All you need to know about the word ‘Fakat’
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
Croatian can be an expressive language, filled with words and phrases that particularly capture the foreign ear.
Not long ago, we asked some foreigners who had lived in Croatia a while to pick their favourite ‘Croatian’ word.
One word which came up a few times was the word ‘fakat’ (pronounced FAH-kaht)
I absolutely crack up every time I hear this word used as it sounds like ‘f**k it’! I was so curious when I first heard it and when I found out that all it meant was ‘really’ I was kind of let down. Such a passionate word, Alana, originally from Australia, told us.
We decided to take a closer look at the word.
The Origins of ‘Fakat’
The word ‘fakat’ has its roots in the Turkish language, where ‘hakikat’ means ‘truth’ or ‘reality.’ This connection dates back to the time of the Ottoman Empire. Over time, the word evolved and was adapted into the local vernacular, becoming ‘fakat.’
In its modern form, ‘fakat’ has drifted away from its original meaning of truth and is now more synonymous with phrases like ‘really,’ ‘seriously,’ or ‘honestly’ in English.
It’s a great example of how languages borrow and reshape words over centuries.
What Does ‘Fakat’ Mean?
At its core, ‘fakat’ is an adverb used to emphasise something. Depending on the context, it can express surprise, agreement, or even frustration. Think of it as the Croatian equivalent of saying, ‘No way!’ or ‘For real!’ It’s often used in casual conversation and is particularly popular among younger generations.
Here are some examples to give you a better idea:
Fakat je super! – It’s really great!
Fakat ne mogu vjerovati. – I really can’t believe it.
Fakat?! – Really?!
It’s also worth noting that the tone and context can significantly change how ‘fakat’ is interpreted. It can convey enthusiasm, scepticism, or even sarcasm, depending on how it’s delivered.
Where and How to Use ‘Fakat’
‘Fakat’ is a word best reserved for informal settings. You’ll hear it in cafes, among friends, or in everyday conversations.
While it’s perfectly fine for chatting with family or peers, it’s not something you’d typically use in formal writing or professional settings.
Interestingly, ‘fakat’ is not confined to Croatia. Due to shared linguistic and cultural ties in the region, it’s also used in neighbouring countries. However, its popularity in Croatia is especially notable, where it’s a staple of casual speech.