zpomalovávat

zpomalovávat is a Czech verb that translates to "to slow down" or "to decelerate" in English. It describes the process of reducing speed or rate. This can apply to physical objects, such as a car slowing down, or to abstract concepts, like a process or an economy slowing down.

The verb is in its imperfective aspect, meaning it describes an ongoing or repeated action. The perfective counterpart is "zpomalit," which denotes the completion of the action, or "to slow down" as a singular event. For example, "Auto se zpomalovalo" means "The car was slowing down," while "Auto se zpomalilo" means "The car slowed down."

In a figurative sense, "zpomalovávat" can refer to the act of hindering or impeding progress. For instance, bureaucratic procedures might be described as "zpomalovávat" a project. The verb is commonly used in everyday conversation and in various contexts, from traffic reports to economic analyses. Understanding its nuances helps in comprehending Czech language usage related to changes in speed and pace.