Language / The Polish accusative case [32]

Lefty wanted me to write something about the case system in a way that is easy to understand.

Basic information about the accusative case. There are exceptions to all rules, but I will only mention the most important ones.

Nouns
Masc. (living): -a
Masc. (non-living): same as the nominative case
Neutr: same as nom.
Feminine: -ę

Adjectives
Masc. (living): -ego
Masc . (non/living): same as nom.
Neutr: same as nom.
Fem.: -ą

To find the proper endings for pronouns (such as mnie, cię etc.) please look for a declination table.

The accusative case is closely related to the direct object. The direct object is usually the thing (or person) that someone is doing something with. This applies to a very broad spectrum of constructions. Even to like something or to have something, is considered to be something you do (from this point of view).

For example (the direct objects are bold):
Peter has a red car.
Sarah buys a map.
Steven likes tea.
You must give the paper to me.

The direct object should be in accusative case.
Eg. Steven lubi herbatę.

There is one exception to this. If the sentence is "negative", with nie before the verb, you should use the genitive case.
E.g. Steven nie lubi herbaty.

Adjectives are also declined in the same situations.
E.g. Magda kupi białą czekoladę.

The other important thing is about prepositions.

Przez is (always) associated with the accusative case.

The following are sometimes associated with the accusative case:
-na (when it is not about a location, and when it is a motion)
-w (on days of the week)
-po (for, in order to bring sth)
-nad (when motion)
- pod (when motion)
-przed (when motion)
-za (when motion)

Na is also accusative in some common expressions such as:
-Mieć ochotę na X.
-Oglądać X.
-Czekać na X.
-etc...

Hope it helps!