polski.directory

[ Learn Polish. All resources, one place. ]
  • Listen

    What it means

    Literally “young by spirit,” this is used to describe an older person who has a youthful energy, attitude, or lifestyle. It is the Polish way of saying someone is “young at heart.” It is a very common compliment for seniors who remain active and curious.

    Vocabulary

    • młody — young
    • duch — spirit / soul
    • energia — energy

    Grammar note

    'Duchem' is the instrumental singular of 'duch'. The instrumental is often used to define the "respect" or "aspect" in which a quality applies.

    Cultural context

    In Poland, this is a frequent phrase in birthday wishes or toasts for grandparents.

    Beginner

Noticed a typo, a wrong translation, or anything that doesn't look right? We'd love to fix it — just let us know via the contact page. Thank you!

More Polish idioms

  • Literally "one's whole life flew past before the eyes," this phrase describes the vivid, involuntary …
    Intermediate
  • Literally "for an example," na przykład is the standard Polish phrase for "for example" or "for …
    Beginner
  • Literally "in the last/recent times," ostatnimi czasy is a common temporal phrase meaning "lately," …
    Beginner
  • Literally "in the manner of Judas," this adverb describes acting in a treacherous, backstabbing way …
    Intermediate