naj bi: supposedly
Level B1 · Unit 15: Stereotypes · Lesson 5: Regional stereotypes, and naj bi
Naj bi + the l-participle reports something you've heard but can't vouch for. The news uses it all the time:
- Štajerci naj bi bili najbolj veseli. Štajerci are supposed to be the most cheerful.
- Jutri naj bi deževalo. It's supposed to rain tomorrow.
- Minister naj bi odstopil. The minister has reportedly resigned.
Practise this in the free course
This explanation comes from Unit 15, Lesson 5 of Slovenim, a free Slovenian course with dialogues, audio and exercises that check your answers.