ідіо́т
idiótmasculine
The English word "idiot" can be translated into Ukrainian using several terms, most commonly ідіо́т (idiót). Wiktionary also lists ідіо́тка (idiótka) and ду́рень (dúrenʹ).
Meaning: person of low general intelligence (noun)
Ways to say it
| Ukrainian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ідіо́т | idiót | masculine |
| ідіо́тка | idiótka | feminine |
| ду́рень | dúrenʹ | masculine |
| дуре́па | durépa | feminine |
| ду́рка | dúrka | feminine |
| йо́лоп | jólop | masculine |
These terms are used to describe a person of low general intelligence.
Which one should you use?
While ідіо́т is a direct way to call someone an idiot, ду́рень is a milder and less offensive way to call someone a fool or a silly person. The feminine term ду́рка is a colloquial way to refer to a silly or foolish woman, and its impact can range from playful to insulting depending on your tone. For a more colloquial or slightly rustic way to call someone an idiot or a fool, you can use йо́лоп.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The term Лох is an informal way to imply stupidity or naiveté.
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine form ідіо́т has a feminine counterpart, ідіо́тка. Other feminine nouns used to describe a foolish woman include дуре́па and ду́рка.
How do you pronounce it?
idiót
Did you know?
- While ду́рка means a foolish woman it is also the colloquial word for a psychiatric hospital. Calling someone a ду́рка can therefore imply they belong in an asylum.
- In Ukrainian culture the phrase дурний як пробка describes someone as 'stupid as a cork'. This is a common idiom used when ідіо́т feels too clinical.
- While ідіо́т sounds modern, the word ду́рень has deep roots in Slavic folklore, often describing a character who is foolish but sometimes possesses a hidden, magical wisdom.
Examples in context
- Подумай, що говориш, дурень.Think before you speak, idiot.
- Ти там забув портфель, лох.You forgot your briefcase there, idiot.
- Не роби такі дурняцькі вчинки.Don't do such idiotic things.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “idiot” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
