Smíchat

Smíchat is a Czech verb meaning to mix, blend, or combine several elements into a single homogeneous whole. It denotes the completion of the action or its result, in contrast to the imperfective verb míchat, which emphasizes the ongoing process. The prefix s- in smíchat expresses bringing things together and completing the action.

Etymology and grammar

Smíchat is formed from the verb míchat with the prefixed particle s-. It is a perfective verb, so its present tense in standard usage expresses future or a completed action, e.g., smíchám, smícháš, smíchá, smícháme, smícháte, smíchají. The corresponding past tense forms are smíchal, smíchala, smíchalo, smíchali, with appropriate endings for gender and number. The past participle is smíchaný, used as an adjective: smíchaný roztok (a mixed solution).

Usage and constructions

Smíchat is used in culinary, chemical, artistic, and everyday contexts. Common constructions include:

- Smíchat A s B (to mix A with B): Smíchejte mouku s cukrem. (Mix flour with sugar.)

- Smíchat do homogenní směsi (to mix into a uniform mixture): Smíchejte do hladka.

- Smoke a liquid or colors blending: Barvy se smíchají.

Related terms

Promíchat (to mix thoroughly, to stir well) is a closely related, often more explicit, imperfective or intensive form. Smíchaný is the common adjective for “mixed.” Smíchání or smíchání se (the process of mixing) also appears in technical or culinary contexts.

See also

In recipes and instructions, smíchat is frequently used alongside other action verbs to guide precise steps in combining ingredients or components.