pomalý

Pomalý is a Czech adjective meaning slow. It describes the speed of movement, tempo, or rate of development and can refer to objects, people, processes, or events. In use, it is neutral to negative depending on context. Common phrases include pomalý provoz (slow traffic), pomalý postup (slow progress), or pomalá odpověď (slow response).

Etymology and cognates: The term belongs to the Slavic family and has cognates in related languages, notably Slovak pomalý and Polish powolny, with similar meanings. The root conveys a sense of lacking speed or steadiness.

Grammar and inflection: Pomalý declines for gender and number. Singular forms are pomalý (masculine), pomalá (feminine), pomalé (neuter). Plural forms include pomalí (masculine personal) and pomalé (other genders and inanimate). The adverb form is pomalu, meaning slowly. The comparative form is pomalejší (slower), and the superlative nejpomalejší (slowest). Adverbial comparison can also appear as pomaleji.

Usage notes: Pomalý often appears in neutral descriptive contexts, but can carry evaluative nuance depending on tone and situation. It contrasts with rychlý (fast) and is used across domains, from everyday speech to technical or literary contexts.

See also: Rychlý (fast); antonyms and related terms describing pace or tempo.