бі́гати
bíhatyabstract, imperfective
The English phrase 'run' can be translated into Ukrainian as бі́гати (bíhaty) or бі́гти.
Meaning: to move quickly on two feet (verb)
Ways to say it
| Ukrainian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| бі́гати | bíhaty | abstract, imperfective |
| бі́гти | bíhty | concrete, imperfective |
Both forms are imperfective verbs meaning to move quickly on two feet. бі́гати is used for general or habitual actions, while бі́гти is used for continuous movement in a specific direction.
Which one should you use?
Use бі́гати when describing the general ability to run or a repeated action, such as running as a hobby. Use бі́гти when describing a single, continuous movement in a specific direction, such as running to a store.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Both verbs are imperfective. Related nouns include біг, which refers to the general act of running and пробі́жка, which refers specifically to a short, light run or a jog.
How do you pronounce it?
bíhaty
Did you know?
- While English uses 'run' for a computer program or a nose, Ukrainian uses entirely different verbs for these actions, as бі́гти refers strictly to physical movement.
- The word пробі́жка (a light run/jog) is often used in modern Ukrainian to describe a 'run-through' or a quick review of a text or a list of points.
- In a colloquial context, бі́гати can be used to describe the act of trying to achieve something difficult or pursuing a person romantically.
Examples in context
- Я повинен бігти на зустріч.I have to run to the meeting.
- Вона бігла вранці для здоров'я.She was running in the morning for health.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “run” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
