Question 1

Why does the sentence use zdrav instead of zdravi?

Accepted Answer

In Croatian, when an adjective comes after the verb to be to describe the subject (as a predicate adjective), it takes the indefinite form. Since kruh is masculine, we use the shorter indefinite form zdrav. The definite form zdravi is used when the adjective comes directly before the noun, as in zdravi kruh (the healthy bread).

Question 2

Could I say Integralni kruh je zdravo since we often use zdravo to mean healthy?

Accepted Answer

No, because the adjective must agree with the gender of the noun it describes. Kruh is a masculine noun, so it requires the masculine adjective zdrav. You only use the neuter form zdravo for general statements without a specific noun, such as Jesti kruh je zdravo (Eating bread is healthy).

Question 3

Why does integralni have the definite -i ending here?

Accepted Answer

Relational adjectives—those that classify things by material, type, or origin—almost exclusively use the definite form. Because integralni defines the specific category of bread rather than a subjective trait, it keeps the definite -i ending for masculine nouns even when it is just introducing the concept.

Question 4

What is the difference between integralni kruh and crni kruh?

Accepted Answer

While both are darker alternatives to white bread (bijeli kruh), integralni kruh specifically refers to wholewheat or wholemeal bread made from the entire grain. Crni kruh translates to black bread and is a broader term for brown bread or rye bread (raženi kruh), which may or may not be 100% whole grain.

Integralni kruh je zdrav.

Breakdown of Integralni kruh je zdrav.

Questions & Answers about Integralni kruh je zdrav.

Learn Integralni kruh je zdrav and more in Croatian