Санта
Santa
The English phrase "santa" is translated into Russian as Санта (Santa).
Санта refers to the legendary figure who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve.
Which one should you use?
While Санта is used colloquially, the standard way to refer to the character in Russian is the full name Санта-Клаус. Furthermore, the Western Санта is distinct from the traditional Slavic figure Дед Мороз (Grandfather Frost), who is the more culturally common figure for New Year celebrations in Russia.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using the name as a direct object of a verb like "believe in" (верить в), the name takes the accusative case ending -а, resulting in Санта-Клауса.
How do you pronounce it?
Santa
When do people say it?
In Russia, the traditional figure for New Year celebrations is Дед Мороз (Grandfather Frost), rather than the Western Санта.
Did you know?
- While Санта is a borrowing from English, the traditional Дед Мороз is often accompanied by his granddaughter, Снегурочка or 'the Snow Maiden', who helps him deliver gifts.
- While Санта wears a red suit with white trim, the traditional Russian Дед Мороз often wears a long, heavy coat that can be blue, silver or red.
- Unlike Санта who slides down chimneys, Дед Мороз is typically depicted entering through the door or appearing magically in the room.
Examples in context
- Я верю в Санта-Клауса.I believe in Santa Claus.This sentence shows how to express belief in Санта using the accusative case.Tatoeba #6779718 by marafon, translation #5817290 by mailohilohi
- Санта живёт в Рованиеми.Santa lives in Rovaniemi.This sentence describes the location of Санта.Tatoeba #5118623 by marafon, translation #5118389 by Lindoula
- Санта живёт в Финляндии.Santa lives in Finland.Tatoeba #8164260 by marafon, translation #8164253 by Silja
- 33 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Maria and Dmitry are talking about Christmas gifts.
- Мария MariaКто принесёт тебе подарки, Дмитрий?Kto prinesyot tebe podarki, Dmitriy?Who is going to bring you gifts, Dmitry?
- Дмитрий DmitryЯ надеюсь, что Санта придет сегодня.Ya nadeyus', chto Santa pridet segodnya.I hope that Santa comes today.
- Мария MariaТы написал письмо для него?Ty napisal pis'mo dlya nego?Did you write a letter to him?
- Дмитрий DmitryДа, я попросил Санта принести мне конструктор.Da, ya poprosil Santa prinesti mne konstruktor.Yes, I asked Santa to bring me a building set.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
