Prostý

Prostý is an adjective used in Czech and Slovak to describe things that are plain, simple, or unadorned, as well as people who are ordinary or unpretentious. The sense can extend to explanations or reasons described as straightforward or uncomplicated. In reference to people, prostý can imply humility or straightforwardness, but it can also carry a mildly pejorative or naïve nuance depending on context and tone. Common phrases include prostý člověk (an ordinary person), prostý důvod (a straightforward/simple reason), and prostý život (a plain, unpretentious life).

Etymology and cognates: Prostý derives from a Proto-Slavic root meaning direct or straight, with related forms in other Slavic languages. Cognates include Polish prosty and Russian prostoy, which share the core sense of simplicity or directness.

Usage notes: The word functions as a standard descriptive term in everyday speech, literature, and religious or historical texts. It can describe objects, actions, or life as plain or unadorned, and it also characterizes people in terms of ordinariness or unpretentiousness. The meaning shifts with context and accompanying words, ranging from neutral to mildly positive (humble, plain) to occasionally critical (unsophisticated, naive).

Inflection: In Czech and Slovak, prostý inflects for gender and number, with forms that align with typical adjective declension patterns in each language.