Zamknij proszę okno, jest zimno.

to be

Breakdown of Zamknij proszę okno, jest zimno.

• zamknąć: to close
• proszę: please
• okno: the window
• zimny: cold

Questions & Answers about Zamknij proszę okno, jest zimno.

What is the form of zamknij and how is it used in this sentence?

Zamknij is the second person singular imperative form of the verb zamknąć (to close). It is used when giving a command or request to one person in an informal context. The formation follows regular patterns in Polish for forming imperatives, and using it in this sentence directs the listener to perform the action.

Why is proszę placed between zamknij and okno?

Proszę functions as a polite marker equivalent to “please.” Placing it immediately after the imperative zamknij softens the command, making it more courteous. Although its position can vary (sometimes before or after the command), its insertion between the verb and the object is common practice to create a friendly, less forceful request.

Why does the clause jest zimno not have an explicit subject?

In Polish, impersonal constructions—especially those related to weather or general conditions—often omit the subject. In jest zimno, there is no need for a pronoun equivalent to “it” because the structure itself implies the condition. This concise construction is typical, much like saying “it’s cold” in English without emphasizing a specific subject.

How are the two parts of the sentence connected by punctuation, and what is their relationship?

The sentence is made up of two clauses: the imperative „Zamknij proszę okno“ and the explanatory statement „jest zimno“. A comma is used to separate these two components. The latter clause provides the reason for the request expressed in the imperative, linking the command (to close the window) to the condition (it being cold).

Could you provide a word-by-word breakdown of the sentence?

Certainly:

• Zamknij – “close” (imperative form addressing one person).
• proszę – “please” (a polite add-on to soften the command).
• okno – “window.”
• jest – “is.”
• zimno – “cold.” Together, the full sentence means: “Close the window, please; it is cold,” where the request and the reason for the request are clearly expressed.

Is using the imperative appropriate in Polish, and how does proszę modify its tone?

Yes, using the imperative in Polish is common for giving direct commands or requests. However, imperatives can sometimes sound abrupt. The addition of proszę plays a critical role in softening the command, making it sound more like a polite request rather than a stern order. This use of proszę is a typical way for speakers to maintain politeness while still being clear about what is expected.