pobývali

"Pobývali" is the imperfect past tense plural form of the Czech verb "pobývat." This verb translates to "to stay," "to reside," "to sojourn," or "to inhabit" for a period of time, often implying a temporary or less permanent dwelling than strict "living" (bydlet). The imperfect tense indicates an action that was ongoing, repeated, or habitual in the past. Therefore, "pobývali" specifically refers to a situation where multiple people (or a group) were staying, residing, or sojourning somewhere in the past.

For example, one might say "Děti pobývali u babičky celé léto" which translates to "The children stayed at their grandmother's all summer." This implies a repeated or continuous presence over the summer period. Another usage could be "Naši předkové pobývali v této oblasti po staletí," meaning "Our ancestors resided in this area for centuries," highlighting a long-term, habitual presence in the past. The specific nuance of "pobývali" often depends on the context, but it consistently describes a past, ongoing, or repeated state of being in a particular place for a group of individuals. It can suggest a less settled existence, perhaps moving between locations or spending extended holidays.