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  What it means

  Literally “on card.” This phrase is used when paying for goods or services using a debit or credit card. In modern Poland, card payments (and contactless phone payments) are the norm even in small towns. It is also used to describe “pre-paid” mobile phone plans (telefon na kartę).

  Vocabulary

  • karta — card
  • płacić — to pay
  • gotówka — cash

  Grammar note

  'Na kartę' uses the accusative singular. If you want to say "I'll pay by card," you say: "Płacę kartą" (instrumental) or "Poproszę na kartę."

  Cultural context

  Poland has one of the most advanced digital payment infrastructures in Europe. You’ll rarely find a place that is "cash only" these days.

  Beginner

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