soon!”

You could use this one, for example, on a Friday evening before you leave work for the weekend.

Phase 3: Getting closer

After you’ve become more friendly with your colleagues, it’s time to move forward to less formal goodbyes in Bulgarian. A couple of good options are:  

  • Ще тръгвам.
    Shte tragvam.
    “I’ll be going.”
  • Приятна вечер! 
    Priyatna vecher!
    “Have a nice evening!”
Saying Goodbye in Bulgarian Is Important for Building New Friendships!

How to Give an Informal Goodbye in Bulgarian

The most casual way to say goodbye in the Bulgarian language is to say:

  • Чао! 
    Chao!
    “Bye!”

Although this word was taken from Italian, it’s probably the most common word Bulgarians use to say bye. 

Now, let’s see how to end three different types of informal conversations: with a friend, with a family member, and with your boyfriend/girlfriend.

Situation 1: Conversation with a friend

If you say Довиждане! to your close friend, he or she might find it a bit distant or cold. So here are three ways to say bye to your friends:

  • Ще се видим по-късно! 
    Shte se vidim po-kasno!
    “See you later!”
  • До по-късно! 
    Do po-kasno!
    “See you later!”
  • Чао-чао! 
    Chao-chao!
    “Bye-bye!”

The last expression (Чао-чао!) creates a warm and close atmosphere and shows that you would like to see your friend again in the near future.

Situation 2: Conversation with a family member

If you’re married to a Bulgarian, you’ll have a lot of Bulgarian relatives—from your mother-in-law all the way down to your sister-in-law. Imagine that you bump into them on the street and you start a short conversation: 

    Как си?
    Kak si?
    “How are you?”
    Добре съм. Как са децата?
    Dobre sam. Kak sa detsata?
    “I am fine. How are the kids?”
    Ходят на училище, учат.
    Hodyat na uchilishte, uchat.
    “They go to school and study.”
    Съжалявам, но бързам за работа!
    Sazhalyavam, no barzam za rabota!
    “Sorry, but I’m in a hurry for work!”

And now’s the time to politely say goodbye in Bulgarian without offending them. Here are two great ways to do that:

  • До скоро! Поздрави вкъщи! 
    Do skoro! Pozdravi vkashti!
    “See you soon! Greetings at home!”
  • Радвам се, че се видяхме! 
    Radvam se, che se vidyahme!
    “I’m glad to see you!”

Situation 3: Conversation with your boyfriend/girlfriend

There are a few specific phrases for goodbye that should only be used between people in an intimate relationship. They’re intended to show your partner that you really care about and love them. 

  • Пази се!
    Pazi se!
    “Take care!”
  • Ще се видим утре! Обичам те! 
    Shte se vidim utre! Obicham te!
    “See you tomorrow! I love you!”
  • Ще си мисля за теб!
    Shte si mislya za teb!
    “I’ll think about you!”
  • Ще ми липсваш!
    Shte mi lipsvash!
    “I’ll miss you!”
I'll Miss You!

2. Specific Ways to Say Goodbye

Depending on the situation, there are several different ways you can say goodbye in Bulgarian. For example, if you’re only leaving for a few hours, you’ll say goodbye differently than if you were leaving for a long time (or even forever). Here are common Bulgarian goodbye sayings that you can use in a variety of contexts.

Short-Term Goodbyes

Here are five phrases that Bulgarians often use when they’re leaving for only a short while: 

  • Чао! До скоро! 
    Chao! Do skoro!
    “Bye! See you soon!”
  • Ще се видим скоро! 
    Shte se vidim skoro!
    “See you soon!”
  • Чао-чао! Пази се! 
    Chao-chao! Pazi se!
    “Bye-bye! Take care!”
  • Довиждане! Всичко най-хубаво! 
    Dovizhdane! Vsichko nay-hubavo!
    “Goodbye! All the best!”
  • Довиждане! Приятен ден! 
    Dovizhdane! Priyaten den!
    “Goodbye! Have a nice day!”

You might have already noticed that the first three examples are used in informal situations, while the second two are more formal. Below is a situation where you could use one of the formal goodbyes.

Let’s say you’ve just finished eating at a restaurant, and you’re paying for your meal. How would you thank your waiter in Bulgarian, and say goodbye? Here’s what to say to anyone who’s offered you services:

  • Благодаря Ви за обслужването! Довиждане и лека работа! 
    Blagodarya Vi za obsluzhvaneto! Dovizhdane i leka rabota!
    “Thank you for your service! Goodbye and good luck!” (Literally: “I wish you an easy job!”)
Say Thank You and Goodbye in Bulgarian for Any Kind of Services!

Long-Term Goodbyes

When parting for long periods of time, Bulgarians usually express their hope of seeing each other again. Here are four examples of what you can say:

  • Надявам се някой ден да се видим отново!
    Nadyavam se nyakoy den da se vidim otnovo!
    “I hope to see you again someday!”
  • Желая ти всичко най-добро!
    Zhelaya ti vsichko nay-dobro!
    “I wish you all the best!”
  • Остани със здраве!
    Ostani sas zdrave!
    “Stay healthy!”
  • На добър час!
    Na dobar chas!
    “Good luck!”
Saying Goodbye in Bulgarian for a Long Period of Time!

Saying Goodbye Forever

Parting forever is never a happy event, especially if you love that person. Bulgarians have a special word for this occasion. It’s used when a friend is moving to live abroad, or when they’re dying. 

  • Сбогом!
    Sbogom!
    “Farewell!”

This expression consists of two words: the preposition с (s), meaning “with,” and Богом (bogom), meaning “God.” Together, it means “with God,” and it’s like saying “I leave you in God’s hands.”

Ending a Phone Call in Bulgarian

English-speakers often use the common phrases “See you” or “Bye” when ending a phone call. In contrast, Bulgarians have a specific word for ending phone calls. It literally means: “Hear you soon!”

  • Дочуване!
    Dochuvane!
    “Bye!”

Because people don’t “see” each other over the phone, Bulgarians use the word “hear” instead. So instead of Довиждане (До – виждане) (Dovizhdane), they say Дочуване (До – чуване) (Dochuvane).

Saying Goodbye in Bulgarian Is Important for Building New Friendships!
    ➢ Listen to a real-life phone call that ends with the word Дочуване (Dochuvane).

3. Common Goodbye Phrases in Bulgarian That Don’t Contain the Word “Goodbye”

Did you know that Bulgarians can say goodbye without actually using goodbye phrases like Довиждане (Dovizhdane) or Чао (Chao)? It’s good to know at least some of them, so you can recognize them in your conversations with native Bulgarian-speakers.

  • Приятен ден!
    Priyaten den!
    “Have a nice day!”
  • Всичко най-хубаво!
    Vsichko nay-hubavo!
    “All the best!”
  • Всичко добро!
    Vsichko dobro!
    “All the best!”
  • До следващия път!
    Do sledvashtiya pat!
    “Until next time!”
  • До нови срещи!
    Do novi sreshti!
    “See you soon!”
  • Хайде!
    Hayde!
    “Bye!”

The word Хайде (Hayde) is typically used to mean “Let’s” as in “Let’s do something.” Here’s an example:

  • Хайде да отидем на кино.
    Hayde da otidem na kino.
    “Let’s go to the cinema.”

But when someone says Хайде (Hayde) at the end of a conversation, it means “Bye.” In response, you can simply say:

  • Хайде!
    Hayde!
    “Bye!”

Or:

  • Хайде! Ще се видим пак!
    Hayde! Shte se vidim pak!
    “Bye! See you soon!”

4. Cultural Insights Related to Saying Hello and Goodbye

Bulgarian people are open to foreigners and often invite them into their homes to show their hospitality. If you find yourself invited to a native’s home, be mindful to take off your shoes at the door as this is customary in Bulgaria. If you don’t, you’ll offend your host and they’ll take it as a sign of disrespect.

You should also bring a gift with you; we recommend some fruits or something you cooked. It’s a good Bulgarian custom, showing that you thought of the person who invited you, and prepared something special for him or her.

When You Are Invited to Visit a Bulgarian House, Go with a Small Gift!

When it comes to saying goodbye in Bulgarian, you’ll be just fine as long as you know how to use the most common formal and informal phrases. You can use the same phrases regardless of gender, age, or status, which makes things much easier than in other languages like Korean. 

The word до (do) helps create a range of goodbye phrases in Bulgaria. Let’s examine some of them here, keeping in mind that you’ve already seen some of these earlier in the article: 

  • Довиждане!
    Dovizhdane!
    “Goodbye!”
  • Дочуване!
    Dochuvane!
    “Bye!”
  • До скоро!
    Do skoro!
    “See you soon!”
  • До утре!
    Do utre!
    “See you tomorrow!”
  • До нови срещи!
    Do novi sreshti!
    “See you soon!”
  • До понеделник!
    Do ponedelnik!
    “Until Monday!”

