конечно
konechno
The English word 'sure' can be translated into Russian as конечно (konechno).
The term конечно is a common and neutral way to express enthusiastic agreement or to say yes to a request.
Which one should you use?
While конечно is the standard form, you can use Конечно же to be slightly more emphatic in informal settings. Among friends, the expression Ну, да! can also be used to mean 'Well, yes!'
How do you pronounce it?
konechno
Did you know?
- If you say конечно with a rising intonation, you are not agreeing but expressing skepticism, similar to saying 'Oh, really?' in English.
- The word конечно is etymologically linked to the word for 'end' or 'limit'. It literally describes something that is 'final' or 'conclusive'.
- In very formal or bureaucratic settings, Russians often avoid конечно in favor of безусловно, which literally means 'unconditionally'.
Examples in context
- КонечноSure
- Да, конечноYes, sure
- Конечно, я помогу тебе.Konechno, ya pomogu tebe.Sure, I will help you.
- Конечно, это отличная идея!Konechno, eto otlichnaya ideya!Sure, that is a great idea!
Example conversation
Sergey asks Olga for a favor at home.
- Сергей SergeyОльга, ты можешь открыть окно?Olga, ty mozhesh' otkryt' okno?Olga, can you open the window?
- Ольга OlgaКонечно, сейчас открою.Konechno, seychas otkroyu.Sure, I'll open it now.
- Сергей SergeyСпасибо большое, Сергей ценит это.Spasibo bol'shoye, Sergey tsenit eto.Thank you very much, Sergey appreciates it.
- Ольга OlgaНе за что, Сергей.Ne za chto, Sergey.You're welcome, Sergey.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries конечно, CC BY-SA 4.0.
