powstrzymuj

Powstrzymuj is a Polish verb form meaning “restrain” or “hold back.” It is the second-person singular imperative of the imperfective verb powstrzymywać, whose related infinitives are powstrzymywać (imperfective) and powstrzymać (perfective). The imperfective aspect signals repeated or ongoing action, while the perfective powstrzymać describes a single, completed act of stopping someone from doing something.

Grammatical notes:

Powstrzymuj is transitive and commonly used with a direct object or with the preposition od to indicate preventing someone from a specific action. It can also appear in reflexive constructions with się, to express self-restraint: Powstrzymuj się od komentarzy. The corresponding singular imperative of the perfective aspect is powstrzymaj, and its plural form is powstrzymajcie (or powstrzymajcie się in reflexive uses).

Usage and nuance:

Powstrzymuj is often used in ongoing or repeated contexts, such as urging someone to maintain restraint over time. For a one-time action, the perfective powstrzymaj is typical. Common synonyms include powstrzymywać, powściągać, and hamować, though each carries its own nuance regarding duration and intensity.

Examples:

- Powstrzymuj krzyki i zachowaj spokój. (Hold back the screams and stay calm.)

- Powstrzymuj się od pochopnych decyzji. (Refrain from impulsive decisions.)

- Powstrzymujmy go przed wejściem. (Let us restrain him from entering.)

See also:

powtrzymywać, powstrzymać, powściągać.