Here, you can replace понеделник (ponedelnik), or “Monday,” with any other day of the week.

5. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Learn the Specifics of Bulgarian

BulgarianPod101 is a great source of practical examples and cultural insights, designed to help foreigners know how to use the words and phrases they’ve learned. For example, our goal for this article was to teach you not only Bulgarian goodbye phrases, but how and when to use them correctly. 

If you feel like you’ll need some personal guidance to master this topic (or any other topic you’re struggling with!), you can choose a teacher from our MyTeacher program. This native Bulgarian expert will help you get a deeper understanding of the language-related and cultural nuances you’ll need to succeed! 

Does saying goodbye in Bulgarian seem easier now than it did before? Or is there something you still have questions about? Let us know in the comments, and we’ll help you out the best we can!

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Your Guide to Bulgarian Sentence Structure & Word Order

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The first step of studying a foreign language is learning some common words, so you can start communicating at the most basic level. But you can’t stop at that level, right? To be able to communicate with native Bulgarians, you need to learn more about the Bulgarian sentence word order. 

How do Bulgarians build their sentences? What’s the difference between Bulgarian and English sentence structure? 
BulgarianPod101 will take you to the next level of your Bulgarian language-learning journey by helping you learn Bulgarian sentence structure in this step-by-step guide. After carefully studying it, you should be more confident in your Bulgarian conversations, and you’ll effectively untie your tongue.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Bulgarian Table of Contents
  1. Overview of Bulgarian language word order
  2. Basic Word Order with Subject, Verb and Object
  3. Building Complex Bulgarian Sentences
  4. How to change sentence into a yes-or-no question?
  5. Bulgarian sentence structure
  6. Translation Exercises
  7. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Untie Your Tongue

1. Overview of Bulgarian Language Word Order

Improve Pronunciation

1- What is the basic Bulgarian sentence structure?

Bulgarian is one of many languages that uses the SVO sentence structure, which is typical for about one-third of all languages in the world. The SVO word order stands for Subject-Verb-Object. Other languages in the same category include English, Serbo-Croatian, Macedonian, and Chinese. This means that English speakers shouldn’t find the basic sentence structure in Bulgarian too complicated.

However, when comparing the Bulgarian sentence structure vs. English sentence structure, Bulgarian is richer in sentence structure options. Indeed, about eighty percent of all Bulgarian sentences follow the SVO structure, but in certain situations, Bulgarian speakers can deviate from the typical word order. This is done when they want to underline the importance of a specific word. Here are some examples.

2- Bulgarian sentence structures list

  1. SVO (SubjectVerbObject):
  • Аз говоря български език.
    As govorya balgarski ezik.
    “I speak the Bulgarian language.”

As stated above, this is a typical Bulgarian sentence structure, so you’re always on the safe side if you use it.

  1. OVS (ObjectVerbSubject):
  • Български език говоря аз.
    Balgarski ezik govorya as.
    “The Bulgarian language speak I.”

Although it’s not typical for English word order, OVS in Bulgarian language sentences is considered correct and it’s commonly used in poems. The same applies for two of the other Bulgarian word orders below: SOV and VOS. These sentence structures aren’t used in everyday speech, but you can see them often in Bulgarian books, so it’s worth knowing about them.

  1. SOV (SubjectObjectVerb):
  • Аз България обичам.
    As Bulgaria obicham.
    “I Bulgaria love.” = “I love Bulgaria.”

In Bulgarian word order, SOV is commonly used in situations like the one above.

  1. VSO (VerbSubjectObject):
  • Обичам аз България.
    Obicham as Bulgaria.
    “Love I Bulgaria.” = “I love Bulgaria.”

Here, the speaker emphasizes his love for Bulgaria. The Bulgarian sentence pattern below can have a similar effect.

  1. VOS (VerbObjectSubject):
  • Обичам България аз.
    Obicham Bulgaria as.
    “Love Bulgaria I.” = “I love Bulgaria.”
I love Bulgaria!

This flexible word order in Bulgarian is possible thanks to agreement between the subject and the verb. Thе verb ending in Bulgarian changes based on the subject’s person and number, which allows the speaker to change the word order while retaining the same meaning.

2. Basic Word Order with Subject, Verb, and Object

1- Practice Time

A- SVO Structure Exercise

Now, it’s time to practice how to build simple Bulgarian sentences correctly. Let’s start with the most basic Bulgarian word order, which is SVO. It’s easy because it’s the same as the English word order.

How would you say “I study Bulgarian language,” in Bulgarian? As long as you know the words in Bulgarian, you shouldn’t have a problem with ordering them properly.

  • “I” — аз (as)
  • “Study” — уча (oocha)
  • “Bulgarian language” — български език (balgarski ezik

Now, try to combine them yourself in a sentence.

Great job!

Let’s try another basic sentence: “He eats an apple.”

  • “He” — той (toy)
  • “Eats” — яде (yade)
  • “An apple” — ябълка (yabalka

We recommend that you write these two Bulgarian sentences down. Now you know how to make the most basic Bulgarian sentences using the SVO structure.

Practice is important!

B- OVS Structure Exercise

Let’s try to make things a little bit more complicated. Make both of these Bulgarian sentences using the OVS structure and write them down, too. If you’re not sure how to do it, just follow this English structure: 

“Bulgarian language study I.”

“An apple eats he.”

C- SOV Structure Exercise

And now, let’s try a different Bulgarian sentence structure by placing the object between the subject and verb. In English, the literal translations will sound like:

“I Bulgarian language study.”

“He an apple eats.”

You did a great job practicing Bulgarian sentence structure!

2- Dropping the pronouns in Bulgarian sentences

Unlike English, Bulgarian is a pro-drop language (meaning  “pronoun-dropping”). It features a specific verb ending in all of the forms for singular and plural (i.e. the verbs are conjugated). This gives Bulgarians “the right” to drop the subject in sentences when the subject is a pronoun. This is simply because the subject is implied by the verb ending. Here are some examples:

  • Instead of Аз обичам България. (As obicham Bulgaria.), Bulgarians would say: Обичам България. (Obicham Bulgaria.). The verb ending is applied only for first person singular, so the listener knows that the meaning is: “I love Bulgaria.”
  • Instead of Ние обичаме България. (Nie obichame Bulgaria.), Bulgarians would say: Обичаме България. (Obichame Bulgaria.) as the verb ending is specific to the first person plural. The listener knows that the meaning is: “We love Bulgaria.”

To make it a bit more complicated, let’s study the following example:

  • Ти учиш български език. Често повтаряш нови фрази.
    Ti ucheesh balgarski ezik. Chesto povtaryash novi frazi.
    “You study the Bulgarian language. You often repeat new phrases.”

In Bulgarian, there’s no need for a pronoun in the second sentence; it’s implied by the verb ending. So, in English, it will sound like: “You study Bulgarian language. Often repeat new phrases.”

One exception to this rule is the pronoun in the third person singular. This should be kept in the sentence, as the verb ending for the third person singular is the same for “he” / “she” / “it.” 

3. Building Long but Simple Bulgarian Sentences

If you learn the basics of Bulgarian word order, you’ll find it easier to build your Bulgarian sentences. Here, we’ll learn some Bulgarian sentence structure patterns by adding different parts of speech to the simple Bulgarian sentence structure.

1- Sentences with prepositions

Usually, prepositions in short sentences go after the subject and verb, and before the object

  • Examples with one preposition:

Аз работя в училище.
As rabotya v uchilishte.
“I work in a school.”

Аз работя като адвокат.
As rabotya kato advokat.
“I work as a lawyer.”

Sometimes, the preposition may appear near a second object, like this:

Ти учиш български език в училище
Ti uchish balgarski ezik v uchilishte.
“You study Bulgarian language at school.”.

In longer sentences, there can be more than one preposition. You can use two, three, or even more prepositions in one sentence to form your thoughts completely.

  • Examples with two prepositions:

Аз работя като адвокат в съда.
As rabotya kato advokat v sada.
“I work as a lawyer in a court.”

Аз работя като преподавател в училище.
As rabotya kato prepodavatel v uchilishte.
“I work as a teacher at school.”

  • Examples with three prepositions:

С помощта на BulgarianPod101 уча български език у дома.
S pomoshta na BulgarianPod101 ucha balgarski ezik u doma.
“With the help of BulgarianPod101, I study the Bulgarian language at home.”

Maybe you’ve noticed that there’s no subject in the sentence above. We just drop the pronoun аз (as), meaning “I,” because it’s implied by the verb ending уча, which is used for first person singular.

