odznaczy

Odznaczy is a Polish verb form associated with the verbs odznaczyć and odznaczać. It is primarily a future tense form, meaning “he/she/it will mark” or “he/she/it will decorate,” depending on context. The root znac- comes from oznaczać, which means to mark or denote, and the prefix od- can add a sense of separation or distinction.

The verb odznaczyć is the perfective counterpart, used for actions viewed as complete. Its forms include odznaczy (he will mark or decorate), odznaczysz (you will mark), odznaczyli/odznaczyły (they will mark), etc. The imperfective odznaczać exists for ongoing or repeated marking, with present tense forms such as odznacza (he marks) and odznaczasz (you mark). Consequently, odznaczy appears in contexts describing a completed or definite future action.

Two main senses govern usage in contemporary Polish. First, to mark or label something, or to denote a feature or designation. Second, to confer a decoration or award on someone, such as a medal, badge, or order; this is common in official or ceremonial language. For example, sentences might read: “Władze odznaczą go orderem” (The authorities will award him an order) and “Prezes odznaczył pracowników medalami za zasługi” (The president decorated the employees with medals for their merits).

Related terms include odznaka (badge or insignia) and odznaczenie (a decoration or act of awarding). The term is widely used in formal, administrative, and historical contexts, including military, civic honors, and documentation.

See also: odznaka, odznaczenie.