Why Lj?
Do you know how to pronounce the sound lj? Don't worry if it's a challenge for you, even if you're not a complete beginner. Many struggle with it - learners of Croatian, little ones just starting to talk in Croatian, even Croatian grandparents missing a few teeth! It's a tricky Croatian sound found in ljubav, my favorite Croatian word.
Why is it tricky? It's like saying l and j almost together. To do it, try convincing your brain to think of it as one action. For example, clap your hands at the same time as you pronounce the sound lj. When clapping, you use both hands but make one motion. This way, your brain thinks that pronouncing the sounds l and j at the same time is one single action. Try it a few times and the sound lj won’t be a problem anymore!
Lj is also what you get if you combine the first letters of language in English and jezik in Croatian. Language + jezik = lj. Croatian and English differ in their foundations. In Croatian, word endings matter a lot. Using the wrong one might lead to confusion but word endings also allow more simple and faster communication. That's why learning Croatian grammar in context is key at Lj. Context integrates grammar into everyday language and culture.
Speaking of culture, have you noticed the school's logo? It's inspired by traditional folk costumes! The motifs you see are from Ivanec embroidery, a cultural treasure of Croatia's Podravina region, where I come from. These ornaments are very complex, even though they are usually viewed from a distance.
Croatian language functions in the same way. If we examine it closely, we will see that it has many complex rules and a lot of lists of word endings, but with my help, you will see the bigger picture. I will show you that the bigger picture is simple, like the simple letter lj in the School's logo.
At Lj, we dive into grammar, expand your vocabulary, and align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Yet, our core focus is to enhance your Croatian communication skills, develop a natural feeling for the language, and explore the beauty of Croatian culture. I can't wait to guide you through this exciting journey! See you in class!