2- Sentences with adjectives

In Bulgarian word order, it’s simple to add adjectives. This is done the same way it is in English (i.e. before the subject or object, or before both). What might be difficult for a foreigner is that the ending of an adjective changes based on the gender of the noun it describes.

  • Adjective before the subject:

Умното дете чете книга.

Umnoto dete chete kniga.

“The clever child reads a book.”

  • Adjective before the object:

Детето чете интересна книга.

Deteto chete interesna kniga.

“The child reads an interesting book.”

  • Adjectives before the subject and object:

 Умното дете чете интересна книга.

Umnoto dete chete interesna kniga.

“The clever child reads an interesting book.”

Sometimes, the adjective might be separated from the subject by the verb “to be.” Yet, it still has to agree with the gender and the number of the noun it relates to.

  • Книгата е интересна

Knigata e interesna.

“The book is interesting.”

  • Детето е умно и добро.

Deteto e umno i dobro.

“The child is clever and good.”

3- Sentences with adverbs

Hooray! Bulgarian adverbs don’t change like adjectives do. In fact, they modify the adjectives, verbs, and even other adverbs. Here are examples:

  • Adverbs as adjective modifiers:

Българският език е много труден.

Balgarskiyat ezik e mnogo truden.

“The Bulgarian language is very difficult.”

  • Adverbs as verb modifiers:

Много искам да науча български език.

Mnogo iskam da naucha balgarski ezik.

“I really want to learn the Bulgarian language.”

  • Adverbs as adverb modifiers:

Искам да науча български език много бързо.

Iskam da naucha balgarski ezik mnogo barzo.

“I want to learn the Bulgarian language very fast.”

4. How to Change Sentences into Yes-or-No Questions

Change the Sentences into Questions

It’s easy to turn both declarative and negative Bulgarian sentences into yes-or-no questions. You just need to add the particle ли after the verb. Let’s see the examples.

Declarative sentences:

  • Ти учиш български език в училище.

Ti uchish balgarski ezik v uchilishte.

“You study the Bulgarian language at school.”

  • Детето чете интересна книга.

Deteto chete interesna kniga.

“The child reads an interesting book.”

Interrogative sentences made from the above declarative sentences:

  • Ти учиш ли български език в училище?

Ti uchish li balgarski ezik v uchilishte?

“Do you study the Bulgarian language at school?”

  • Детето чете ли интересна книга?

Deteto chete li interesna kniga?

“Does the child read an interesting book?”

Negative sentences:

  • Ти не учиш български език в училище.

Ti ne uchish balgarski ezik v uchilishte.

“You don’t study the Bulgarian language at school.”

  • Детето не чете интересна книга.

Deteto ne chete interesna kniga.

“The child doesn’t read an interesting book.”

Interrogative sentences made from the above negative sentences:

  • Ти не учиш ли български език в училище?

Ti ne uchish li balgarski ezik v uchilishte?

“Don’t you study the Bulgarian language at school?”

  • Детето не чете ли интересна книга?

Deteto ne chete li interesna kniga?

“Doesn’t the child read an interesting book?”

5. Bulgarian Sentence Structure

Different Types of Bulgarian Sentences

1- Four types of sentences

Now, it’s time to learn the four types of Bulgarian sentence structures. We’ve already mentioned some of them, but here’s a list of all of them together with examples:

Declarative Sentence

  • Ти учиш български език.

Ti uchish balgarski ezik.

“You study the Bulgarian language.”

Interrogative Sentence

  • Ти учиш ли български език?

Ti uchish li balgarski ezik.

“Do you study the Bulgarian language?”

Еxclamatory Sentence

  • Колко хубаво, че учиш български език!

Kolko huvabo che uchish balgarski ezik!

“How nice that you study the Bulgarian language!”

Imperative Sentence

  • Учи български език!

Uchi balgarski ezik!

“Study the Bulgarian language!”

2- Simple Bulgarian sentences

Building a Simple Sentence Structure

It’s easy to recognize the simple sentence, as it expresses one thought and consists of only one subject and one verb. Simple sentences could be short or long:

Short simple sentence (SV)

  • Аз уча.

As ucha.

“I study.”

The longer simple sentences still contain one subject and one verb, but other parts of the sentence are also included:

Long simple sentence (SVO)

  • Аз уча български език в училище.

Az ucha balgarski ezik v uchilishte.

“I study the Bulgarian language at school.”

    BulgarianPod101 can help you learn many more simple Bulgarian sentences that are used in daily life, so you can start practicing your Bulgarian right away! 

3- Complex Bulgarian sentences

Building a Complex Sentence Structure

The complex sentence has more than one verb and contains two or more thoughts united in a single sentence. Complex sentences could be with two, three, or more verbs. Here are some examples:

Complex sentence with two verbs:

  • Аз преподавам английски език, а ти учиш български език.

As prepodavam angliyski ezik, a ti uchish balgarski ezik.

“I teach the English language and you study the Bulgarian language.”

Complex sentence with three verbs

  • Аз преподавам английски език, а ти учиш български език и се упражняваш.

As prepodavam angliyski ezik, a ti uchish balgarski ezik i se uprazhnyavash.

“I teach the English language, and you study the Bulgarian language and practice.”

6. Translation Exercises

It’s time to practice! You’re just a few steps from being able to build your own Bulgarian sentences, so take your pen and try to do the exercises below by yourself. Alfred Adler has a great thought:

Do not be afraid of making mistakes, for there is no other way of learning how to live!

Don’t worry, we’ll give you the answers at the end of this article.

Step 1.

Translate the following sentence into Bulgarian, following the SVO structure:

You read a book.

Step 2.

Now, try to make your Bulgarian sentence using the OVS structure:

A book read you.

Step 3.

One more structure to practice is the OSV structure. Try it now:

A book you read.

Step 4.

Now, turn the SVO sentence into a question. A tip: just add the particle ли.

Do you read a book?

Step 5.

Now, let’s add some other parts to the sentence to make it longer. Translate the following:

You read an interesting book.

You read a new book in the library.

You often read an interesting book at home.

Step 6.

Now, let’s make a question from the last sentence:

Do you read an interesting book at home?

Step 7.

The last exercise is to make a complex sentence. Are you ready?

You read a new book in the library and I study the Bulgarian language at home.

Bonus exercise: 

Let’s add BulgarianPod101 into the picture. It should sound like this:

You read a new book in the library and I study the Bulgarian language at home with BulgarianPod101. 

7. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Untie Your Tongue

Improve Listening

BulgarianPod101 prepared this Bulgarian sentence word order guide for you to help you start combining Bulgarian words you’ve learned so far into sentences. We believe that you’re now much more confident in building Bulgarian sentences than before. However, practice is the best teacher. Practice with your Bulgarian friends, while you shop in the market, while you’re reading a book, or while listening to a Bulgarian song.

However, if you need personal guidance to help you perfect your conversational Bulgarian, BulgarianPod101 is also here to help. You can take advantage of a Bulgarian language expert with our MyTeacher program by upgrading to Premium PLUS. Your coach will lead you step-by-step through the Bulgarian grammar and help you successfully overcome all the challenges you now have.

Now, you can check your answers below and let us know in the comments how you did and if you found it difficult. Also let us know how you feel about Bulgarian sentence structure now. Are you still struggling with it or do you find it easier now? We look forward to hearing from you, and we’ll help out the best we can! 

Answers to the translation exercises

Step 1. SVO

“You read a book.”

Ти четеш книга.

Ti chetesh kniga.

Step 2. OVS 

“A book read you.”

Книга четеш ти.

Kniga chetesh ti.

Step 3. OSV 

“A book you read.”

Книга ти четеш.

Kniga ti chetesh.

Step 4. SVO into a question

“Do you read a book?”

Ти четеш ли книга?

Ti chetesh li kniga.

Step 5. Simple long sentences

“You read an interesting book.”

Ти четеш интересна книга.

Ti chetesh interesna kniga.

“You read a new book in the library.”

Ти четеш нова книга в библиотеката.

Ti chetesh nova kniga v bibliotekata.

“You often read an interesting book at home.”

Ти често четеш интересна книга у дома.

Ti chyesto chyetyesh intyeryesna knigua oo doma.

Step 6. Long question

“Do you read an interesting book at home?”

Ти четеш ли интересна книга у дома?

Ti chesto chetesh interesna kniga u doma.

Step 7. Complex sentence

“You read a new book in the library and I study the Bulgarian language at home.”

Ти четеш нова книга в библиотеката, а аз уча български език у дома.
Ti chetesh nova kniga v bibliotekata, a az ucha balgarski ezik u doma.

Bonus exercise: 

“You read a new book in the library and I study the Bulgarian language at home with BulgarianPod101.”

Ти четеш нова книга в библиотеката, а аз уча български език у дома с BulgarianPod101.

