przykro

Przykro is a Polish word that functions as an adjective meaning “sad” or “unpleasant” and as a common expression used to convey regret or sympathy. In everyday speech it appears most often in the fixed phrase Przykro mi, which translates to “I’m sorry” or “I feel sorry.” The word can also describe a situation as unfortunate: To było przykro (That was unfortunate/sad). For added emphasis, speakers say Bardzo mi przykro (I am very sorry).

Grammatical notes: Przykro commonly accompanies a person in the dative case, as in Przykro mi (I’m sorry) or Było mi przykro (I felt sad). It can introduce a clause with że to express regret about an event: Przykro mi, że nie mogłem przyjść (I’m sorry that I couldn’t come). It can also describe a state, as in To było dla mnie przykro (That was unfortunate for me).

Etymology and usage context: The term is native to Polish and widely used in conversation, journalism, and literature. It conveys a mild to moderate expression of sympathy or regret rather than a strong complaint.

See also: Żal, ubolewanie, współczucie.

Examples:

- Przykro mi, że cię zawiodłem. (I’m sorry that I let you down.)

- Bardzo mi przykro, że to się stało. (I’m very sorry that this happened.)

- To było dla mnie przykro. (That was unpleasant for me.)