Questions & Answers about Czy ten pilot lubi latać?
Why do we use latać here instead of lecieć?
Latać is the multidirectional verb for flying. We use it when talking about flying as a general activity, habit, or ability. Because we are asking if the pilot likes flying in general, we must use latać. If we used lecieć (the unidirectional verb), it would mean we are asking about a single, specific trip from point A to point B.
Why is latać in its dictionary form (infinitive) here?
It follows the conjugated verb lubi (likes). Just like in English (likes to fly), when you pair these verbs together to talk about preferences, the second verb stays in the infinitive form.
I have heard the word pilot used for something else in Polish. What else does it mean?
You have a good memory! While pilot means an airplane pilot, it is also the everyday word for a TV remote control (pilot do telewizora). Context will tell you which one people mean, though hopefully your TV remote isn't the one doing the flying.
Could I just ask Ten pilot lubi latać? without using Czy?
Yes, in casual spoken Polish you can just say Ten pilot lubi latać? and raise the pitch of your voice at the end to show it is a question. However, starting with czy makes it instantly clear that you are asking a yes/no question, which is very common and sounds a bit more polite and complete.