Ti chetesh nova kniga v bibliotekata, a az ucha balgarski ezik u doma s BulgarianPod101.

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Your Extensive Guide to Bulgarian Compliments

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Compliments provide encouragement that makes people feel valuable and important. These words can even improve their self-esteem and help them believe that they can achieve more. Moreover, compliments imply that you have something—whether it’s a great appearance, a cheerful character, or an exceptional mind—which other people find noteworthy. In fact, every person is unique and possesses something that he or she can receive compliments for.

Although Bulgarians are sparing with their praise and compliments, just like people of many other nations, they also love to get sincere compliments. You probably want to learn various Bulgarian compliments, such as how to compliment a Bulgarian girl or how to praise someone in Bulgarian. Or maybe you’re just curious what kind of compliments Bulgarian people give their friends?

You’re in the right place, as BulgarianPod101 will reveal to you a completely new part of Bulgarian culture. By the end of this guide, you’ll not only be able to offer someone praise in Bulgarian words, but also know how to accept compliments that Bulgarians give to you.

Table of Contents

  1. What Compliments will Impress Your Bulgarian Girlfriend?
  2. Bulgarian Compliments On Your Girlfriend/Boyfriend’s Look
  3. Bulgarian Compliments On Someone’s Work
  4. Bulgarian Compliments On Girlfriend/Boyfriend’s Skills
  5. How to Make Your Compliments Sound More Sincere?
  6. What to Expect After Giving Compliments?
  7. How to Avoid Awkward Situations When Making Compliments?
  8. Practice Time: What Compliments You Will Give to People in the Following 6 Situations?
  9. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Impress Other People with Your Bulgarian?

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1. What Compliments Will Impress Your Bulgarian Girlfriend?

Four Little Secrets For Building a Lasting Relationship with a Bulgarian Girl

There are a few surefire ways to impress your Bulgarian girlfriend. No, you don’t have to offer her a holiday in Miami or buy a star in the sky to make her happy. Here are four little secrets that can make a big turnaround in a timid relationship:

  • Be a real gentleman, as girls notice every act of attention. You’ll definitely attract her attention if you open the door for her, ask her for a date and bring her back home afterward, or show her some other little signs of care.
  • Pay the bill when you’re out together for dinner. Even if a lady can afford to pay her bill, a gentleman will show his sincere interest by paying the bills.
  • Give her some little presents, even without a reason. It doesn’t have to be something expensive; it could be a flower or something small, for example. The gift will show her that you’re thinking about her.
  • Offer her compliments in Bulgarian every time you see her. This will maintain the flame of love.

Keep Giving Her Compliments!

What Bulgarian Compliments Will Make Her Happy?

Now, let’s learn some beautiful compliments to tell a girl in Bulgarian. Let’s start with “You are beautiful!” in Bulgarian.

  • Много си красива!
    Mnogo si krasiva
    You are so beautiful!
  • Толкова си интелигентна!
    Tolkova si inteligentna
    You are so smart!
  • С теб може да се говори на толкова много теми!
    S teb mozhe da se govori na tolkova mnogo temi
    You can talk about so many topics!

This compliment is equivalent to “You are so smart!” but it’s not so direct. So by using it, you can just hint at her intelligence, which will definitely make your Bulgarian girlfriend happy during the initial stage of your relationship!

    Смехът ти е очарователен!
    Smehat ti e ocharovatelen
    Your laugh is charming!

This also tells her that you like to see her happy.

Now, let’s learn some more Bulgarian flirting phrases:

  • Имаш толкова нежен глас, че мога да те слушам с часове!
    Imash tolkova nezhen glas, she moga da te slusham s chasove
    You have such a gentle voice that I can listen to you for hours!
  • Очите ти са толкова дълбоки, че мога да потъна в тях!
    Ochite ti sa tolkova dalboki, che moga da potana v tyah
    Your eyes are so deep that I can sink into them!
  • Нямам търпение да се срещнем отново!
    Nyamam tarpenie da se sreshtnem otnovo
    I can’t wait to meet you again!

This compliment will assure her that you like her a lot, and that you would like to spend much more time with her.

What if You Have a Bulgarian Boyfriend?

Just like girls, boys and men also need to receive compliments to know that they’re valuable in their partner’s eyes. Here’s a list of Bulgarian romantic phrases and compliments that a foreign girl can learn to impress her Bulgarian boyfriend.

  • Вярвам в теб!
    Vyarvam v tep
    I believe in you!

It’s very important for a man to know that the girl he likes trusts in him. If you do, tell him so.

  • Голям майстор си!
    Golyam maystor si
    You’re an expert in your field!
  • Хората искат да работят с теб, защото се доверяват на твоите способности!
    Horata iskat da rabotyat s tep, zashtoto se doveryavat na tvoite sposobnosti
    People want to work with you because they trust your abilities!
  • Ти си и талантлив, и трудолюбив!
    Ti si i talantlif, i trudolyubif
    You are both talented and hardworking!

All three of the compliments above are important for men to hear, because they emphasize their skills and achievements. A man who works hard and is independent is a reliable man who can maintain his own family. So use these compliments to show that you’re impressed with his achievements.

  • Вече си постигнал толкова много в живота си!
    Veche si postignal tolkova mnogo v zhivota si
    You’ve already achieved so much in your life!
  • Мисля, че притежаваш качества, които не се срещат в много други мъже!
    Mislya che pritezhavash kachestva koito ne se sreshtat v mnogo drugi mazhe
    I think you have qualities that many other men don’t have!
  • Ти си толкова мил с мен!
    Ti si tolkova mil s men
    You are so kind to me!
  • Мнението ти е важно за мен!
    Mnenieto ti e vazhno za men
    Your opinion is important to me!

By saying this, you make your man a part of your life; it means that you’ll not only consider, but also follow, his advice.

Give Compliments to Your Bulgarian Boyfriend!

2. Bulgarian Compliments on Your Girlfriend’s/Boyfriend’s Look

Tell These Bulgarian Compliments to Your Girlfriend

  • Истинска ли си?
    Istinska li si
    Are you real?
  • Ти си прекрасна жена!
    Ti si prekrasna zhena
    You are a wonderful woman!
  • Изглеждаш като Джулия Робъртс!
    Izglezhdash kato Dzhuliya Robarts
    You look like Julia Roberts!
  • Ти си красива и отвътре, и отвън!
    Ti si krasiva i otvatre i otvan
    You are beautiful both inside and outside!
  • Ти си моята причина да бъда щастлив!
    Ti si moyata prichina da bada shtastlif
    You are my reason to be happy!

You Are a Wonderful Woman!

Tell These Bulgarian Compliments to Your Boyfriend

  • Истински ли си?
    Istinski li si
    Are you real?
  • Ти си прекрасен мъж!
    Ti si prekrasen mazh
    You are a wonderful man!
  • Изглеждаш като Арнолд Шварценегер.
    Izglezhdash kato Arnold Shvartseneger
    You look like Arnold Schwarzenegger!
  • Ти си красив и отвътре, и отвън.
    Ti si krasiv i otvatre i otvan
    You are beautiful both inside and outside!
  • Ти си моята причина да бъда щастливa.
    Ti si moyata prichina da bŭda shtastliva
    You are my reason to be happy!

Compliments That Fit for Both Genders

  • Не мога да си представя света без теб!
    Ne moga da si predstavya sveta bez tep
    I can’t imagine the world without you!
  • Искам дъщеря ми да прилича на теб.
    Iskam dashterya mi da prilicha na tep
    I want my daughter to look like you!
  • Не усещам как минава времето, когато съм с теб!
    Ne useshtam kak minava vremeto, kogato sam s tep
    I can’t feel the time when I’m with you!

Funny Compliments on Your Girlfriend’s/Boyfriend’s Look

Sometimes, a little joke can break the tension and make your boyfriend or girlfriend relax. Laughter brings people together, so it might be useful to learn the following funny compliments and use them at the right time:

  • Толкова си сладка, че ще те изям!
    Tolkova si sladka, che shte te izyam
    You are so sweet that I will eat you up!
  • Ти си като елексир на живота!
    Ti si kato eleksir na zhivota
    You are like the elixir of life!
  • Когато те видя, всичко останало изчезва!
    Kogato te vidya, vsichko ostanalo izchezva
    When I see you, everything else disappears!
  • Колко си красива днес! Също като мен!
    Kolko si krasiva dnes! Sashto kato men
    How beautiful you are today! Just like me!
    → BulgarianPod101.com offers Bulgarian lessons for beginners. Click here to learn three ways to say thank you to the Bulgarian person you really like.

3. Bulgarian Compliments on Someone’s Work

Although it’s nice to get compliments about your looks, many people like hearing compliments about their work even more. This praise means that your friends appreciate what you’ve done and acknowledge that you’re a master in something.

