это
eto
The Russian phrase for "it is" is это (eto).
это is used to mean "it is" or "this is". It is specifically used when pointing to something or when introducing a new topic.
Which one should you use?
Unlike English, the Russian word это is used to identify objects or people without requiring a separate verb for "to be" in the present tense.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word это functions as both "it is" and "this is" and does not change based on the gender or number of the subject it refers to.
How do you pronounce it?
eto
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly try to conjugate a verb for "to be" (such as есть) when using это to identify something, but это alone is sufficient in the present tense.
Did you know?
- Even when referring to a plural group of people, such as 'they are my friends', you can still use the singular это to introduce them.
- If you want to say 'that is' instead of 'this is', you do not change это. You simply change your gesture or add a word, as это stays the same.
- In Russian, you can use это to describe a situation or a truth, meaning 'that is the case', acting more like a logical pointer than a description of a physical object.
Examples in context
- Это её или нет?It is hers, is it not?This sentence shows how to use это to ask if something belongs to a female subject.Tatoeba #1649984 by Hayabusa, translation #42154 by Dejo
- Это я не права.It is me that is wrong.This sentence shows how to use это to state that the speaker is in the wrong.Tatoeba #11144930 by marafon, translation #32552 by CK
- Это не моё дело.It is not my business.This sentence demonstrates using это to state that something is not one's business.Tatoeba #530693 by ae5s, translation #4306265 by burak
- Это моя книга.This is my book.
- Это очень важный момент.This is a very important moment.
- Эта комната просторная.This room is spacious.
- Вот это красивый цветок!This is such a beautiful flower!
- Вот это удивительный вид!This is an amazing view!
- 979 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Andrey and Ekaterina are looking at a gift in the living room.
- Андрей AndreyЧто это?Chto eto?What is it?
- Екатерина EkaterinaЭто подарок для тебя.Eto podarok dlya tebya.It is a gift for you.
- Андрей AndreyЭто книга?Eto kniga?Is it a book?
- Екатерина EkaterinaНет, это журнал.Net, eto zhurnal.No, it is a magazine.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
