Lesson 1.5: Polite Expressions

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, you will learn common polite expressions used in Russian. These expressions are essential for everyday interactions, helping you greet people, express gratitude, and use basic manners. Polite expressions are key to understanding Russian etiquette and will help you navigate social situations more comfortably.

Grammar Tip 1: Formal vs. Informal Greetings

In Russian, the level of formality depends on who you are talking to:

• Здравствуйте (Hello) – Formal and respectful, used with strangers, colleagues, or in professional settings.
• Привет (Hi) – Informal, used with friends and close acquaintances.

Grammar Tip 2: Expressing Gratitude and Apology

Russian has multiple ways to say “thank you” and “sorry” depending on the level of gratitude or apology you want to express:

• Спасибо (Thank you) – General, polite form.
• Большое спасибо (Thank you very much) – More emphatic.
• Простите (Excuse me) – Formal apology.
• Извините (Sorry) – Informal or casual apology.

Example Sentences:

1. Здравствуйте, как дела?
   (Hello, how are you?)
2. Спасибо за помощь!
   (Thank you for your help!)
3. Простите, можно спросить?
   (Excuse me, may I ask a question?)
4. Удачи в новом проекте!
   (Good luck with the new project!)
5. Приятно познакомиться, меня зовут Алекс.
   (Nice to meet you, my name is Alex.)