dovolíme

Dovolíme is a Czech verb form that translates roughly as “we allow” or “let us.” It is the first-person plural present tense of the verb dovolit (to permit) and is used in formal Czech writing and speech to indicate permission granted by the speaker or to introduce a polite request or remark.

In everyday and formal communication, the phrase dovolit si appears in set expressions that soften statements or requests. A common usage is the introductory construction “Dovolíme si,” as in “Dovolíme si poznamenat, že …” meaning “We would like to note that …” or “Dovolíme si vás požádat o …” meaning “We would ask you to ….” This locution is characteristic of editorial prose, press releases, and ceremonial or diplomatic language, where speakers position themselves with modesty or deference.

Grammatical notes and nuance: as the form of a finite verb, dovolíme conveys permission or allowance by the subject (the speaker or an involved party). It is often employed by institutions, media, or formulating bodies that speak on behalf of a group. The particle si in phrases with dovolíme often signals a courteous, self-referential stance rather than a direct command.

Etymology and related forms: dovolit comes from the Czech verb meaning to permit or allow, with deeper roots in Proto-Slavic. Dovolíme is thus part of a family of related forms used to express permission across personal pronouns, with other forms including dovolím (I permit) and dovolíte (you permit).

See also: dovolit, dovolovat, povolit, česká stylistika.