To make other people happy, you can learn the right way to compliment in Bulgaria. Here are some examples that you can apply in your work environment:

  • Свърши чудесна работа!
    Svarshi chudesna rabota
    You did a great job!
  • Ти си много вдъхновяваща личност!
    Ti si mnogo vdahnovyavashta lichnost
    You are a very inspiring person!
  • Вярвам ти и те ценя!
    Vyarvam ti i te tsenya
    I trust you and I appreciate you!
  • Поздравявам те за начина, по който се справи със ситуацията!
    Pozdravyavam te za nachina, po koyto se spravi sas situatsiyata
    I congratulate you on the way you handled the situation!
  • Имам нужда от твоя съвет!
    Imam nuzhda ot tvoya savet
    I need your advice!

You Did a Great Job!

Funny Compliments on Someone’s Work

If you want to lighten up the situation with some humor, use one of the following funny compliments in Bulgarian:

  • Добра работа, но можеше да е още по-добрa!
    Dobra rabota, no mozheshe da e oshte po-dobra
    Good job, but it could have been even better!
  • Никой не може да се сравнява с теб!
    Nikoy ne mozhe da se sravnyava s tep
    No one can compare to you!
  • Хората в живота ти са късметлии, че те имат!
    Horata v zhivota ti sa kasmetlii, che te imat
    The people in your life are lucky to have you!
  • Личи си, че се учиш!
    Lichi si, che se uchish
    You seem to be learning!

4. Bulgarian Compliments on Your Girlfriend’s/Boyfriend’s Skills

To praise your boyfriend’s/girlfriend’s skills means that you acknowledge their talents and are inspired by their personality. By complimenting their skills, you show the other person that they’re valuable in your eyes. Here are some ways to demonstrate your deep appreciation:

  • Обичам начина, по който ме караш да мисля!
    Obicham nachina, po koyto me karash da mislya
    I love the way you make me think!
  • Постоянно ми напомняш, че хората са добри!
    Postoyanno mi napomnyash, che horata sa dobri
    You keep reminding me that people are good!
  • Светът би бил толкова скучен без теб!
    Svetat bi bil tolkova skuchen bez teb
    The world would be so boring without you!
  • Душата ти е великолепна!
    Dushata ti e velikolepna
    You have a magnificent soul!
  • Имаш толкова добро сърце!
    Imash tolkova dobro sartse
    You have such a good heart!
  • Никога не спирай да бъдеш това, което си!
    Nikoga ne spiray da badesh tova, koeto si
    Never stop being who you are!
  • Ти ме караш да вярвам в доброто!
    Ti me karash da vyarvam v dobroto
    You make me believe in good!

Funny Compliments on Your Girlfriend’s/Boyfriend’s Skills

Add more fun to the conversation by using one of these Bulgarian compliments:

  • Умен си колкото двама глупави!
    Umen si kolkoto dvama glupavi
    You are as smart as two stupid people!
  • Сърцето ти е десет пъти по-голямо от средното!
    Sartseto ti e deset pati po-golyamo ot srednoto
    Your heart is ten times larger than the average heart!
  • Не си толкова глупав, колкото позволяваш на хората да мислят за теб!
    Ne si tolkova glupav, kolkoto pozvolyavash na horata da mislyat za tep
    You’re not as stupid as you allow people to think about you!
  • Има ли ден, който не си направил по-добър?
    Ima li den, koyto ne si napravil po-dobar
    Is there a day you didn’t make better?

5. How to Make Your Compliments Sound More Sincere

Bulgarian people love to get compliments—when they’re sincere. These praises not only tell them that the person they’re speaking with finds them valuable, but compliments also encourage them to make further improvements. To achieve this effect, we need to know how to make a good compliment in Bulgarian.

Indirect Compliments

There are indirect compliments you may find useful in your conversations with Bulgarians. You can use the following Bulgarian compliments after you successfully finish a project with others.

  • Колко сме умни!
    Kolko sme umni
    How smart we are!
  • Браво на нас!
    Bravo na nas
    Good on us!

If you’re not sure how the person will receive your compliment, you can offer a compliment that’s less emotional. For example, you can say kind words about something they own:

  • Каква страхотна кола имаш!
    Kakva strakhotna kola imash
    What a great car you have!
  • Имаш много хубава къща!
    Imash mnogo hubava kashta!
    You have a very nice house!

Direct Compliments

In order to make a direct compliment on someone’s look sincere, take a closer look at the person and note exactly what you like about him/her. It may sound like:

  • Имаш страхотна прическа!
    Imash strahotna pricheska
    You have a great hairstyle!
  • Тази рокля ти стои чудесно!
    Tazi roklya ti stoi chudesno
    This dress looks great on you!

Sincere Compliments with Facts

To make your direct compliments sound more sincere, add some irrefutable fact to them.

  • Чудесен тен. Изглеждаш неотразимо!
    Chudesen ten. Izglezhdash neotrazimo
    Great tan. You look irresistible!
  • Каква красива рокля. В нея си просто очарователна!
    Kakva krasiva roklya. V neya si prosto ocharovatelna
    What a beautiful dress. You’re indeed charming!
  • Перфектна работа! Благодарение на нея нарастват печалбите на фирмата.
    Perfektna rabota! Blagodarenie na neya narastvat pechalbite na firmata
    Perfect job! Thanks to it, the company’s profits increased!

6. What to Expect After Giving Compliments

Although they like receiving compliments, Bulgarians may be shy about it. The most typical reaction to a compliment will be:

  • Благодаря (Blagodarya), “Thank you!
  • Благодаря! Много мило! (Blagodarya! Mnogo milo!), “Thank you! Very kind of you!

But sometimes, the person you’re speaking with might be too shy and try to oppose the compliment. For example, if you tell her “Oh, what a lovely dress you have today!” she might say: “Nothing special.

In Bulgarian, it will sound like this:

  • О, каква прекрасна рокля носиш днес!
    O, kakva prekrasna roklya nosish dnes
    Oh, what a beautiful dress you are wearing today!
  • Нищо особено!
    Nishto osobeno
    Nothing special.

This doesn’t mean that your interlocutor doesn’t like your compliment. Usually, it means that she or he is shy. In a case like that, you can just add:

  • Наистина, много ми харесва!
    Naistina, mnogo mi haresva
    Indeed, I like it a lot!

After such a comment, most Bulgarians will say: “Thank you!”

Now, watch the following video to find out the best ways of accepting a compliment in Bulgarian:

7. How to Avoid Awkward Situations When Making Compliments

You have to be careful when giving compliments in specific situations, as your compliments might not be considered appropriate.

Such a situation may be giving compliments about a girl’s look in the presence of her boyfriend or husband. It’s not okay to praise a woman’s beauty in this case. Instead, you can say a compliment that includes both of them as a couple. For example:

  • Изглеждате чудесно като двойка!
    Izglezhdate chudesno kato dvoyka
    You look great as a couple!

Or

  • Много си подхождате!
    Mnogo si podhozhdate
    You are so matching!

You should also avoid accidentally giving weird Bulgarian compliments on someone’s look, which can happen if that person has a physical disability. In that case, you can just emphasize on his good character or skills. For example:

  • Голям майстор си!
    Golyam maystor si
    You are an expert in your field!

Or

  • В това си ненадминат!
    V tova si nenadminat
    You are unsurpassed in this!

Compliments

8. Practice Time: What Compliments Will You Give to People in the Following Situations?

Now that you’ve learned a lot of Bulgarian compliments, it’s time to practice them in real-life situations. Your task will be to choose the right compliment to say for each specific situation described below. You can write down your answers now and check the correct answers at the end of this article.

Situation #1

You’re in the market searching for good apples to buy. You see very nice apples on the stall and you would like to give a compliment to the seller, who is standing beside them. What are you going to say?

Situation #2

Your colleague has offered you help, as you’re new to the company. He explained to you all of the details related to your working position. What compliment will you tell him/her to thank them for their kindness?

Situation #3

Your friend has a new hairstyle. What will you say to him/her?

Situation #4

You have a date with a Bulgarian girl. She looks really beautiful! What compliment will you give her?

Situation #5

You take a bus. There are no seats available, but a young man stands up to give you his seat. What will you tell him?

Situation #6

You were invited to your friend’s house, and the dinner you ate was very delicious. What will you tell the lady of the house?

9. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Impress Other People with Your Bulgarian

BulgarianPod101 prepared this extensive guide on Bulgarian compliments not only to help you learn about compliments in Bulgarian culture, but also to help you feel more confident in your Bulgarian skills during a date with a Bulgarian man or woman. If you need even more detailed explanations about this topic or help in specific situations, you can turn to a Bulgarian language expert using our MyTeacher program. You’ll find an excellent coach who will understand your needs and determine the right learning approach to improve your language skills.

