Boże uchowaj
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What it means
Literally “God preserve us.” An exclamation of horror, strong disapproval, or alarm — “God forbid!” or “heaven forbid!”
Vocabulary
- Bóg — God
- uchować — to preserve / to protect / to keep safe
Grammar note
'Boże' is the vocative of 'Bóg' — directly addressing God. 'Uchowaj' is the imperative of 'uchować.' A fixed exclamatory phrase.
Cultural context
A very common Polish exclamation, used by religious and secular speakers alike. Can express genuine alarm or dramatic exaggeration.
Beginner
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