chytat

Chytat is an infinitive used in Czech and Slovak languages for the verb meaning to catch, seize, or grab. It is the imperfective aspect, describing ongoing, repeated, or habitual action, with the corresponding perfective form chytiť (in Czech) or chytiť (in Slovak). The core sense covers catching physical objects as well as metaphorical or idiomatic uses.

In Czech, the present tense forms of chytat are chytám, chytáš, chytá, chytáme, chytáte, chytají. The aspect distinction influences how past actions are expressed: chytat denotes repeated or in-progress catching, while chytnout (the corresponding perfective) marks a single completed act. Common phrases include chytat rybu (to catch a fish) and chytnout někoho za slovo (to catch someone at their word).

In Slovak, chytať serves as the imperfective counterpart to chytiť. The meaning and usage align closely with the Czech pattern, encompassing literal catching and idiomatic expressions such as chytiť sa za slovo (to seize upon someone’s word) or chytať príležitosti (to seize opportunities). Both languages employ the verb across everyday speech, sports, hunting, and various figurative contexts.

Apart from its verbal use, Chytat can appear as a surname or, less commonly, as a place name in some Slavic-language contexts, though these uses are far less frequent than the verbal sense. Etymologically, the word is linked to Proto-Slavic roots associated with grabbing or taking hold, with cognates found in related West Slavic languages. Overall, Chytat is a standard, widely understood verb in Czech and Slovak, essential for describing acts of catching and related notions.