po + Locative
Along Across and by a Criterion
Po is broader than English “on.” With locative, it can describe movement across an area or the basis on which something is judged or arranged.
How It Works
For movement distributed over an area, use a locative phrase such as po parku or po gradu. The phrase describes where the activity extends, rather than naming an object that someone goes to fetch.
Other locative uses give circumstances or a criterion: po kiši, po veličini, po mom mišljenju. Translate the relationship as a whole: “in the rain,” “by size,” or “in my opinion.”
Case is part of the meaning. Compare hodati po vodi, movement on or through water, with otići po vodu, going to get water. Do not apply a simple rule that every movement after po takes accusative.
Examples (3)
- Nakon večere šetamo po gradu.
After dinner we walk around the city.
- Posložila je knjige po veličini.
She arranged the books by size.
- Ne volim voziti po jakoj kiši.
I do not like driving in heavy rain.
How It Connects
Learn This First
Po governs locative forms for distributed location and criterion readings.
Related Patterns
Words in This Pattern
Practice po + Locative in Bubblegum
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