Object Clauses With kako

Reporting a Perceived Event

Level 4

After perception verbs, kako can introduce a scene or event rather than a question about manner.

How It Works

With verbs such as vidjeti and čuti, a kako-clause can function as the object: Čujem kako netko pjeva. The speaker hears the singing event. No method or procedure needs to be unknown.

The embedded clause has its own subject and finite verb. Its tense and aspect help show the perceived event: vidjela je kako otvara vrata views the opening in progress from the scene described.

Compare Pitao je kako se otvaraju vrata. Here kako introduces an actual question about the method. The introductory verb and context matter more than the English word “how” alone.

Examples (3)

  1. Gledam kako djeca grade kulu od pijeska.

    I am watching the children build a sandcastle.

  2. Čuli smo kako netko kuca na vrata.

    We heard someone knocking at the door.

  3. Ana je vidjela kako se brod udaljava.

    Ana saw the boat moving away.

How It Connects

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Object Clauses With kakoLevel 4Reporting a Perceived Event

Learn This First

Kako can introduce perceived content rather than ask an independent manner question.

Words in This Pattern