If you’ve met some difficulties completing the practical exercises in Section 8, you can share them in the comments below. We’re always happy to hear from you and to support you in your struggles. We’ll also appreciate hearing your thoughts on this article!

Answers to Section 8: Practice Time

Situation #1

  • Много хубави ябълки!
    Mnogo hubavi yabalki
    Very nice apples!

Situation #2

  • Много мило от твоя страна! Благодаря за помощта!
    Mnogo milo ot tvoya strana! Blagodarya za pomoshta
    Very nice of you! Thanks for the help!

Situation #3

  • Много хубава прическа! Много ти отива!
    Mnogo hubava pricheska! Mnogo ti otiva
    Very nice hairstyle! It really suits you much!

Situation #4

  • Изглеждаш страхотно!
    Izglezhdash strahotno
    You look great!

Situation #5

In this case, we’ll use the formal Ваша instead of the informal твоя.

  • Много мило от Ваша страна! Благодаря!
    Mnogo milo ot Vasha strana! Blagodarya
    Very kind of you! Thank you!

Situation #6

  • Много e вкусно! Благодаря!
    Mnogo е fkusno! Blagodarya
    It’s very tasty! Thank you!

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Get Angry in Bulgarian with Phrases for Any Situation!

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Anger is a natural response to pain of some sort; when you’re angry, you’re angry with a cause and want someone to pay! It’s so much harder when you’re traveling, because your routines are off-kilter, there’s culture shock to deal with and the smallest problems can seem overwhelming. How do you handle someone who’s just pushed your last button?

At home, we often have a go-to person who is good at calming us down, but emotions are tricky to deal with in a foreign country. Sometimes people may treat you unfairly, but you’re completely baffled as to why. You have to remember that people in Bulgaria think differently to how you do and it’s not impossible to inadvertently cause offense. Don’t stress about it too much, because you’ll adapt! Once you feel at home in Bulgaria and people get to know you, it will be easy to flow with the local rhythm and handle tensions well.

This brings us to two obvious reasons why you should learn some angry phrases in Bulgarian: first, so you can understand when you’ve upset a Bulgarian person, and second, to have the vocabulary to tell a person off when they absolutely have it coming. Not only will you be far more likely to solve the problem if you know some appropriate angry Bulgarian phrases, but you’ll probably earn some respect, too! At BulgarianPod101 we’re ready to help you articulate those feelings.

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Table of Contents

  1. Bulgarian phrases to use when you’re angry
  2. Feeling negative in Bulgarian
  3. Conclusion

1. Bulgarian phrases to use when you’re angry

Complaints

Okay, so you’ve had a very frustrating day at your new teaching job in Bulgaria and all you want to do is chill on your bed with ice-cream and a Nook Book, but you come home to find your landlord in your apartment, apparently doing an inspection of your personal possessions. How do you handle it? Do you have an angry Bulgarian translation for “What the heck are you doing?”

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about confronting someone in their own country, it’s to press the pause button on my reactions and think first! Is my first thought worth expressing? Sometimes, you need to think like a chess player: if I make this move, what will happen next?

It’s always better to think ‘win-win’ in Bulgaria. A good tactic is to keep a mental note of your personal speed limit before engaging. After all, you want a positive outcome!

So, do you know how to say “I am angry” in Bulgarian? You will – BulgarianPod101 is about to teach you how to get mad! Here are fifteen great angry phrases in Bulgarian.

1- It’s none of your business. – Не е твоя работа (Ne e tvoya rabota).

As a foreigner in Bulgaria, you’ll be a topic of interest. While most folks understand boundaries, there’s always that one individual who doesn’t!

Sometimes you feel that a person is getting way too involved in your affairs, and this expression is a commonly-used one for letting them know that. If said calmly and firmly, while looking them in the eye, it should do the trick and even earn you some respect.

Angry Blonde Girl Holding Up Her Hands to Warn Someone Away

2- I’m upset. – Разстроен съм (Razstroen sam).

I find this phrase useful for times when I need to express annoyance to someone I can’t afford to lose my temper with. A boss, for instance. As long as you say it without yelling, this can be a polite way of letting someone know that you are feeling bad and that you want those feelings validated. No matter what has happened, the result is that you are troubled and need some time to get over it. Depending on how you say it, “I’m upset” can also be a subtle invitation for the other party to address the problem.

3- You’re not listening to me. – Ти не ме слушаш (Ti ne me slushash).

Isn’t this the most frustrating thing? You’re in a situation where you’re telling someone why you’re mad at them, but they just won’t look at the story from your point of view. Rather than resort to bad language, try to convince them to take a breather and hear you out. This expression is a great way to ask someone to stop talking and to listen to you properly.

Asian Couple Fighting Head-to-Head, Woman Blocking Her Ears

4- Watch your mouth. – Не ми говори така (Ne mi govori taka).

Where have you heard this before? Let your mind go back to all the times you were cheeky and disrespectful in your youth… that’s right – it was your parents! If you’re on the receiving end, this angry phrase means that you said something you shouldn’t have. It has an authoritative, challenging tone and it implies that there could be consequences if you don’t stop.

So, when can you use it? Well, be careful with this one; it may very well get you in trouble if not used with caution. It can also be seen as very rude if used on anyone you don’t actually have authority over!

5- That’s enough. – Достатъчно (Dostatachno)!

Depending on your tone of voice when you say this, you could be calmly telling someone to stop doing what they’re doing, or you could be sternly ordering them to stop. In Bulgarian, as in English, tone is key when it comes to making yourself understood. Just don’t be saying this to anyone, as it carries an authoritative tone and would be seen as rude if said to an older person.

Angry School Mistress Shaking a Ruler As If Reprimanding

6- Stop it. – Прекрати (Prekrati)!

One of the more common imperatives in any language, this is a basic way to warn somebody that you don’t like what they’re doing and want them to stop. You can use it in most situations where a person is getting under your skin. Often, “Stop it” precedes some of the weightier phrases one resorts to if the offender doesn’t stop and anger escalates. For this reason, I always add a “Please” and hope for the best!

7- Cut it out. – Престани (Prestani).

I think parents and teachers everywhere, throughout time, have heard variations of this expression of annoyance for as long as we’ve had tweens and teens on Earth! It’s a go-to command, thrown about frequently between siblings and peers, to stop being irritating. You’d generally use this on people you consider your relative equals – even though in the moment, you probably consider them low enough to stomp on!

8- What the heck are you doing? – Какво правиш по дяволите (Kakvo pravish po dyavolite)?

Here’s an interjection for those instances when you can scarcely believe what you’re seeing. It denotes incredulity ranging from mild disbelief to total disgust or dismay. You would typically use this when you want an action to stop immediately, because it’s wrong – at least, in your perception of things.

It may be worth remembering that the English word “heck” doesn’t have a direct translation in Bulgarian – or in other languages, for that matter; most translations are more accurately saying “What the hell.” We say “heck” in English as a euphemism, but that word is thought to come from “hex” – an ancient word for “spell” – so I don’t know which is better!

9- Who do you think you are? – За кого се мислиш (Za kogo se mislish)?

I avoid this expression as it makes me nervous! It’s quite confrontational. I’m reminded of the time a clerk in a busy cellular network service store was being rude to me and a rich-looking man came to my rescue, aiming this phrase at the clerk loudly and repeatedly. At first, I was relieved to have someone on my side, but I quickly grew embarrassed at the scene he was causing.

Using this phrase has a tendency to make you sound like you feel superior, so take it easy. The irony, of course, is that someone who provokes this response is taking a position of authority or privilege that they aren’t entitled to! Now you look like two bears having a stand-off.

They call this an ‘ad hominem’ argument, meaning the focus has shifted from attacking the problem, to attacking the person. So, is it a good phrase to use? That’s up to you. If you’re in the moment and someone’s attitude needs adjusting – go for it!

Man and Woman Arguing, with White Alphabet Letters Coming from the Man’s Mouth and White Question Marks Above the Woman

10- What?! – Какво е това (Kakvo e tova)?

An expression of disbelief, this is frequently said mid-argument, in a heated tone, and it means you cannot believe what you’re hearing. In other words, it conveys the message that the other person is talking nonsense or lying.

11- I don’t want to talk to you. – Не искам да говоря с теб (Ne iskam da govorya s teb).

This is a great bit of vocab for a traveler – especially for a woman traveling solo. Whether you’re being harassed while trying to read your Kindle on the train, or hit on by a drunk man in a bar, chances are that sooner or later, you will encounter a character you don’t wish to speak to.

