úvahu

Úvaha is a Czech noun with two related but distinct senses. In ordinary use it denotes contemplation, reflection, or careful consideration of a topic. In a literary or journalistic context, úvaha also refers to a short reflective prose piece in which the author examines a subject from a personal or philosophical perspective. The accusative form úvahu appears in sentences like “napíš úvahu o tématu.”

Etymology and range of meaning derive from the verb uvážit, meaning to weigh or consider. Related terms include zamyšlení (pondering), reflexe (reflection), and úvahový as an adjective describing things pertaining to or suitable for such reflections. The plural úvahy can mean either a set of considerations or a collection of short reflective essays.

Usage and form: ordi­nary language uses úvaha to signify the act of thinking something over, for example “udělat si úvahu nad problémem.” In literature, a úvaha is typically a concise, subjective meditative text that explores an idea, often incorporating personal observation and moral or general takeaway. It is generally more reflective and less formally argumentative than an esej (essay), though the two can overlap.

Související pojmy include úvahový text, esej, reflexe a zamyšlení. Úvaha remains a flexible concept in Czech, balancing inward thought with outward expression, and serving as both a cognitive process and a literary form.