The heart of a language is often in how it is used every day. While we may not consider it, there are a lot of different historical references and alterations in English words and phrases that continue to be commonly used. They aren’t always well understood by foreigners who are attempting to learn our language, so you can imagine that learning Russian will also mean being able to pick up on those nuances of the language as well. To better understand everyday usage of Russian for foreigners, the best place to start is with language exercises. Everyday Russian language exercises include:
- Conversational instruction. Speaking Russian everyday means understanding phrases, intonation, pronunciation, and context. To get there, you need to be able to both read Russian and speak it in plain conversation.
- Written materials and examinations. To reinforce what you’ve learned and to test your level of comprehension in everyday Russian, written materials and examinations can assist you in finding your strengths and weaknesses in the language.
- Immersion. For students that choose programs in the Ukraine or Kiev, being able to speak Russian with Native Russians is the single best way to quickly learn and understand everyday Russian language.
Common Russian Words and Phrases:
- Yes – Да (Da)
- No – Нет (Nyet)
- Thank you – Спасибо (Spa`siba)
- Goodbye, formal – До свидания (Da svidaniya)
- Goodbye, informal – Пока (pa’ka)
- I don’t understand – Я не понимаю (Ya ne pani’mayu)
- Have a nice day – Хорошего дня (Horosheva dnja)
Online Lessons for Everyday Russian
To get the best of immersion, conversation, and written instruction, online lessons are one of the strongest ways for foreigners to practice Russian at a pace that’s right for them. With instructors and materials available on your own schedule, you could become fluent before you know it. Online classes can allow you to connect with native Russian speakers, and to access materials that you may not be able to find anywhere else. In the process, you can try examinations, learn more about the changing nature of the language itself, and speak with Russians through online voice programs like Skype. Learning everyday Russian through online courses may be one of the single most effective ways to pick up on the language outside of moving to Moscow yourself. If you’re a student that’s interested in getting certified in the Russian language, or a professional that wants to do business with Russian businesses, ECHO Eastern Europe offers professional-level Russian educational courses that can have you reading and speaking the language in much less time than you think.