The most straightforward way to make the message clear is to simply tell them, “I don’t want to talk to you”. If you feel threatened, be calm and use your body language: stand straight, look them in the eye and say the words firmly. Then move away deliberately. Hopefully, they will leave you alone. I’d go so far as to say learn this phrase off-by-heart and practice your pronunciation until you can say it like a strong modern Bulgarian woman!

Highly Annoyed Redhead Girl Holding Up Her Hands As If to Say “Stop!”

12- Are you kidding me? – Ти майтапиш ли се с мен (Ti maytapish li se s men)?

To be ‘kidding’ means to joke with someone in a childlike way and it’s used both in fun and in anger. Like some other expressions, it needs context for the mood to be clear, but it pretty much conveys annoyed disbelief. You can use it when a person says or does something unpleasantly surprising, or that seems unlikely to be serious or true. It’s a rhetorical question, of course; try to familiarize yourself with how it sounds in Bulgarian, so next time it’s aimed at you, you don’t hunt your inner Bulgarian lexicon for an answer!

Dark-haired Girl Giving a Very Dirty Look, with One Hand on Her Hip and Holding a Gift Box with Apparent Disgust

13- This is so frustrating. – Това направо ме побърква (Tova napravo me pobarkva).

Another way of showing someone you have an intense battle going on inside, is to just tell them you’re terribly frustrated and feeling desperate to find a solution. Use this expression! It can be a useful tool to bring the other person into your headspace and maybe even evoke some degree of empathy from them. More polite than many others, it’s a sentence that seems to say, “I beg you to work with me so we can resolve this!”

Asian Man Yelling, Bent Forward, with His Hands Held Up Next to His Head

14- Shut up. – Млъкни (Mlakni).

The use of the phrase “shut up” to signify “hold one’s tongue” dates back to the sixteenth century and was even used by Shakespeare as an insult – with various creative twists! It’s been evolving ever since and there are variations in just about every language – proving that no matter where you come from, angry emotions are universal!

One example of old usage is a poem Rudyard Kipling wrote in 1892, where a seasoned military veteran says to the troops: “Now all you recruities what’s drafted to-day, You shut up your rag-box an’ ‘ark to my lay.”

Well, when I was twelve and full of spirit, I was taught that nice girls don’t say this. “Shut up” is an imperative that’s considered impolite; it’s one of those expressions people resort to when they either can’t think of better words to use, or simply can’t bear to listen to any more nonsense. Either way, it’s at the lower end of the smart argument scale. Like all angry phrases, though, it does have its uses!

15- So what? – И какво толкова (I kakvo tolkova)?

When you don’t believe the other person’s defense argument legitimizes or justifies their actions, you might say these words. Basically, you’re telling them they need to come up with better logic!

Another time you could use this one, is when you simply don’t care for someone’s criticism of you. Perhaps you don’t agree with them, or they’re being unfair and you need to defend your position. “So what?” tells them you feel somewhat indignant and don’t believe you’re in the wrong.

2. Feeling negative in Bulgarian

Negative Feelings

What was the most recent negative emotion you felt? Were you nervous about an exam? Exhausted and homesick from lack of sleep? Maybe you felt frightened and confused about the impact COVID-19 would have on your travel plans. If you’re human, you have days when you just want the whole world to leave you alone – and that’s okay!

When you’re feeling blue, there’s only so much body language can do. Rather than keeping people guessing why you’re in a bad mood, just tell them! Your Bulgarian friends and colleagues will be much more likely to give you your space (or a hug) if they know what’s wrong. Not only that, but it’s nice to give new friends the opportunity to be supportive. Bring on the bonding!

The fastest way to learn to describe negative feelings in Bulgaria, is to get into the habit of identifying your own mood daily in Bulgarian. Here’s an easy way: in your travel journal, simply write down the Bulgarian word for how you feel each morning. You can get all the words directly from us at BulgarianPod101. Remember, also, that we have a huge online community if you need a friend to talk to. We’ve got you!

3. Conclusion

Now that you know how to express your bad feelings in Bulgarian, why not check out some other cool things on our site? You can sign up for the amazing free lifetime account – it’s a great place to start learning!

And really – make the most of your alone time. After all, it’s been proven that learning a new language not only benefits cognitive abilities like intelligence and memory, but it also slows down the brain’s aging. So, on those days when you just need to be away from people, we have some brain-boosting suggestions that will lift your spirits:

  • Have you heard of Roku? A Roku player is a device that lets you easily enjoy streaming, which means accessing entertainment via the internet on your TV. We have over 30 languages you can learn with Innovative Language TV. Lie back and enjoy!
  • If you like your Apple devices, we have over 690 iPhone and iPad apps in over 40 languages – did you know that? The Visual Dictionary Pro, for example, is super fun and makes learning vocab easy. For Android lovers, we have over 100 apps on the Android market, too.
  • You can also just kick back on the couch and close your eyes, letting your headphones do the work with our audiobooks – great for learning the culture while you master the language. Similarly, if you’re more of a reader, we have some fantastic iBooks that are super interesting and fun for practicing your daily conversation skills.

Whatever your learning style (or your mood), you’ll find something that appeals to you at BulgarianPod101. Come join us!

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Essential Vocabulary for Life Events in Bulgarian

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What is the most defining moment you will face this year? From memories that you immortalize in a million photographs, to days you never wish to remember, one thing’s for certain: big life events change you. The great poet, Bukowski, said, “We are here to laugh at the odds and live our lives so well, that death will tremble to take us.” The older I get, the more I agree with him!

Talking about significant events in our lives is part of every person’s journey, regardless of creed or culture. If you’re planning to stay in Bulgaria for more than a quick visit, you’re sure to need at least a few ‘life events’ phrases that you can use. After all, many of these are shared experiences, and it’s generally expected that we will show up with good manners and warm wishes.

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Table of Contents

  1. Life Events
  2. Marriage Proposal Lines
  3. Talking About Age
  4. Conclusion

1. Life Events

Do you know how to say “Happy New Year” in Bulgarian? Well, the New Year is a pretty big deal that the whole world is in on! We celebrate until midnight, make mindful resolutions, and fill the night sky with the same happy words in hundreds of languages. No doubt, then, that you’ll want to know how to say it like a local!

Big life events are not all about fun times, though. Real life happens even when you’re traveling, and certain terminology will be very helpful to know. From talking about your new job to wishing your neighbors “Merry Christmas” in Bulgarian, here at BulgarianPod101, we’ve put together just the right vocabulary and phrases for you.

1- Birthday – рожден ден (rozhden den)

If you’re like me, any excuse to bring out a pen and scribble a note is a good one. When there’s a birthday, even better: hello, handwriting!

Your Bulgarian friend will love hearing you wish them a “Happy birthday” in Bulgarian, but how much more will they appreciate a thoughtful written message? Whether you write it on their Facebook wall or buy a cute card, your effort in Bulgarian is sure to get them smiling! Write it like this:

Честит Рожден ден
Chestit Rozhden den

Older Woman Blowing Out Candles on a Birthday Cake Surrounded by Friends.

Now that you know the words, I challenge you to put them to music and sing your own “Happy birthday” song in Bulgarian! It’s not impossible to figure out even more lyrics, once you start discovering the language from scratch.

2- Buy – купувам (kupuvam)

If there’s a special occasion, you might want to buy somebody a gift. As long as you’ve checked out Bulgarian etiquette on gift-giving (do a Google search for this!), it will be a lovely gesture. If you’re not sure what to buy, how about the awesome and universally-appealing gift of language? That’s a gift that won’t stop giving!

Two Women at a Counter in a Bookstore, One Buying a Book

3- Retire – пенсионирам се (pensioniram se)

If you’re planning to expand your mind and retire in Bulgaria, you can use this word to tell people why you seem to be on a perpetual vacation!

Retirement is also a great time to learn a new language, don’t you think? And you don’t have to do it alone! These days it’s possible to connect to a vibrant learning community at the click of a button. The added benefit of a Daily Dose of Language is that it keeps your brain cells alive and curious about the world. After all, it’s never too late to realize those long-ignored dreams of traveling the globe…

4- Graduation – дипломиране (diplomirane)

When attending a graduation ceremony in Bulgaria, be prepared for a lot of formal language! It will be a great opportunity to listen carefully and see if you can pick up differences from the everyday Bulgarian you hear.

Lecturer or University Dean Congratulating and Handing Over Graduation Certificate to a Young Man on Graduation Day.

5- Promotion – повишение (povishenie)

Next to vacation time, receiving a promotion is the one career highlight almost everyone looks forward to. And why wouldn’t you? Sure, it means more responsibility, but it also means more money and benefits and – the part I love most – a change of scenery! Even something as simple as looking out a new office window would boost my mood.

