skromnie

Skromnie is a Polish adverb meaning “modestly” or “in a modest, restrained manner.” It describes actions, statements, or attitudes that avoid boastfulness or exaggeration and is used in both spoken and written Polish. The adverb often accompanies verbs such as dziękować (to thank), powiedzieć (to say), oceniać (to assess), or przyznawać (to admit), signaling a restrained or humble tone. Common phrases include skromnie mówiąc (to put it modestly) and skromnie oceniono wyniki (the results were judged modestly).

Etymology and nuance: Skromnie is derived from the adjective skromny (modest, humble). As an adverb, it shifts the emphasis from the attribute itself to the manner in which an action is performed, marking modesty, understatement, or caution. It is generally neutral and appropriate in formal and informal contexts, though it can also be used to temper praise or achievements in public statements.

Usage notes: In journalism and public discourse, skromnie helps avoid boasting about success or capabilities. It can be used to describe behavior, conclusions, or announcements, as in “skromnie podziękował za wsparcie” (he modestly thanked for the support) or “skromnie oceniamy wyniki” (we modestly assess the results). It contrasts with adjectives like skromny (modest) and with nouns such as skromność (humility).

See also: skromny, skromność.

Skromnie is a standard, enduring particle in Polish that conveys restraint and humility in a concise, neutral manner.