postavi

Postavi is a form used in several South Slavic languages, most notably Croatian, Bosnian, Serbian, and Montenegrin. It derives from the verb postaviti, meaning to place, set up, or establish. In standard usage, postavi is primarily the imperative form used to address the second person singular: Postavi to na stol, meaning “Place that on the table.” As an imperative, it functions to give a direct command or instruction and is common in everyday speech and practical guidance.

The broader verb postaviti is built from the prefix po- added to staviti (to put), with roots in the Proto-Slavic language. Beyond its literal sense, postavi appears in many constructive phrases such as postavi pitanje (pose a question) or postavi rok (set a deadline). Metaphorically, it can mean to set up or establish something, such as a plan, system, or arrangement.

Postavi is a verb form rather than a standalone noun and is not typically used as a proper noun. Related linguistic forms include postavljanje (the act of placing or setting) and the verb staviti (to put). The exact usage and tense can vary by dialect and standard form within the South Slavic language continuum, but the core meaning remains centered on placing, setting up, or establishing.