Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| полиэтиле́новый паке́т | polietilénovyj pakét | masculine | |
| пла́стиковый паке́т | plástikovyj pakét | masculine | |
| кулёк | kuljók | [kʊˈlʲɵk] (narrow) | masculine |
These terms are used to refer to a type of packaging. In a grocery store context, simply saying паке́т is often sufficient to communicate that you are asking for a plastic bag.
What does it mean word for word?
The term полиэтиле́новый паке́т literally means 'polyethylene bag'.
Which one should you use?
полиэтиле́новый паке́т is the more precise, technical term, whereas пла́стиковый паке́т is a more common, slightly less precise way to say 'plastic bag'. Additionally, Пакет из полиэтилена is a variation of the term that emphasizes the material is polyethylene.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
пла́стиковый паке́т is the standard and most widely-used term for 'plastic bag' in formal settings. полиэтиле́новый паке́т is a more technical and precise formal option. For much more informal situations, кулёк is a colloquial term often used to refer to a small, thin plastic bag, such as those used for candy or small groceries.
How does it change in a sentence?
All provided forms are masculine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
polietilénovyj pakét
Did you know?
- The word паке́т is a loanword from the French word 'paquet', which reflects the historical influence of French on the Russian language.
- In Russian, паке́т is also used to describe a 'set' or 'package' of documents and services, such as a 'benefit package' at a job.
- If you ask for a паке́т in a store, the cashier may respond with a question about the size, as they are viewed as a paid commodity rather than a free courtesy.
Examples in context
- Можно мне, пожалуйста, пакет для продуктов?May I have a plastic bag for groceries, please?
- Помните, что использование пластиковых пакетов негативно влияет на окружающую среду.Remember that using plastic bags has a negative impact on the environment.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “plastic bag” translations and entries кулёк, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
