розу́мний
rozúmnyj
The English word 'smart' is translated into Ukrainian as розу́мний (rozúmnyj).
розу́мний is used to describe someone exhibiting intellectual knowledge or intelligence. While it can mean 'smart' or 'intelligent', it is also frequently used to describe someone who possesses sound judgment or common sense.
Meaning: exhibiting intellectual knowledge, such as that found in books (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The adjective розу́мний is derived from the noun розум, which means 'mind', 'intellect' or 'reason'.
Which one should you use?
In Ukrainian, there is a distinction between being smart and being wise. розу́мний describes someone who is smart, intelligent or has good judgment, whereas мудрий is more specifically used for the word 'wise' in a philosophical or experienced sense.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective changes its ending depending on the gender and number of the noun it describes: use розумна for feminine nouns, розумне for neuter nouns and розумні for plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
rozúmnyj
Did you know?
- While розу́мний describes intelligence, calling someone розу́мний in a medical context might imply they are 'sane' rather than just 'intelligent'.
- To call someone 'too smart for their own good' or 'cheeky', Ukrainians often use розумник (the noun form) with a sarcastic tone, turning a compliment into a critique of arrogance.
- While розу́мний refers to intellect, Ukrainians often use the word кмітливий to describe someone who is 'smart' in a resourceful, quick-witted or street-smart way.
Examples in context
- Він дуже розумнийHe is very smart.
- Вона дуже інтелігентнаShe is very smart.
- Цей хлопець гарячий, ще й розумнийThis boy is hot and smart.
Example conversation
Natalia and Dmytro are discussing a book.
- Наталія NataliiaЦя книга дуже цікава.Tsia knyha duzhe tsikava.This book is very interesting.
- Дмитро DmytroАвтор був дуже розу́мний.Avtor buv duzhe rozumnyi.The author was very smart.
- Наталія NataliiaЯ згодна з тобою, Дмитре.Ya zhodna z toboyu, Dmytre.I agree with you, Dmytro.
- Дмитро DmytroПочитай її наступного тижня.Pochytai ii nastupnoho tyzhnia.Read it next week.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “smart” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
