Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| бежа́ть | bežátʹ | imperfective |
| бе́гать | bégatʹ | imperfective |
| побе́гать | pobégatʹ | abstract, perfective |
| побежа́ть | pobežátʹ | concrete, perfective |
The verb describes the physical action of moving quickly on two feet. Related nouns include бег and пробе́жка for the act of running, while пото́к, ток and тече́ние are used to describe the flow of a liquid.
Which one should you use?
Russian uses different forms depending on the direction, duration and nature of the movement. For imperfective verbs (ongoing or habitual action), бе́гать is used for running generally, repeatedly or as a multidirectional activity, whereas бежа́ть is used for running in a specific direction at a specific moment. For perfective verbs (completed or specific aspects), побе́гать implies running for a certain duration of time, while побежа́ть implies the onset of the action, such as starting to run.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The imperfective verb бе́гать is the standard form used when describing the general ability to run or the habit of running. The perfective form побежа́ть is described as concrete, while побе́гать is considered abstract.
How do you pronounce it?
bežátʹ
Did you know?
- To describe a 'run' in a stocking or tights, Russians do not use a verb for running, but instead use the noun стрелка, meaning 'arrow'.
- The word for 'run' is a root in the Russian word беготня, which describes the stressful 'running around' one does when dealing with chaotic errands.
- Russian has a specific verb разбежаться which means to run to gain momentum, often specifically to jump or start a slide.
Examples in context
- Мы должны бегать каждый день для поддержания физической формы.We should run every day to stay fit.
- Он мчится на помощь своим друзьям.He is rushing to help his friends.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “run” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
