If you have ever visited the capital of the Czech Republic, you might have heard locals referring to their city as “Praha” instead of “Prague”. This raises a common question among travelers- Does Praha mean Prague? The answer is simple – Yes, Praha is the Czech name for Prague.
Why does Praha mean Prague?
The Czech language is a Slavic language and has its own unique pronunciation and spelling. The English language has borrowed several words from different languages, including Czech. However, when such words are adapted into English, they often go through changes in spelling or pronunciation to make them easier for English speakers to pronounce.
The name “Prague” comes from the Czech word “Praha,” which means threshold or doorstep. It is believed that this name originated because of a geographical feature present in the area where Prague was founded. According to legend, Princess Libuše founded Prague on a cliff overlooking the Vltava River, and she saw it as a threshold or entrance into a new era.
How do you pronounce Praha?
The pronunciation of Praha can be tricky for non-Czech speakers as it does not follow the typical phonetic rules of English. The letter “h” in Praha is pronounced with a slight breathy sound at the back of your throat, known as a fricative sound. The correct pronunciation sounds like “Pra-khah” with emphasis on the second syllable.
Why should you know about Praha?
Knowing that Praha means Prague can come in handy when traveling to the Czech Republic. When navigating around the city using public transport or maps, you may come across signs written in Czech. By knowing that “Praha” refers to Prague, you will be able to identify various landmarks and tourist attractions with ease.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Praha is the Czech name for Prague. While the pronunciation and spelling may be slightly different from what English speakers are used to, knowing that Praha means Prague can be helpful when traveling to the Czech Republic. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have been there before, understanding the city’s name will help you navigate around with ease.