Distributive numbers (po)

To express that everyone gets an equal share (like "each" or "apiece" in English), use the preposition po before a number.

Using "po" for distribution

When po means "each", the phrase often acts as a direct object. The numeral "one" (jedan, jedna, jedno) and its noun take the accusative case.

each, apiece (distributive)
po
The roommates got one key each.
Cimeri su dobili po jedan ključ.

For numbers two, three, and four, the number and noun simply take the standard forms you already use for counting objects.

Nobody took anything sweet, but each roommate got two candies each.
Nitko nije uzeo ništa slatko, ali je svaki cimer dobio po dva bombona.

Dividing expenses

Living with roommates (cimeri) means splitting costs. Use the verb podijeliti (to divide) for shared responsibilities like rent (stanarina) and utilities (režije).

If we divide the rent, we will also divide the utilities.
Ako podijelimo stanarinu, podijelit ćemo i režije.

Sharing food and chores

You can use po to distribute just about anything, from portions (porcija) of food to cleaning tasks. Notice how the noun's gender changes the form of the number jedan in the accusative case.

Give us one portion of sausages each, please.
Dajte nam po jednu porciju kobasica, molim vas.
My roommate and I clean one room each.
Moja cimerica i ja čistimo po jednu sobu.
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