6- Anniversary – годишнина (godishnina)

Some anniversaries we anticipate with excitement, others with apprehension. They are days marking significant events in our lives that can be shared with just one person, or with a whole nation. Whether it’s a special day for you and a loved one, or for someone else you know, this word is crucial to know if you want to wish them a happy anniversary in Bulgarian.

7- Funeral – погребение (pogrebenie)

We tend to be uncomfortable talking about funerals in the west, but it’s an important conversation for families to have. Around the world, there are many different customs and rituals for saying goodbye to deceased loved ones – some vastly different to our own. When traveling in Bulgaria, if you happen to find yourself the unwitting observer of a funeral, take a quiet moment to appreciate the cultural ethos; even this can be an enriching experience for you.

8- Travel – пътувам (patuvam)

Travel – my favorite thing to do! Everything about the experience is thrilling and the best cure for boredom, depression, and uncertainty about your future. You will surely be forever changed, fellow traveler! But you already know this, don’t you? Well, now that you’re on the road to total Bulgarian immersion, I hope you’ve downloaded our IOS apps and have your Nook Book handy to keep yourself entertained on those long bus rides.

Young Female Tourist with a Backpack Taking a Photo of the Arc de Triomphe

9- Graduate – завършвам (zavarshvam)

If you have yet to graduate from university, will you be job-hunting in Bulgaria afterward? Forward-looking companies sometimes recruit talented students who are still in their final year. Of course, you could also do your final year abroad as an international student – an amazing experience if you’d love to be intellectually challenged and make a rainbow of foreign friends!

10- Wedding – сватба (svatba)

One of the most-loved traditions that humans have thought up, which you’ll encounter anywhere in the world, is a wedding. With all that romance in the air and months spent on preparations, a wedding is typically a feel-good affair. Two people pledge their eternal love to each other, ladies cry, single men look around for potential partners, and everybody has a happy day of merrymaking.

Ah, but how diverse we are in our expression of love! You will find more wedding traditions around the world than you can possibly imagine. From reciting love quotes to marrying a tree, the options leave no excuse to be boring!

Married Couple During Reception, Sitting at Their Table While a Young Man Gives a Wedding Speech

11- Move – премествам се (premestvam se)

I love Bulgaria, but I’m a nomad and tend to move around a lot, even within one country. What are the biggest emotions you typically feel when moving house? The experts say moving is a highly stressful event, but I think that depends on the circumstances. Transitional periods in our lives are physically and mentally demanding, but changing your environment is also an exciting adventure that promises new tomorrows!

12- Be born – роден (roden)

I was not born in 1993, nor was I born in Asia. I was born in the same year as Aishwarya Rai, Akon, and Monica Lewinsky, and on the same continent as Freddy Mercury. When and where were you born? More importantly – can you say it in Bulgarian?

13- Get a job – намирам работа (namiram rabota)

The thought of looking for a job in a new country can be daunting, but English speakers are in great demand in Bulgaria – you just have to do some research, make a few friends and get out there! Also, arming yourself with a few Bulgarian introductions that you can both say and write will give you a confidence boost. For example, can you write your name in Bulgarian?

Group of People in Gear that Represent a Number of Occupations.

14- Die – умирам (umiram)

Death is a universal experience and the final curtain on all other life events. How important is it, then, to fully live before we die? If all you have is a passport, a bucket list, and a willingness to learn some lingo, you can manifest those dreams!

15- Home – дом (dom)

If home is where the heart is, then my home is on a jungle island completely surrounded by the turquoise ocean. Right now, though, home is an isolation room with a view of half a dry palm tree and a tangle of telephone wires.

If you’re traveling to Bulgaria for an extended stay, you’ll soon be moving into a new home quite unlike anything you’ve experienced before!

Large, Double-Story House with Lit Windows.

16- Job – работа (rabota)

What job do you do? Does it allow you much time for travel, or for working on this fascinating language that has (so rightfully) grabbed your attention? Whatever your job, you are no doubt contributing to society in a unique way. If you’re doing what you love, you’re already on the road to your dream. If not, just remember that every single task is one more skill to add to your arsenal. With that attitude, your dream job is coming!

17- Birth – раждане (razhdane)

Random question: do you know the birth rate of Bulgaria?

If you’re lucky enough to be invited to see a friend’s baby just after they are born, you’ll have all my respect and all my envy. There is nothing cuter! Depending on which part of the country you’re in, you may find yourself bearing witness to some pretty unexpected birth customs. Enjoy this privilege!

Crying Newborn Baby Held By a Doctor or Nurse in a Hospital Theatre

18- Engaged – сгодявам се (sgodyavam se)

EE Cummings said, “Lovers alone wear sunlight,” and I think that’s most true at the moment she says “yes.” Getting engaged is something young girls dream of with stars in their eyes, and it truly is a magical experience – from the proposal, to wearing an engagement ring, to the big reveal!

In the world of Instagram, there’s no end to the antics as imaginative couples try more and more outrageous ways to share their engagement with the world. I love an airport flashmob, myself, but I’d rather be proposed to on a secluded beach – salt, sand, and all!

Engagement customs around the world vary greatly, and Bulgaria is no exception when it comes to interesting traditions. Learning their unique romantic ways will inspire you for when your turn comes.

Speaking of romance, do you know how to say “Happy Valentine’s Day” in Bulgarian?

19- Marry – женя (zhenya)

The one you marry will be the gem on a shore full of pebbles. They will be the one who truly mirrors your affection, shares your visions for the future, and wants all of you – the good, the bad and the inexplicable.

From thinking up a one-of-a-kind wedding, to having children, to growing old together, finding a twin flame to share life with is quite an accomplishment! Speaking of which…

2. Marriage Proposal Lines

Marriage Proposal Lines

Ah, that heart-stopping moment when your true love gets down on one knee to ask for your hand in marriage, breathlessly hoping that you’ll say “Yes!” If you haven’t experienced that – well, it feels pretty darn good, is all I can say! If you’re the one doing the asking, though, you’ve probably had weeks of insomnia agonizing over the perfect time, location and words to use.

Man on His Knee Proposing to a Woman on a Bridge.

How much more care should be taken if your love is from a different culture to yours? Well, by now you know her so well, that most of it should be easy to figure out. As long as you’ve considered her personal commitment to tradition, all you really need is a few words from the heart. Are you brave enough to say them in Bulgarian?

3. Talking About Age

Talking about Age

Part of the wonder of learning a new language is having the ability to strike up simple conversations with strangers. Asking about age in this context feels natural, as your intention is to practice friendly phrases – just be mindful of their point of view!

When I was 22, I loved being asked my age. Nowadays, if someone asks, I say, “Well, I’ve just started my fifth cat life.” Let them ponder that for a while.

In Bulgaria, it’s generally not desirable to ask an older woman her age for no good reason, but chatting about age with your peers is perfectly normal. Besides, you have to mention your birthday if you want to be thrown a birthday party!

4. Conclusion

Well, there you have it! With so many great new Bulgarian phrases to wish people with, can you think of someone who has a big event coming up? If you want to get even more creative, BulgarianPod101 has much to inspire you with – come and check it out! Here’s just some of what we have on offer at BulgarianPod101:

  • Free Resources: Sharing is caring, and for this reason, we share many free resources with our students. For instance, start learning Bulgarian with our basic online course by creating a lifetime account – for free! Also get free daily and iTunes lessons, free eBooks, free mobile apps, and free access to our blog and online community. Or how about free Vocabulary Lists? The Bulgarian dictionary is for exclusive use by our students, also for free. There’s so much to love about BulgarianPod101…!
  • Innovative Learning Tools and Apps: We make it our priority to offer you the best learning tools! These include apps for iPhone, iPad, Android and Mac OSX; eBooks for Kindle, Nook, and iPad; audiobooks; Roku TV and so many more. This means that we took diverse lifestyles into account when we developed our courses, so you can learn anywhere, anytime on a device of your choice. How innovative!
  • Live Hosts and One-on-One Learning: Knowledgeable, energetic hosts present recorded video lessons, and are available for live teaching experiences if you upgrade. This means that in the videos, you get to watch them pronounce those tongue-twisters, as if you’re learning live! Add octane to your learning by upgrading to Premium Plus, and learn two times faster. You can have your very own Bulgarian teacher always with you, ensuring that you learn what you need, when you need to – what a wonderful opportunity to master a new language in record time!
  • Start Where You Are: You don’t know a single Bulgarian word? Not to worry, we’ve absolutely got this. Simply enroll in our Absolute Beginner Pathway and start speaking from Lesson 1! As your learning progresses, you can enroll in other pathways to match your Bulgarian level, at your own pace, in your own time, in your own place!

Learning a new language can only enrich your life, and could even open doors towards great opportunities! So don’t wonder if you’ll regret enrolling in BulgarianPod101. It’s the most fun, easy way to learn Bulgarian.

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