Ever had a fake friend? They’re all smiles until the moment comes to stab you in the back. False friends in Serbian and English are
Sanja Markovic
March 6, 2025
In 2025, Serbian students are taking to the streets, demanding social justice. Their protests are full of catchy slogans, bold messages, and, most of all, passion for a positive change. For you, this is a perfect chance to learn Serbian through activism.
With the creative posters, you’ll pick up everyday language, cultural references, and even a bit of humor. So, let’s dive in and take your Serbian study into the real world!
At the moment, we’re witnessing one of the most impressive student protests in history. It all started after the tragic roof collapse at the Novi Sad train station claimed 15 lives. Since then, anger has been rising, and people are demanding justice and accountability.
So, let’s join the crowd and explore the creative banners. On top of picking up a phrase or two, you’ll get an inside look at the country’s hot topics and social climate.
Slogan: Studenti su ustali — ni Saul vas neće spasiti.
Translation: The students have risen — not even Saul will save you!
As you can see, the banner is showcasing the legendary criminal lawyer, Saul Goodman. In the popular TV show, Breaking Bad, he helped drug lords get away with their crimes time and time again.
So, the message is clear — you will be held accountable for negligence and corruption, and not even Saul Goodman will be able to stop that.
Slogan: Sramota me da kažem AV!
Translation: I’m ashamed to say AV!
What does a dog say in Serbian? Av! (Woof). As it happens, these letters are the initials of the certain person who is the target of a lot of outrage these days. Of course, that certain someone is the country’s president. Is our canine friend right to be ashamed? Judge for yourself.
Slogan: Grčka tragedija se zasniva na mitu, dok se srpska tragedija zasniva na mitu i korupciji
Translation: The Greek tragedy is based on myth, while the Serbian tragedy is based on bribery and corruption
Here’s a clever wordplay! Greek tragedies are all about mit (myths), but Serbia’s tragedy is based on mito (bribery) and korupcija (corruption). It’s a witty way of saying that while Greek tales are ancient stories, Serbia’s troubles are very real — and fueled by corruption.
The message? It’s time to clean up the mess and end this real-life tragedy!
Slogan: Ne brukaj me Zagorka
Translation: Don’t embarrass me, Zagorka
This slogan plays on the image of Zagor, the comic hero, and targets Zagorka Dolovac, the Supreme Public Prosecutor. Since they share a name, the message is, Don’t make us both look bad! But why?
The frustration comes from the fact that Dolovac seems to be hiding rather than doing her job. So, the slogan calls on her to stop avoiding responsibility and actually bring justice instead of letting the people down.
Slogan: Pred vama ni pihtije ne drhte
Translation: Not even jelly shakes in front of you
Have you ever eaten pihtije? It’s a wobbly, jelly-like Serbian dish that shakes at the slightest movement of the plate. So, the slogan says that not even the wobbliest thing — like pihtije — will tremble in front of corrupt leaders.
In other words, the protesters aren’t afraid of threats. They’ll stay strong and stand firm in their fight for change.
Slogan: Radovi na putu — popravljamo Srbiju
Translation: Roadworks in progress — we’re fixing Serbia
This slogan uses roadblocks as a metaphor for the protests. Basically, it implies that everything needs to stop for a while to fix what’s broken.
Just like roadworks halt traffic, the protesters are blocking roads and bridges to demand change. In other words, they’re making Serbia pause and focus on what needs fixing.
Slogan: Laki štrajk (korupcija ubija)
Translation: Lucky Strike (corruption kills)
This is a twist on a famous cigarette brand, Lucky Strike. Since štrajk means strike (protests), it fits the bill. But, instead of cigarette smoke, it’s the corruption that kills. So, hopefully, the strike will be lucky and bring justice.
Slogan: Neću da budem tetka iz Nemačke!
Translation: I don’t want to be the aunt from Germany!
This slogan speaks to the reality many Serbs face — having to leave for places like Germany to find a better life. As you can imagine, the aunt from Germany is the relative sending money back home, forced to help the family from afar.
The message is simple: people don’t want to keep leaving to survive. Instead, they want to stay and create a better future here in Serbia.
Slogan: Ti biraš!
Translation: It’s your choice!
This slogan references a popular Matrix line but with a Serbian twist. The blue pill is a sendvič (sandwich), which is often given to the supporters of the ruling party at rallies in exchange for their participation.
On the other hand, The red pill is an indeks (students grade book), representing the student protests that are waking the country up and pushing for real change.
Slogan: Studenti će osloboditi svet.
Translation: Students will free the world.
Let’s cap it off on a positive note. The fresh enthusiasm is bubbling in Serbia, inspiring change, solidarity, and hope for a brighter future. Most of all, the whole world is in awe of the brave students standing up for what they believe in — no matter the hurdles and consequences.
And that’s how you learn Serbian through activism — by seeing firsthand how words inspire change. After all, protest slogans aren’t just catchy phrases; they reflect the real struggles and values of the people. Every chant, sign, and demand is a lesson in language and society.
Looking for more practical ways to master the language? Follow us on Instagram for bite-sized lessons, real-life phrases, and Serbian in action!
Ever had a fake friend? They’re all smiles until the moment comes to stab you in the back. False friends in Serbian and English are
Are you into medieval fortresses that have seen more action than a blockbuster movie? Perhaps Brutalist creations that look ready to launch into space are