приду́рок
pridúrokmasculine
The Russian word for bozo is приду́рок (pridúrok). If unsure, use приду́рок. Wiktionary also lists тупи́ца (tupíca) and дура́к (durák).
Meaning: (slang) a stupid or foolish person (noun)
Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| приду́рок | pridúrok | masculine |
| тупи́ца | tupíca | feminine, masculine |
| дура́к | durák | masculine |
These terms are used to describe people who are perceived as stupid, foolish or incompetent. Depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey, you might use different words: Бездарь describes someone as untalented or lacking skills, while Балбес refers to someone being childish, silly or foolish. For a much stronger or more insulting slang term, Чмо can be used to describe a jerk, imbecile or total idiot.
Which one should you use?
The forms differ based on gender and specific nuance. приду́рок is the masculine form, while тупи́ца can be used for both masculine and feminine subjects. дура́к is a masculine term for a fool. While all generally imply foolishness, as noted above, Балбес leans toward silliness and Бездарь toward a lack of talent.
How do you pronounce it?
pridúrok
Did you know?
- In Russian folklore and fairy tales, the 'Ivan the Fool' character (Ива́нушка-дура́к) often wins against all odds because his 'stupidity' is actually a form of purity or hidden wisdom.
- Calling someone a дура́к in a playful tone is a common way for Russian couples or best friends to show affection.
- The word тупи́ца shares a root with тупо́й, which describes a knife that is 'blunt' or 'not sharp'. It implies the person's mind lacks a 'cutting edge'.
Examples in context
- Он – глупец, который всегда делает глупые вещи.He is a fool who always does foolish things.
- Не будь дураком и не делай глупостей.Don't be a fool and don't do stupid things.
- Не будь балбесом и сосредоточься на работе.Don't be a bozo and focus on your work.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “bozo” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
