What are some common false friends in Russian that can lead to funny misunderstandings
False friends are words in two languages that look or sound similar but differ significantly in meaning, often leading to amusing or embarrassing misunderstandings. Here are some common false friends between Russian and English:
Common False Friends
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Preservative (консервант) vs. Презерватив (condom): While “preservative” refers to a substance used to preserve food, the Russian word “презерватив” means “condom” 2.
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Magazine (журнал) vs. Магазин (shop): In English, a “magazine” is a periodical publication, but in Russian, “магазин” means “shop” or “store” 3.
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Sympathy (сочувствие) vs. Симпатия (a liking for): The English word “sympathy” implies compassion or pity, whereas the Russian “симпатия” means a liking or fondness for someone 2.
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Chef (шеф) vs. Шеф (boss): In English, a “chef” is someone who cooks professionally, but in Russian, “шеф” means any kind of boss or leader 3.
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Brilliant (brilliant) vs. Бриллиант (diamond): While “brilliant” in English can mean excellent or very bright, the Russian “бриллиант” specifically refers to a diamond 3.
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Lunatic (сумасшедший) vs. Лунатик (sleepwalker): In English, a “lunatic” is someone who is considered insane, while in Russian, “лунатик” refers to a sleepwalker 2.
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Camera (камера) vs. Камера (cell): The English word “camera” refers to a device for taking photographs, whereas the Russian “камера” can mean a cell, such as a prison cell 3.
These examples highlight how similar-sounding words can have very different meanings across languages, leading to potential misunderstandings if not carefully navigated.