Learning the language for routine activities can significantly enhance your communication skills in daily scenarios when living in or traveling to a Russian-speaking country. Here we’ll explore some essential phrases that you can use in your day-to-day life to help you blend in with the locals and understand the Russian culture better.

Доброе утро (dobroye utro)
This phrase translates to “Good morning.” It is a pleasant way to greet anyone in the morning and shows basic politeness.

Вы уже выпили кофе? Доброе утро!

Извините (izvinite)
“Excuse me” or “Sorry,” this word is used to get someone’s attention or apologize for a small inconvenience.

Извините, вы не подскажете, как пройти в библиотеку?

Спасибо (spasibo)
This is the Russian word for “Thank you.” It is perhaps one of the most important words to know as it demonstrates gratitude.

Спасибо за вашу помощь!

Пожалуйста (pozhaluysta)
It means “Please” or “You’re welcome.” It can be used in both requesting something or responding to ‘thank you’.

Могу я взять эту книгу? Пожалуйста!

Как дела? (kak dela?)
This phrase means “How are you?” It’s a common question posed when meeting someone, used in casual and friendly contexts.

Привет, Как дела?

Хорошо (khorosho)
“Good” or “Fine.” This is a common and simple response when someone asks how you are doing.

Спасибо, у меня всё хорошо.

Что это? (chto eto?)
Translating to “What is this?” It’s a helpful phrase for learning new words and understanding objects you’re not familiar with.

Что это на столе?

Сколько это стоит? (skol’ko eto stoit?)
Meaning “How much does this cost?” It’s a very useful phrase when shopping and dealing with money.

Сколько это стоит, этот сувенир?

Я не понимаю (ya ne ponimayu)
This translates to “I don’t understand.” It’s a key phrase for times when you need clarification or did not catch what was said.

Я не понимаю, можешь повторить?

Где находится …? (gde nahoditsya…?)
“Where is …?” This is an essential question for finding places, whether it’s a bathroom, a station, or a particular street.

Где находится ближайшая станция метро?

Это очень вкусно! (eto ochen’ vkusno!)
Used to express that something is “Very tasty!” or “Delicious!” It’s a nice compliment when you enjoy a meal.

Это очень вкусно! Спасибо, что пригласили.

Пока! (poka!)
It is a casual way of saying “Bye!” or “See you!” This is typically used with friends or people you’re familiar with.

Ну вот, мне пора. Пока!

До свидания (do svidaniya)
This is the more formal “Goodbye.” It can be used in any situation, whether casual or formal.

Было приятно вас видеть. До свидания!

Learning and using these phrases will help you to carry out day-to-day activities while speaking Russian with more confidence. Practice them regularly, and soon they will become second nature. Remember, language learning is not only about memorizing words; it’s also about diving into the culture and understanding the context in which these words and phrases are used. So don’t be afraid to try them out!